Overview
The Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon draws approximately 4,500 finishers each February on a rural road in Kamitonda, Japan. It is the established full marathon of Wakayama's Kumano gateway region and has a long history of large local support. The route passes Kumano foothill roads, farm villages, and open Wakayama valley scenery. Kumano foothill roads and open Wakayama valley scenery climb steadily through farm villages on this gateway route to sacred mountain country.
Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon 2027 race day
The next Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 7 February 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 moderate climbs layout.
Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon course route
Starts and finishes in Kamitonda near the town race headquarters. The route passes Kumano foothill roads, farm villages, and open Wakayama valley scenery. Foothill rollers through farm country test legs in the middle miles, with village volunteers at roadside aid tables.
Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon elevation profile
The Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon course is rolling with moderate climbs 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 Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon uses a lottery system through kuchikumano-marathon.jp and RUNNET, with applications typically accepted during a window that opens in September for the February race. The capped field attracts steady domestic demand and lottery acceptance is not guaranteed. International runners can apply through Run Japan or official travel packages when general lottery entry is oversubscribed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon elevation profile?
- The Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with moderate climbs, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon?
- The Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Rural road starting and finishing in Kamitonda near the town race headquarters.
- What time does the Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon start?
- The 2027 Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 7 February 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on kuchikumano-marathon.jp/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon start and finish?
- Starts and finishes in Kamitonda near the town race headquarters. Updated course maps are published at https://kuchikumano-marathon.jp/ each year.
- When is the Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon and how do I register?
- Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon is typically held in February. Registration opens through https://kuchikumano-marathon.jp/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
- Is the Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon course flat?
- The course includes rolling with moderate climbs. Study the official course profile at https://kuchikumano-marathon.jp/ before setting pace targets.
- What landmarks does the Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon pass?
- Runners see Kumano foothills, rural Wakayama roads, and open valley sections around Kamitonda.
- What weather should runners expect at Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon?
- Usually cool with crisp winter air, low humidity, and stable race-day conditions.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
Nearby Marathons
Other races closest to Kamitonda.

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