Overview
The Nanjing Marathon draws approximately 20k finishers each November through the ancient capital on the Yangtze River. The course passes the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum approach, Xuanwu Lake, the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, and the Confucius Temple district. November's cool Jiangnan autumn and flat terrain showcase Nanjing's blend of imperial history and modern development.
Nanjing Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Nanjing Marathon 2026 race day
The next Nanjing Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 8 November 2026 with a 7:30 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.
Nanjing Marathon course route
The Nanjing Marathon is a historic urban road that starts in the Olympic Sports Centre area and finishes at the Nanjing Eye or city-centre festival zone. The loop passes Xuanwu Lake, the Yangtze River Bridge, and the Confucius Temple district. 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.
Nanjing Marathon elevation profile
The Nanjing 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 Nanjing Marathon is held in November, typically on the second Sunday. Registration is through https://nanjing.marathon.org.cn/.
Nanjing Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
2020 Nanjing Marathon - Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Nanjing Marathon elevation profile?
- The Nanjing 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 Nanjing Marathon?
- The Nanjing Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Historic course from the Olympic Sports Centre area to the Nanjing Eye or city-centre festival zone.
- What time does the Nanjing Marathon start?
- The 2026 Nanjing Marathon starts at 7:30 am local time on Sunday, 8 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on nanjing.marathon.org.cn/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- What historic sites does the Nanjing Marathon pass?
- The course passes Xuanwu Lake, the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, the Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao), and views toward Purple Mountain — landmarks of one of China's ancient capitals.
- When is the Nanjing Marathon?
- The Nanjing Marathon is held in November, typically on the second Sunday. Registration is through https://nanjing.marathon.org.cn/.
- Is the Nanjing Marathon flat?
- The course is largely flat along the Yangtze and around Xuanwu Lake, with minor undulations near Purple Mountain. Overall it is a fast Jiangnan city marathon.
- Where does the Nanjing Marathon start?
- The race typically starts at the Nanjing Olympic Sports Centre and finishes near the Nanjing Eye pedestrian bridge or the city-centre festival area.
- What weather should I expect in Nanjing in November?
- November in Nanjing is cool autumn weather, often 8–16 °C (46–61 °F). Crisp mornings and mild afternoons are typical for the Jiangnan region.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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