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Itinerary Overview
Package Highlights
■ Host City：Ishigaki ( 石垣島 )
■ Course Highlights：Experience the unique charm of Okinawa’s remote islands as you run along the Ishigaki Island course, where azure ocean views and lush green nature intertwine, and enjoy enthusiastic support from local residents with traditional musical instruments.
■ Registration Options：Marathon Event
■ What's Included：Race Entry + Great-Value Selected 2-Night Stay
Event Details
■ Event Name：Ishigaki Island Marathon 2027 ( 2027石垣島マラソン )
■ Event Date：2027-01-17 (Sun)
■ Events：
- Full Marathon ( フルマラソン ): 42.195K
- Half Marathon ( ハーフマラソン ): 21.6K
- 10K
■ Race Start Times：
- 【 Full Marathon ( フルマラソン ) 】 2027-01-17 , 09:00
- 【 10K 】 2027-01-17 , 09:30
- 【 Half Marathon ( ハーフマラソン ) 】 2027-01-17 , 09:50
■ Start Line：Ishigaki Chuo Sports Park ( 石垣市中央運動公園 )
■ Finish Line：Ishigaki Chuo Sports Park ( 石垣市中央運動公園 )
■ Time Limit：
- Full Marathon 7 Hrs
- Half Marathon 4 Hrs
- 10K 2 Hrs
■ Cutoff Times：
- 【 Full Marathon ( フルマラソン ) 】 34 KM( 14:30 )
- 【 Half Marathon ( ハーフマラソン ) 】 15 KM( 12:20 )
※ The full marathon also has a cutoff at the midpoint (3 hours 15 minutes after the race starts).
■ Entry Requirements：
Healthy individuals of any nationality may participate, but must be at least 16 years old
※ Running on behalf of another person is not allowed. Minors must have the consent of a guardian (parent). Wheelchairs are not permitted. Participants with physical or mental disabilities who have difficulty running alone may be accompanied by a guide runner (guide dogs are not permitted).
※ The above information is for reference only. Please refer to the final itinerary information for actual details.
Make your own way to Ishigaki Island (airfare not included) → Check in to the hotel and rest early today to recharge for tomorrow's race.
Packet Pickup Hours：
2027-01-16 , 09:00 ～ 19:00
※ Check-in is required on the day before the race.
Packet Pickup Location：Ishigaki Comprehensive Gymnasium ( 石垣市総合体育館 )
Meals
Breakfast At your own expense
Lunch At your own expense
Dinner At your own expense
Accommodation Name：ART HOTEL Ishigakijima ( アートホテル石垣島 )
Ishigaki Island Marathon 2027 ( 2027石垣島マラソン ) Race Day!
In the morning, participants will head to the venue, warm up, and take part in the race while enjoying the scenery and course of Ishigaki Island to achieve their best results!
After finishing the race, you will stay again at the accommodation included in your booked package for a comfortable and restful night.
Meals
Breakfast Hotel breakfast
Lunch At your own expense
Dinner At your own expense
Accommodation Name：ART HOTEL Ishigakijima ( アートホテル石垣島 )
After check-out, you may continue sightseeing in other areas of Ishigaki Island. All subsequent arrangements are at your own discretion.
Meals
Breakfast Hotel breakfast
Lunch At your own expense
Dinner At your own expense
Accommodation
At your own expense
Package Highlights
- Known for its natural beauty and rich local culture, the course stretches along the coastline, allowing runners to enjoy azure ocean views and tropical scenery while running. Aid stations offer Ishigaki Island specialty foods, letting participants recharge while also experiencing local flavors. You can also feel the enthusiastic support of local residents during the race, and the post-race activities include music performances and prize draws, creating a lively, friendly, and charming atmosphere.
- Japan's southernmost citizen marathon: Run on a warm subtropical island in the middle of January winter while taking in sweeping views of the blue sea and lush scenic spots.
- Very generous time limits, making it easy for beginners to finish: The full marathon has a time limit of up to seven hours, and the half marathon four hours, making it ideal for travelers who want to experience it at a jogging or walking pace.
- Experience local traditions and grand hospitality: After the race, local specialty refreshments and a social gathering are provided, while residents from across the island become enthusiastic cheer squads to support the runners.
