TOKYOMARATHON
Asia's Premier Marathon — Where Japanese precision meets world-class running through the heart of Tokyo.
The History of Tokyo
Where tradition meets innovation
The Tokyo Marathon is the youngest of the World Marathon Majors, but it has quickly become one of the most coveted races in the world. When it launched in 2007, combining two older races, it immediately attracted over 30,000 finishers.
What sets Tokyo apart is its legendary organization. Japanese attention to detail means every aspect of the race is perfectly executed—from the smooth registration process to the immaculate aid stations to the efficient post-race logistics.
The course showcases Tokyo's iconic landmarks: starting at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku, passing through the Imperial Palace, the Ginza shopping district, Asakusa's Senso-ji Temple, and finishing at Tokyo Big Sight.
Getting into Tokyo is notoriously difficult. With a 12:1 application ratio, runners from around the world enter the lottery hoping for a chance to experience Japanese running culture. Those who succeed discover a race like no other.
Japanese volunteer culture makes the race special. Thousands of volunteers bow as runners pass, offer encouragement in Japanese and English, and create an atmosphere of respect and celebration that reflects Japanese hospitality.
Legendary Moments
The races that established Tokyo as a world major
The First Tokyo Marathon
The inaugural Tokyo Marathon combines two older races into one massive event. 30,870 runners finish, establishing Tokyo as a world-class marathon immediately.
World Major Status
Tokyo becomes the sixth World Marathon Major, the first and only Asian race to receive this prestigious designation.
Wilson Kipsang's Course Record
Wilson Kipsang runs 2:03:58, setting a course record and proving Tokyo can produce world-class times despite its technical course.
Elite Only Due to COVID
The marathon is limited to elite runners only due to the pandemic. Birhanu Legese wins in 2:04:15 in front of empty streets.
Eliud Kipchoge's Return
Kipchoge wins Tokyo in 2:02:40, the third-fastest marathon ever, showing his dominance extends to every major marathon.
Benson Kipruto's Victory
Kenya's Benson Kipruto wins as Tokyo continues to attract the world's best runners to its perfectly organized race.
Tokyo Champions
The legends who conquered Tokyo's streets
Eliud Kipchoge
Kenya • 2021 (2:02:40)
Wilson Kipsang
Kenya • 2017 (CR), 2016
Birhanu Legese
Ethiopia • 2019, 2020
Sarah Chepchirchir
Kenya • 2017 (2:19:47)
Dickson Chumba
Kenya • 2014, 2018
Own a Piece of Tokyo History
Create a stunning poster featuring the Tokyo Marathon route through Japan's incredible capital city.
Design Your Tokyo Poster