Kumamoto Castle Marathon 熊本城マラソン

Since it launched in 2012, the annual Kumamoto Castle Marathon event has gained popularity every year. The February event has so many entries they had to cap it to 13,000 runners. The race is held around the city's major tourist attraction, Kumamoto Castle .

The Kumamoto Castle Marathon starts near Kumamoto Castle in Kumamoto City . Reach the castle by public transportation and on foot.

From Kumamoto Station, take a tram or other transport to Kumamoto Castle . The journey takes around 15 minutes. You can also walk directly to the castle in 30 to 45 minutes.

During the event, roads are closed, and traffic in the city is diverted. Check the official marathon website for route details.

Full marathon participants must be at least 18 years old and be able to complete the course in under seven hours. There is also a 30-kilometer road race for up to 150 runners and a 4 km fun run for up to 1,500 runners.

The marathon takes place on a Sunday in February. While it is usually a clear and rain-free day, the weather can be cold, so runners are encouraged to dress appropriately.

The course starts near Kumamoto Castle and crosses over the Shira River about six times before looping back up to the finish line. Hopeful entrants must submit their application around summer of the year before the race.