Race Information
Detailed race information and notes are provided below
■ Event Name：Ishigaki Island Marathon 2027 ( 2027石垣島マラソン )
■ Event Date：2027-01-17 (Sun)
■ Events：
- Full Marathon ( フルマラソン ): 42.195K
- Half Marathon ( ハーフマラソン ): 21.6K
- 10K
■ Race Start Times：
- 【 Full Marathon ( フルマラソン ) 】 2027-01-17 , 09:00
- 【 10K 】 2027-01-17 , 09:30
- 【 Half Marathon ( ハーフマラソン ) 】 2027-01-17 , 09:50
■ Start Line：Ishigaki Chuo Sports Park ( 石垣市中央運動公園 )
■ Finish Line：Ishigaki Chuo Sports Park ( 石垣市中央運動公園 )
■ Time Limit：
- FullMarathon 7 Hrs
- HalfMarathon 4 Hrs
- 10K 2 Hrs
■ Cutoff Times：
- 【 Full Marathon ( フルマラソン ) 】 34 KM( 14:30 )
- 【 Half Marathon ( ハーフマラソン ) 】 15 KM( 12:20 )
※ The full marathon also has a cutoff at the midpoint (3 hours 15 minutes after the race starts).
■ Entry Requirements：
Healthy individuals of any nationality may participate, but must be at least 16 years old
※ Running on behalf of another person is not allowed. Minors must have the consent of a guardian (parent). Wheelchairs are not permitted. Participants with physical or mental disabilities who have difficulty running alone may be accompanied by a guide runner (guide dogs are not permitted).
■ Included in the fee: bib number, T-shirt, and finisher medal.
■ Finisher Award: Those who finish within the time limit will receive a web-based electronic finisher certificate (download required) and a finisher medal.
※ The above information is for reference only. Please refer to the final itinerary information for actual details.
【Course Map】*The 2026 course map is for reference only. Please refer to the organizer's final information for actual details.
Full Marathon ( フルマラソン ): 42.195K Course Map
Half Marathon ( ハーフマラソン ): 21.6K Course Map
10K Course Map
【Elevation Chart】*The 2026 elevation chart is for reference only. Please refer to the organizer's final information for actual details.
【Awards】*The 2026 information is for reference only. Please refer to the organizer's final information for actual details.
［Men and women in each category］Overall 1st to 3rd place
［Gender by age group］1st to 3rd place (teens, 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and above)
［Finisher Award］Those who finish within the time limit will receive a web-based electronic finisher certificate (download required) and a finisher medal.
【Participation Prize T-Shirt】*The 2026 information is for reference only. Please refer to the organizer's final information for actual details.
【Finisher Award】*The 2026 information is for reference only. Please refer to the organizer's final information for actual details.
- Finisher Award: Those who finish within the time limit will receive a web-based electronic finisher certificate (download required) and a finisher medal.
Featured Hotels
Comfortable hotel options are available for convenient travel to and from the race venue
Accommodation Name：ART HOTEL Ishigakijima - ART HOTEL Ishigakijima ( アートホテル石垣島 )
Stay dates: 2026/01/16, 2026/01/17, total 2 nights
Check-in time: 15:00 PM Check-out time: 11:00 AM
*Images on the page are for reference only. Room layouts and decor may vary due to on-site adjustments. Please refer to the actual room assigned upon check-in.
Twin Room｜24.8㎡｜Breakfast included
Smoking is prohibited in all guest rooms
Packet Pickup Guide
Packet Pickup Hours：
2027-01-16 , 09:00 ～ 19:00
※ Check-in is required on the day before the race.
Packet Pickup Location：Ishigaki Comprehensive Gymnasium ( 石垣市総合体育館 )
Getting There
Here are some transportation suggestions for your independent trip. Actual traffic conditions are subject to Japan's announcements on the day, and you may also purchase tickets in advance to avoid limited availability.
■ Direct flights from Taiwan to the local airport
At present, Taipei in Taiwan has direct flights to New Ishigaki Airport (ISG) in Japan. You may check New Ishigaki Airport ISG(石垣空港) to find your preferred flight arrangement.
