The Early Years
2010Established in 2010, the Osaka Half Marathon is now 16 years old. From its first edition in Osaka, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in Japan.
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Course & Elevation
The Osaka Half Marathon features a scenic loop course starting and finishing in the heart of Osaka, passing through Osaka Castle Park and along the Dotonbori district. The predominantly flat, fast course winds through the city's historic neighborhoods and modern business districts, offering runners a unique blend of traditional and contemporary Osaka.
Surface: road Profile: Flat
Weather
Typical climate for the race month — an estimate, not a forecast or a race-day record
Temperature 8°C
Humidity 55%
Rain Chance 25%
Cool winter conditions typical of January in Osaka, with mild temperatures ideal for running. Clear skies are common with occasional rain possible mid-month.
Related Guides
The Race
Osaka
Race Lore
The Fast Lane
Runners come to the Osaka Half Marathon for one reason: personal bests. The flat, fast course through Osaka 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 Osaka Half Marathon is their first half 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
01:00:50
Taiga Hirayama (平山大雅) (2026)
Registration
Registration Opens August
Registration Closes December
Entry Cost ¥5,500-¥7,500
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Official Website →
Fun Facts
- ▸ The race passes directly by Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- ▸ With over 14,000 finishers annually, it's one of the largest half marathons in Japan and attracts runners from across Asia.
- ▸ The event supports multiple local charities and includes a 3-hour time limit, making it accessible to recreational runners of all levels.
- ▸ January weather in Osaka provides ideal running conditions, with cool temperatures and low humidity rarely seen in other seasons.
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