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Itinerary Overview
Package Highlights
■Host City：Kagoshima (鹿児島県)
■Course Highlights：
★A popular race in Ibusuki, Japan, along the shores of Kinko Bay, with magnificent views of Sakurajima Volcano in the distance
★Offers two race categories: a full marathon and an 8.9K fun run, both starting at the former Dolphin Port site
★Includes selected hotel accommodations in central Kagoshima and venue gourmet discount coupons, making the race experience rich and convenient
■Registration Options：Full (42K), 8.9K
■What's Included：Race Entry + Great-Value Selected 2-Night Stay
Event Details
■Event Name：2027 Kagoshima Marathon ( 2027 鹿児島マラソン )
■Event Date：2027-03-07 (Sun)
■Events：
- marathon ( Marathon / マラソン ): 42.195K
- Fun Run ( Fun Run / ファンラン ): 8.9K
■Race Start Times：
- 【 marathon ( Marathon / マラソン ): 42.195K 】 2027-03-07 , 08:30
- 【 Fun Run ( Fun Run / ファンラン ): 8.9K 】 2027-03-07 , 08:45
■Time Limit：
- 42.195K 7 Hrs
※There are 9 checkpoints.
- 8.9K 1 Hr 30 Mins
※There is 1 checkpoint.
■Start Line：Former Dolphin Port Site ( ドルフィンポート跡地前 )
■Finish Line：
- 【 marathon ( Marathon / マラソン ) 】 Kagoshima City Hall ( 鹿児島市役所前 )
- 【Fun Run ( Fun Run / ファンラン ) 】 Yamakataya ( 山形屋 )
■Entry Requirements：
- 【 marathon ( Marathon / マラソン ) 】 Born before 2008/04/01 and at least 18 years old.
- 【 Fun Run ( Fun Run / ファンラン ) 】 Junior high school students (12 years old and above).
※The above information is for reference only. Please refer to the final itinerary documents for actual details.
Make your own way to the destination (airfare not included) → Make your own way to the venue to collect race materials → Check in to the hotel and rest early today to recharge for tomorrow's race.
Meals
Breakfast On your own
Lunch On your own
Dinner On your own
■Accommodation Name：HOTEL MYSTAYS Kagoshima Tenmonkan ( ホテルマイステイズ鹿児島天文館 )
2027 Kagoshima Marathon race day!
In the morning, runners will head to the venue and warm up before the start. Enjoy the beautiful local scenery and race course to the fullest, and run your best race!
After finishing, return to the hotel for a good rest and enjoy a comfortable vacation stay.
Meals
Breakfast Hotel breakfast
Lunch On your own
Dinner On your own
■Accommodation Name：HOTEL MYSTAYS Kagoshima Tenmonkan ( ホテルマイステイズ鹿児島天文館 )
After check-out, you may continue exploring the surrounding sights or travel to other cities for sightseeing. Any onward arrangements are at your own expense.
Meals
Breakfast Hotel breakfast
Lunch On your own
Dinner On your own
Accommodation
On your own
Package Highlights
2027 Kagoshima Marathon will be held on March 7. With the theme "Starting from Kagoshima! A road to run with hope in your heart," this is a major event where you can deeply experience the history of Satsuma and breathtaking natural scenery. Runners will pass through central Kagoshima City, going by lively Tenmonkan, the Meiji Industrial Revolution heritage sites, and the statue of Saigo Takamori, among other historic landmarks. They will then run along the calm coastline of Kagoshima Bay, taking in the majestic scenery of the active Sakurajima volcano. The race not only features enthusiastic support from local residents along the route, but also offers abundant aid stations with Kagoshima specialty foods. This edition also includes special plans such as the Saigo Award to commemorate Saigo Takamori, allowing runners to fully enjoy Kagoshima's one-of-a-kind charm and hospitality!
Race Information
2027 Kagoshima Marathon ( 2027 鹿児島マラソン )
■Event Date：2027-03-07 (Sun)
■Events：
- marathon ( Marathon / マラソン ): 42.195K
- Fun Run ( Fun Run / ファンラン ): 8.9K
■Race Start Times：
- 【 marathon ( Marathon / マラソン ): 42.195K 】 2027-03-07 , 08:30
- 【 Fun Run ( Fun Run / ファンラン ): 8.9K 】 2027-03-07 , 08:45
■Time Limit：
- 42.195K 7 Hrs
※There are 9 checkpoints.