■ New Ishigaki Airport ISG(石垣空港)↔ART HOTEL Ishigakijima ( アートホテル石垣島 )
Route 1: Taxi, about 30 minutes
Route 2: Take Azuma Bus Route 10 from the airport, get off at Art Hotel Ishigaki (アートホテル石垣島) stop, then walk about 1 minute to reach the hotel.
■ ART HOTEL Ishigakijima ( アートホテル石垣島 )↔Packet Pickup Location：Ishigaki Comprehensive Gymnasium ( 石垣市総合体育館 )
Route 1: Taxi, about 5 minutes
Route 2: From Art Hotel Ishigaki (アートホテル石垣島) stop, take Azuma Bus [Route 10, 11] toward the airport, get off at Central Sports Park Entrance (中央運動公園入口), then walk about 6 minutes (450 meters) to arrive.
■ ART HOTEL Ishigakijima ( アートホテル石垣島 )↔Start Line：Ishigaki Chuo Sports Park ( 石垣市中央運動公園 )
Route 1: Taxi, about 4 minutes
Route 2: From Art Hotel Ishigaki (アートホテル石垣島) stop, take Azuma Bus [Route 10, 11] toward the airport, get off at Central Sports Park Entrance (中央運動公園入口), then walk about 2 minutes (190 meters) to arrive.
Route 3: Walk about 19 minutes (1.4 km) to reach the starting point.
Add-on: Featured Day Tour
★ Day Tour Date: 2027/01/18 (Mon)
Option A: [Ishigaki Island Yacht BBQ Experience] Sunset Cruise & Onboard BBQ (Ishigaki Beef & Agu Pork)
Board a highly stable large catamaran sailboat and head to a prime sunset viewing location while enjoying a luxurious self-serve BBQ feast featuring Ishigaki beef, Agu pork, and local island vegetables.
The breathtaking sunset set against the backdrop of the Yaeyama Islands is so moving it will leave you in awe.
Create a unique Ishigaki atmosphere, paired with top-quality local ingredients for an unparalleled sensory delight.
Enjoy a cold draft beer with friends while watching the sunset, spend unforgettable moments with your loved ones, or let us help you arrange a surprise birthday party.
(*This is a shared group tour, not a private charter. Private charters or custom departure times are available for groups of 4 or more; please contact customer service.)
【Departure Times】
Summer (Apr – Oct): 18:00–
Winter (Nov – Mar): 17:30–
※ Cruise Duration (including dinner): 2.5 hours
【Menu / Set Inclusions】
Ishigaki Beef
Agu Pork
Sausages
Island Vegetables, etc.
Steamed Rice
Freshly caught fish from the "Tom Sawyer" fishing boat (subject to daily catch)
Drinks (Additional drinks can be ordered onboard; card or cash accepted)
- Alcoholic Drinks: Draft Beer (Orion), Sours (Flavors: Lemon / Pineapple / Mango / Shikiwasa), JJ (Jasmine Tea × Jasmine Green Tea), Highball, Awamori (with water or ice), Shochu (Barley / Sweet Potato)
- Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Jasmine Green Tea, Cola, Orange Juice
【Pricing Details】
Boat fare / BBQ meal ingredients / Drinks (if purchased as an add-on)
Any personal expenses or items not mentioned above
【Meeting Point】
Meet at the "Tom Sawyer Boarding Location" (approx. a 3-minute walk from the 730 Monument Intersection).
Q: Is this a private charter?
A: No, this is a shared group tour. Please contact customer service if you wish to arrange a private charter.
Q: What is the capacity of the boat?
A: Maximum capacity is 40 passengers.
Q: Can we bring our own food?
A: Outside food is not permitted under normal circumstances, except for private charters.
Q: Can we bring our own beverages or alcohol?
A: Only bottled water is allowed. A corkage fee will apply for other non-alcoholic beverages or alcoholic drinks. Please consult with us in advance before bringing them onboard.
Q: Is smoking allowed onboard?
A: Smoking is strictly prohibited on the boat.
Q: Can we swim or jump into the water from the boat?
A: For safety reasons, swimming or entering the water from the boat is strictly forbidden.
Q: Is the BBQ served while sailing?
A: After departing from the port, the boat will sail for about 15 minutes to the sunset viewing spot. It will then anchor at sea for the BBQ session, followed by a 15-minute sail back to the port.
