Ehime Marathon

The Ehime Marathon is a major certified road marathon held in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. Set in one of Shikoku’s most historic and welcoming cities, the race gives runners a distinctive blend of urban energy, local culture, and regional scenery. The course begins in front of the Ehime Prefectural Government Office and finishes at Shiroyama Park, placing runners near some of Matsuyama’s best-known landmarks, including Matsuyama Castle and the city’s central park area.

The race is organized by the Ehime Athletic Association, Nankai Broadcasting, Ehime Shimbun, and Matsuyama City. It is a full marathon only, with a certified 42.195 km course recognized by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations, World Athletics, and AIMS.

For runners, the Ehime Marathon offers a classic Japanese city-marathon experience: highly organized race operations, enthusiastic local support, a six-hour time limit, and a course that moves from the center of Matsuyama toward the “Yuttari Orange Road” before returning to the city finish. The event also reflects Ehime’s regional identity, with local touches such as Imabari towels for finishers and a strong connection to Matsuyama’s tourism culture, including Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama Castle, citrus products, and other local specialties.