Overview
The Ibusuki Marathon in southern Kyushu attracts about 14,000 runners each January to a course along Kagoshima Bay with views of Sakurajima volcano. Ibusuki is famous for its natural hot-sand baths, and the marathon showcases the subtropical Satsuma Peninsula coastline. Warm winter temperatures and volcanic backdrop make it one of Japan's most distinctive regional marathons.
Ibusuki Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Ibusuki Marathon 2027 race day
The next Ibusuki Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 17 January 2027 with a 9:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with coastal undulations layout.
Ibusuki Marathon course route
The Ibusuki Marathon is a coastal loop that starts and finishes in the Ibusuki onsen resort area on the Satsuma Peninsula, following Kagoshima Bay past hot-sand beaches with views of Sakurajima. The flatter bayside miles are easiest while the repeated coastal undulations are tougher, and spectators gather in the resort area, around the beach districts, and at scenic waterfront spots.
Ibusuki Marathon elevation profile
The Ibusuki Marathon course is rolling with coastal undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The Ibusuki Marathon uses a lottery system through ibusuki-marathon.jp and RUNNET, with applications typically accepted in June or July for the January race in Kagoshima Prefecture. The scenic coastal course attracts strong domestic demand and acceptance is not guaranteed. International runners can access places through Run Japan or official travel packages.
Ibusuki Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
[Ibusuki Nanohana Marathon] Introducing tips for completing the race! Three points to keep in min...
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Ibusuki Marathon elevation profile?
- The Ibusuki Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with coastal undulations, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Ibusuki Marathon?
- The Ibusuki Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Coastal course starting and finishing in the Ibusuki onsen resort area on the Satsuma Peninsula.
- What time does the Ibusuki Marathon start?
- The 2027 Ibusuki Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 17 January 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.ibusuki-marathon.jp/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Can you see Sakurajima volcano during the Ibusuki Marathon?
- Yes. The course along Kagoshima Bay offers views of Sakurajima, one of Japan's most active volcanoes, across the water. Clear January mornings provide the best visibility.
- What is special about Ibusuki?
- Ibusuki is renowned for natural hot-sand baths (sunamushi) where runners often recover post-race by being buried in warm volcanic sand.
- Where does the Ibusuki Marathon start?
- The race starts and finishes in the Ibusuki resort area on the southern Satsuma Peninsula. Details are at https://www.ibusuki-marathon.jp/.
- Is the Ibusuki Marathon flat?
- The coastal course has rolling undulations along Kagoshima Bay but no major mountain climbs. Warm humidity is a bigger factor than hills.
- How warm is the Ibusuki Marathon in January?
- January in Ibusuki is mild, often 12–18 °C (54–64 °F), warmer than most Japanese marathons. Southern Kyushu has a subtropical climate.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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