Run through Osaka and shake your senses. Osaka, a 42.195km dream
The Osaka Marathon is a large-scale urban marathon where over 30,000 runners race through the city of Osaka. It’s a 42.195km journey that starts at Osaka Castle Park and tours the main sights of Osaka city.
The initial crowded start, coupled with the endless cheers from spectators filling the roadside, provides a powerful push for the runners.
The warm hospitality unique to Osaka is also one of its charms.
Osaka Marathon: A 42.195km journey that stirs the senses
The Osaka Marathon is not just a race. It is an unforgettable adventure through the vibrant city of Osaka. Push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world in Osaka, the city of “Kuidaore” (eat till you drop).
Course Overview
Starting Point
The emotional journey begins in front of the Osaka Prefectural Government Office. With over 30,000 runners starting simultaneously, initial congestion is inevitable. A wave start has been adopted since 2019, and while the first 2km is a gentle downhill slope, making it easy to pick up speed, it’s important to be careful of contact with other runners.
Sights along the way
The Osaka Marathon course attracts runners with its diverse scenery and enthusiastic cheering.
・Start to 5km (Osaka Prefectural Government Office to Osaka City Hall)：Expect congestion typical of a large-scale marathon right after the start. The first 2km is downhill, making it easy to gain speed, so be mindful of other runners and try to maintain your own pace. Even with the loud cheers from the roadside, it’s important not to rush and to stick to your own rhythm.
・5km to 15km (Osaka City Hall to Namba to Kyocera Dome)：This section takes you past iconic Osaka landmarks such as the Osaka Central Public Hall, Osaka City Hall, and the Glico sign in Namba. It’s the section with the most passionate roadside support, which can be exhilarating, but be careful not to disrupt your pace. The first water station is at the 5km mark, and it’s likely to be very crowded, so be prepared for potential difficulty in getting water smoothly. A straight section along Midosuji continues for about 3km, and you’ll loop around Kyocera Dome between the 10km and 15km marks. This section also features many small turnarounds, making it easy to see the difference between you and the runners ahead, and you can exchange cheers with acquaintances. It’s expected to feel warmer in this area, so remember to hydrate frequently.
・15km to 25km (Kyocera Dome to Kishinosato to National Bunraku Theater)：This section consists of relatively flat terrain. It’s crucial to conserve energy and refuel with amino acids and other supplements in preparation for the upcoming ups and downs after the 25km mark.
・25km to 35km (National Bunraku Theater to Tsutenkaku to Shitennoji Temple to Oikebashi)：This is considered the most challenging section of the course, with continuous ups and downs reaching a maximum elevation difference of 20m. However, you’ll run past famous Osaka landmarks such as Tsutenkaku, Shitennoji Temple, and Abeno Harukas. Around the 29km mark, you’ll find a special food zone, which many runners look forward to. Runners aiming for a good time should consider positioning themselves to avoid the crowds here.
・35km to Finish (Oikebashi to Osaka Castle Park)：After the food zone, you’ll head north for about 5km along the flat Imasato-suji street. The road is wide and there’s plenty of support, making it a relatively easy section to run. At the 40km mark, you’ll go under an underpass of the JR Loop Line, and after that, it’s the final 2km. The last 2km consist of a challenging uphill climb, but with Osaka Castle in sight, push your final strength and aim for the finish line with a smile.
Finish Point
Finish within the magnificent Osaka Castle Park! The sense of accomplishment from running through the city of Osaka and the countless cheers waiting for you at the finish line will create unforgettable memories.
Elevation Difference and Climate
・Elevation Difference：The overall elevation difference of the course is relatively small, but there are continuous ups and downs with a maximum elevation difference of 20m after the 25km mark. Particularly challenging is the final 2km before Osaka Castle Park, which features an uphill climb.
・Weather：Osaka in late February, when the race is held, often experiences mild weather. The average temperature is around 5-10°C and it’s usually dry, but it’s important to be prepared for sudden drops in temperature or wind.
Participants’ Comments
・”It was a warm and welcoming race, as if the entire city of Osaka was cheering us on!”
・”The food offerings were really delicious and made me forget my fatigue.”
・”The ups and downs in the second half were tough, but seeing Tsutenkaku gave me energy.”
・”The final uphill climb to Osaka Castle is really hard, but the sense of accomplishment at the finish line is exceptional.”
・”The smiles and cheers of the volunteers were so encouraging.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Osaka Marathon lies in managing your pace through the initial congestion and the early downhill section. Be careful not to speed up too much due to the enthusiastic roadside support, and conserve energy during the flat middle section. Strategic energy replenishment is crucial in preparation for the ups and downs after the 25km mark. Be aware that many runners stop at the food zone, so if you’re aiming for a good time, consider your positioning. Planning your pace so you can give your all on the final uphill climb to Osaka Castle Park will be the key to success.
The Osaka Marathon is a 42.195km journey that will thrill all your senses. Surrounded by the vibrancy and warmth of Osaka, wouldn’t you like to experience the greatest joy and sense of accomplishment of your life?
2025 Osaka Summary
・Date: February 24, 2025
・Number of Finishers: 31,334 (Men: 24,324, Women: 6,625, Non-binary: 385)
・Average Finishing Time: –
MEN
1: Adane Yihunilign: 2:05:37
2: Kondo Ryota: 2:05:39
3: Tola Abdisa: 2:05:52
4: Hosoya Kyohei: 2:05:58
5: Molla Getaneh: 2:06:04
6: Kuroda Asahi: 2:06:05
7: Kikuchi Shunya: 2:06:06
8: Suzuki Kengo: 2:06:18
9: Kashiwa Yugo: 2:06:28
10: Benard Kimani: 2:07:28
WOMEN
1: Mekasha Waganesh: 2:26:33
2: Godfay Afera: 2:26:40
3: Alemu Kuba: 2:26:43
4: Ocampo Daiana: 2:28:26
5: Matsuda Anna: 2:28:50
6: Palm Tara: 2:34:15
7: Aoki Nanami: 2:39:05
8: Lu Yajing: 2:40:01
9: Ito Chifumi: 2:41:05
10: Ino Mitsuko: 2:42:14
2026 Osaka Marathon
Run through Osaka and surpass yourself. 42.195km will unleash a new you
・Location: Osaka Castle Park
・Date: February 22, 2026
・Start time: 9:00 AM
Osaka: Vibrant Water City, City of Food and Culture
Osaka, the center of western Japan, has long flourished as the “Kitchen of the Nation,” a city rich in food culture and human warmth. From the vibrant neon signs of Dotonbori to the retro atmosphere of Shinsekai, and the historic Osaka Castle, each spot exudes its unique charm, captivating visitors.
From soul foods like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu, to sophisticated Japanese cuisine, Osaka is a treasure trove of gourmet delights. Walking through the city, you’ll hear lively shouts from bustling markets and shopping streets, and experience the warmth and humor of its people.
Theme parks like Universal Studios Japan and cultural facilities such as the National Museum of Art are also abundant, offering both entertainment and art. Cruises unique to Osaka, the “Water City,” are also popular, providing a recommended way to view the cityscape from the river.
In this city, where historic buildings and modern skyscrapers coexist and new cultures are constantly being born, there are always new discoveries to be made with each visit. Filled with creative energy and infinite possibilities, Osaka is a place where anyone can find “their own story.” Once you visit, you’ll be captivated by its charm and want to return again and again – that’s how special this city is.
