Kumamoto Castle Marathon

KumamotoKumamotoJapan

Next race

Sunday, 28 February 2027

9:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Historic urban road

Elevation

Flat · 50 m gain

50 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Kumamoto Castle Marathon draws approximately 1,500 finishers each February through the Kyushu city rebuilding its iconic fortress after the 2016 earthquakes. The course passes the restored Kumamoto Castle, the Tsuboi River, and the Suizenji Garden district on flat Kyushu terrain. February's mild Kyushu winter and the castle's resilience story make it a deeply symbolic Japanese regional marathon.

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

Typical participants: Approximately 1,500 finishers

Weather: Cool to mild and humid winter
7–10°C · humidity 65–80%
Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Kumamoto Castle Marathon course

Route map and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Kumamoto Castle Marathon is a historic urban road that starts and finishes at the Kumamoto Castle outer grounds or the city hall area. The loop passes the castle, the Tsuboi River parklands, and the Suizenji Jojuen Garden approach. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Crowd support is strongest around the historic start-finish hub and along the landmark districts that define the city's character.

Kumamoto Castle Marathon route map

Registration

Kumamoto Castle Marathon entry requirements

The Kumamoto Castle Marathon is held in February, typically on the fourth Sunday. Registration is at https://www.kumamoto-castle-marathon.jp/.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kumamoto Castle Marathon elevation profile?: The Kumamoto Castle 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 Kumamoto Castle Marathon route map?: This page includes a Kumamoto Castle Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. Passes the castle, the Tsuboi River parklands, and the Suizenji Jojuen Garden approach.
How long is the Kumamoto Castle Marathon?: The Kumamoto Castle Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Historic course starting and finishing at the Kumamoto Castle outer grounds or the city hall area.
What time does the Kumamoto Castle Marathon start?: The 2027 Kumamoto Castle Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 28 February 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Does the Kumamoto Castle Marathon pass the castle?: Yes. Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's grandest feudal fortresses, is the centrepiece landmark. The castle has been rebuilt after the 2016 earthquake damage.
When is the Kumamoto Castle Marathon?: The Kumamoto Castle Marathon is held in February, typically on the fourth Sunday.
Is the Kumamoto marathon flat?: Yes. The Kumamoto plain course is flat, with the castle hill visible but not climbed on the marathon route.
What is Suizenji Garden?: Suizenji Jojuen is a beautiful landscape garden near the course, reproducing the 53 stations of the Tokaido road in miniature.
What weather should I expect in Kumamoto in February?: February in Kumamoto is mild Kyushu winter, often 6–14 °C (43–57 °F). It is warmer than most Japanese marathons at this time of year.

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

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