Kyoto Marathon

Kyoto Marathon course route

The Kyoto Marathon is a point-to-point-style city course that starts near Nijo Castle and finishes at Heian Jingu in Okazaki Park, linking the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the Kamo River, Gion, and the Philosopher's Path area under the Higashiyama hills. The riverside and palace-ground sections are easiest while the small rises and tighter turns around the temple districts and eastern neighbourhoods are tougher, and spectator support is strongest at the Nijo start, along the Kamo River and Gion, and on the final approach to the shrine finish.

Kyoto Marathon elevation profile

The Kyoto 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 Kyoto Marathon takes place on the third Sunday of February. Registration is through https://kyoto-marathon.com/en/ and is competitive due to the race's scenic reputation.

Kyoto Marathon course video

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

京都マラソンコース紹介 （ About the Course of Kyoto Marathon ）

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Kyoto Marathon?

The Kyoto Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Historic course starts near Nijō Castle and finishes at Heian Jingu shrine in Okazaki Park.

What time does the Kyoto Marathon start?

The 2027 Kyoto Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 21 February 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on kyoto-marathon.com/en/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.

What is the Kyoto Marathon elevation profile?

The Kyoto Marathon has modest elevation gain over 42.195 km because the course stays on the flat Kamo River valley floor and palace districts rather than the hillside temple areas. Total climbing is low for a Japanese city marathon, making it faster than courses that climb into the surrounding hills.

What temples and landmarks does the Kyoto Marathon pass?

The course passes Nijō Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace, the Kamo River, Heian Jingu shrine, and views toward Kiyomizu-dera and the Higashiyama district. Exact routing varies slightly by year but always emphasises Kyoto's historic centre.

When is the Kyoto Marathon held?

The Kyoto Marathon takes place on the third Sunday of February. Registration is through https://kyoto-marathon.com/en/ and is competitive due to the race's scenic reputation.

Is the Kyoto Marathon hilly?

No. Despite Kyoto's reputation for hillside temples, the marathon course stays in the flat valley floor along the Kamo River and palace districts. Total climbing is modest, though February weather can be cold.

Where does the Kyoto Marathon finish?

The finish is at Heian Jingu shrine in Okazaki Park, one of Kyoto's grandest Shinto shrines. The torii gate and shrine gardens provide a memorable cultural finish setting.

What should I wear for the Kyoto Marathon in February?

February mornings in Kyoto are cold, often 2–8 °C (36–46 °F) at the start. Gloves, a hat, and layered clothing are essential. Temperatures may rise into the low teens by finish but rarely feel warm.