Otawara Marathon

Otawara Marathon

Otawara, Tochigi, Japan

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. Open Tochigi farm roads, lowland fields, and distant mountain views on quiet straightaways make November's rural race a classic runners' pacing test.

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

Otawara Marathon 2026 race day

The next Otawara Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 1 November 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.

Otawara Marathon course route

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.

Otawara Marathon elevation profile

The Otawara 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 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.

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 mostly flat with gentle undulations, 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 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 1 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.ohtawara-marathon.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Otawara Marathon start and finish?
Starts and finishes in Otawara's civic sports zone. Updated course maps are published at https://www.ohtawara-marathon.com/ each year.
When is the Otawara Marathon and how do I register?
Otawara Marathon is typically held in November. Registration opens through https://www.ohtawara-marathon.com/ and 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.

Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

Nearby Marathons

Other races closest to Otawara.

Hitachi Seaside Marathon
Mito Komon Marathon

Related guides

View all marathon guides →