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Itinerary Overview
Package Highlights
■Host City:Nara (奈良県)
■Course Highlights:
★An officially recognized Japan Association of Athletics Federations event where you can enjoy a light run while experiencing Asuka Village’s rich historical landmarks
★Supply stations along the route offer a rich selection of local cuisine and Asuka’s specialty, Ruby strawberries
★Receive an original event T-shirt, a collapsible soft cup, and a portable collapsible soft water bottle just by participating
■Registration Options:Half (21.1K)
■What's Included:Race Entry + Great-Value Selected 2-Night Stay
Event Details
■Event Name:2027 Asuka Half Marathon ( 2027 飛鳥ハーフマラソン )
■Event Date:2027-03-14 (Sun)
■Events:Half Marathon ( ハーフマラソン ): 21.0975K
■Race Start Times:2026-03-14 , 09:00
■Time Limit:21.0975K 3 Hrs 30 Mins
※ 09:00 - 12:30, there are 4 cutoff points on the course.
■Start Line:Kitora Tomb Special Historic Site / Shishinkan ( キトラ古墳・四神の館前 )
■Finish Line:Kitora Tomb Special Historic Site / Shishinkan ( キトラ古墳・四神の館前 )
■Entry Requirements:Participants who are at least 18 years old on race day and able to complete the race within the time limit.
※Please bring your own reusable water bottle/cup.
※The above information is for reference only. Please refer to the final itinerary information for actual details.
Make your own way to Nara and collect your race pack upon check-in at your selected hotel! Get some rest early today and recharge for tomorrow's race.
Meals
Breakfast At your own expense
Lunch At your own expense
Dinner At your own expense
Accommodation
Grand Mercure Nara KashiharaGrand Mercure Nara Kashihara (グランドメルキュール奈良橿原)

2027 Asuka Half Marathon ( 2027 飛鳥ハーフマラソン ) race day!
In the morning, participants will head to the venue, warm up, and take part in the race. Enjoy the scenery and the course, and run your best time!
After finishing, you will stay again at the hotel included in your selected package and enjoy a full rest.
Meals
Breakfast Hotel breakfast
Lunch At your own expense
Dinner At your own expense
Accommodation
Grand Mercure Nara KashiharaGrand Mercure Nara Kashihara (グランドメルキュール奈良橿原)
Package Highlights
Asuka Village (明日香村) was the political and cultural center of the Asuka period and is also regarded as the birthplace of Japan's centralized state. Its history is even older than Heijo-kyo (Nara). Many traces of ancient times still remain here, and the race course is surrounded by abundant cultural heritage. In 2026, Asuka Village (明日香村) was also inscribed as part of the World Cultural Heritage site Asuka-Fujiwara Palaces, making this a truly special course that takes you through the stage of ancient Japanese history. As you pass through beautiful villages and mountains along the way, the ever-changing scenery is sure to soothe both body and mind!
Race Information
■Event Name:2027 Asuka Half Marathon ( 2027 飛鳥ハーフマラソン )
■Event Date:2027-03-14 (Sun)
■Events:Half Marathon ( ハーフマラソン ): 21.0975K
■Race Start Times:2026-03-14 , 09:00
■Time Limit:21.0975K 3 Hrs 30 Mins
※ 09:00 - 12:30, there are 4 cutoff points on the course.
■Start Line:Kitora Tomb Special Historic Site / Shishinkan ( キトラ古墳・四神の館前 )
■Finish Line:Kitora Tomb Special Historic Site / Shishinkan ( キトラ古墳・四神の館前 )
■Entry Requirements:Participants who are at least 18 years old on the day of the race and can complete the race within the time limit.
※Please bring your own reusable water bottle/cup.
※The above information is for reference only. Please refer to the final itinerary information for actual details.
【Course Map】
【Elevation Chart】
【Cutoff (Checkpoint) Points】
Asuka Village (明日香村) was inscribed as a World Heritage site in 2026 as part of the Asuka Fujiwara Imperial Palace site. The first half of the course takes you through a historic and cultural area filled with World Heritage sites, while the second half lets you fully enjoy the charm of Asuka Village (明日香村) in a rural area rich in natural resources!
- Please observe traffic rules and etiquette.
- Please be especially careful to avoid contact or collisions with vehicles or pedestrians.
- If you are running in a group, please do not step onto the roadway or spread out across the sidewalk, as this may obstruct vehicles or pedestrians.
- At night, please wear reflective bands or other highly visible clothing.
- Please be careful not to inconvenience local residents and businesses along the route. Also, do not litter.
- Please maintain good manners so that everyone can use the roads comfortably.
【Turnaround Point】

