【Overseas Races】With the yen depreciating, you'll regret not running! Plan a marathon in Japan!

Recommendation 1: 2024 Kanazawa Marathon/金沢マラソン

#Recommendation 1: 2024 Kanazawa Marathon/金沢マラソン

• Official Website
• Location: Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
• Event: Full Marathon (42.195 KM)
• Time Limit: 7 hours (from the first starting signal)
• Race Date: October 27, 2024 (Sunday) starting at 08:30 AM
• Registration Period: April 17, 2024 (Wednesday) 10:00 AM to June 30, 2024 (Sunday) 5:00 PM
• Participant Limit: 13,000 people (limited to 1,000 non-Japanese runners; registration closes when full)
• Entry Fee: 15,000 yen (plus additional handling fee; approximately 3,165 TWD at an exchange rate of 0.211)
• Race Route: Starts at Hirosaka Dori (in front of SHIINOKI Geihinkan) and ends at the Ishikawa Prefectural West Green Park Athletics Stadium.

Kanazawa Marathon is acclaimed as Asia's fastest PB course, featuring an initial climb of approximately 40-50 meters over the first 12 kilometers, followed by a predominantly flat to gentle downhill route that allows runners to showcase their abilities. The latter half of the marathon is notably flat, enabling participants to fully experience the circular charm of Kanazawa Marathon's route. Kanazawa City, often referred to as "Little Kyoto," boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, with iconic landmarks such as Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, and Higashi Chaya District along the course. Runners can enjoy scenic natural landscapes and immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture throughout the race.

Event Highlights: Kanazawa Marathon is held in autumn, offering enchanting views of autumn foliage along the course. Runners can enjoy a visual feast of Japan's historical and cultural sites, complemented by the beauty of nature—a fantastic course design. It's also well-suited for beginners looking to challenge their first full marathon, with a generous time limit of seven hours for completion.
Runner's Tip: Many past editions of Kanazawa Marathon have been conducted in rainy conditions. It's advisable to include training sessions in rain or humid weather conditions during your preparation.

#Recommendation 2: 2024 Mt. Fuji International Marathon/第13回富士山マラソン

• Official Website
• Location: Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
• Event: Full Marathon (42.195 KM)
• Time Limit: 6 hours
• Race Date: November 24, 2024 (Sunday) starting at 09:00 AM
• Registration Period: June 1, 2024 (Saturday) to September 30, 2024 (Monday) 23:59 (for overseas runners)
• Participant Limit: 6,000 people (4,000 for Japan, 2,000 for overseas)
• Entry Fee: 25,000 yen (for overseas runners; approximately 5,275 TWD at an exchange rate of 0.211)
• Race Route: Starting and finishing at Funatsu Haman Parking Lot (Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi Prefecture).

The Mt. Fuji International Marathon is definitely a must-run marathon in Japan! This prestigious event, originally known as the Kawaguchiko Marathon, was renamed after Mt. Fuji was listed as a World Heritage site. Run along the scenic and tranquil Lake Kawaguchi, if you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the majestic Mt. Fuji adorned with its first snowfall. However, the course is not without its challenges—featuring hilly sections around the mountains and lakeside, alternating between flat stretches and unpredictable ascents and descents. As you admire the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Fuji, Japan's highest and most revered mountain, you'll also feel the full challenge of the marathon course under your feet.

The Mt. Fuji International Marathon pays special attention to its finisher's awards each year. This year, they have specially designed event commemorative T-shirts and finisher medals with distinct Japanese characteristics. Particularly for 2024, the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese zodiac, this theme is incorporated into the medal design. Japanese craftsmanship shines through in the meticulous design of these medals. If you collect five finisher medals, you can assemble them into a miniature Mt. Fuji cone, which is incredibly cute!

Event Highlights: Enjoy views of Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and autumn foliage along the course. The Mt. Fuji International Marathon is held in the fall season, allowing participants to run through forests of vibrant maple trees, truly experiencing the beauty of Japan's autumn. This scenic route takes you around Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Saiko, offering stunning views of the majestic mountain and serene lakeside landscapes.

#Recommendation 3: 2024 Nara Marathon/奈良マラソン

• Official Website
• Location: Nara City, Nara Prefecture, Japan
• Event: Full Marathon (42.195 KM)
• Time Limit: 6 hours
• Race Date: December 8, 2024 (Sunday) starting at 09:00 AM
• Registration Period: June 22, 2024 (Thursday) to July 16, 2024 (Tuesday) or until full, early registration recommended!
• Participant Limit: 12,000 people
• Entry Fee: 16,000 yen (including participation award; approximately 3,376 TWD at an exchange rate of 0.211)
• Race Route: Starts and finishes at the Rohto Field Nara (奈良市鴻ノ池陸上競技場).

Registration for the competitive Nara Marathon fills up quickly, so early registration is recommended. This event is a must for runners who love cultural journeys, featuring World Heritage sites and historical landmarks. Nara, as Japan's ancient capital, not only boasts rich history and cultural heritage but also offers serene natural beauty. The marathon route weaves through famous historical sites such as the magnificent Todai-ji Temple, the ancient trees of Kasuga Shrine, and even passes through Nara Park where you can encounter friendly deer roaming freely. The course includes challenging uphill and downhill sections throughout, so runners should be mentally prepared!

Event Highlights: Experience the unique thrill of running alongside Nara's famous deer—perhaps they'll even chase after you if you carry deer crackers! After the race, don't miss the chance to explore the World Heritage sites and indulge in local specialties like Kakinoha Sushi and Nara-zuke, making your visit a truly delightful cultural and culinary experience in Japan.

Must-Try Running Stores When Running Overseas Marathons in Japan

#Recommendation: Tokyo Raffine Running Style

If you're fortunate enough to secure a spot in the 2025 Tokyo Marathon, make sure to visit "Tokyo Raffine Running Style." This dedicated service store for runners offers a very friendly space for international runners. They provide services such as baggage storage, shower facilities, rental of towels, running clothes, shorts, and shoes, recovery massages, and replenishment services, offering comprehensive support for runners. If you're in Tokyo, it's definitely worth experiencing a running store like this.

• Official Website

#Recommendation: BoneRun Tie 2

When you're running abroad, it's time to relax a bit! Bring your phone along to capture precious memories of your overseas running journey. I recommend the Bone Running Handheld Phone Holder. Unlike typical tight arm phone sleeves, Bone's phone holder uses skin-friendly Neoprene material, similar to diving suit fabric. It's lightweight, soft, and flexible on the arm, making your run more comfortable and allowing you to enjoy the scenery along the way.