Course Map
Route based on 2025 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Fukuoka Marathon is a flat, fast course in the Kyushu port city, heir to one of the most storied elite men's marathons in history, run on smooth, level coastal roads. The forgiving profile and deep racing heritage make it a fast course steeped in tradition. Held in December, it offers cool conditions ideal for hard racing and the polished organisation typical of Japan. The coastal cityscape and history define the day. It suits the PB-focused runner who wants a fast Japanese course with a legendary racing pedigree in a cool window.
Course Insight
Fukuoka carries a storied fast-marathon pedigree, a flat December course along the coast of the Japanese city built for quick, even running. The level terrain makes it about pacing discipline rather than survival. Cool winter air suits fast running. The seaside setting is scenic. Pace it evenly and the flat course rewards a measured, fast effort.
Difficulty Breakdown
A balanced marathon with no single defining challenge.
Course Details
- Course type
- Point-To-Point
- Elevation gain
- 145m
- Elevation loss
- 146m
- Highest point
- 17m
- Lowest point
- 5m
- Net elevation
- -1m
- Start
- Starts in Tenjin, central Fukuoka, finishes in Itoshima.
- Cutoff time
- 7h 0m
Race History
The Fukuoka Marathon is heir to one of the most storied elite men's marathons in history, the Fukuoka International dating to 1947, run on a flat, fast course in the Kyushu port city. After the elite championship held its final edition in 2021, a mass-participation Fukuoka Marathon carries the city's deep racing heritage forward. Its quick coastal layout and December timing built its legendary reputation. It remains a fast Japanese course steeped in tradition.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Fukuoka (FUK)
- Best area to stay
- The Hakata station area for transport convenience and full hotels, Tenjin for central shopping-district stays, and the seaside for scenic options near the route.
- Getting to the start
- The start is near the centre; take the subway to a central stop like Tenjin and walk to the start.