Next race
Sunday, 1 November 2026
8:30 am start
Distance
42.195 km / 26.2 mi
Harbor road
Elevation
Rolling · 150 m gain
150 m climbing
Race profile
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. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs shapes the middle miles.
Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
- Typical participants
Approximately 9,000 finishers
- Weather
Course & terrain
Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon course
Course route details and elevation profile for race-week planning.
Starts and finishes in central Shimonoseki by the strait. The course passes Kanmon Strait waterfronts, fishing-port districts, and repeated sea views toward Kitakyushu. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs shapes the middle miles.
The Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon course is rolling 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.
- Elevation
Rolling · 150 m gain — approx. 10 m above sea level
↑ 150 m · ↓ 140 m · net +10 m
Registration
Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon 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.
Getting there
Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon travel
Airports closest to Shimonoseki for flight planning and race-week travel.
- Closest airport
Kitakyushu (KKJ)
Kitakyushu Airport
15 km / 9 mi
Common questions
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 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 8:30 am local time on Sunday, 1 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications 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 each year.
- When is the Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon and how do I register?
- Shimonoseki Kaikyo Marathon is typically held in November. Registration opens 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 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.
Official resources
Shimonoseki Kaikyo 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 Shimonoseki.
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.