- 8.9K 1 Hr 30 Mins
※There is 1 checkpoint.
■Start Line：Former Dolphin Port Site ( ドルフィンポート跡地前 )
■Finish Line：
- 【 marathon ( Marathon / マラソン ) 】 Kagoshima City Hall ( 鹿児島市役所前 )
- 【Fun Run ( Fun Run / ファンラン ) 】 Yamakataya ( 山形屋 )
■Entry Requirements：
- 【 marathon ( Marathon / マラソン ) 】 Born on or before 2008/04/01 and at least 18 years old.
- 【 Fun Run ( Fun Run / ファンラン ) 】 Junior high school students (12 years old and above).
■Finisher Award: Web finisher certificate
■Participation Gifts：
- 【 Marathon ( Marathon / マラソン ) 】 Commemorative T-shirt, commemorative medal, 500-yen voucher (usable at food stalls at the venue).
※From the above items, choose 2 out of 3 gifts.
- 【 Fun Run ( Fun Run / ファンラン ) 】 Commemorative T-shirt, towel
※The above information is for reference only. Please refer to the final itinerary documents for actual details.
Full Marathon Course Map
Fun Run Course Map
Time Limit
For traffic control, security, and race operations, the organizer has set cutoff points (cutoff times). However, even before reaching a cutoff point, if a participant falls significantly behind schedule or the organizer determines that traffic reopening may be affected, the participant may also be asked to stop the race.
※The Fun Run only has the first cutoff point. If you are unable to reach the finish line by 10:15, please move to the sidewalk as instructed.
※As official measurement has not yet been completed, checkpoint locations and times may be subject to change.
Participation Gifts：
- 【 Marathon ( Marathon / マラソン ) 】 Commemorative T-shirt, commemorative medal, 500-yen voucher (usable at food stalls at the venue).
※From the above items, choose 2 out of 3 gifts.
- 【 Fun Run ( Fun Run / ファンラン ) 】 Commemorative T-shirt, towel
Reference Styles for Commemorative T-shirt and Commemorative Medal
Reference Style for Commemorative Towel
All participants will receive one bath voucher for the Kagoshima public bath area.
※The bath voucher image is a 2026 photo
※The above prizes and contents are subject to the final information and on-site distribution.
Awards
(1) Marathon Overall Rankings: 1st to 8th place in both the men's and women's divisions
(2) Marathon Age Group Divisions: 1st to 3rd place in both the men's and women's divisions for each age group
- Age Groups: Under 24, 25–29, and then every 5 years up to 74, with 75 and above as the final group.
※For item (1), 4th to 8th place, and for item (2), the age group divisions, no on-site award ceremony will be held; certificates will be mailed later.
※Finisher certificates will be issued digitally via the web (online download).
※There will also be Lucky Rank Awards (Tobi-sho).
(Note: "Tobi-sho" is a special prize commonly seen in Japanese races, usually awarded to finishers in certain lucky finishing positions, such as 10th, 50th, 100th, etc.)
Featured Hotels
HOTEL MYSTAYS Kagoshima Tenmonkan ( ホテルマイステイズ鹿児島天文館 )
Stay dates: 2027/03/06, 2026/03/07, total 2 nights
Check-in time: 15:00 PM Check-out time: 11:00 AM
※Images on this 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.
Single Room｜13㎡｜Breakfast Included
Room facilities: Washlet toilet, bathtub, TV, telephone, Wi-Fi, wired LAN internet connection, refrigerator, humidifying air purifier, alarm clock, mug, stationery, shoehorn, electric kettle
Room amenities: Shampoo, conditioner, body soap, toothbrush, razor, bath towel, face towel, hair dryer, yukata, shoe brush, laundry bag, drip coffee, tea set, cotton swabs, bath mat, sanitary bag, tissues, deodorizing spray, slippers
Twin Room｜18㎡｜Breakfast Included
Room facilities: Washlet toilet, bathtub, TV, telephone, Wi-Fi, wired LAN internet connection, refrigerator, humidifying air purifier, alarm clock, mug, stationery, shoehorn, electric kettle
Room amenities: Shampoo, conditioner, body soap, toothbrush, razor, bath towel, face towel, hair dryer, yukata, shoe brush, laundry bag, drip coffee, tea set, cotton swabs, bath mat, sanitary bag, tissues, deodorizing spray, slippers
Packet Pickup Guide
■Packet Pickup Location：Kagoshima City Chuo Park Square ( 鹿児島市中央公園 )
■Packet Pickup Hours：2027-03-06 , 10:00 ～ 19:00
※Collection is not available on race day.