【Refreshment Stations】

- To support environmental protection and reduce plastic use, participants are requested to carry their own water bottle or reusable soft flask for hydration.
- The hydration stations specially provide the local famous water Goro Goro Spring Water for participants to stay hydrated at any time.
- The stations are stocked with a wide variety of特色 local food items, allowing participants to enjoy local flavors while rehydrating.
【Finish Area Park Route Map】


【Participation Gift】Original T-shirt size reference ※Design to be announced

【Participation Gift】2027 Collapsible Soft Cup

【Participation Gift】2027 Collapsible Soft Water Bottle

【Participation Gift】2027 Original Japanese Hand Towel

There are two participation gift sets available for participants to choose from
- Original T-shirt and collapsible soft cup + collapsible soft water bottle
- Original T-shirt and original hand towel (Japanese hand towel)
※The design, color, and style of the participation gifts are all random.
【Awards】
- On the day, the top 3 male and female runners in the overall rankings based on net time will be selected separately, and finisher certificates will be presented at the awards ceremony that day.
- For each age group (under 29, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70 and above), the male and female runners ranked 1st to 8th will receive physical finisher certificates, which will be mailed later.
- All participants will receive an online finisher certificate (the certificate will show the overall ranking as well as rankings by gender and age group).
Featured Hotels
Paired with a comfortable hotel for convenient travel to and from the race venue.
Grand Mercure Nara KashiharaGrand Mercure Nara Kashihara (グランドメルキュール奈良橿原)
Stay dates: 2027/03/13, 2027/03/14 for a total of 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|Breakfast Included|29㎡

Room Amenities
TV/duvet/down pillow/Wi-Fi/bidet toilet seat/refrigerator/yukata (one-size-fits-all for adults)/outerwear/belt/slippers (adults/children)/toiletries (shampoo/conditioner/body wash/hand soap)/bath towel/face towel/hand towel/bath mat/rinsing cup/kettle/green tea bags/roasted tea bags/toiletries (toothbrush/toothpaste)/hangers/shoehorn/deodorizing spray/Jude bag/clock/room trash bin/bathroom trash bin/toilet paper/tissues/complimentary cups/mineral water/hair dryer/DD card
Packet Pickup Guide
■Packet Pickup Location:Grand Mercure Nara KashiharaGrand Mercure Nara Kashihara (グランドメルキュール奈良橿原)
■Packet Pickup Hours:預計 入住飯店時領取
Getting There
Thoughtfully provided transportation suggestions for the race. Actual traffic conditions are subject to announcements on the day, and you may also purchase tickets in advance to avoid limited availability. (Actual conditions are subject to the day of travel)
■ From Taiwan to the local airport
You may check Kansai Airport flight information - Learn more to find your preferred flight arrangement.
■ Kansai International Airport (関西国際空港) to Grand Mercure Nara Kashihara (グランドメルキュール奈良橿原)
From Kansai International Airport (関西国際空港), take the JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service for 7 stops to Tennoji Station (天王寺駅), then walk about 4 minutes after exiting the station to Osaka-Abenobashi Station (大阪阿部野橋駅), transfer to the Kintetsu Minami-Osaka Line for 7 stops to Kashiharajingu-mae Station (橿原神宮前駅), and then walk about 4 minutes (200 meters) after exiting the station to reach the hotel. You may return the same way on your way back.
■Grand Mercure Nara Kashihara (グランドメルキュール奈良橿原) to Race Venue:Kitora Tomb Special Historic Site / Shishinkan ( キトラ古墳・四神の館前 )
From Grand Mercure Nara Kashihara (グランドメルキュール奈良橿原), walk about 1 minute to Kashiharajingu-mae Station (橿原神宮前駅), take the Kintetsu Yoshino Line to Asuka Station (飛鳥駅), and then walk about 20 minutes after exiting the station to arrive. You may return via the same route.


