Marathon Focus
Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon

Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon

Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi, Japan

Overview

The Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon draws approximately 9,000 finishers each November on a harbor road in Shimonoseki, Japan. The narrow strait setting gives the race a dramatic maritime character from start to finish. The course passes Kanmon Strait waterfronts, fishing-port districts, and repeated sea views toward Kitakyushu. Kanmon Strait waterfronts and fishing-port districts rise and fall beside repeated sea views toward Kitakyushu across the narrow channel.

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

Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon 2026 race day

The next Shimonoseki Kaikyo 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 150 m of climbing on a rolling with moderate climbs layout.

Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon course route

Starts and finishes in central Shimonoseki by the strait. The course passes Kanmon Strait waterfronts, fishing-port districts, and repeated sea views toward Kitakyushu. Strait-side rollers and port climbs shape the middle miles, with fishing-port crowds cheering along the Kanmon waterfront finish.

Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon elevation profile

The Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon course is rolling with moderate climbs over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.

Entry requirements

The Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon uses a lottery system through kaikyomarathon.jp and RUNNET, with applications typically accepted during a window that opens in May for the November race. The field of roughly 9k runners is capped and domestic demand through RUNNET makes lottery acceptance uncertain. International runners can apply through Run Japan or official travel packages when general lottery entry is oversubscribed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon elevation profile?
The Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with moderate climbs, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
How long is the Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon?
The Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Harbor road starting and finishing in central Shimonoseki by the strait.
What time does the Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon start?
The 2026 Shimonoseki Kaikyo 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 kaikyomarathon.jp/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon start and finish?
Starts and finishes in central Shimonoseki by the strait. Updated course maps are published at https://kaikyomarathon.jp/ each year.
When is the Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon and how do I register?
Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon is typically held in November. Registration opens through https://kaikyomarathon.jp/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
Is the Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon course flat?
The course includes rolling with moderate climbs. Study the official course profile at https://kaikyomarathon.jp/ before setting pace targets.
What landmarks does the Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon pass?
The course passes Kanmon Strait waterfronts, fishing-port districts, and repeated sea views toward Kitakyushu.
What weather should runners expect at Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon?
Usually cool with salt air, light wind, and pleasant late-autumn conditions.

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

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