Note: Minimum group size is 4 participants.
If your booking consists of only 2 participants with no other guests, the tour may not be confirmed unless a surcharge of JPY 20,000 is paid (JPY 10,000 per missing participant).
Shared Group Arrangements:
This tour operates on a shared basis. If cancellations from other groups cause the total number of participants to drop below 4, the tour may be canceled (or a surcharge will be required to proceed).
However, if another group cancels on the day before the event resulting in fewer than 4 participants, the tour will still run as scheduled without any additional charges.
Weather Conditions:
As weather forecasts can vary, the decision on whether the tour will proceed is usually made and communicated to guests the day before the event.
The tour usually runs as scheduled in light rain. In the event of severe weather such as typhoons, cancellations may be notified several days in advance.
Option B: [Mangrove SUP / Kayak Experience] Explore Ishigaki Island's Secret Natural Wonders
Paddle a SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) or kayak through the lush mangroves and explore the natural wonders of Ishigaki Island!
This approximately 3-hour experience is suitable for beginners and includes a complimentary photo service.
Enjoy an unforgettable and healing outdoor adventure in the quiet embrace of nature.
Please select the following in the guest details section after booking:
- Session Time: 06:00–07:45 / 09:00–11:00 / 13:30–15:30 / 18:00–19:45
- Shoe Size: Please enter your shoe size in whole centimeters (1 cm increments; 0.5 cm increments are not supported). E.g., if your size is 25.5 cm, please select 26 cm.
【Meeting Point】
Euglena Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal (ユーグレナ石垣港離島ターミナル)
Address: 1 Misakicho, Ishigaki, Okinawa 907-0012, Japan
【Pricing Details】
English-speaking instructor / Digital photos / SUP or Kayak gear set / Safety equipment (life jacket & water shoes)
Any personal expenses or items not mentioned above
【Important Notes & Restrictions】
Age Limits:
SUP: Ages 3–59
Kayak: Ages 3–65
For safety reasons, individuals with the following conditions cannot participate:
- Pregnant women
- Individuals under the influence of alcohol or suffering from a hangover
- Persons with a pacemaker or a history of heart disease
- Persons with respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma)
- Persons with neurological/psychiatric conditions (e.g., epilepsy, dementia, developmental disorders, panic disorder, etc.)
- Persons with cardiovascular diseases
- Persons with cerebrovascular diseases
- Persons with physical or mental disabilities
- Persons with diabetes
- Individuals weighing over 100 kg
- Hearing or visually impaired individuals may not participate alone; prior consultation is required, and an assistant or interpreter must accompany them.
- If you have any other health issues, fever, or injuries (even minor ones), please inform us in advance.
【Other Notes】
- The itinerary is subject to change or cancellation depending on weather or traffic conditions.
- Meeting and dismissal times vary depending on the season and daily conditions. The operator will inform you of the exact meeting time and place the day before. If you have not received a notification by late afternoon the day prior, please call the phone number on your voucher.
- Tours proceed rain or shine; however, if safety cannot be guaranteed on site, the activity may be canceled.
- There are no restrooms near the activity site; please use the restroom before arriving.
- If you expect to be late, please contact the operator in advance.
- Shower facilities are available near the Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal. Please inform your guide on the day if you wish to use them.
※Shower facilities are unavailable for Sunrise and Sunset tours due to time constraints.
- Pick-up service is not available for bookings made after 17:00 on the day prior to the tour; please make your own way to the Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal.
- The schedule will be adjusted according to the day's weather, tides, and participant headcount.
【What to Bring & Wear】
Drinking water/beverages, clothes that can get wet, towel, swimsuit, sun protection.
What's Include
【What's Included】
- Ishigaki Island Marathon 2027 ( 2027石垣島マラソン ) race entry (entry type depends on your selection).
- Selected hotel ART HOTEL Ishigakijima ( アートホテル石垣島 ) for 2 nights.
- If the race includes participation gifts, etc., all details are subject to the organizer's final announcement.
【Excluded Expenses】
- Round-trip international airfare is not included.
- Passport application fees, some meals, fees for use of other activity facilities, personal expenses, and transportation costs. (For example: beverages, alcohol, laundry, telephone, telegrams, and personal transportation expenses)
※ It is recommended that you purchase your own travel insurance (children under 15 cannot be covered by travel accident insurance according to regulations).
