Course Map
About this Race
The Hokkaido Marathon is notable as one of Japan's only major summer marathons, run in Sapporo in August on a largely flat course through the northern city. The summer staging brings unusual heat and humidity by Japanese standards, making climate management the central challenge. The level terrain is fast on paper, but the warmth defines the day. The northern cityscape and enthusiastic crowds add appeal. It suits runners who want a flat Japanese race and a rare summer challenge, prepared to pace conservatively against the heat.
Course Insight
Hokkaido is run in late-summer Sapporo, and despite its northern setting the August heat and humidity are the defining challenge on an otherwise flat course. Pace for the warmth, hydrate early, and treat a cool-feeling start as a trap. The level terrain offers nothing to hide a fast start behind. The northern cityscape is pleasant. Respect the heat and the flat profile stays an ally.
Difficulty Breakdown
A balanced marathon with no single defining challenge.
Course Details
- Course type
- Loop
- Elevation gain
- 121m
- Elevation loss
- 115m
- Highest point
- 56m
- Lowest point
- 7m
- Net elevation
- +6m
- Start
- Odori Park, Sapporo
- Cutoff time
- 6h 0m
Race History
The Hokkaido Marathon was first held in 1987 and is notable as one of Japan's only major summer marathons, run in Sapporo on a largely flat course. Its unusual summer staging brings heat and humidity rare for Japanese racing, and the city hosted the 2021 Olympic marathon. From its founding it built a distinctive character. Held each August, it draws a field to the northern city.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- New Chitose Sapporo (CTS)
- Best area to stay
- The Odori city centre for proximity to the route and full hotels, Susukino for lively stays, and the station area for transport convenience.
- Getting to the start
- The start is near Odori Park; take the subway to Odori and walk to the start.