Your Friendly Guide To The Tokyo Marathon 2025
The Tokyo Marathon isn’t just any race—it’s one of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors (AWMM) and the only one held in Asia! Every March, runners from all over the world take on the fast, flat streets of Japan’s vibrant capital. Your Friendly Guide To The Tokyo Marathon 2025
With nearly 300,000 applicants vying for 37,500 spots, the Tokyo Marathon is highly competitive to enter. But if you’re lucky enough to secure a place, you’re in for an unforgettable experience!
A Race Like No Other
The Tokyo Marathon kicks off at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku and winds through some of the city’s most iconic districts—Nihonbashi, Asakusa, Ginza, and Shinagawa—before finishing with a grand finale at Tokyo Station. Along the way, runners experience a mix of modern skyscrapers, historic temples, and the incredible energy of Tokyo’s cheering crowds.
However, securing a spot in this prestigious race is no easy feat. With over 300,000 applicants competing for just 37,500 spots in 2025, getting in is a major achievement. Compared to other world-renowned marathons like New York, Berlin, and London, Tokyo has fewer available slots, making it one of the most competitive races to enter.
Most participants are selected through a lottery system, with preference given to Japan residents, particularly those in Tokyo. However, if luck isn’t on your side, there are alternative ways to secure an entry:
Charity Entry – Donate at least 100,000 yen to one of 39 designated charities.
Tour Operators – Book a race package through official travel partners.
Virtual Events – Complete virtual races that offer entry opportunities.
One Tokyo Global Service – Join a membership program for international runners.
Abbott World Marathon Majors Lottery – Enter through this exclusive lottery for runners participating in the global marathon series.
If you’re lucky enough to be chosen, you’ll be part of an unforgettable event cheered on by 2 million enthusiastic spectators!
While the field size (38,000 runners) is smaller than other major marathons like London or New York, Tokyo’s 10,000 dedicated volunteers ensure the event runs smoothly, making it a top-tier experience for all participants.
The Evolution & Impact of the Tokyo Marathon
Since its debut in 2007, the Tokyo Marathon has become a staple in the global running scene. It officially joined the Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2012, cementing its reputation as a world-class event.
The race’s theme, “The Day We Unite,” reflects the coming together of runners, volunteers, and spectators. Beyond running, the Tokyo Marathon Foundation promotes fitness and community through initiatives like “Run with Heart”. Launched in 2011, this charity program allows participants to run for a cause, and by 2019, it had expanded to accommodate 5,000 charity runners. Since its inception, charity donations have exceeded 4.6 billion JPY, making a tangible impact on society.
The marathon has also evolved over the years. In 2017, the course was revamped to finish at Tokyo Station, offering a more scenic and iconic conclusion. A year later, it witnessed a new Japanese marathon record, a milestone after 16 years. The 2020 edition gained even greater significance as it doubled as the Japanese Olympic trial for the Tokyo 2020 Games.
Race Details
The Tokyo Marathon 2025 is set to take place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, welcoming thousands of runners from around the world to experience one of the most exciting races in the heart of Tokyo.
Events
The Tokyo Marathon offers two main race categories: the 42.195km marathon, which is open to both general runners and wheelchair participants, and the 10.7km race, which includes divisions for juniors, youth, visually impaired runners, individuals with intellectual disabilities, organ transplant recipients, and wheelchair participants.
Course
According to the Tokyo Marathon’s official website, the course routes for each event are as follows:
Marathon Course Route: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building → Suidobashi → Ueno-hirokoji → Kanda → Nihombashi → Asakusa Kaminarimon Gate → Ryogoku → Monzen-nakacho → Ginza → Tamachi → Hibiya → Tokyo Station/Gyoko-dori Ave.
10.7km Race Route: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building → Suidobashi → Kanda → Nihombashi
Start Times & Cut-off Times
To ensure smooth race management, the event has specific start times and cut-off limits for each category:
Marathon: Starts at 9:10 a.m. with a 7-hour time limit (finish by 4:10 p.m.).
Wheelchair Marathon: Starts at 9:05 a.m. with a 2-hour 10-minute limit (finish by 11:15 a.m.).
10.7km Race: Starts at 9:10 a.m. with a 2-hour time limit (finish by 11:10 a.m.).
Wheelchair 10.7km: Starts at 9:05 a.m. with a 40-minute time limit (finish by 9:45 a.m.)
The final cut-off time of the full marathon is at 4:10 p.m., and Tokyo’s enforcement is strict. Runners who fall significantly behind pace may be asked to leave the course at any time. Plan your race strategy accordingly!
Entry Fee
The entry fees for the Tokyo Marathon vary based on residency and race category. For the marathon, Japan residents pay 16,500 JPY, while overseas participants are charged 160 USD. The 10.7km race costs 5,600 JPY for Japan residents and 60 USD for overseas participants.
Aid Stations & Nutrition
There are 15 hydration stations along the route starting at the 5K mark, with water available at every stop and Pocari Sweat at eight of them. Several stations also provide energy-boosting snacks, including some unique Japanese treats!
Road Closures & Travel Tips
On race day, there will be significant road closures around the marathon course. If you're in Tokyo, be sure to:
Follow detour instructions from police and marathon staff.
Use pedestrian overpasses or underpasses where needed.
Note that drone use is prohibited along the race route.
Be aware of Metropolitan Expressway entrance restrictions.
Free shuttle buses are available in Akihabara and Ueno areas.
For more details, check the Tokyo Marathon website.
Ready to Run or Cheer?
Join the 2,000,000 spectators cheering on runners from all corners of the globe as they conquer one of the most electrifying races in the world. If you're one of the fortunate few who secured a spot, get ready to push your limits and immerse yourself in the unrivaled energy of Tokyo's iconic streets. Experience the excitement like never before!
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