Tokyo Race Weekend 2027
03.07.27
Marathon
5 Nights
Accommodation Only
Experience Japan’s vibrant capital during Tokyo Race Weekend
We are delighted to offer an exclusive five-night package to stay in the vibrant city of Tokyo before and during the biggest running weekend of the year!
Benefit from the comprehensive support of the Sports Tours International team, including a welcome reception, two private tours of the city, an escort to the race expo and start line, a pre-race dinner, bilingual local guide(s), post-race celebration, and much more. Our hotel allows you to soak up the atmosphere as one of the world’s greatest running events comes to this iconic city.
Please note: This is a hotel-only package. Race entry is not included.
ENTRY & EXTRAS
Marathon Entry
Not Included
TOKYO MARATHON ROUTE
Experience the thrill of the Tokyo Marathon 2027, one of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors. The route takes runners on a scenic tour of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks, including the Tokyo Tower, Imperial Palace, Ginza, Asakusa, and Tokyo Bay, combining historic streets with modern cityscapes.
Starting in Shinjuku, the course winds through vibrant neighborhoods, offering cheering crowds and a chance to witness Tokyo’s unique culture. Runners cross the finish line near Tokyo Station, making this one of the most memorable major marathon experiences worldwide.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or soaking in the city’s energy, the Tokyo Marathon route promises a fast, flat, and unforgettable course. Join thousands from around the world in this celebrated Abbott Marathon Major.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Getting to Tokyo
Located about 60 km from central Tokyo, Narita International Airport (NRT) handles most long-haul international flights. The fastest options into the city are:
- Narita Express (N’EX): Direct to Tokyo Station in around 60 minutes (~¥3,000 / $20).
- Keisei Skyliner: To Ueno in around 45 minutes (~¥2,500 / $17).
- Airport Limousine Bus: Frequent services to major hotels and districts.
- Taxi: Available at arrivals, but costly (¥20,000+ / $15+), so not recommended.
Just 20 km from downtown, Haneda Airport (HND) is much closer and serves domestic, regional, and many international flights. Options into the city include:
- Tokyo Monorail: To Hamamatsuchō Station in around 20 minutes (~¥500 / $5), with JR Yamanote Line connections.
- Keikyu Line: Direct trains into central Tokyo.
- Taxi: More affordable than from Narita but still expensive compared to the rail.
Getting around Tokyo
- Metro & Trains: Tokyo boasts one of the world’s largest and most efficient public transport systems. The Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, and JR East lines (including the Yamanote Line loop) connect almost every district.
- IC Travel Cards: Prepaid cards like Suica and Pasmo offer seamless payment across trains, subways, and buses — simply tap in and out.
- Buses: Useful for reaching areas not served by rail, though slower than the metro. Fares are payable with IC cards or cash.
- Taxi: Licensed taxis are widely available but expensive compared to public transport. Ride-hailing apps like DiDi operate in Tokyo.
WHY BOOK WITH US?
With Sports Tours, you never run alone. We’ll meet you at your hotel, escort you to the race expo and get you to the start line with ease. Join us for a 5KM shakeout run, meet fellow runners and celebrate together post-race.
In your 2026 Package
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Daytime sightseeing tour & underground walking tour
- Daily breakfasts, pre-race dinner & race day breakfast
- Welcome reception for all guests
- Guided escorts to the marathon expo & race start
- Exclusive post-race after party
- Cheer Zone for friends & family
- 5-night extension package (optional extra)
- Local bilingual hosts available during your stay
- Comprehensive support from Sports Tours reps in your hotel
Itinerary
Day 1 – ARRIVAL
Welcome to Tokyo! You will need to leave the USA on Tuesday to arrive on Wednesday (the start of our 5-night package). If flying from outside the USA, please check flight schedules to determine your required departure date.
Day 2 – PRIVATE TOUR & EXPO
Today we’ll take a full-day private coach tour of Tokyo, including a 3-hour stop at the race expo. In the evening, join our “Insiders Underground” walking tour (about ½ mile, 45 minutes) to explore some of Tokyo’s most unique and vibrant spots. Highlights include Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane), the lively Golden Gai district in Kabukicho, the quirky 3D Cat Cafe, the iconic Godzilla statue, and more!
The Expo is Japan’s largest running trade show, drawing roughly 60,000 visitors each year. Visiting the expo is essential for race registration, as you must pick up your race bib there before race day – bib numbers will not be available on marathon day. Be sure to bring a valid photo ID and your race entry confirmation when collecting your bib. Please note that bibs can only be picked up by the registered runner.
