Beppu-Oita Mainichi Marathon

The Beppu-Oita Mainichi Marathon is one of Japan’s most historic and prestigious competitive road-running events, bringing together elite international athletes, accomplished Japanese marathoners, and highly trained amateur runners for a challenging 42.195-kilometre race along the scenic coastline of Oita Prefecture.

Held annually in early February, the marathon connects the neighbouring cities of Oita and Beppu on the northeastern coast of Kyushu, Japan’s third-largest main island. The event is renowned for its fast coastal course, exceptionally competitive field, strict qualifying standards, and important role in the development of Japanese distance running.

First established in 1952, the Beppu-Oita Mainichi Marathon has a remarkable history spanning more than seven decades. The race was founded through the efforts of Yasuo Ikenaka, a former Japanese marathon record holder and Olympic coaching figure who envisioned creating a major national marathon competition in his home region.