Itabashi City Marathon 2025

• Held in Itabashi City, Tokyo, with a scenic course on the Arakawa riverbed.
• Offers a marathon and various sub-events, including a family run and wheelchair race.
• Easily accessible via a 15-minute walk from Ukimafunado or Hasune stations.
• Provides amenities like bag drop, medals, e-certificates, pacers, and medical assistance.
• Organized by local authorities and supported by major sponsors and community organizations.

The Itabashi City Marathon is a celebrated event in Tokyo's Itabashi Ward, known for providing a flat, beginner-friendly course that is perfect for personal bests. The race starts and finishes at the Arakawa Todabashi Baseball Field and runs along the peaceful banks of the Arakawa riverbed. Certified by both the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) and World Athletics (WA), it offers runners a chance to achieve officially recognized times. A standout feature of this marathon is its high completion rate, appealing to both first-time marathoners and those looking to improve their timing. Additional events such as a 5km, junior 3km, and family 1km run make it inclusive for diverse participants. Participants aged 19 and above must complete the race within a generous 7-hour limit. The comprehensive runner support includes pacers, hydration and nutrition stations, medical assistance, and various amenities like bag drop services. Finishers are awarded a medal, an e-certificate, and a commemorative towel. Registration closes on December 6, 2024, with a participation fee of 11,550 yen. Ease of access from Ukimafunado and Hasune stations makes the venue convenient for all, enhancing its appeal as a premier marathon experience in one of Tokyo's charming neighborhoods.

Expect temperatures between 41-58°F (5-14°C) with moderate humidity during the Itabashi City Marathon in mid-March. Runners may encounter light rain, so dressing in layers and being prepared for showers is advisable. Enjoy approximately 12 hours of daylight, with sunrise at 5:52 AM.

The Itabashi City Marathon offers runners a flat and inviting course, perfect for those seeking to achieve personal bests. Starting and finishing at the Arakawa Todabashi Baseball Field in Tokyo's Itabashi City, the route winds along the scenic Arakawa riverbed, incorporating a round-trip to the Arakawa Ohashi Bridge. With an average elevation of just 25 meters, the course remains mostly level, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned runners aiming for fast times.

Certified by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations and World Athletics, this marathon meets international standards, allowing participants to set official records. While the terrain is forgiving, the challenge lies in maintaining pace and endurance over the 42.195 kilometers within the generous 7-hour time limit. Overall, the Itabashi City Marathon offers a memorable and supportive experience for runners of all abilities.

Visiting Itabashi City during the marathon offers a delightful mix of athletic energy and cultural discovery. Beyond the race, explore the city's rich heritage and vibrant local life.

Begin your journey at Jorenji Temple, home to the impressive Tokyo Daibutsu, the third-largest bronze Buddha in Japan. This site provides a serene glimpse into Japan's past, dating back to around 1400. Just a short walk away, the Akatsuka Botanical Gardens invite you to unwind amidst a diverse collection of over 600 plant species, including the historical Man'yo Garden.

For a taste of local life, stroll along Happy Road Oyama, a bustling traditional shopping street brimming with over 200 shops and food stalls. Savor local delights like yakitori and takoyaki as you immerse yourself in the community's vibrant atmosphere. Art enthusiasts should not miss the Itabashi Art Museum, which offers a diverse range of traditional and contemporary exhibits, along with engaging community events.

Extend your cultural exploration at Shiroyama Kumano Shrine, a historic site over a millennium old, where you can view unique Edo-period ema votive pictures. If your visit coincides with August, the Itabashi Fireworks Festival is a spectacle not to be missed, lighting up the sky with 12,000 fireworks. For a hands-on cultural experience, try a calligraphy session and bring home a personal piece of Japanese art.

Embrace the blend of tradition and modernity that Itabashi City offers, enriching your marathon weekend with unforgettable cultural encounters.