Osaka Marathon

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.