Kobe Marathon

Kobe Marathon course route

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 elevation profile

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

Kobe Marathon course video

Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.

Marathon course at Kobe Marathon

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 mostly flat with gentle undulations, with 5 metres of net climb from start to finish.

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.

Is the Kobe Marathon flat?

Yes. The Kobe Marathon is mostly flat with gentle undulations with 100 metres of total climbing over 42.195 km (26.2 miles) — a profile that suits runners chasing personal bests or Boston qualifying times.

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 on kobe-marathon.net/2026/ 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. Exact bridge-crossing sections can vary by year — check the published course map at https://kobe-marathon.net/ before race weekend.

When is the Kobe Marathon?

The Kobe Marathon is held on the third Sunday of November. Registration is through https://kobe-marathon.net/ 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.