Getting There
■ Recommended ways to travel from Fukuoka Airport (福岡空港) or Kumamoto Airport (熊本空港) to Kagoshima-Chuo Station (鹿児島中央駅)</transportation的建議方式：
- 從 Fukuoka Airport (福岡空港), take the Subway Kuko Line to Hakata Station (博多駅), then transfer to the Kyushu Shinkansen to Kagoshima-Chuo Station (鹿児島中央駅).
- From Kumamoto Airport (熊本空港), take the Airport Limousine Bus to Kumamoto Station (熊本駅), then transfer to the Kyushu Shinkansen to Kagoshima-Chuo Station (鹿児島中央駅).
※We recommend purchasing the JR PASS Kyushu Rail Pass to make your trip even more rewarding!
■ Kagoshima-Chuo Station (鹿児島中央駅)→HOTEL MYSTAYS Kagoshima Tenmonkan ( ホテルマイステイズ鹿児島天文館 )
From Kagoshima-Chuo Station (鹿児島中央駅), take the Kagoshima City Tram to Takamibaba Station (高見馬場停留場), then walk about 4 minutes (260 meters) after getting off to arrive.
■ HOTEL MYSTAYS Kagoshima Tenmonkan ( ホテルマイステイズ鹿児島天文館 )→Start Line：Former Dolphin Port Site ( ドルフィンポート跡地前 )
- You may walk to the venue in the morning as a warm-up; it takes about 21 minutes on foot (1.4 km) from the hotel.
- Walk about 4 minutes from the hotel to Takamibaba Station (高見馬場停留場), take the Kagoshima City Tram to Izurodori Station (いづろ通停留場), then walk about 11 minutes (800 meters) after getting off to arrive.
■ Full Marathon Finish Kagoshima City Hall ( 鹿児島市役所前 )→HOTEL MYSTAYS Kagoshima Tenmonkan ( ホテルマイステイズ鹿児島天文館 )
From Kagoshima City Hall (鹿児島市役所前), it is about a 15–17 minute walk (1 km) to arrive.
■ Fun Run Finish Yamakataya ( 山形屋 )→HOTEL MYSTAYS Kagoshima Tenmonkan ( ホテルマイステイズ鹿児島天文館 )
From Yamakataya (山形屋), it is about an 11–12 minute walk (800 meters) to arrive.
Things to Do
Sengan-en (仙巌園)
A traditional Japanese garden with a long history that once served as the villa of the lord of the Satsuma Domain. It beautifully combines historic architecture with natural scenery and uses borrowed scenery techniques, allowing you to take in views of Kagoshima Bay and the volcano across the water while strolling. It is an ideal place to relax after the race.
Sakurajima (櫻島)
An active stratovolcano that is still erupting today, easily accessible by ferry from the port near the event venue. The island features unique volcanic lava landscapes and abundant natural resources, allowing you to feel the pulse of the earth up close. It is a classic landmark not to be missed when visiting Kagoshima.
Shiroyama Park Observation Deck (城山公園展望台)
Surrounded by dense natural forest and filled with fresh woodland air, this is not only a great place for locals to take a walk, but also an excellent vantage point overlooking all of Kagoshima City and offering distant views of the volcano.
What's Included
【Included】
- 2027 Kagoshima Marathon race entry. (The type of race entry depends on your selected option)
- Selected hotel HOTEL MYSTAYS Kagoshima Tenmonkan ( ホテルマイステイズ鹿児島天文館 ) for 2 nights, including breakfast. (Room type depends on your selected option)
- If the event includes participation gifts, all details are subject to the organizer's final announcement.
【Not Included】
- Round-trip international airfare is not included.
- Passport application fees, some meals, fees for use of other activity facilities, personal expenses, and transportation costs. (Such as beverages, alcohol, laundry, telephone, telegrams, and personal transportation expenses)
※We recommend that you purchase your own travel insurance. (According to regulations, children under 15 cannot be covered by travel accident insurance.)
