42.195km, one with the scenery of Kobe
Based on the theme of “gratitude and friendship,” the Kobe Marathon aims not just to run, but to “run for the people.”
It aims to share with the world the image of Kobe, which has recovered from the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, and the lessons it has learned, and to convey gratitude for the support it has received from both within Japan and overseas, while placing importance on the awareness that everyone is part of it.
A major attraction of the event is that it allows runners to share their joy and sense of unity not only with each other, but also with those who are cheering them on. It is a special event where you can feel the feelings of those who overcame the disaster and the importance of supporting each other while running through the beautiful scenery of Kobe.
Kobe Marathon: A 42.195km journey that embodies gratitude
The Kobe Marathon is more than just a race. It is a testament to the city’s revival and the bonds of friendship. Run through this beautiful port city, known for its unique culture and stunning seascapes, and dedicate your run to the spirit of reconstruction.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The emotional journey begins in front of Kobe City Hall, right in the city center. Runners are greeted by the cheers of thousands of spectators. The early miles take you through the lively urban area, allowing you to settle into your pace quickly on the wide, flat roads.
Sights along the way
The Kobe Marathon course is highly regarded for its stunning scenery and favorable conditions for setting records, thanks to its predominantly flat profile.
・3-10 km: The course takes you through downtown Kobe, passing iconic spots like Nanjing Town and Minatogawa Shrine, before heading west toward the sea. The enthusiastic support from the spectators in the city center provides a strong boost in the initial stages.
・10-30 km: This long, flat section runs along the beautiful scenic coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Awaji Island. The lack of significant elevation changes makes this part of the course ideal for maintaining a steady pace and aiming for a fast time.
・30-40 km: The runners reach the turnaround point at Okura Coast in Akashi City and head back towards Kobe. Unlike the previous course, the removal of the challenging ups and downs of the Kobe Ohashi (Kobe Bridge) means this late stage remains smooth and highly conducive to achieving a strong finish.
・40 km to the finish: As the runners return to the city center, the final stretch tests their endurance. The flat finish line awaits at Meriken Park, where the symbolic Port Tower and the sea provide a magnificent backdrop for the final dash.
Finish point
Finish in the heart of the port city at Meriken Park! The powerful sense of gratitude and friendship that permeates the city, combined with the achievement of completing this flat, fast course, will be the best memory of your running life.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference: The course is renowned for being extremely flat, with a maximum elevation difference of only about 10m. This makes it one of the easiest major marathons in Japan for setting a personal best. The course avoids major bridges and significant climbs, allowing runners to maintain consistent pacing throughout the 42.195km.
・Weather: Kobe, where the race is held in mid-November, often enjoys clear, cool weather perfect for marathon running. The average temperature is typically 10-17°C, with dry conditions and light winds.
Participants’ comments
・ “The flat course helped me smash my personal best! It’s a great course for beginners and PB hunters.”
・ “Running along the coastline with the view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge was magnificent.”
・ “The ‘Gratitude and Friendship’ theme truly came through. The warmth of the local people’s support was deeply moving.”
・ “It felt like a joyous celebration of the city’s revival. I was tearing up at the finish.”
・ “The final stretch to Meriken Park, seeing the Port Tower, gave me a massive burst of energy.”
・ “The organization was impeccable, and the local food stations were a great highlight!”
・ “I wore my name on my shirt, and the cheers I got were amazing! Kobe is truly a beautiful city to run in.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Kobe Marathon is to capitalize on the early energy from the downtown crowds and settle into a comfortable pace on the wide, flat roads. Given the course’s minimal elevation change (max 10m), the strategy should focus purely on consistent pace management throughout the middle seaside section (10-30km). Save enough energy for the final 10km, knowing there are no major climbs to challenge you, ensuring a strong finish on the flat approach to Meriken Park. Use the excellent weather and flat profile to your advantage to achieve your target time.
The Kobe Marathon is a 42.195km journey of thanks, friendship, and self-achievement. Run with runners from around the world through a city of resilient spirit and beautiful scenery, and experience the greatest thrill of running on a fast, flat course.