【Cancellation Policy】
Race bookings cannot be canceled once purchased. If cancellation is required due to force majeure, please submit the relevant documents and contact AsiaYo customer service for assistance and refund confirmation. AsiaYo customer service hotline: 886-2-77550575.
Booking Process
AsiaYo Sports Travel Booking Service Process
- Book online and submit your order: Select your race itinerary on the AsiaYo platform and complete the booking application.
- Instant booking, order confirmed immediately: Once confirmed by the system, your travel order will take effect immediately.
- Fill in the "Traveler Race Information": The system will automatically send the information form. Please be sure to complete it within the specified time limit to ensure your race participation rights.
- Receive final itinerary information: AsiaYo will send the updated final itinerary details 5 to 7 days before check-in.
- On-site check-in and hotel check-in: On the day of departure, please bring your original passport to complete the hotel check-in and race registration procedures.
Friendly reminder: Since both race registration and hotel check-in require identity verification, please make sure your passport is valid and carry the original with you.
FAQs
▶ Which Japan Marathons Are Worth Joining in Late 2026/Early 2027? Race Date Roundup
2026/2027 Japan Marathon Race Schedule — Full Roundup
| Race Name | Race Categories | Race Date | Start Time | Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Mount Fuji Marathon | Full Marathon (42.195K), Lake Loop (~17K), Fun Run (11K) | Dec 13, 2026 (Sun) | Full Marathon 9:00AM, Lake Loop 10:30AM, Fun Run 9:20AM | Race Entry + 2 Nights' Accommodation |
| 2027 Ishigaki Island Marathon | Full Marathon (42.195K), Half Marathon (21.6K), 10K | Jan 17, 2027 (Sun) | Full Marathon 9:00AM, 10K 9:30, Half Marathon 9:50 | Race Entry + 2 Nights' Accommodation |
| 2027 Tokyo New Year Half Marathon | Half Marathon (21.0975K) | Jan 10, 2027 (Sun) | Half Marathon 9:30AM | Race Entry + 2 Nights' Accommodation |
| 2027 Kyoto Marathon | Full Marathon (42.195K) | Feb 21, 2027 (Sun) | Full Marathon 9:00 | Race Entry + 2 Nights' Accommodation |
| 2027 Osaka Marathon | Full Marathon (42.195K) | Feb 28, 2027 (Sun) | Full Marathon 9:15 | Race Entry + 2 Nights' Accommodation |
| 2027 Nagoya Women's Marathon | Full Marathon (42.195K) | Mar 14, 2027 (Sun) | Full Marathon 9:10 | Race Entry + 2 Nights' Accommodation |
| Noguchi Mizuki Cup 2026 Chuo Mie Ise Marathon | Half Marathon (21.0975K), 5K | Dec 6, 2026 (Sun) | Half Marathon (9:00), 5K (9:10) | Race Entry + 2 Nights' Accommodation |
| 2026 Yamagata Marathon | Half Marathon (21.0975K) | Oct 4, 2026 (Sun) | Half Marathon 9:05AM | Race Entry + 2 Nights' Accommodation |
| 2026 Nagai Marathon | Full Marathon (42.195K), Half Marathon (21.0975km) | Oct 18, 2026 (Sun) | (Full & Half Marathon) 9:25AM | Race Entry + 2 Nights' Accommodation |
| 2026 Kobe Marathon | Full Marathon (42.195K) | Nov 15, 2026 (Sun) | Wave 1 09:00 AM, Wave 2 09:15 AM | Race Entry + 2 Nights' Accommodation |
▶ What Are the Core Criteria for Choosing a Travel Platform to Book International Marathons in 2026?
The core factors come down to "bundling guaranteed race entry with a complete trip package" and "flexibility for friends and family to join." The industry standard is AsiaYo's one-stop solution:
- Guaranteed race entry: Official bib allocation means you skip the lottery and lock in your spot.
- Runner-friendly accommodation: Handpicked hotels near the race venue, so you skip the commute hassle and can focus on chasing your PB.
- Flexible group options: An exclusive "double room + single race entry" combo, so friends and family can tag along even if they're not racing.