【Cancellation Policy】
Once booked, the event cannot be canceled. 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 travel package 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 right away.
- Fill out the "Traveler Race Information" form: The system will automatically send the 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 detailed itinerary 5–7 days before check-in.
- On-site check-in and hotel stay: Please bring your original passport on the day of departure to complete 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.
Terms & Cancellation Policy
【Visa】
Holders of Taiwan, Hong Kong, or Macau passports may enter Japan visa-free. However, the passport must be valid for more than 6 months and must also include the Republic of China national ID number. Travelers holding foreign passports should check for themselves whether a visa is required.
【Time Difference】
All of Japan is in the same time zone, GMT+9.
【Included】
- 2027 Kagoshima Marathon race entry. (The type of race entry depends on your selected option)
- Selected hotel HOTEL MYSTAYS Kagoshima Tenmonkan ( ホテルマイステイズ鹿児島天文館 ) for 2 nights, including breakfast. (Room type depends on your selected option)
- If the event includes participation gifts, all details are subject to the organizer's final announcement.
【Not Included】
- Round-trip international airfare is not included.
- Passport application fees, some meals, fees for use of other activity facilities, personal expenses, and transportation costs. (Such as beverages, alcohol, laundry, telephone, telegrams, and personal transportation expenses)
※We recommend that you purchase your own travel insurance. (According to regulations, children under 15 cannot be covered by travel accident insurance.)
【Cancellation Policy】
Once booked, the event cannot be canceled. 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.
【Hotel Check-in Method】
After your booking is confirmed, you only need to present your original passport at the hotel front desk on the day of check-in to complete the check-in process smoothly.
【Race Pack Collection】
Please make your own way to the venue to collect race materials
※Actual information is subject to the organizer's final announcement
【Race Regulations】
Competition Rules
In accordance with the 2026 Japan Association of Athletics Federations competition rules, race advertising and exhibition regulations, and the rules of this event.
Personal Information (The organizer complies with laws and regulations)
The organizer recognizes the importance of personal information and will comply with the Act on the Protection of Personal Information and related laws and regulations, and will handle personal information in accordance with the organizer's personal information protection policy.
Personal information will be used to improve services for race participants, including sending race guides, result notifications, and related information, providing services from event sponsors, partners, and related organizations, publishing race results (rankings, etc.), and conducting surveys.
※The organizer or the Kagoshima Marathon Entry Center may contact you to confirm your application details.
Attire
Participants in the registered and general divisions who wish to be assigned to the S block are not allowed to wear costumes or unusual outfits during the race.
Other participants may wear costumes, but clothing unsuitable for a sporting event is not permitted, such as attire that may offend or endanger other runners or spectators.
※Running with strollers or pets is prohibited.
※The organizer reserves the right to terminate the race on race day depending on actual circumstances.
Other
- If the race is canceled or scaled down due to reasons beyond the organizer's control (earthquakes, tsunamis, windstorms, flood disasters, lightning, severe weather, heavy snow, accidents, incidents, illness, etc.), the entry fee and other fees will not be refunded.
- Please ensure that you have trained sufficiently and undergone a health check in advance before participating in the race to confirm that you are in good physical condition.
- It is prohibited to wear or display any designs, trademarks, or other advertising materials representing company names, product names, etc. for promotional purposes at the event venue, including on the race course.
- No parking is available at the event venue. Please use public transportation. The organizer assumes no responsibility for any delays caused by public transportation or road conditions.
- In the event of emergencies such as accidents or fires during the race, emergency vehicles may pass through any section of the course. In such cases, the race will be temporarily suspended in accordance with staff instructions.
- Images, photographs, articles, and personal records from the event may be used by the event organizer and third parties approved by the organizer for event operations and promotion, and may be published in promotional materials such as event guides and posters, as well as in media including television, radio, newspapers, magazines, and the internet.
- "Kagoshima Marathon 2027 Countdown to the 200th Birth Anniversary and 150th Death Anniversary of Saigo Takamori" may not be used for religious or political purposes.
- In addition to the above regulations, please follow the organizer's instructions regarding race-related matters.
【Race Assembly and Related Details】
All details are subject to the final itinerary information and the organizer's announcements.
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 Kagoshima Marathon 】 Race Entry + Great Value Selected 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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