The Early Years
2002Established in 2002, the Mt. Fuji Marathon is now 24 years old. From its first edition in Kawaguchiko, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in Japan.
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Course & Elevation
A stunning loop course around Lake Kawaguchi with Japan's most iconic mountain, Mt. Fuji, serving as a dramatic backdrop throughout the race. The course features gentle rolling hills in the early stages, with a steady climb from approximately the 20km mark through forested areas, offering spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding Japanese Alps. Runners descend through picturesque villages in the latter half before returning to the lakeside finish.
Surface: road Profile: Hilly
Weather
Temperature 12°C
Humidity 55%
Rain Chance 25%
Cool autumn weather with crisp mountain air and excellent visibility. November offers some of the clearest views of Mt. Fuji, with low humidity and comfortable running conditions, though layers are recommended for early morning starts.
The Race
Kawaguchiko
Race Lore
The Course Record
2019The fastest time ever recorded at the Mt. Fuji Marathon is 02:12:47, set by Hiroyuki Horikoshi in 2019. Every year, new contenders line up hoping to challenge that mark on the streets of Kawaguchiko.
The Hills That Break You
With 1150m of elevation gain, the Mt. Fuji Marathon is not a course for the faint-hearted. The climbs are where races are won and lost — where the gap between training and undertrained reveals itself without mercy. Locals say the course doesn't beat you; it just waits for you to beat yourself.
The Lottery
Getting into the Mt. Fuji Marathon is a race before the race. The entry lottery draws far more applicants than available spots, and the notification email — accepted or rejected — has become an annual ritual that defines the running calendars of thousands.
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Course Record
02:12:47
Hiroyuki Horikoshi (2019)
Registration
Registration Opens April
Registration Closes July
Entry Cost ¥10,000-¥12,000
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Fun Facts
- ▸ The race features unobstructed views of Mt. Fuji (Fujisan), Japan's iconic 3,776m peak, on clear days, making it one of the world's most scenically dramatic marathons.
- ▸ Held on November 3rd annually, which coincides with Culture Day in Japan, adding to the festive atmosphere with local celebrations and performances.
- ▸ The course circumnavigates Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchi-ko), one of the Fuji Five Lakes, providing stunning reflections of Mt. Fuji on calm mornings.
- ▸ Approximately 93% of finishers complete the race within the 7-hour time limit, indicating strong community participation and inclusive race management.
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