The Early Years
2007Established in 2007, the Naha Marathon is now 19 years old. From its first edition in Naha, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in Japan.
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Course & Elevation
The Naha Marathon features a scenic route through Okinawa's capital city, starting from the Okinawa Convention Center and finishing at Naha's coastal promenade. The predominantly flat course showcases local culture, historic sites, and beautiful seaside views, with minimal elevation changes making it accessible for runners of all levels.
Surface: road Profile: Flat
Weather
Temperature 22°C
Humidity 65%
Rain Chance 25%
December offers pleasant subtropical weather in Okinawa with mild temperatures and lower humidity compared to summer months. Early morning temperatures can be cool, making it ideal for marathon running.
The Race
Naha
Race Lore
A Course Built for Speed
2017The course record of 02:09:47, set by Suguru Osako in 2017, speaks to what the Naha Marathon offers elite athletes: a fast, honest course where serious times are achievable. The record has drawn increasingly competitive fields year after year.
The Fast Lane
Runners come to the Naha Marathon for one reason: personal bests. The flat, fast course through Naha has a reputation as a PB factory, with the roads seemingly designed to keep your pace honest and your splits consistent from start to finish.
Where It Begins
For thousands of runners each year, the Naha 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
Suguru Osako (2017)
Registration
Registration Opens July
Registration Closes October
Entry Cost ¥8,000-¥10,000
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Fun Facts
- ▸ Naha Marathon takes place in Okinawa, Japan's southernmost prefecture, known for its subtropical climate and unique Ryukyuan culture distinct from mainland Japan.
- ▸ The race attracts a significant international field, particularly from other Asian countries, making it one of Japan's most cosmopolitan marathon events.
- ▸ December races in Japan are relatively rare, with Naha Marathon being one of the few major Japanese marathons held in the final month of the year.
- ▸ The event passes through historically significant locations including traditional Okinawan districts and coastal areas that showcase the island's distinctive architectural heritage.
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