-
March 14, 2027
Event date:
-
March 14, 2027
Event end:
Overview
The Biwako Marathon 2027 is a highly anticipated road race that guides runners along the scenic shores of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake. Located in Shiga Prefecture, this spectacular athletic event gathers thousands of participants ranging from dedicated domestic athletes to enthusiastic international marathoners. Runners are treated to an immersive journey through stunning natural scenery, charming lakeside towns, and culturally significant landscapes that define this beautiful region.
The meticulously planned marathon course emphasizes both athletic performance and visual splendor, starting in the historic city of Otsu. Participants journey eastward past popular viewing locations before making their way toward the grand finish line located on the Karasuma Peninsula in Kusatsu City. The flat terrain and refreshing lake breezes combine to create ideal racing conditions that motivate runners to push their physical boundaries and achieve personal records.
Beyond the competitive aspects of the race, the marathon operates as a vibrant community festival celebrating local health, heritage, and unity. On-course entertainment, vibrant volunteer stations, and celebratory finish-line squares offer a deep look into the legendary hospitality of Shiga Prefecture. It remains a signature weekend event that beautifully merges elite-level distance running with a lively regional celebration.
Enjoy Your Event Stress-Free with Japan Travelo
Do you know? Exploring Japan’s events, festivals, concerts, exhibitions, and cultural experiences can be overwhelming—especially when you have to manage schedules, transport, accommodation, and planning all at once. Japan Travelo makes it simple by bringing everything into one place. Whether you’re attending a major concert, discovering local festivals, or planning a cultural trip, we help you stay organized and enjoy Japan without the stress of complicated planning. From start to finish, your journey becomes smoother, easier, and more enjoyable—so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.
Event Highlights
- Lakeside Course vistas: The running route features continuous, inspiring views of the expansive and tranquil waters of Lake Biwa.
- Fast Flat Terrain: The smooth, mostly flat course design is widely known for helping participants secure fast finishing times.
- Gourmet Aid Stations: Official race refreshment areas serve unique regional delicacies including small portions of famous roasted Omi beef.
- Exceptional Local Support: Thousands of passionate Shiga residents and local volunteers line the course to cheer on every passing runner.
Why Attend
The Biwako Marathon 2027 is ideal for competitive marathoners looking to set personal bests, casual runners seeking a scenic race, and travelers wanting to discover Japan outside the typical tourist cities. Participating allows runners to experience a perfectly coordinated athletic event while viewing the pristine natural environments of Shiga Prefecture closely on foot. Runners benefit from an exceptionally organized environment featuring extensive safety protocols, detailed tracking chips, and reliable support facilities.
Attending this event grants you a memorable opportunity to connect with a diverse network of international running enthusiasts who share your passion. The amazing energy generated by local musical acts, cheering crowds, and lakeside festivals provides an immediate boost of motivation and a lasting sense of personal pride. It stands as an ideal destination event for anyone wishing to combine fitness achievements with a fulfilling cultural vacation in early spring.
Date & Duration
- Event Date: March 14, 2027
- Event Duration: One day, with the main marathon wave starting early in the morning and concluding by mid-afternoon
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: General entry slots are distributed via a direct online application portal on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Admission Type: Paid registration is mandatory for all runners, whereas spectators can enjoy watching the race from any public roadside location for free.
- Ticket Pricing: Race entry registration fees generally range from $100 to $135 depending on specific participant categories and payment processing updates.
- Special Seating Options: Open public standing areas are designated around the starting stadium and the lakeside finish line area for supporters.
- VIP Options: Specialized multi-day tour packages are available for international runners that encompass hotel accommodation, private race morning transfers, and exclusive welcome cruise events.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Shiga, Japan
- Venue Name: Ojiyama Stadium serves as the race start line, and the Karasuma Peninsula serves as the official finish line
- Google Maps Address: 4-1 Goryocho, Otsu, Shiga 520-0037, Japan
Contact Information
- Email: info@biwako-marathon.com
- Phone Number: +81-77-528-3365
- Official Website: https://biwako-marathon.com/
- Social Media Links:
- https://x.com/biwako2023st
- https://www.instagram.com/biwakomarathon/
- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzfXV9gSzcrobMsCFo0r7AQ
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Osaka Itami Airport is located approximately 60 kilometers away from the start line venue in Otsu City.
