Osaka Marathon
The Lowdown
The Osaka Marathon is one of Japan's premier road races, held annually in late February in the heart of Osaka. First run in 2011, the event has grown into a major mass-participation marathon featuring both elite and general runners. The course passes through iconic Osaka landmarks including Osaka Castle Park, where it both starts and finishes, and winds through the city's vibrant urban landscape. The race accommodates general runners via a lottery system alongside charity, elite, and wheelchair categories. It is known for its electric atmosphere, enthusiastic crowd support, and strong organizational culture emphasizing community and charity. Osaka in late February offers cool, runner-friendly conditions. The race is not currently a World Marathon Major but draws tens of thousands of participants each year and features an 8.8 km challenge run option alongside the main marathon.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
World-class event
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Excellent spectator turnout
Boston Qualifier
This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event. Achieve your qualifying standard here on a verified course.
Osaka Castle Park (start and finish area)
Namba entertainment district
Shinsaibashi shopping area
Osaka Bay waterfront
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Osaka Castle Park area, Osaka, Japan
JP
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Eligibility
- Must be 18 years of age or older on race day
- Must complete the course within the race time limit (approx. 7 hours)
Required Documents
- Photo ID
- Proof of lottery selection or charity/special-program entry confirmation
Entry Methods
- Public lottery (general runners)
- Charity fundraising (guaranteed entry)
- Osaka Sports Support donation program
- Elite athlete invitation
- Wheelchair category open entry
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Lottery entry fees are typically non-refundable; check the official website for the 2027 policy when announced.
First held in October 2011; moved to late February from 2019 onward.
The elite men's race component was merged with the Lake Biwa Marathon from 2022 onward under JAAF organizational changes.
Strong charity and community focus; charity runners and Osaka Sports Support runners receive guaranteed bibs.
2027 entry information expected to be announced around July 2026 on the official website.
The race has been held for 14 editions as of 2026.
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Community
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