Kasumigaura Marathon

TsuchiuraIbarakiJapan

Next race

Sunday, 18 April 2027

9:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Lakeside rural road

Elevation

Flat · 50 m gain

50 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Kasumigaura Marathon near Tsuchiura attracts about 12,000 runners each April around Japan's second-largest lake, Kasumigaura. The flat rural course follows the lakeshore through Ibaraki Prefecture with views of the wide freshwater basin and countryside. April cherry-blossom season and the lake's open horizons make it a popular spring marathon in the Kanto plain.

Kasumigaura Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Typical participants: Approximately 12k finishers

Weather: Mild and humid spring
12–16°C · humidity 65–80%
Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Kasumigaura Marathon course

Route map and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Kasumigaura Marathon is a very flat loop that starts and finishes in the Tsuchiura lakeside area and follows the western shore of Kasumigaura through open water views and rural Ibaraki farmland. The broad lakeside roads are the easiest miles, wind across the open basin is the tougher factor, and spectators concentrate near the Tsuchiura waterfront, in larger roadside villages, and around the lakefront finish.

Kasumigaura Marathon route map

Registration

Kasumigaura Marathon entry requirements

For the Kasumigaura Marathon, the race is held on the third Sunday of April, often coinciding with cherry-blossom season in Ibaraki. Registration is at https://www.kasumigaura-marathon.jp/.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kasumigaura Marathon elevation profile?: The Kasumigaura Marathon has 50 metres of total climbing and 50 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is flat, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
Where can I find the Kasumigaura Marathon route map?: This page includes a Kasumigaura Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. Follows lakeside roads with open water views across the broad Kasumigaura basin and passes rural Ibaraki farmland.
How long is the Kasumigaura Marathon?: The Kasumigaura Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Lakeside rural road starting and finishing in the Tsuchiura lakeside area on Kasumigaura's western shore.
What time does the Kasumigaura Marathon start?: The 2027 Kasumigaura Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 18 April 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
What is Lake Kasumigaura?: Kasumigaura is Japan's second-largest lake, a broad freshwater basin in Ibaraki Prefecture northeast of Tokyo. The marathon follows its western and northern shores.
Is the Kasumigaura Marathon flat?: Yes. The lakeside roads are among the flattest marathon courses in Japan, with negligible elevation change around the reservoir.
When is the Kasumigaura Marathon?: The race is held on the third Sunday of April, often coinciding with cherry-blossom season in Ibaraki.
Where does the Kasumigaura Marathon start?: The start and finish are in the Tsuchiura area on Kasumigaura's shore, accessible via JR Joban Line from Tokyo.
What weather should I expect in April at Kasumigaura?: April mornings are mild, typically 10–16 °C (50–61 °F), with possible breezes off the lake. Rain is possible during Japan's spring rainy season approach.

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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