Have you always dreamed of running in the land of the rising sun? ๐ In February, pack your bags ๐งณ, we invite you to Japan ๐ฏ๐ต, in the prefecture of Kyoto, in the district of Yawata for the Kyoto Yawata Ecomarathon ๐โโ๏ธ.
If you are the solo type ๐งโโ๏ธ, come run the half marathon or the timed 10 km, if you are more into family running ๐งโ๐งโ๐งโ๐ง, a parent-child race of 5 km is organized. The race start will be at 11 AM sharp ๐, in the heart of Kyoto, along the Ara river ๐. You will follow its path via the bike path ๐ดโโ๏ธ. The course is flat, easy, and fast โก๏ธ, making it open to both novice and experienced runners looking to break their personal record ๐ช. With a participant limit of 200 people, you won't have to elbow your way at the start ๐.
With several other sports events organized, particularly in the prefectures of Saitama, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto and Kumamoto (but mainly in Tokyo๐ธ), the Ecomarathon positions itself as an organization environmentally conscious ๐ณ and committed to various causes ๐๏ธ. This year, it is possible to donate to the international refugee support association: Second Harvest Japan. The first food bank in Japan, the organization is committed to ensuring that everyone has access to food ๐ฒ.
The city of Yawata has a complex history but has managed to preserve its heritage and possesses significant Shinto shrines ๐งง. It is a very tourist-friendly destination that combines traditional and modern culture ๐. If you choose to extend your stay, you must make a mandatory detour to one of the best-preserved shrines in the region: Iwashimizu Hachimangu โฉ๏ธ. Want to gain some elevation? โฌ๏ธ Then take your ticket and hop on the Iwashimizu Hachimangu Sando Cable! ๐ This funicular will lift you above the city of Kyoto for a unique panorama, without tiring your already weary legs ๐ .
The Kyoto Yawata Ecomarathon is the perfect race to discover Japan in your own way: with a pair of sneakers on your feet! ๐คช
A parent-child race ๐งโ๐งโ๐งโ๐ง is organized during the day, starting at 11 AM sharp ๐. It is accessible to children up to 15 years old.
Bibs can be picked up on race day from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM.
The races will start on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 11 AM near the parking area of Yodogawa Kasen Park, Sewaritei area.
Yes, you will have a maximum of 2 hours and 30 minutes to finish your event.
If you have any further questions, you can contact the organizers by email at ecomarathon@runningintokyo.com
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