Matsue Castle Marathon

MatsueShimaneJapan

Next race

Sunday, 6 December 2026

9:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Historic city road

Elevation

Rolling · 100 m gain

100 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Matsue Castle Marathon draws approximately 3,000 finishers each December on a historic city road in Matsue, Japan. It is one of the few Japanese marathons whose identity centers squarely on a surviving feudal castle. The course passes Matsue Castle, Lake Shinji approaches, and canal-side streets through the old castle town. Gentle undulations are the only breaks on an otherwise flat profile.

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

Typical participants: Approximately 3,000 finishers

Weather: Cool to mild and humid winter
8–11°C · humidity 65–75%
Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Matsue Castle Marathon course

Course route details and elevation profile for race-week planning.

Starts and finishes near the Matsue urban core. The course passes Matsue Castle, Lake Shinji approaches, and canal-side streets through the old castle town. Mostly flat with gentle undulations. Very flat throughout.

Registration

Matsue Castle Marathon entry requirements

The Matsue Castle Marathon uses a lottery system through matsuejo-marathon.jp and RUNNET, with applications typically accepted during a window that opens in July for the December race. The capped field attracts steady domestic demand and lottery acceptance is not guaranteed. International runners can apply through Run Japan or official travel packages when general lottery entry is oversubscribed.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Matsue Castle Marathon elevation profile?: The Matsue Castle 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 Matsue Castle Marathon?: The Matsue Castle Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Historic city road starts and finishes near the Matsue urban core.
What time does the Matsue Castle Marathon start?: The 2026 Matsue Castle Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 6 December 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Matsue Castle Marathon start and finish?: Starts and finishes near the Matsue urban core. Updated each year.
When is the Matsue Castle Marathon and how do I register?: Matsue Castle Marathon is typically held in December. Registration opens may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
Is the Matsue Castle Marathon course flat?: Yes. Matsue Castle Marathon is known for a largely flat profile with only minor undulations, making it popular with runners chasing steady pacing.
What landmarks does the Matsue Castle Marathon pass?: The course passes Matsue Castle, Lake Shinji approaches, and canal-side streets through the old castle town.
What weather should runners expect at Matsue Castle Marathon?: Usually cold with dry winter air and occasional lakeside wind.

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

Close to this race

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Planning guides

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Practical guides to help you plan, train for, and run this race.

Matsue Castle Marathon

Overview

Matsue Castle Marathon course

Matsue Castle Marathon entry requirements

Matsue Castle Marathon travel

Frequently Asked Questions

Matsue Castle Marathon links

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