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February 22, 2026 at 9:00 am
Event date:
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February 22, 2026 at 5:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Osaka Marathon was first held in 2011 and has since become one of Japan’s largest and most celebrated city marathons. The event was established to showcase Osaka’s dynamic urban charm while promoting fitness, charity, and community spirit. Over the years, it has evolved into an internationally recognized race, attracting tens of thousands of runners from Japan and around the world.
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Contact Jasumo Now →The marathon’s route and organization are designed to highlight the city’s personality — from its lively streets to its welcoming residents. Local volunteers, entertainment zones, and cheer squads line the course, creating one of the most energetic atmospheres of any marathon in Japan.
In 2026, the Osaka Marathon continues its mission of inclusivity and global participation, with official certification from the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF), World Athletics (WA), and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).
Overview
The Osaka Marathon 2026 is scheduled for Sunday, February 22, 2026, with the race starting at 9:15 AM in front of the Osaka Prefectural Government Building and finishing within Osaka Castle Park. This scenic and relatively flat course passes several of the city’s landmarks, including Dotonbori and Kyocera Dome.
With a 7-hour time limit and over 30,000 participants, it’s a massive event that welcomes both elite runners and casual participants. A shorter 7.2 km “Naniwa Marathon” and wheelchair race are also part of the event, emphasizing inclusivity and community participation.
Highlights
- Scenic course through Osaka’s most iconic landmarks.
- Start near Osaka Prefectural Offices, finish inside Osaka Castle Park.
- Flat, fast route ideal for achieving personal bests.
- Energetic local support with live music and cheering crowds.
- Inclusive events, including a shorter 7.2 km race and wheelchair division.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Certified international marathon meeting JAAF, WA, and AIMS standards.
- Vibrant city atmosphere with great crowd energy.
- Charity runner program supporting meaningful causes.
- Smooth logistics for both domestic and international participants.
- Perfect for sightseeing while running through Osaka’s heart.
If you’re visiting Japan or already here, and need any help — from custom tours and experiences to transportation or ticket bookings — just contact us through the Jasumo contact page.
Schedule
Date: Sunday, February 22, 2026
Start Time: 9:15 AM (Marathon Wave 1)
Time Limit: 7 hours (based on Wave 1 start)
Total Capacity: 34,000 participants (Marathon: 31,970)
Pricing
Entry Fee: ¥16,500 (General runners)
Charity Runners (Overseas): $145 USD + required minimum donation of $475 USD
Location
Venue: Osaka Prefectural Government Office
Address: 2 Chome Otemae, Chuo Ward, Osaka 540-8570, Japan
How to Get There:
The Osaka Prefectural Government Office is around 7 minutes on foot from Temmabashi Station, served by the Keihan Main Line and Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line.
Accommodation Options
Osaka offers a wide range of accommodations for marathon participants — from convenient business hotels near the start line to luxury stays close to Osaka Castle Park. Runners can also find comfortable guesthouses and mid-range hotels around Umeda or Namba for easy access to the course.
On average, expect to pay between 10,000 and 20,000 JPY per night depending on the type of stay and proximity to the venue. Booking early is strongly recommended, as hotels fill up quickly during the marathon weekend.
FAQs
What is the Osaka Marathon?
The Osaka Marathon is one of Japan’s largest and most scenic city marathons, known for its flat course and lively local atmosphere.
When will the Osaka Marathon 2026 take place?
It will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2026, starting at 9:15 AM.
How can I enter the marathon?
Entry is managed by a lottery system for general runners, while charity runner entries are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Where does the marathon start and finish?
The race begins in front of the Osaka Prefectural Government Building and finishes inside Osaka Castle Park.
Is the marathon open to international participants?
Yes, overseas runners can register through the Charity Runner program, which supports local and global causes.
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