Xiamen International Marathon

Xiamen International Marathon course route

The Xiamen International Marathon is a coastal island loop starting and finishing at the Xiamen International Conference and Exhibition Center, crossing toward Haicang and following the ring road with Gulangyu Island and Taiwan Strait views. The coastal flats are the easiest because they stay mostly level beside the water, while the bridge approaches and exposed ring-road straights are tougher when sea wind builds. Crowd support is strongest at the conference center start-finish, along the coastal ring road, and near the bridge crossings.

Xiamen International Marathon elevation profile

The Xiamen International 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 Xiamen International Marathon is held in early January. Registration opens through https://www.xmim.org/, typically several months before race day. International runners should confirm passport and visa requirements for entry into China.

Xiamen International Marathon course video

Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.

2021 Xiamen Marathon Course Map

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Xiamen International Marathon elevation profile?

The Xiamen International 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 Xiamen International Marathon?

The Xiamen International Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Coastal course starting and finishing in the Xiamen International Conference & Exhibition Center area on the island's east coast.

What time does the Xiamen International Marathon start?

The 2027 Xiamen International Marathon starts at 7:30 am local time on Sunday, 3 January 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.xmim.org/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.

What is the Xiamen International Marathon course route?

The race starts and finishes near the Xiamen International Conference & Exhibition Center on the east coast. Runners complete a loop that crosses the Xiamen Bridge, follows the ring road along the waterfront with views toward Gulangyu Island, and returns through the city's modern districts. The course is largely flat and designed for fast running.

When is the Xiamen Marathon and how do I register?

The Xiamen International Marathon is held in early January. Registration opens through https://www.xmim.org/, typically several months before race day. International runners should confirm passport and visa requirements for entry into China.

Is the Xiamen Marathon course flat?

Yes. The coastal loop has only minor climbs on bridge approaches and overpasses. Total elevation gain is modest, making Xiamen one of the faster major marathons in East Asia when conditions are cool and dry.

What makes the Xiamen Marathon unique?

The race combines a large domestic field with a scenic island course that crosses the Xiamen Bridge and runs along the Taiwan Strait waterfront. Gulangyu Island views and the city's blend of colonial architecture and modern towers give the race a distinctive coastal character rare among Chinese city marathons.

What weather should runners expect in Xiamen in January?

January in Xiamen is mild by northern-China standards, with typical race-morning temperatures around 10–16 °C (50–61 °F). Humidity can be noticeable and occasional light rain is possible. Layers for the early start are advisable.