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.
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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
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.
The Race
Kobe
Race Lore
A Course Built for Speed
2019The course record of 02:07:29, set by Hiroyuki Yamamoto in 2019, speaks to what the Kobe Marathon offers elite athletes: a fast, honest course where serious times are achievable. The record has drawn increasingly competitive fields year after year.
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.
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Course Record
02:07:29
Hiroyuki Yamamoto (2019)
Registration
Registration Opens June
Registration Closes August
Entry Cost ¥12,000-¥14,000
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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
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