About

The KOBE MARATHON 2026 will be held on November 15th. It's an attractive race that perfectly combines beautiful coastal scenery with a challenging experience for runners.
The KOBE MARATHON 2026 will be held on a course befitting the port city of Kobe, featuring a turnaround point overlooking the sea. The flat, easy-to-run course, which runs east-west along the beautiful coastline, is recommended not only for those aiming for a good time but also for first-time marathon runners. The finish line is at Haborland, home to one of Kobe's most photogenic landmarks. Why not enjoy the city of Kobe while running the new course?

A course to enjoy Kobe in luxury

The course is Kobe, the town where Japan's first marathon was held. Starting in front of the City Hall, where there is a stone monument erected to commemorate this, it is a gorgeous course that passes between Mt. Rokko and the sparkling Seto Inland Sea, allowing you to enjoy the city and nature of Kobe.

A course that will satisfy even marathon beginners

The time limit is 7 hours, and most of the course is flat, making it possible for even beginners to complete the course.

Uninterrupted support

From start to finish, supporters will provide continuous support to runners along the entire course, reflecting the marathon's theme of "Thanks＆Friendship."

Kobe history and culture

Kobe is a historic city and a place for cross-cultural exchange. The Kobe Marathon is an opportunity to enjoy Japanese culture and scenery while running through this wonderful city.

international participants

The Kobe Marathon is a World Athletics (WA)/AIMS certified course. Runners from all over the world gather here, with approximately 20,000 participants from both Japan and abroad the day of event. Runners can enjoy the atmosphere and sightseeing of Kobe as they run through the city, fostering interaction and friendship by running alongside runners from different countries and cultures.

Would you like to join us in running 42.195km in Kobe, the birthplace of the Japan Marathon, while enjoying the beautiful scenery, challenging course, and international atmosphere?

Kobe is an exciting international city that excels in developing gastronomy that goes beyond Kobe beef and sake. Enjoy a variety of cuisines every day, including delicious desserts, baked goods, stylish Western cuisine, and mouth-watering Chinese street food. Additionally, Arima Onsen is a hot spring area famous for its ocher-colored water, perfect for soothing post-marathon pain.

Come to Kobe not just to run, but to experience all the wonderful things this wonderful city has to offer!