Next race
Sunday, 1 November 2026
7:30 am start
Distance
42.195 km / 26.2 mi
Urban road
Elevation
Rolling · 100 m gain
100 m climbing
Race profile
Overview
The Linyi Marathon is one of the world's largest marathons, drawing approximately 12k finishers each October on an urban road in Linyi, China. Its riverfront urban planning gives the course a spacious feel. The route passes the Yi River, new riverside districts, and broad roads in one of Shandong's largest inland cities. Gentle undulations are the only breaks on an otherwise flat profile.
Linyi Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
- Typical participants
Approximately 12k finishers
- Weather
Course & terrain
Linyi Marathon course
Course route details and elevation profile for race-week planning.
Starts and finishes in Linyi's city center. The route passes the Yi River, new riverside districts, and broad roads in one of Shandong's largest inland cities. Mostly flat with gentle undulations. Very flat throughout.
The Linyi Marathon course is rolling 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.
- Elevation
Rolling · 100 m gain — approx. 69 m above sea level
↑ 100 m · ↓ 95 m · net +5 m
Registration
Linyi Marathon entry requirements
The Linyi Marathon uses a lottery or ballot through linyi.marathon.org.cn, with registration windows that typically open several months before the October race. Domestic applicants register via the official marathon.org.cn portal and demand routinely exceeds the mass-participation cap of roughly 12k runners. International runners must monitor the official site for overseas entry channels and health-credential requirements, as places fill quickly once the window opens.
Getting there
Linyi Marathon travel
Airports closest to Linyi for flight planning and race-week travel.
- Closest airport
Linyi (Hedong) (LYI)
Linyi Qiyang Airport
6 km / 4 mi
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Linyi Marathon elevation profile?
- The Linyi 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.
- How long is the Linyi Marathon?
- The Linyi Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts at Wuzhou Lake Square (五洲湖广场), Linyi; course along the Yi River / riverside districts.
- What time does the Linyi Marathon start?
- The 2026 Linyi Marathon starts at 7:30 am local time on Sunday, 1 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Linyi Marathon start and finish?
- Starts and finishes in Linyi's city center. Updated each year.
- When is the Linyi Marathon and how do I register?
- Linyi Marathon is typically held in October. Registration opens may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
- Is the Linyi Marathon course flat?
- Yes. Linyi Marathon is known for a largely flat profile with only minor undulations, making it popular with runners chasing steady pacing.
- What landmarks does the Linyi Marathon pass?
- The route passes the Yi River, new riverside districts, and broad roads in one of Shandong's largest inland cities.
- What weather should runners expect at Linyi Marathon?
- Typically cool with moderate humidity and stable autumn air.
Official resources
Linyi Marathon links
Websites
Social Media
Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
Close to this race
Nearby Marathons
Other races closest to Linyi.
Planning guides
Related guides
Practical guides to help you plan, train for, and run this race.
Marathon Course Profiles Explained
What flat, rolling, and hilly really mean — and how to read elevation gain, net change, and altitude on a marathon course.
Marathon Entry: Lotteries, Ballots & Open Registration
How major marathons allocate places — open entry, lotteries, charity bibs, tour operators, and what to check before you commit to a trip.
Marathon Weather: What to Expect
How temperature, humidity, wind, and rain affect marathon performance — and how to use typical race-day weather when choosing a start line.