Fukuoka Marathon
Race snapshot
Race Day
50–66°F · Feels cool
Total elevation gain
Relatively flat course · Net elevation change +98 ft
Participants
Large field
Crowd Rating
Excellent spectator turnout
The Lowdown
The Fukuoka Marathon is an annual mass-participation road marathon held in early November, organized by Fukuoka City and Itoshima City. Now in its 13th edition (2026), the race draws approximately 13,000 runners and is the largest marathon in the Kyushu region. The point-to-point course starts at the Tenjin Intersection in Chuo-ku — the vibrant commercial heart of Fukuoka — and finishes at the Itoshima City Koryu Plaza Shima-kan, with a stunning transition from urban streetscapes to the scenic coastline and mountains of Itoshima. The event is distinct from the historic elite-only Fukuoka International Marathon (a separate December race); the Fukuoka Marathon is fully open to mass participation, including 500 reserved spots for overseas runners. Entry is primarily by lottery for domestic runners. The race carries a World Athletics Elite Label and qualifies as a Boston Marathon qualifying race.
Questions about the Fukuoka Marathon 2026
When is the Fukuoka Marathon 2026?
Sunday, November 8, 2026.
Where is the Fukuoka Marathon?
Fukuoka, Japan.
What time does the Fukuoka Marathon start?
The race starts at 9:00 AM, local time.
What is the Fukuoka Marathon time limit?
7 hours.
How do I enter the Fukuoka Marathon 2026?
Registration is closed. Ways in: Online lottery application (domestic runners); Online first-come-first-served via Google Forms (overseas runners, first 500 guaranteed).
How much does the Fukuoka Marathon 2026 cost?
Overseas Runner Entry (First-Come): ¥30,000. Wheelchair Race (5.2 km): ¥3,300. Fun Run (5.2 km): ¥4,100.
When and where is packet pickup for the Fukuoka Marathon?
Nov 6, 2026: Check-in open 12:00–20:00 on Friday, November 6. Nov 7, 2026: Check-in open on Saturday, November 7. Final check-in available morning of race day.
What is the Fukuoka Marathon elevation gain?
120 m (394 ft) of total elevation gain. Net elevation change: +30 m (98 ft). Relatively flat course.
What is the Fukuoka Marathon course like?
It passes Tenjin Intersection, Chuo-ku (start area), Fukuoka City waterfront and bay views and Itoshima coastal scenery and mountains (finish area).
What is the weather like at the Fukuoka Marathon?
Race-day temperatures are usually 10–19 °C (50–66 °F). Feels cool.
How many runners does the Fukuoka Marathon have?
13,000 participants. Large field.
Is the Fukuoka Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event.
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