Things to Do
Asuka is home to many historical ruins and archaeological resources. You can stroll around or rent a bicycle, and with a local guide, immerse yourself in the history of the Asuka period. Thanks to preservation laws, this land still retains the appearance of the past, as if time has stood still. Asuka ( 明日香村 ), with its many cultural assets, is well worth exploring in depth.
※The images for the suggested itinerary below are sourced from the official websites of asukamura, feel kobe, and visit Himeji.
Ishibutai Tomb
One of Japan's largest horizontal stone chambers. Believed to be the tomb of Soga no Umako, it is made of many massive stones stacked together and is a very spectacular and famous attraction!

Kengoshizuka Tomb
A nationally designated historic site in Japan. It is the tomb of Emperor Saimei, the 37th emperor of the Asuka period 1,400 years ago, and his granddaughter. At that time, only emperors could use an octagonal tomb. Overlooking the entire village from high on a hill, this beautiful historic site is also known as the Morning Glory Tomb.

Asukadera Temple
Built in 596 by Soga no Umako, who was devoted to protecting Buddhism, it houses Japan's oldest Buddhist statue, which is said to have never been moved in 1,400 years.

Kitora Tomb Mural Experience Center: Shijin no Yakata
A national treasure-class artifact, this aristocratic tomb features exquisite murals of the Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise on the four sides of the stone chamber, with the oldest surviving astronomical chart above.

Masuda Iwafune
Near the summit of Mount Iwafune, in a bamboo grove at an elevation of 130 meters, stands a huge granite rock. It is designated as a historic site by Nara Prefecture.

