Kyoto Marathon - Full Marathon Event Established in 2012

The Kyoto Marathon is a full marathon event held annually in February in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. Established in 2012, it is an officially certified course by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations and World Athletics, with approximately 16,000 runners participating in the 42.195-kilometer course that starts at TAKEBISHI Stadium Kyoto and finishes in front of Heian Shrine, all within a 6-hour time limit. The greatest attraction is the beautiful scenery of the ancient capital, featuring seven world cultural heritage sites: Tenryu-ji Temple, Ninna-ji Temple, Ryoan-ji Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Kamigamo Shrine, Shimogamo Shrine, and Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion). The course passes through famous locations such as Arashiyama, the Kamo River, and Kyoto Imperial Park while enjoying views of the mountains famous for the Gozan no Okuribi fire ceremony, creating a route where participants can truly experience the charm of Kyoto. Following the event's concept of "DO YOU KYOTO?", environmental initiatives are a distinctive feature, with sustainable event management practices including reusable cup hydration stations and carbon offset programs. At aid stations, Kyoto-style refreshments such as matcha sweets and rice balls are provided, while warm support from local students and citizens lines the route to encourage participants.