The Senshu Marathon, officially known as the KIX Senshu International Marathon, is a unique winter road marathon held in Osaka Prefecture, Japan. Unlike many of Japan’s large city marathons that rely on lotteries and attract tens of thousands of runners, the Senshu Marathon offers a smaller, more intimate racing experience with a strong community atmosphere and exceptional organization. Taking place just across the bay from Kansai International Airport (KIX), the event allows runners to experience Japan’s famous hospitality while racing along the scenic waterfront of Osaka Bay.
The race is centered around Rinku Park and Rinku Ice Park in the city of Izumisano. Throughout the course, runners enjoy sweeping views of Osaka Bay, the impressive Kansai International Airport bridge, and the surrounding coastal landscape. The relatively flat route makes the marathon appealing for both first-time marathoners and experienced runners looking for an early-season personal best. While the course is no longer the point-to-point route used in earlier editions, the current circuit course provides wide roads, excellent support, and an enjoyable spectator atmosphere.
One of the event’s distinguishing characteristics is its accessibility. Entry is offered on a first-come, first-served basis with a comparatively modest field size, creating a relaxed race-day experience without the congestion often associated with Japan’s largest marathons. The event offers both a full marathon and a half marathon, with generous seven-hour and three-hour time limits respectively, making it welcoming for runners of a wide range of abilities. Every finisher receives an official medal, while participants also receive an original event T-shirt and have the opportunity to win local Senshu specialties through post-race prize drawings.
