Next race
Monday, 23 November 2026
10:00 am start
Distance
42.195 km / 26.2 mi
Rural road
Elevation
Rolling · 100 m gain
100 m climbing
Race profile
Overview
The Otawara Marathon draws approximately 2,000 finishers each November on a rural road in Otawara, Japan. It is a classic runners' race with little distraction from rhythm and pacing. The course passes open Tochigi farm roads, lowland fields, and distant mountain views on quiet straightaways. Gentle undulations are the only breaks on an otherwise flat profile.
Otawara Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
- Typical participants
Approximately 2,000 finishers
- Weather
Course & terrain
Otawara Marathon course
Course route details and elevation profile for race-week planning.
Starts and finishes in Otawara's civic sports zone. The course passes open Tochigi farm roads, lowland fields, and distant mountain views on quiet straightaways. Mostly flat with gentle undulations. Very flat throughout.
The Otawara 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. 205 m above sea level
↑ 100 m · ↓ 95 m · net +5 m
Registration
Otawara Marathon entry requirements
The Otawara Marathon uses a lottery system through ohtawara-marathon.com and RUNNET, with applications typically accepted during a window that opens in June for the November 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.
Getting there
Otawara Marathon travel
Airports closest to Otawara for flight planning and race-week travel.
- Closest airport
Sukagawa (FKS)
Fukushima Airport
53 km / 33 mi
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Otawara Marathon elevation profile?
- The Otawara 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 Otawara Marathon?
- The Otawara Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Rural road starting and finishing in Otawara's civic sports zone.
- What time does the Otawara Marathon start?
- The 2026 Otawara Marathon starts at 10:00 am local time on Monday, 23 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Otawara Marathon start and finish?
- Starts and finishes in Otawara's civic sports zone. Updated each year.
- When is the Otawara Marathon and how do I register?
- Otawara Marathon is typically held in November. Registration opens may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
- Is the Otawara Marathon course flat?
- Yes. Otawara Marathon is known for a largely flat profile with only minor undulations, making it popular with runners chasing steady pacing.
- What landmarks does the Otawara Marathon pass?
- The course passes open Tochigi farm roads, lowland fields, and distant mountain views on quiet straightaways.
- What weather should runners expect at Otawara Marathon?
- Usually cool and dry with clear inland autumn conditions.
Official resources
Otawara 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 Otawara.
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.