The Early Years
2011Established in 2011, the Kobe Marathon is now 15 years old. From its first edition in Kobe, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in Japan.
Get Your Training Plan
Free, personalized for this race
Course & Elevation
The Kobe Marathon features a scenic course that begins and ends at Meriken Park, running through the revitalized waterfront district and downtown Kobe. The route combines urban landscapes with beautiful harbor views, passing through residential areas and historic neighborhoods affected by the 1995 earthquake, making it both challenging and emotionally meaningful.
Surface: road Profile: Rolling
Weather
Typical climate for the race month — an estimate, not a forecast or a race-day record
Temperature 15°C
Humidity 65%
Rain Chance 25%
Mild autumn weather with cool mornings and comfortable temperatures. Occasional rain possible but generally favorable for marathon running.
Related Guides
The Race
Kobe
Race Lore
Running Through a Postcard
The Kobe Marathon route is one of those courses where runners forget their pace and reach for their phones. The scenery through Kobe and its surroundings has earned this race a reputation as one of the most photogenic in Asia.
Where It Begins
For thousands of runners each year, the Kobe Marathon is their first marathon. The combination of a forgiving course, generous time limits, and supportive crowds has earned this race a reputation as the place where marathon journeys begin. The first-timer energy on race morning is palpable.
🏅 Create Your Kobe Marathon Diploma
Finished this race? Get a free certificate with celebrity comparisons & race day weather
Registration
Registration Opens June
Registration Closes August
Entry Cost ¥12,000-¥14,000
Register Now
Official Website →
Fun Facts
- ▸ The race was established in 2011 to mark the 16th anniversary of the 1995 Great Hanshin earthquake, with proceeds supporting earthquake recovery and prevention
- ▸ Kobe Marathon starts and finishes at Meriken Park, overlooking the iconic Kobe Port Tower and offering stunning harbor views throughout the race
- ▸ The event attracts elite Japanese runners and international competitors, with a highly competitive lottery system due to its popularity
- ▸ The race name and November date commemorate Kobe's resilience and renewal as a maritime trading hub in Japan's economic landscape
Compare With Similar Races
Are you the race organizer?
Free · Get featured on our homepage · Edit your race details
Get alerts for Kobe Marathon
Registration openings, date changes, sell-out warnings.