Overview
The Naha Marathon brings roughly 14,000 runners to Okinawa's capital each December for a subtropical marathon experience unique in Japan. The course runs along the East China Sea coast and through Naha's urban centre with warm winter temperatures and ocean breezes. For runners seeking a December marathon in shorts and a vest, Naha is Japan's answer.
Naha Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Naha Marathon 2026 race day
The next Naha Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 6 December 2026 with a 9:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 100 m of climbing on a mostly flat with gentle undulations layout.
Naha Marathon course route
The Naha Marathon is an Okinawa coastal loop starting and finishing near Omoromachi, following the coastal highway with East China Sea views and passing the Shuri Castle area and Kokusai Street. The coastal flats are the easiest because they stay mostly level beside the water, while the inland rises toward Shuri and the exposed highway stretches make the tougher sections; spectator support is best around Omoromachi, along Kokusai Street, and near the Shuri approaches.
Naha Marathon elevation profile
The Naha 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 Naha Marathon uses a lottery through naha-marathon.jp and RUNNET, with applications typically accepted in April or May for the December race in Okinawa. The field is capped and domestic demand is strong, making acceptance uncertain. International runners can apply through Run Japan or official travel packages when general entry is oversubscribed.
Naha Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Check out the course of the 38th Naha Marathon in 2 and a half minutes!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Naha Marathon elevation profile?
- The Naha 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 Naha Marathon?
- The Naha Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Subtropical coastal road starting and finishing in the Naha city centre near Omoromachi.
- What time does the Naha Marathon start?
- The 2026 Naha Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 6 December 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.naha-marathon.jp/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- What makes the Naha Marathon unique in Japan?
- Naha offers a subtropical December marathon on Okinawa, where temperatures often reach 18–22 °C (64–72 °F) — warm enough for shorts while the rest of Japan is in winter.
- Does the Naha Marathon pass Shuri Castle?
- The course passes the Shuri Castle area, the historic seat of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Runners experience Okinawan culture distinct from mainland Japanese marathons.
- Where does the Naha Marathon start and finish?
- The race starts and finishes in central Naha near Omoromachi. The coastal loop follows the East China Sea shoreline and returns through the city centre.
- Is the Naha Marathon flat?
- Yes. The coastal highway and Naha city streets are largely flat. Humidity and warmth are bigger challenges than terrain.
- What should I know about Okinawa weather in December?
- December in Naha is mild and humid with temperatures often 18–24 °C (64–75 °F). Sun protection and hydration are important even in winter. Typhoon season has usually ended but occasional rain is possible.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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