Held each autumn in the scenic Amakusa Islands of southwestern Japan, the Amakusa Marathon is one of Kumamoto Prefectureβs signature community road races. Rather than focusing on elite competition, the event emphasizes hospitality, local culture, and the spectacular coastal scenery that has made the Amakusa archipelago a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Runners pass through quiet seaside neighborhoods, fishing communities, and open stretches overlooking the sea while experiencing the relaxed atmosphere for which the region is known. The race welcomes both local residents and visitors from across Japan, making it an excellent choice for runners looking to combine a road race with sightseeing, fresh seafood, and a visit to one of Kyushuβs most beautiful island regions.
The event is centered at Amashin Stadium, which serves as the start and finish venue for all races. The featured distance is the half marathon (21.0975 km), accompanied by 5 km and 3 km races, allowing runners of varying abilities to participate. The half marathon also includes a team competition, adding a fun club element for groups and running organizations. Although the course contains gentle rolling terrain typical of coastal Japan, it is generally considered approachable and rewards runners with scenic ocean views and enthusiastic local support throughout the route.
