Kasumigaura Marathon 2025

• Combines full marathon with international blind marathon, supporting visually impaired athletes
• Scenic course through villages, farms, and lakeside, offering visually appealing views
• Strong community involvement with charity focus and local participation
• Wave start system to reduce congestion, with bib collection on race day
• Qualifying event for AbbottWMM MTT Age Group World Ranking, with awards for top finishers

The Kasumigaura Marathon, set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Kasumigaura and Mount Tsukuba, offers a scenic and inclusive race experience in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. Known for its breathtaking route along Japan's second-largest lake, the marathon attracts runners with its mix of natural beauty and cultural richness.

The marathon features diverse race distances, including a full marathon of 42.195 km, a 10-mile run, and a 5 km race, accommodating a wide range of runners. What sets this marathon apart is its dedication to inclusivity with the International Blind Marathon component, highlighting the event's commitment to providing a competitive platform for visually impaired athletes.

Participants start in staggered waves, preventing congestion and ensuring a smooth race day experience. Additionally, the Kasumigaura Marathon serves as a qualifying event for the Abbott World Marathon Majors Age Group World Ranking, providing veteran runners aged 40 and above a chance to compete on a global scale.

With expected participation ranging from 25,000 to 49,999 runners, the marathon is a major event on the Japanese running calendar. It offers runners not just a race but an opportunity to be part of a vibrant community, complete with opportunities to earn awards and enjoy the local culture. Limited edition race T-shirts are available for purchase, contributing to a charity focused on traffic accident prevention, demonstrating the event's community-oriented spirit.

Runners should prepare well in advance, with training plans typically spanning 20 weeks, and are advised to collect their race bibs at the event's information desk on race day. The Kasumigaura Marathon provides an incredible journey through scenic landscapes and a platform for global competition, making it a noteworthy addition to any marathon enthusiast’s itinerary.

Expect temperatures between 50-79°F (10-26°C) during the Kasumigaura Marathon in mid-April. Runners may encounter high humidity and moderate risk of rain, with occasional strong winds.

The Kasumigaura Marathon in Kasumigaura City, Japan, presents a captivating running experience along the serene shores of Lake Kasumigaura, the country's second-largest lake. Runners traverse a predominantly flat, road-based course with an average elevation of just 34 meters, ideal for those chasing personal bests. The route offers breathtaking views of Mount Tsukuba and the shimmering expanse of the lake, creating a picturesque setting. Participants can choose from the Marathon, a 10 Mile Run, or a 5K Run, each sharing the lake's scenic path. Despite the flat terrain, runners must contend with potential winds off the lake and the challenge of maintaining pace along long, straight stretches. The Kasumigaura Marathon seamlessly blends natural beauty with competitive racing, drawing runners eager for both a visual feast and a personal challenge.

Visiting Kasumigaura in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, for the marathon offers a delightful mix of athletic pursuits and cultural exploration. Just an hour from Tokyo, Kasumigaura is easily accessible via JR Tsuchiura Station and provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Kasumigaura City is home to Japan’s second-largest lake, offering stunning views and outdoor activities. Enthusiasts can cycle the 180-kilometer Tsukuba-Kasumigaura Ring-Ring Road, or enjoy fishing for local specialties like wakasagi and shira-uo. For a unique experience, hop aboard a hobikibune, a traditional fishing boat turned tourist attraction, to learn about age-old fishing methods.

Beyond the lake, explore Mount Tsukuba, perfect for novice climbers, or take the ropeway for panoramic views. Nearby, the Ushiku Daibutsu stands as the largest bronze Buddha statue in Japan, a must-see for visitors. Local cuisine is another highlight, with fresh seafood and specialties like grilled sweetfish and lotus root available at local markets. Don't miss the Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition, a dazzling display that ranks among Japan's top three fireworks events.

Whether cycling along scenic routes, climbing iconic peaks, or savoring local flavors, Kasumigaura promises a rich and memorable experience that beautifully complements the marathon adventure.