Overview
The Hokkaido Marathon is northern Japan's largest marathon, drawing approximately 12k finishers each August through Sapporo. The course passes Odori Park, the Sapporo TV Tower, and the Toyohira River on wide Hokkaido boulevards with views toward the Ishikari plain. August's mild Sapporo summer — far cooler than mainland Japan — makes it a popular escape race.
Hokkaido Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Hokkaido Marathon 2026 race day
The next Hokkaido Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 23 August 2026 with a 7:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 100 m of climbing on a mostly flat with gentle undulations layout.
Hokkaido Marathon course route
The Hokkaido Marathon is an urban road that starts and finishes in Odori Park in central Sapporo. The loop follows the Toyohira River, passes the Sapporo Dome area, and crosses the Susukino entertainment district. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Spectators gather at the start-finish festival and at organised cheer zones through the city centre and along the main boulevards.
Hokkaido Marathon elevation profile
The Hokkaido Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 100 metres of climbing and 95 metres of descent, with a net climb of 5 metres from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The Hokkaido Marathon does not use a lottery — general entries are first-come, first-served through the official app from late March and the race website from early April, with overseas residents applying via Run Japan or official travel agents. The field of roughly 15,000 fills quickly once registration opens for the late-August race. RUNNET membership (free) is required for domestic applicants.
Hokkaido Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Marathon course 16.9 km - 19.2 km point in Hokkaido, Japan
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Hokkaido Marathon elevation profile?
- The Hokkaido Marathon has 100 metres of total climbing and 95 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is mostly flat with gentle undulations, with 5 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Hokkaido Marathon?
- The Hokkaido Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes in Odori Park in central Sapporo.
- What time does the Hokkaido Marathon start?
- The 2026 Hokkaido Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Sunday, 23 August 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.hokkaido-marathon.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Hokkaido Marathon start and finish?
- The race starts and finishes in Odori Park, Sapporo's central green boulevard. The loop covers the Toyohira River and Susukino districts. Maps at https://www.hokkaido-marathon.com/.
- When is the Hokkaido Marathon?
- The Hokkaido Marathon is held on the fourth Sunday of August. It is the largest marathon in northern Japan and a summer highlight in Sapporo.
- Is the Hokkaido Marathon flat?
- Yes. Sapporo sits on the flat Ishikari plain, and the marathon course has only gentle river-embankment undulations.
- What makes the Hokkaido Marathon special?
- Running in cool Sapporo while the rest of Japan swelters in August heat is the race's main appeal. Odori Park and Sapporo's beer-garden culture add to the post-race atmosphere.
- What weather should I expect in Sapporo in August?
- August in Sapporo is mild summer weather, often 18–26 °C (64–79 °F) — much cooler than Tokyo. Occasional rain is possible; a light waterproof layer is useful.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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