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Course & Elevation

The Nagano Marathon starts in the city center and winds through the scenic Nagano Basin, featuring views of the Japanese Alps in the distance. The course passes through traditional neighborhoods, past the famous Zenko-ji Temple, and along the Shinano River, offering a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The rolling terrain provides moderate challenge with spring cherry blossoms enhancing the experience.

Surface: road Profile: Rolling

Weather

Temperature 14°C
Humidity 65%
Rain Chance 20%

Mid-spring conditions with mild temperatures ideal for distance running. Clear skies are common with occasional light showers; cherry blossom season creates scenic, pleasant running conditions.

Nagano Marathon race

The Race

Nagano cityscape

Nagano

Race Lore

Born in the Running Boom

1987

The Nagano Marathon was founded in 1987, during the golden age of mass-participation running. Now 39 years old, it has established itself as a beloved fixture in Nagano, growing from its early editions into a race with genuine character and loyal following.

A Course Built for Speed

2019

The course record of 02:09:47, set by Yuta Abe in 2019, speaks to what the Nagano 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 Nagano Marathon route is one of those courses where runners forget their pace and reach for their phones. The scenery through Nagano 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 Nagano 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

02:09:47

Yuta Abe (2019)

Registration

Registration Opens June
Registration Closes November
Entry Cost ¥6,000-¥7,000

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