Sakudaira Marathon

The Sakudaira Half Marathon is a certified road race held in Saku, Nagano, Japan, set against the mountain scenery and rural landscapes of eastern Nagano Prefecture. The race starts near Sakudaira Station, making it especially convenient for runners arriving by Hokuriku Shinkansen, and the course takes participants through a mix of historic Nakasendo post town atmosphere, views of Mount Asama and the Yatsugatake mountains, and open countryside around the Sakudaira area.

The event includes a Half Marathon, 5K, and 1 Mile race, with certified courses and a community-focused format that welcomes competitive runners, students, families, and local participants. The race also has a distinctive pop-culture identity through its collaboration with the manga Fist of the North Star, whose creators have ties to the Saku area. Finishers receive an original commemorative finisher towel, and optional collaboration race shirts are available.