Kobe Marathon

Next race

Sunday, 15 November 2026

9:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Urban coastal road

Elevation

Rolling · 100 m gain

100 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Kobe Marathon draws around 18,000 runners each November on a course that celebrates the port city's recovery and waterfront identity. The route crosses the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge area and follows Kobe's harbourfront with views of the Rokko mountains and Osaka Bay. Kobe's mild autumn climate and enthusiastic local crowds make it one of western Japan's most popular marathons.

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

Typical participants: Approximately 18k finishers

Weather: Cool to mild and humid autumn
11–14°C · humidity 70–80%
Marathon weather guide →

Course records: Men: 2:08:46 — Geofrey Kusuro (2019)Women: 2:27:39 — Haruka Yamaguchi (2019)

Course & terrain

Kobe Marathon course

Route map and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Kobe Marathon is a point-to-point waterfront course from Port Island near Kobe Airport to Meriken Park, passing Harborland, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge approach, and bayfront city roads before returning toward the port. The flatter harborfront stretches are easier while bridge ramps and port overpasses add the tougher rises, and spectators are strongest at the Port Island start, around Harborland, and at the lively Meriken Park finish.

Kobe Marathon route map

Registration

Kobe Marathon entry requirements

The Kobe Marathon is held on the third Sunday of November. Registration is through https://kobe-marathon.net/2026/ and typically opens in spring. The race often sells out given its popularity in the Kansai region.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kobe Marathon elevation profile?: The Kobe Marathon has 100 metres of total climbing and 95 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling, with 5 metres of net climb from start to finish.
Where can I find the Kobe Marathon route map?: This page includes a Kobe Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. The course passes the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge approach, Harborland, and Nunobiki before returning along the bay.
How long is the Kobe Marathon?: The Kobe Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Urban coastal road from Port Island near the Kobe Airport area to the Meriken Park waterfront near the Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial.
What time does the Kobe Marathon start?: The 2026 Kobe Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 15 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Does the Kobe Marathon cross the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge?: The course passes the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge area and harbour approaches with views of the world's longest suspension bridge.
When is the Kobe Marathon?: The Kobe Marathon is held on the third Sunday of November. and typically opens in spring. The race often sells out given its popularity in the Kansai region.
Where does the Kobe Marathon finish?: The finish is at Meriken Park on the Kobe waterfront, near the Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial and Harborland shopping district. The harbour setting provides a dramatic backdrop for finish-line photos.
What is the Kobe Marathon course profile?: The Port Island start and harbour loop are largely flat. Runners encounter gentle undulations on bridge ramps and overpasses, but there are no sustained climbs. Total elevation gain is modest for a Japanese city marathon.
What weather should I expect at the Kobe Marathon in November?: November in Kobe brings mild autumn conditions, typically 12–18 °C (54–64 °F) at the start. Rain is possible but less common than in the summer typhoon season. A light long-sleeve layer is often sufficient.

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

Close to this race

Nearby Marathons

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Next race: Sunday, 22 November 2026

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Next race: Sunday, 7 March 2027

TokushimaTokushimaJapan· 90 km away

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The Tokushima Marathon draws approximately 10k finishers each March on a river road in Tokushima, Japan. Its levee-road profile makes it one of Japan's steadier pacing courses. The course passes Shinmachi River areas, wide embankment roads, and open views toward the surrounding low mountains. The course is very flat throughout.

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