Course Map
Route based on 2025 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Nanjing Marathon is a course through the historic former Chinese capital, touring the ancient city walls, the scenic Xuanwu Lake, and the storied landmarks on largely flat terrain. The level profile is reasonably fast amid richly historic surroundings. Held in autumn, it offers cool conditions well suited to racing. The walls and lake define the day. It suits runners who want a flat-leaning, history-rich Chinese race in a cool-weather window without the warmth of the southern cities.
Course Insight
Nanjing is a largely flat, relatively fast autumn marathon through the historic city, with only mild undulation and scenic surroundings shaping the effort. The level terrain leaves pacing discipline mostly to you on the open stretches. Crisp air suits racing. Run it with steady effort and the course stays manageable to the finish.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to very flat.
Course Details
- Course type
- Point-To-Point
- Elevation gain
- 57m
- Elevation loss
- 54m
- Highest point
- 19m
- Lowest point
- 6m
- Net elevation
- +3m
- Start
- Starts at the Nanjing Olympic Sports Centre, finishes at Yanziji Riverside Park.
- Cutoff time
- 6h 15m
Race History
The Nanjing Marathon was established in the 2010s, a course through the historic former Chinese capital, touring the ancient city walls, scenic Xuanwu Lake, and storied landmarks on largely flat terrain. Its level profile amid richly historic surroundings gave it character. From its founding it grew into a popular event. Held in autumn, it draws a field to the storied city.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Nanjing Lukou (NKG), Shanghai Pudong (PVG)
- Best area to stay
- Xinjiekou in the city centre for proximity to the route and full hotels, the Confucius Temple area for atmospheric stays, and the Purple Mountain edge for scenic options.
- Getting to the start
- The start is near the Olympic Sports Center or the centre; take the Metro to the start-area station and walk in.