Tokyo Marathon

Our Featured Virtual Marathon

2024

A Marathon that celebrates the human spirit

The Tokyo Marathon is renowned worldwide for its ability to motivate runners of all levels to push themselves beyond their limits. The Tokyo Marathon urges everyone to conquer adversity with hope and perseverance. This event showcases Tokyo’s rich and diverse culture, providing a platform for runners from around the globe to experience the city’s distinctive charm and vitality.

 
 
Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo, Japan
Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo.

The Tokyo Marathon is an annual 26.2-mile footrace through Tokyo, held each February, and is one of the six major world marathons, along with the Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London, and New York City races. The course symbolizes the past, present, and future of Tokyo, offering a unique running experience that showcases the city’s rich heritage and modernity. The event, organized by the Tokyo Marathon Foundation, has a rich history, with the inaugural race held in 2007. The marathon begins near downtown Tokyo next to the Metropolitan Government Building in the Shinjuku Ward, then winds past the Imperial Palace, offering runners and spectators a glimpse of the city’s iconic landmarks. The race has gained international attention, with the 2020 edition serving as the Japanese Olympic trial for the 2020 Olympic Games, further increasing its global significance.

Tokyo Imperial Palace Bridge Over River, Japan
Tokyo Imperial Palace.

The Tokyo Marathon has become a highly anticipated event, attracting runners from around the world to participate in its unique and dynamic course. The race’s theme, “The Day We Unite,” reflects the spirit of togetherness and camaraderie that characterizes the event, bringing together runners, volunteers, and spectators in a celebration of athleticism and community. The marathon’s commitment to charitable activities is also noteworthy, with the implementation of the “Run with Heart” program, allowing donors to contribute to various charitable causes. The race’s capacity has continued to grow, with a field size of 38,000 participants, including 37,500 runners for the marathon and 500 for the 10.7km race. The event’s inclusive nature and its ability to blend sporting excellence with philanthropy make it a truly special and desired experience for both participants and supporters.

For runners and volunteers, the Tokyo Marathon offers a well-organized and memorable experience, with strict eligibility criteria ensuring that participants are capable of completing the race within the cutoff time limits. The event’s competition rules, cut-off times, and start times are clearly outlined to provide clarity for all involved. Additionally, the race’s commitment to privacy and data handling, as outlined in its privacy policy, reflects its dedication to upholding the highest standards of participant care and security. The Tokyo Marathon’s attention to detail and participant well-being, combined with its global prestige and charitable initiatives, make it a highly sought-after and rewarding travel destination for runners and spectators alike.

Useful Information

Date: March 3, 2024

Start Time: 9:10 AM

Cutoff Time: 7 hours

Start: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Finish: Tokyo Station/Gyoko-dori Ave

Organizer’s Website: https://www.marathon.tokyo/en/

Marathon Cost: Varies

General Entry Email: tm-entrydesk@or.knt.co.jp

RUN as ONE Email: tm-runasonedesk@or.knt.co.jp

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