Race certified by Finishers: event approved by the organizer

Yodogawa May Eco-Marathon 2027

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The event in a few words

Have you always dreamed of running in the Land of the Rising Sun? 🌅 In May pack your bags 🧳, we invite you to Japan 🇯🇵, in the Osaka Prefecture, in the district of Yodogawa for the Yodogawa Ecomarathon 🏃‍♀️.

If you're a solo runner type 🧍‍♂️, come run the half marathon or the 10 km timed, or if you prefer family running 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒, a parent-child race of 5 km is organized. The race start will take place at 11 a.m. sharp 🕚, in the heart of Osaka, along the Yodo River. You will follow its course via the bike path 🚴‍♂️. The course being flat, easy, and fast ⚡️, the race is open to both novice runners and experienced ones looking to beat their personal record 💪. With a limited number of 300 participants, you won't have to elbow your way at the start 😝.

With several other sports events organized, particularly in the prefectures of SaitamaOsakaHiroshimaKyoto and Kumamoto (but mainly in Tokyo 🌸), the Ecomarathon stands as an environmentally conscious 🌳 and committed to various causes 🎗️. This year, donations can be made to the international refugee support association : Second Harvest Japan. As Japan's first food bank, the organization commits to ensuring everyone has access to food 🍲.

The city of Osaka has a complex history but has evolved and reinvented itself over the years while maintaining its importance as a central and important city in the country. It is a highly touristic destination that combines traditional and modern culture 🎐. Whether you are interested in gastronomy, shopping, culture, or entertainment, you should find joy in Osaka 😍. If you choose to extend your stay, why not visit the Shin-Osaka Station Museum to learn more about the trains connecting the prefecture. If you seek a bit more tradition, don't hesitate to try the Sentō (public baths) or Onsen (traditional hot baths). To learn more about Shinto culture, the Kazaki Shrine ⛩️ will provide you with all the answers to your questions 🧐.

So tempted? Grab your ticket ✈️, lace up your shoes 👟, we're waiting for you at the Yodogawa Ecomarathon 🎏.

4 reasons to join this race

Discover Japan 🇯🇵
If you've never been to Japan, running the Yodogawa Eco Marathon is the perfect opportunity to explore a country that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Should you decide to extend your stay, we highly recommend diving deep into the wonders of Osaka. From the iconic Osaka Castle 🏯 to the Kaiyukan Aquarium 🦈 and the relaxing Onsen/Sentōs 🚰, these attractions are must-sees.
Take Part in a Friendly Event 👫
The participant limit is 300 people. If you're used to international races with thousands of runners, you'll find the atmosphere here is different but just as enjoyable! Rest assured, the experience will be just as rewarding, if not more so, and you'll have a blast running 🏃‍♀️.
Savor Japanese Delicacies 🍱
During your stay, be sure to explore local markets to taste 😋 fresh products, seafood 🦪, and other local delights. If you stumble upon a street stall, don’t hesitate to try some kushikatsu 🍢 — you'll thank us later!
Fast and Flat Course ⚡️
You might be surprised by how easy and quick the 10 km course is. It's a great opportunity to possibly beat your personal best 🏅. For those hoping to spend a family-friendly Sunday, there's a parent-child race for kids under 15 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Bib pickup will be available on race day from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM.

The races will start on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Yodogawa Kasen Park Nishinakojima (near the railway bridge by the riverbed).

  • Half Marathon: time limit is 3 hours

  • 10 km: time limit is 90 minutes

  • Stop at Hankyu Nishinakajina train station

  • Stop at Osaka Nishinakajina Minamikata subway station

Restrooms are available across from the station. There won't be a cloakroom, but there will be a baggage storage area. You are responsible for your valuables.

If you have further questions, feel free to reach out to the organizers via email at: ecomarathon@runningtokyo