2025 Kobe Marathon Summary
・Date and time: November 16, 2025
・Number of finishers: 19,800 (Men: 11,500, Women: 8,300)
・Average time: 5:02:45 (Men: 4:48:30, Women: 5:20:15)
MEN
1: Elisha Rotich: 2:11:02
2: Ethan Wright Shuley: 2:11:30
3: Hiromasa Kumahashi: 2:11:45
4: Takuya Kumashiro: 2:13:17
5: Taisei Kato: 2:15:37
6: Keisuke Yokota: 2:15:46
7: Daichi Atsuura: 2:15:52
8: Masami Nagakura: 2:15:59
9: Tomohiro Kaijo: 2:16:24
10: Takeru Ikka: 2:17:46
WOMEN
1: Jackline Chelal: 2:28:25
2: Deborah Samum: 2:30:16
3: Kokone Sakai: 2:35:22
4: Natsuki Ogawa: 2:36:24
5: Kotomi Tsubokura: 2:39:00
6: Haruna Takano: 2:39:54
7: Catherine Wanjiru Njunge: 2:40:30
8: Riine Ringi: 2:41:24
9: Ayaka Furukawa: 2:44:16
10: Runa Tooya: 2:47:11
2026 Kobe Marathon
This 42.195km journey, born from reconstruction, is waiting for you. Join fellow runners from around the world as you run through the resilient and beautiful city of Kobe, aiming for a personal best on its flat course.
・Location: Kobe City Hall (Start), Meriken Park (Finish)
・Date and time: November 15, 2026
・Start time: 9:00am
Rediscover the charm of Kobe! An international city with a mix of history, culture and spectacular views
Kobe is one of Japan’s leading international cities, and its history, culture, and breathtaking scenery make it a unique and fascinating city.
Kobe’s history began with the opening of the port, and its exotic streetscapes were formed. In the Ijinkan district, which still retains the appearance of the Meiji era, you can get a glimpse of life at that time, and feel as if you have traveled back in time. In Nankinmachi, one of Japan’s three largest Chinatowns along with Yokohama Chinatown and Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, you can experience Chinese culture while tasting authentic Chinese cuisine. In addition, in the former settlement, buildings from the Meiji era still remain, exuding a sophisticated and adult atmosphere. By visiting these spots, you will be able to experience Kobe’s international history.
Kobe’s culture is rich in diversity. In the Kitano area, where stylish cafes and restaurants are gathered, there are many unique shops that have been renovated from Ijinkan houses, making it a great place to stroll. In addition, the waterfront area of Kobe Port, Harborland, has shopping malls, restaurants, amusement parks, and more, so you can enjoy it all day long. And Meriken Park, where Kobe’s symbol, the Port Tower, stands, is lit up at night and enveloped in a romantic atmosphere. By visiting these spots, you will be able to experience Kobe’s diverse culture and get to know its charms more deeply.
Kobe’s charm is also in its beautiful scenery. From Mt. Rokko, you can see the cityscape of Kobe and the Seto Inland Sea, and enjoy a breathtaking view. You can go to the top of the mountain by ropeway or cable car, and enjoy hiking. You can also enjoy a majestic view from the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in the world. In addition, you can enjoy swimming and marine sports at the beautiful Suma Coast with its white sand and green pines. By visiting these scenic spots, you will be able to enjoy Kobe’s rich nature and refresh both body and mind.
Kobe’s charm can be enjoyed not only visually but also with taste. Kobe beef is a high-quality beef characterized by fine marbling, and is recommended to be enjoyed as steak or shabu-shabu. Kobe also has one of the highest bread consumption rates in the country, and is home to many delicious bakeries. There are also many stylish cafes and patisseries, and a wide selection of sweets. By enjoying these delicacies, you will be able to enjoy the flavors of Kobe to your heart’s content.
Kobe is packed with a variety of attractions, including history, culture, spectacular views, and gourmet food. Be sure to visit Kobe at least once to enjoy all of these attractions. You’ll surely create unforgettable memories.