What's Included
【Package Includes】
1. Race entry for 2027 Asuka Half Marathon ( 2027 飛鳥ハーフマラソン ).
2. 2 nights at the selected hotel Grand Mercure Nara KashiharaGrand Mercure Nara Kashihara (グランドメルキュール奈良橿原), including breakfast (room type depends on your selection).
3. If the race includes any participation gifts, the final announcement by the organizer shall prevail.
【Excluded Expenses】
- Round-trip international airfare is not included.
- Personal passport application fees, some meals, usage fees for other activity facilities, personal expenses, and transportation costs. (For example: beverages, alcohol, laundry, telephone, telegram, and personal transportation expenses)
※It is recommended that you purchase your own travel insurance (children under 15 cannot be covered by travel insurance according to regulations).
【Cancellation Policy】
Once the race has been booked, it cannot be canceled. If cancellation is required due to force majeure, please provide 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 package on the AsiaYo platform and complete the booking request.
- Instant booking, order confirmed immediately: Once confirmed by the system, your travel order will take effect right away.
- Fill in 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: 5 to 7 days before check-in, AsiaYo will send the updated final itinerary details.
- On-site check-in and hotel stay: On the day of departure, please bring your original passport 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 a Taiwan passport may enter and exit Japan visa-free, but the passport must be valid for more than 6 months and must include the Republic of China national ID number. Holders of foreign passports should check for themselves whether a Japanese visa is required.
【Time Difference】
All of Japan is in the same time zone, Greenwich Mean Time (G.M.T.) +9 hours, which is 1 hour ahead of Taiwan time.
【Package Includes】
1. Race entry for 2027 Asuka Half Marathon ( 2027 飛鳥ハーフマラソン ).
2. 2 nights at the selected hotel Grand Mercure Nara KashiharaGrand Mercure Nara Kashihara (グランドメルキュール奈良橿原), including breakfast (room type depends on your selection).
3. If the race includes any participation gifts, the final announcement by the organizer shall prevail.
【Excluded Expenses】
- Round-trip international airfare is not included.
- Personal passport application fees, some meals, usage fees for other activity facilities, personal expenses, and transportation costs. (For example: beverages, alcohol, laundry, telephone, telegram, and personal transportation expenses)
※It is recommended that you purchase your own travel insurance (children under 15 cannot be covered by travel insurance according to regulations).
【Cancellation Policy】
Once the race has been booked, it cannot be canceled. If cancellation is required due to force majeure, please provide 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】
Collect your race pack upon hotel check-in and enjoy a hassle-free race experience.
※Actual information is subject to the organizer's final announcement
【Race Regulations】
Important Notes for Race Day
The changing room opens at 7:00, and baggage check-in is scheduled to begin at 7:15.
Start Procedure
- You will be assigned to different waiting areas based on the result you declared at the time of registration.
※Even if the declared results are the same, participants may still be assigned to different waiting areas.
- Depending on your waiting area, it may take more than 10 minutes from the starting gun until you cross the start line.
- Participants who did not declare a waiting area at registration will start from the very back of the waiting area.
- Please keep an appropriate distance from other participants before crossing the start line.
Registration Terms and Conditions
All participants must comply with the following registration terms and conditions. By submitting your registration, you agree to these terms and conditions. If you are denied participation or asked to withdraw from the race due to these terms and conditions, in principle the registration fee and other handling fees will not be refunded.
- After registration, you may not change, cancel, or transfer your registration information for personal reasons. Overpayments or duplicate payments will not be refunded.
- In the event of earthquakes, floods, snowfall, incidents, accidents, epidemics, or other reasons beyond the organizer's control, the registration fee and other handling fees will not be refunded. On race day, late arrivals due to public transportation disruptions or road conditions will not be accepted, and any losses during the race period shall be borne by the participant.
- Participants must bear their own participation risks, including monitoring their own health, undertaking sufficient training, and undergoing health checks when necessary. If you have been diagnosed with an infectious disease or have symptoms such as fever, please do not participate. If the organizer determines that it is unsafe to continue the race, please follow instructions such as canceling your participation. The organizer will only provide first aid for accidents or injuries occurring during the race and shall not bear any liability for damages. Compensation is limited to the coverage of the race insurance.
- If you do not receive contact from the organizer before the deadline and are unable to complete the necessary procedures due to reasons not attributable to the organizer, such as internet equipment failure, undelivered or delayed delivery, or poor communication environment, the organizer shall bear no responsibility.
- If any fraudulent behavior is discovered, such as false reporting of age, gender, results, etc., allowing another person to participate in your place, or taking shortcuts during the race, the organizer may, depending on the circumstances, cancel your participation eligibility and results (awards), and may also disqualify you from future races. No refunds will be given in such cases.
- Within the event venue (including the course), wearing or displaying any advertisements or promotional materials is prohibited (except those displayed by the organizer), such as company names, product names, designs representing such names, any items that may inconvenience others, any items that violate public order and morals, or any other items deemed inappropriate by the organizer.
- The organizer reserves the right to publish and use all images, videos, photos, articles related to the event, as well as participants' names, ages, and addresses (including prefecture and city/town/village) in newspapers, television, magazines, the internet, brochures, and other media. Please also refer to the separate section on Personal Information Handling.
- The event will comply with all relevant laws.
- In addition to the above terms and conditions, please follow the organizer's instructions regarding the event.
- No receipts will be issued for registration fees and other charges.
Personal Information Handling
- The organizer fully recognizes the importance of personal information and will handle personal information in accordance with the organizer's privacy policy and in compliance with the Act on the Protection of Personal Information and related laws and regulations. In order to improve services for participants, personal information may be used for the following purposes: participant information, race record notifications, related information notices, sponsorship of this event, services provided by partners and related organizations, and publication of race records (rankings, etc.). The organizer may also entrust subcontractors to confirm registration details.
- In addition to the purpose of holding the race, the organizer may also provide personal information to third parties that require such information, such as public health centers and medical institutions, in order to ensure participant safety.
- Personal information may be provided to relevant companies and subcontractors within the scope of race operations.
【Race Assembly and Related Arrangements】
All details are subject to the final itinerary information and the organizer's official 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 Asuka Half 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!
Need assistance?
If you have any questions during booking, feel free to reach out—our Customer Support is here to help!

















