Hokkaido Marathon

Overview

The Hokkaido Marathon is a marathon event that has been held in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan since 1987, usually in late August in the summer.

It is one of the largest marathons held in Japan during the summer, with both men and women starting at the same time and on the same course.

Using the course that starts and finishes at Odori Park in the center of Sapporo city, it passes historical buildings such as the clock tower in Sapporo city and the former Hokkaido government building, and there are vast ranches and countryside along the road. There are landscapes and forest areas, and you can enjoy the scenery of each season.

Hokkaido is known as a region rich in delicious food. After the marathon, you can enjoy fresh seafood and specialty products unique to Hokkaido. In addition, there are many hot spring resorts and tourist attractions around the event area, so you can fully enjoy the charm of the local area while enjoying the marathon.

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Hokkaido Marathon August 31 2008 Marvin Andino Photography

Course

The Hokkaido Marathon course is a scenic 42.195-kilometer loop that winds through the city of Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. It starts and finishes at Odori Park, in the heart of Sapporo, and takes runners past some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Susukino entertainment district, the Sapporo TV Tower, and the verdant campus of Hokkaido University.

The course is known for its flat and fast design, making it a popular choice for runners aiming for a personal best. However, there are a few gentle hills throughout the course, which can provide a challenge for some runners.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the course:

The first 10 kilometers of the course take runners through the center of Sapporo, passing by the Susukino district and the Sapporo TV Tower.
From there, the course heads north to the Toyohira River, which runners follow for a few kilometers before turning east towards Hokkaido University.
The course then winds its way through the university campus before heading south back towards the city center.
The final kilometers of the course take runners through Odori Park and past the finish line.

The Hokkaido Marathon course is a great way to see the sights of Sapporo and experience the city’s running culture. If you’re looking for a fast and flat marathon course, the Hokkaido Marathon is a great option.

The charm of the city

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is a vibrant city that offers something for everyone. Here are some of its charms:

Winter Wonderland
Sapporo is famous for its winter festivals, particularly the Sapporo Snow Festival, which is the largest snow festival in the world. Held in February, the festival features massive snow and ice sculptures, illuminated at night, that attract visitors from all over the globe.
Brewery Heaven
Sapporo is home to the world-famous Sapporo Breweries, the oldest brewery in Japan. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and learn about the history of Sapporo beer, and of course, enjoy a tasting at the end.
Foodie Paradise
From fresh seafood to hearty ramen, Sapporo offers a wide variety of delicious food to try. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties, such as Sapporo soup curry, jingisukan (grilled mutton), and Ishikari nabe (salmon hot pot).
Art and Culture
Sapporo has a thriving arts scene, with a number of museums and galleries to explore. The Sapporo Art Museum houses a collection of modern and contemporary art, while the Hokkaido Historical Museum tells the story of the region’s history.
Natural Beauty
Despite being a city, Sapporo is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Odori Park, located in the heart of the city, is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. For a more adventurous escape, head to the nearby mountains for hiking, biking, or skiing.

Sapporo is a city that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re interested in winter sports, delicious food, or cultural attractions, Sapporo has something to offer everyone.