Overview
The Nanohana Marathon in Yokohama draws about 15,000 finishers each January on a course named for the rapeseed blossoms that line parts of the route in early spring. The race shares the Yokohama bayfront with views across Tokyo Bay and passes Kannai and the harbour district. It is one of several large January marathons in the greater Tokyo area.
Nanohana Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Nanohana Marathon 2027 race day
The next Nanohana Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 24 January 2027 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.
Nanohana Marathon course route
The Nanohana Marathon is a Yokohama bayfront loop starting and finishing near Yamashita Park, following the harbour promenade past Yokohama Stadium and Kannai with views across Tokyo Bay. The waterfront sections are the easiest because they stay flat and scenic, while the minor overpass rises and exposed harbour straights are tougher when bay wind picks up; spectator support is strongest around Yamashita Park, near Yokohama Stadium, and through Kannai.
Nanohana Marathon elevation profile
The Nanohana 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 Nanohana Marathon (Yokohama) uses a lottery system through nanago.jp and RUNNET, with applications typically accepted in late summer for the November race. The field is limited and oversubscribed most years. International runners can access places through Run Japan or official travel agents when lottery entry is unsuccessful.
Nanohana Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
[Ibusuki Nanohana Marathon] Introducing tips for completing the race! Three points to keep in min...
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Nanohana Marathon elevation profile?
- The Nanohana 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 Nanohana Marathon?
- The Nanohana Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Urban coastal road starting and finishing in the Yokohama bayfront area near Yamashita Park.
- What time does the Nanohana Marathon start?
- The 2027 Nanohana Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 24 January 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.nanago.jp/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Why is it called the Nanohana Marathon?
- Nanohana (rapeseed blossom) refers to the early-spring flowers that bloom along parts of the Yokohama course in January and February. The race branding celebrates this seasonal coastal landscape.
- Where does the Nanohana Marathon start?
- The race starts and finishes in the Yokohama waterfront district near Yamashita Park. The loop covers central Yokohama and the bayfront. Maps are at https://www.nanago.jp/.
- When is the Nanohana Marathon held?
- The Nanohana Marathon takes place on the fourth Sunday of January. Cool winter mornings are typical for the Kanto coast.
- Is the Nanohana Marathon flat?
- Yes. The Yokohama bayfront loop is largely flat, similar to the Yokohama Marathon course profile, with only minor overpass climbing.
- How does the Nanohana Marathon compare to the Yokohama Marathon?
- Both are large January/February bayfront races in Yokohama. The Nanohana Marathon is slightly smaller and emphasises seasonal rapeseed-blossom branding, while the Yokohama Marathon runs in March with a Minato Mirai focus.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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