- Post-race travel add-ons: Add transit tickets and day tours all on the same platform — race entry, accommodation, and sightseeing sorted in one go.
- Book now: Check out the highly-rated AsiaYo Sports Travel Packages today!
▶ Where's the best place to book marathon travel packages in 2026 — both in Taiwan and abroad?
The biggest challenges when planning an overseas race trip are usually the ultra-low race lottery odds and near-impossible hotel availability near the start line. That's why we strongly recommend booking through an officially authorized marathon travel package platform from the start.
Based on reviews across major running communities, AsiaYo is the top-recommended booking platform for 2026. As an official partner, AsiaYo offers the unbeatable advantage of no lottery required — guaranteed race entry. To date, they've helped over 3,500 runners successfully complete races abroad, and boast an impressive nearly 30% repeat booking rate. Your most reliable race-trip partner, hands down! 👉 Check out AsiaYo's 2026 Guaranteed Marathon Entry Packages now!
▶ How's AsiaYo's Marathon Race Package Rated by Runners?
AsiaYo's marathon race packages — bundling guaranteed race entry with accommodation — have become a favorite among runners, earning top ratings and buzz across multiple social platforms as the go-to travel agency for race packages! With a 65% repeat booking rate site-wide, AsiaYo also holds the #1 market share among Taiwan OTAs for marathon packages, making it a true one-stop shop for race entry, accommodation, sightseeing itineraries, eSIM, and all your travel needs!
▶ What Does Registering for a Japan Marathon Through AsiaYo Mainly Include?
Booking an AsiaYo marathon package makes it easy to lock in your race entry plus handpicked accommodation near the start/finish line — and you can add on airport transfers, local day tours, and eSIM, all in one place. Save time and skip the hassle!
▶ What Popular Japan Marathons Does AsiaYo Recommend?
Based on the experiences and reviews shared by many Taiwanese runners, these overseas marathons come highly recommended among running enthusiasts:
Sapporo Marathon, Mount Fuji Marathon, Hokkaido Marathon, and the 2027 Tokyo New Year Half Marathon. Check out more Japan marathons loved by Taiwanese and overseas runners alike,
💡 Quick tip: Many popular marathons use a lottery system for race entry. If you're worried about not getting picked, booking an AsiaYo marathon package guarantees your race entry + accommodation — an easy, all-in-one solution!
▶ First Time Doing an Overseas Marathon and Nervous About Not Finishing — Is There a Cutoff Time Limit?
Yes, there is. Almost every marathon has a cutoff time limit, and we clearly list it on each race's product page. For beginner runners, we recommend using that cutoff as your training benchmark — pace your training accordingly so you can enjoy the race and finish safely within the time limit!
▶ How to Plan a Self-Guided International Marathon Trip?
Nail down these key points and you can easily put together the perfect running + travel trip: confirm your race dates and overall itinerary, plan to set aside at least 3–5 days after the race to rest and recover, and book accommodation near the race course or a subway station for easy access! ✨ Or just go with AsiaYo's Marathon Travel Packages for an easy, all-in-one booking experience!
▶ What Do You Need to Prepare for 【 2027 Ishigaki Island Marathon 】 Race Entry + 2-Night Stay?
■ Running shoes: Ones you've already broken in and that fit your foot type — never race in brand-new shoes
■ Clothing: Breathable, quick-dry running gear, plus sun protection or a windbreaker depending on the season
■ Fuel: Energy gels, salt tabs, energy bars — refuel as needed during the race!
■ Extras: Grab an eSIM so you can stay connected the whole trip
▶ How Should You Take Energy Gels During an AsiaYo Full/Half Marathon?
AsiaYo's runner tips on energy gel timing:
- Energy gels are the most common and effective on-course fuel for half and full marathons, helping runners maintain blood sugar and stave off fatigue during long-distance running.
- A good rule of thumb: take one gel about 30 minutes before the race, then keep it consistent with another gel roughly every 45 minutes (or every 10K) during the race.
- Always wash it down with water to avoid stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea — and skip pairing it with sports drinks, which can push your sugar intake too high.
- If you're using caffeinated gels, save them for the back half of the race (around the last 7K of a half, or after 30K in a full) for a boost in focus and to fight fatigue — don't rely on them the whole way through.
