Course Map
Route based on 2023 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Naha Marathon is a festive subtropical race on the Japanese island of Okinawa, run in December on an undulating course through the warm island setting. The hilly terrain and the subtropical heat make it more about the celebration than fast times, drawing an enormous, joyful mass field. The island warmth and the carnival atmosphere define the day. The hills and heat reward measured pacing. It suits runners who want a vibrant, festive island race and accept the undulations and warmth over a personal best.
Course Insight
Naha is a subtropical December marathon on Okinawa, where warmth, humidity and hilly island terrain combine to test any flat-course plan. Pace the climbs by effort and respect the heat from the start. The coastal island scenery is a lift. Hydrate relentlessly in the humid air. Run the rollers with restraint and the heat and hills stay manageable.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (287m).
Course Details
- Course type
- Out-And-Back
- Elevation gain
- 287m
- Elevation loss
- 285m
- Highest point
- 103m
- Lowest point
- 6m
- Net elevation
- +2m
- Start
- Starts at Onoyama Park, crossing 5 southern Okinawa towns.
- Cutoff time
- 6h 15m
Race History
The Naha Marathon was first held in 1985, a festive subtropical race on the Japanese island of Okinawa, run on an undulating course through the warm island setting. Its hilly terrain and subtropical heat made it a celebration drawing an enormous, joyful mass field. From its founding it became a beloved island tradition. Held each December, it draws a vibrant field to Okinawa.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Naha (OKA)
- Best area to stay
- Kokusai-dori in the centre for lively stays near the route, the Onoyama Park area for proximity to the course, and the beach resorts for scenic options nearby.
- Getting to the start
- The start is near Onoyama Park/the centre; take the Yui Rail monorail to a central stop and walk to the start.