The Kochi Ryoma Marathon is one of Japan’s premier destination marathons, combining breathtaking coastal scenery, heartfelt local hospitality, and the rich cultural heritage of Sakamoto Ryoma, one of Japan’s most celebrated historical figures. Held annually in Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture, Japan, the race has become renowned for its warm “omotenashi” hospitality, spectacular Pacific Ocean views, and enthusiastic community support. Since its inaugural running in 2013, the marathon has grown into one of Shikoku’s flagship running events, attracting thousands of participants from across Japan and around the world.
The World Athletics-certified and Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) certified course begins in front of the Kochi Prefectural Government Office in central Kochi before guiding runners through the city’s historic streets, past Harimayabashi Bridge, and onto the expansive coastal roads that showcase the natural beauty of Kochi Prefecture. Participants cross the dramatic Urado Bridge, enjoy sweeping views near the famous Katsurahama Beach, run alongside the Pacific coastline, and cross the impressive Niyodo River Estuary Bridge before finishing at GIKEN Stadium in Haruno Athletic Park. The largely flat profile during the opening stages gradually transitions into gentle rolling terrain, creating a rewarding challenge while allowing runners to appreciate some of Japan’s finest coastal scenery.
