Running Sakurajima

The Running Sakurajima (ランニング桜島大会) is one of Japan’s most unique road races, offering runners the rare opportunity to compete beneath one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Held annually in Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, the event takes place on the island of Sakurajima, where participants race through dramatic volcanic landscapes, hardened lava fields, and scenic coastal roads overlooking Kagoshima Bay (Kinkō Bay). Combining natural beauty with a challenging yet fast certified course, Running Sakurajima has become one of Kyushu’s signature distance running events and attracts runners from throughout Japan every December.

The race is centered around the Sakurajima Lava Running Course, a Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) certified course that incorporates both dedicated running paths and public roads. Participants can choose between a Half Marathon and a 10 km race, with both courses offering spectacular views of Sakurajima’s volcanic peaks, black lava formations created by historic eruptions, and the tranquil waters of Kagoshima Bay. The race starts and finishes at Nan-ei Lease Sakurajima Square (Sakurajima Multipurpose Plaza), creating a festival-like atmosphere where runners and spectators gather before and after the event.