Qingdao Marathon

QingdaoShandongChina

Next race

Sunday, 18 April 2027

7:30 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Scenic coastal road

Elevation

Rolling · 100 m gain

100 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Qingdao Marathon attracts approximately 25k finishers each April along the Yellow Sea coast of Shandong's beer-city port. The course passes the May Fourth Square, the Zhanqiao pier, and the Olympic sailing centre with views of the red-roofed colonial architecture that defines Qingdao's waterfront. April sea breezes and a flat coastal loop make it one of northern China's most scenic spring marathons.

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

Typical participants: Approximately 25k finishers

Weather: Cool to mild and humid spring
11–14°C · humidity 65–85%
Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Qingdao Marathon course

Route map and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Qingdao Marathon is a scenic coastal road that starts and finishes near May Fourth Square on Qingdao's waterfront. The loop follows the coastal Binhai road past the Olympic sailing centre, Zhanqiao pier, and Badaguan scenic area. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Spectators gather along the waterfront, at the start-finish festival, and at organised cheer stations on the most scenic coastal stretches.

Qingdao Marathon route map

Registration

Qingdao Marathon entry requirements

The Qingdao Marathon is held in April, typically on the third Sunday. Registration opens through the official website.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Qingdao Marathon elevation profile?: The Qingdao 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.
Where can I find the Qingdao Marathon route map?: This page includes a Qingdao Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. Follows the coastal Binhai road past the Olympic sailing centre, Zhanqiao pier, and Badaguan scenic area.
How long is the Qingdao Marathon?: The Qingdao Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Coastal course starts and finishes near May Fourth Square on Qingdao's waterfront.
What time does the Qingdao Marathon start?: The 2027 Qingdao Marathon starts at 7:30 am local time on Sunday, 18 April 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Qingdao Marathon start?: The race starts and finishes near May Fourth Square on Qingdao's waterfront. The coastal loop passes the Olympic sailing centre and Zhanqiao pier.
When is the Qingdao Marathon?: The Qingdao Marathon is held in April, typically on the third Sunday. Registration opens through the official website.
Is the Qingdao Marathon a coastal course?: Yes. Much of the route follows Qingdao's waterfront and the Olympic sailing venue from the 2008 Games, with Yellow Sea views and colonial-era architecture along the coast.
What is Qingdao famous for?: Qingdao is home to Tsingtao beer and German colonial architecture. The marathon showcases the city's unique blend of European heritage and modern Chinese coastal development.
What weather should I expect in Qingdao in April?: April in Qingdao is cool spring weather, often 10–16 °C (50–61 °F) with sea breezes. Fog and wind off the Yellow Sea are possible — bring a light layer.

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

Close to this race

Nearby Marathons

Other races closest to Qingdao.

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The Weifang Marathon draws approximately 10k finishers each May on an urban road in Weifang, China. Weifang's identity as China's kite capital gives the race a distinctive local brand. The course passes kite-city landmarks, parks, and flat roads on the Shandong plain. The course is very flat throughout.

Next race: Sunday, 2 May 2027

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The Yantai Marathon draws approximately 10k finishers each October on a scenic coastal road in Yantai, China. Ocean scenery gives it a more open feel than many inland Chinese marathons. The route passes Yellow Sea shoreline sections, seaside parks, and harbor districts along the Shandong coast. Gentle undulations are the only breaks on an otherwise flat profile.

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ZaozhuangShandongChina· 289 km away

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Next race: Sunday, 4 April 2027

Huai'anJiangsuChina· 302 km away

Huai'an Marathon

The Huai'an Marathon draws approximately 10k finishers each April on an urban road in Huai'an, China. Its flatness is the course's defining feature rather than headline landmarks. The route passes canal-city roads, parkland, and straight Jiangsu sections ideal for steady rhythm. The course is very flat throughout.

Next race: Sunday, 4 April 2027

JinanShandongChina· 310 km away

Jinan Marathon

The Jinan Marathon attracts approximately 20k finishers each April through the 'City of Springs' in Shandong province. The course passes Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, and the Thousand Buddha Mountain foothills on a flat loop through the provincial capital. April's mild Shandong spring and the famous spring-water culture give the race a distinctive northern-China character.

Next race: Sunday, 25 April 2027

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