▶ Where Are the Hotels in the Marathon Packages Located — Are They Close to the Start/Finish Line?
AsiaYo's marathon package hotel selection strategy puts runners first. Here's what we prioritize:
- Hotels near the start or finish line, so you don't have to wake up in the dark before the race and can get back to rest quickly afterward.
- Transit hubs (like near subway stations or train stations), making it easy to get to the Expo or explore the city.
- Some races offer an early-morning race-day shuttle as an add-on — and we make sure our hotels are located close to those shuttle pickup points whenever possible!
▶ What Is "Marathon Race-cation" (Marathon Travel)?
A "marathon race-cation" combines a marathon or road race with local sightseeing. With AsiaYo, you can handle race entry, accommodation, and transportation all in one place — making it easy to plan free time after the race to explore nearby attractions and try local food.
▶ What Add-On Services Are Available for AsiaYo Marathon Trips?
Once you've registered for a race, "AsiaYo's runner-focused travel agency" offers these exclusive add-ons for runners:
- Race accommodation: Stay near the start line or extend your stay before/after the race — browse Japan accommodation or Korea accommodation.
- Airport transfers: Private transfers so you skip the pre-race rush! Book your airport pickup here.
- Transit passes: Subway or transit passes available in select regions. Grab discounted Japan/Korea transit passes.
- Japan/Korea day tours: Easily explore local hotspots. Check out more Japan/Korea day tours.
- eSIM: Stay connected online and share your finisher's moment! Order your Japan/Korea eSIM here.
▶ What Should Marathon Beginners Keep in Mind?
- ✔ Choosing a race: Start with races that have mild weather and flat terrain.
- ✔ Understanding race entry: Some races require a lottery or early registration — keep an eye on key dates.
- ✔ Gear prep: Break in your shoes, fuel, and gear ahead of time — never try something new on race day.
📌 Check out more marathon travel packages 👉 AsiaYo's Beginner-Friendly Marathon Picks
▶ What Are the Benefits of Booking a Marathon Package with AsiaYo?
AsiaYo's marathon packages are packed with runner-friendly perks — here's what makes booking easy and racing stress-free:
- 🎫 Guaranteed race entry: Your race bib is included — no lottery, no worrying
- 🏨 Handpicked accommodation: Vetted hotels that are clean, convenient, and well-located
- 🌐 No language barrier: Fully English platform with customer support, so you never miss important info
- 🚌 Easy transportation: Complete transit info included, so getting between your hotel and the race is a breeze
▶ Didn't Get Picked in the Japan Marathon Lottery? What Other Ways Can Overseas Runners Get a "Direct Entry" / Lottery-Free Spot?
Overseas runners typically get direct entry through:
- Charity entries, which usually require a donation — though the minimum donation isn't exactly low
- Semi-elite entries, generally reserved for high-level overseas runners who meet official qualifying times — a pretty high bar
- Official authorized international travel agencies — keep an eye on AsiaYo's Japan Marathon Entry + Hotel Packages for popular marathon releases, offering lottery-free entry paired with accommodation near the start line, so you can prep with peace of mind!
▶ Which Japan Winter Marathons Are Best for Chasing a PB?
Japan's winter season (December–March) brings cool, dry weather — prime conditions for marathon running and ideal for long-distance racing. Here are some flat, well-known PB-friendly races in Japan:
- Kobe Marathon: Held every November. The finish line was moved to Kobe Meriken Park, making the course overall flatter and faster, with gorgeous coastal views!
- Tokyo New Year Half Marathon: Held every January. Nearly the entire course is flat with no sharp turns — the riverside route can get a bit windy at times, but if you avoid strong headwinds, it's a near-perfect race for chasing a PB!
- Osaka Marathon (coming soon for 2027): Held every February. Wide roads with almost no long climbs, plenty of pacers, and plenty of Osaka specialties like takoyaki at the aid stations!
- Himeji Castle Marathon (coming soon for 2027): Held every February. Some uphill early on, but flat and gently downhill in the back half — a hidden gem many local Japanese runners swear by for PBs!
- Nagoya Women's Marathon (coming soon for 2027): Held every March. A straight, mostly flat course with very little elevation change — great for a strong performance!
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