- Nearest Train/Metro Station: Otsukyo Station on the JR Kosei Line is positioned just a short six-minute walk away from the starting stadium.
- Bus Routes or Public Transport Options: Complimentary event shuttle buses transport finished runners from the Karasuma Peninsula finish line directly to nearby JR Moriyama and Kusatsu train stations.
- Parking Availability: No public event parking is provided at the starting stadium, and participants are strongly advised to utilize the regional rail network.
- Directions by Car: Drivers can approach the Otsu central district by taking the Meishin Expressway and taking the exit labeled Otsu Interchange.
What is this event?
The Biwako Marathon 2027 is a premiere mass-participation marathon race that covers the classic distance of 26.2 miles around Japan’s iconic Lake Biwa. It acts as an expansive platform to encourage physical wellness, tourism, and community engagement within Shiga Prefecture.
The event gathers thousands of local residents, recreational joggers, and competitive marathoners together for a large-scale celebration of distance running. It showcases the scenic beauty, urban infrastructure, and organizational expertise of the host cities.
Why is it popular?
The event is immensely popular because its flat, certified course profile offers participants a prime opportunity to record exceptional marathon times. The distinct pleasure of running alongside the expansive shoreline of Japan’s grandest lake adds an unmatched scenic element to the race.
It also draws major interest due to the inclusion of high-quality local culinary treats at the aid stations, transforming a standard race into a fun regional food experience. The deep community involvement ensures a lively festival atmosphere that leaves participants with warm memories.
Tips before you go
- Finalize your entry registration during the early phase of the application window since first-come open slots can fill rapidly.
- Incorporate training runs in brisk, open environments to better prepare yourself for cold morning breezes coming off the lake surface.
- Carry your official Japanese health insurance card or travel insurance documentation to the venue on race morning as a standard safety precaution.
- Double-check the exact operation times and boarding locations for the complimentary return shuttle buses prior to heading to the finish line.
- Dress in warm, easily removable layers because the early morning temperatures in Shiga during mid-March can feel quite cold before sunrise.
Attendee Experiences
- The view of the morning sun reflecting off Lake Biwa while running was absolutely unforgettable.
- Getting to sample real Omi beef at a marathon aid station was an incredible highlight.
- The local volunteers were so enthusiastic and kept my spirits high all the way to the finish line.
Video
Location
FAQ
What is the maximum time allowed for participants to complete the entire course?
The Biwako Marathon features a strict overall time limit of six hours from the official starting gun to ensure public safety. Specific cutoff times are enforced at five designated checkpoints along the course to allow local authorities to reopen public roads. Runners who do not clear these points before the closing times must board the official race sweep bus.
Is there an organized system to transport my personal belongings from the start to the finish?
Yes, the event management coordinates a secure, complimentary baggage transportation service for all official marathon participants. You can deposit your packed event bag at designated transport vehicles near the Otsu starting stadium before the race commences. Your items will be safely driven across the region and made available for pickup at the finish line village.
Are international runners permitted to enter, and are race materials available in English?
International runners are highly encouraged to join the field and can register easily using the English-language portal found on the main website. The organizers provide English versions of the runner participation guides, important race day maps, and safety instructions. Multilingual staff members are also stationed at key information points to assist traveling runners.
What type of medical and first aid assistance is available throughout the route?
The marathon provides comprehensive medical coverage including fixed first aid stations positioned at frequent intervals along the course. Mobile medical personnel on bicycles equipped with automated external defibrillators continuously monitor the fields of active runners. Fully equipped medical tents staffed by physicians and nurses are established at both the start line and the finish plaza.
Do participants receive any commemorative awards or items for finishing the race?
Every runner who successfully crosses the finish line within the six-hour limit receives a beautifully crafted commemorative finisher medal. Additionally, all registered participants are provided with an official event t-shirt during the pre-race packet pickup sessions. Digital finisher certificates detailing individual split times are also made available online after the event concludes.
Leave a Reply