The Kanazawa Marathon: Taiko Drums, Costumes and 15,000 Runners
On the last Sunday morning of October (weather permitting!) several major roads in Kanazawa are closed down to make way for the runners of the annual Kanazawa Marathon. Up to 15,000 runners from Japan and around the world powerwalk, shuffle, jog and race nearly 43 kilometers to complete for top prizes and recognition or simply to enjoy the thrill of the run.
The marathon’s route circles starts in the center and circles around the city, providing participants and spectators with scenic and historical views throughout the course. Food and crafting booths set up in and around the route, and dancers, flags, and taiko performers entertain from the sides.
Additionally, spectators may spy some entertaining participants donning unusual dress, from silly get ups to full on mascot suits!
Guests of Kaname Inn Tatemachi can walk about 2 minutes up to the downtown Katamachi district to see the runners in their first leg of the race and hear music and cheers nearby. Or, head behind the hotel up to the Shiinoki Culture Complex and Hirosaka neighborhood to see the runners lining up for the starting gun first thing in the morning.
Marathon goods are also available a couple of days before and on the day of the marathon, including special commemorative items for participants.
If you’re looking to participate in the marathon, do note that there are separate entries for Japan residents and overseas visitors. Residents of Japan are given priority, with only 1,000 slots guaranteed for overseas participants, but numbers become more flexible depending on availability once the April 1st deadline arrives. Final information is delivered to selected participants about a month prior to the marathon date.
The fastest runners of each category receive accolades, with the top winners receiving a special Kanazaw-specific trophy.
Much of central Kanazawa is closed off in the morning as the runners join the race wave by wave. As the 7-hour race progresses outward, roads are reopened and bus routes start up gain. Visitors can enjoy the exciting start of the race and then continue touring the city from lunch on.
The marathon is the absolute busiest day of the year for hotels thorughout Kanazawa, even busier than the 3-day long Hyakumangoku Festival! Whether visiting Kanazawa or participating as a runner, plan to book very early.
(with most information, including domestic entry applications)
Kanazawa Marathon, English page
(for participants from overseas)
About a decade ago Rachel fell off a bus and then fell in love with this traditional-crafts and ice-cream-consuming capital of Japan. Editor and amateur photographer with a penchant for nature and history. Not actually fifty songbirds in a trench coat. (Former penname: Ryann)
