Kyōto Yawata Ecomarathon 2026

Have you always dreamed of running in the Land of the Rising Sun? 🌅 In November, pack your bags 🧳—we’re inviting you to Japan 🇯🇵, in the prefecture of Kyoto, in the district of Yawata for the Kyoto Yawata Ecomarathon 🏃‍♀️.

If you’re the solo type 🧍‍♂️, come run the half marathon or the timed 10K, if you’re more into family running 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒, a parent-child race of 5 km is organized. The races will start at exactly 11 a.m. 🕚, in the heart of Kyoto, along the Ara River 🌊. You’ll follow its riverbed via the bike path 🚴‍♂️. As the route is flat, easy, and fast ⚡️, the race is open both to novice runners and experienced runners looking to beat their personal best 💪. With the participant limit set at 200 people, you won’t have to elbow your way at the start 😝.

With several other sporting events organized, particularly in the prefectures of Saitama, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto and Kumamoto (but mainly in Tokyo 🌸), the Ecomarathon positions itself as an organization committed to the environment 🌳 and engaged in different causes 🎗️. This year, it is possible to donate to the international refugee support organization : Second Harvest Japan. The first food bank in Japan, the organization is committed to ensuring that everyone has access to food 🍲.

The city of Yawata has a complex history, but has managed to preserve all its heritage and is home to important Shinto shrines 🧧. It is a very touristy destination that combines traditional culture and modernity 🎐. If you choose to extend your stay, you’ll have to make a must-do detour to one of the best-preserved shrines in the region: Iwashimizu Hachimangu ⛩️. Want to gain some height? ⬆️ Then get your ticket and hop on the Iwashimizu Hachimangu Sando Cable! 🚃 This funicular will lift you above the city of Kyoto, for a unique panorama, without putting strain on your already tired legs 😅.

The Kyoto Yawata Ecomarathon is the perfect race to discover Japan your way: with a pair of sneakers on your feet! 🤪