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January 11, 2026 at 9:00 am
Event date:
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January 11, 2026 at 5:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Ibusuki Nanohana Marathon is a long-standing annual event held in Ibusuki City, Kagoshima Prefecture. For over 40 years, it has celebrated both sport and the beauty of nature, with participants running through fields of vibrant nanohana (rapeseed) flowers, a traditional symbol of spring in Japan.
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Contact Jasumo Now →The marathon course highlights Ibusuki’s natural beauty, including scenic views of Lake Ikeda, Kaimondake, and the area’s famous hot sand beaches. This combination of athletic challenge and breathtaking landscapes has made the event a popular choice for runners across Japan and international participants alike.
Beyond being a marathon, the event also fosters community engagement, bringing together local residents, volunteers, and tourists to celebrate the New Year and the arrival of spring in a uniquely picturesque setting.
Overview
Ibusuki Nanohana Marathon 2026 will be held on Sunday, January 11. Participants of the full marathon will start at 9:00 AM from the Fureai Plaza Nanohana Museum, traversing a course that showcases the city’s natural landmarks and seasonal rapeseed blooms.
The marathon is suitable for both competitive and recreational runners, offering a memorable experience of running through golden-yellow fields while enjoying the serene landscapes of southern Kyushu. Spectators can also enjoy the vibrant scenery, cheer on participants, and explore nearby attractions in Ibusuki City.
Highlights
- Scenic marathon course with views of blooming nanohana (rapeseed flowers).
- Passes by Lake Ikeda, Kyushu’s largest lake, and Kaimondake mountain.
- Experience Ibusuki’s unique hot sand beaches along the route.
- Over 40 years of tradition celebrating sport and springtime beauty.
- Opportunity to explore Ibusuki’s culture, food, and local attractions before or after the race.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Participate in a historic marathon with a stunning natural backdrop.
- Witness the vibrant yellow nanohana fields signaling the arrival of spring.
- Enjoy a scenic, well-organized course suitable for various fitness levels.
- Engage with local culture and community activities in Ibusuki.
- Perfect for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and running enthusiasts alike.
If you are coming to Japan or already in Japan and need assistance—from custom tours and experiences to transportation, ticket booking, or any other travel needs—contact us via the Jasumo contact page.
Schedule
- Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026
- Time: Full marathon starts at 9:00 AM
- Location: Starts at Fureai Plaza Nanohana Museum, course throughout Ibusuki City
Pricing
- Full Marathon Entry Fee: ¥10,000 JPY
- Spectator Access: Free to enjoy the course and cheer participants
Location
Fureai Plaza Nanohana Museum, Ibusuki City, Kagoshima Prefecture
5 minutes by taxi from Ibusuki Station (JR Ibusuki Makurazaki Line)
How to Get There:
- By train: JR Ibusuki Makurazaki Line to Ibusuki Station, then 5-minute taxi ride
- By car: Local roads with parking options near the museum
Accommodation Options
Visitors can stay in Ibusuki City or nearby areas, choosing from hotels, ryokans, or guesthouses.
Mid-range hotels cost around ¥8,000–¥15,000 per night, while luxury ryokans may range from ¥20,000–¥35,000. Budget guesthouses start around ¥3,500–¥5,000 per night. Booking in advance is recommended, as the marathon attracts both runners and tourists.
FAQs
What is the Ibusuki Nanohana Marathon?
It is an annual marathon event in Ibusuki City, where runners traverse scenic routes featuring rapeseed flower fields and iconic local landmarks.
When is the 2026 marathon held?
The marathon will take place on Sunday, January 11, 2026, with the full marathon starting at 9:00 AM.
How much is the entry fee?
The full marathon entry fee is ¥10,000 JPY. Spectators can enjoy the event free of charge.
What makes the marathon unique?
Participants run through golden fields of blooming nanohana, with views of Lake Ikeda, Kaimondake, and the city’s famous hot sand beaches.
How do I get to the starting point?
The marathon starts at Fureai Plaza Nanohana Museum, accessible by a 5-minute taxi ride from Ibusuki Station on the JR Ibusuki Makurazaki Line.
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