Kobe Marathon

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 has stories that will make you want to run

The Kobe Marathon is held in the city of Kobe with the theme of “gratitude and friendship”. For the 2025 event, the course has been renewed to make it even easier to run and to fully experience the charm of Kobe.

Course overview

・Starting point：The starting point, where runners are filled with enthusiasm and excitement, is in front of Kobe City Hall. The 42.195km drama finally begins in the center of Kobe city.

・Sights along the course：The course stretches from east to west along the beautiful Seto Inland Sea, and runners run through Suma Beach. After passing Suma Beach at the 10km point, the course turns around at Akashi City Okura Beach, a spectacular spot with a close-up view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. You can also enjoy taking memorable photos with the majestic Akashi Kaikyo Bridge in the background.

・Finish point：Returning to Kobe city, the finish point is Kobe Harborland, home to Kobe’s most photogenic landmarks. The moment you cross the finish line, you will be overcome with emotion and a sense of accomplishment.

Elevation difference and temperature

・Elevation difference：This course change avoids the Hamate Bypass and Kobe Ohashi Bridge at the end of the course, and the elevation difference is only 10 meters. This makes it a recommended course for runners aiming for a good time, as well as for marathon beginners.

・Temperature：The Kobe Marathon is usually held in late November, and the weather is relatively warm, making it easy to run in.

Comments from participants

“The scenery was amazing! I was able to run while feeling the charm of Kobe.”
“The flat course made it easy to run, and I was able to improve my personal best.”
“The support from the roadside was warm and encouraging.”
“The support from the volunteer staff was wonderful.” Many participants have expressed their joy.

2024 Kobe Marathon Summary

・DATE：November 17, 2024
・FINISHERS：19,506
・Average Time: –

MEN

1:Barnabe Kipkoe:2:12:28
2:Timothy Kipkorir:2:12:32
3:Liam Boudin:2:12:35
4:Kaneko Akihiro:2:12:51
5:Abel Kirui:2:14:43
6:Yamashita Yuya:2:16:29
7:Ichida Hiroshi:2:16:34
8:Wada Souhei:2:20:15
9:Yokota Keisuke:2:20:57
10:Asaoka Yuki:2:21:52

WOMEN

1:Ogawa Natsuki:2:36:42
2:Kanesige Shiho:2:39:15
3:Riine Ringi:2:39:33
4:Yokota Ayumi:2:42:41
5:Takano Haruna:2:43:43
6:Mabuchi Yuko:2:45:32
7:Ootaru Mizuha:2:46:30
8:Furukawa Ayaka:2:49:33
9:Nishimura Miyuki:2:50:15
10:Nakayasu Tomomi:2:50:49

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.