Expo Venue:
Tokyo Big Sight South Exhibition Halls
3-11-1 Ariake, Koto, Tokyo, Japan
Day 3 – TOKYO SIGHTSEEING TOUR
Our sightseeing tour will take place today with an English-speaking guide. Further details coming soon.
Day 4 – SHAKEOUT RUN & PRE-RACE DINNER
In the morning, Team Sports Tours will lead a 5 km shakeout run starting from the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore Tokyo or visit the marathon expo to pick up your race bib if you haven’t already.
At 5:00 PM, join us for our complimentary pre-race dinner, where you’ll hear helpful tips for runners and spectators to get the most out of race day
Day 5 – TOKYO RACE & AFTER-PARTY!
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel, just a short walk from the start line. Our Sports Tours team will guide runners to the starting area, or you’re welcome to make your own way if you prefer. You can check a personal drop bag at the start and pick it up after the race in the Tokyo Hibiya area. The rest of the day is yours to relax, explore, and celebrate your achievement.
This evening, join fellow runners at our official post-race party, featuring Japanese snacks, drinks, and fun photo opportunities. Runners and spectators alike are welcome – it’s the perfect way to cap off your Tokyo Marathon experience.
Please Note: This package does not include race bib entry.
Day 5 – DEPARTURE DAY OR EXTENSION TRIP
It’s time to wrap up your Tokyo adventure with Sports Tours International. We wish you safe travels home, and we can’t wait to see you at the next start line!
For those joining our Extension Package, we’ll provide all the details to meet with your group and continue your journey. Explore our Extension Package to Osaka, Hiroshima, and Kyoto here.
Things to do in TOKYO
VISIT SENSO-JI TEMPLE IN ASAKUSA
Explore Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, Senso-ji. Wander through the vibrant Nakamise shopping street leading up to the temple, where you can find traditional snacks, souvenirs, and crafts. The temple’s stunning architecture and peaceful gardens offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural history.
STROLL THROUGH TEAMLAB PLANETS TOKYO
This immersive digital art museum in Toyosu features rooms filled with light, mirrors, and interactive installations. You walk barefoot through water and light-filled spaces that feel like another world.
TAKE IN THE VIEW FROM TOKYO SKYTREE
Ride up to the observation deck of one of the tallest towers in the world. On clear days, you can see all of Tokyo, and even Mount Fuji in the distance.
EXPLORE SHIBUYA CROSSING
Visit one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. Surrounded by towering screens, neon lights, and department stores, it’s a true symbol of Tokyo’s energy. Don’t forget to snap a photo from the second-floor Starbucks for a great view.
WHAT PAST PARTICIPANTS SAY
FAQs
The Tokyo Marathon 2026 date
What date is the Tokyo Marathon 2026?
The Tokyo Marathon 2026 takes place in March 2026 in Tokyo, Japan. This iconic marathon 2026 event is traditionally held in early March, offering cool spring conditions and an excellent opportunity for US runners planning their international race calendar.
Registering for the TOKYO Marathon
How can I register for the Tokyo Marathon?
The public ballot is extremely competitive, and independent runners must manage the full registration process, entry fee, and documentation themselves.
The Tokyo Marathon qualifying times
What are the Tokyo Marathon qualifying times?
The Tokyo Marathon holds significant prestige as a Japanese Olympic trial for elite athletes, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most competitive and professionally run races in the world. Recreational runners entering independently must rely on the lottery or charity entry routes.
Travel and accommodation options
What travel and accommodation options are available?
Sports Tours International offers carefully selected hotel packages in Tokyo, chosen for their ideal location and convenience around the marathon weekend.
We also strongly recommend travel insurance, which can be arranged as an add-on to give peace of mind when travelling internationally.
official organisations of the TOKYO Marathon?
Who are the official organizations involved at the Tokyo Marathon?
The Tokyo Marathon is organized by the Tokyo Marathon Foundation and sanctioned by World Athletics. It is an official Abbott World Marathon Major and is supported by local authorities to deliver large-scale traffic control across Tokyo on race day.
weather during the TOKYO Marathon
What is the expected weather during the Tokyo Marathon?
March in Tokyo typically offers cool, stable conditions, with average temperatures between 45–55°F. These conditions are ideal for maintaining a steady pace and achieving a strong finish time without overheating.
The Tokyo Marathon start line
Where is the Tokyo Marathon start line?
The Tokyo Marathon start line is located in Shinjuku, near the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. This area is well-connected and clearly managed on race day, helping runners avoid confusion or arriving late.
The TOKYO Marathon finish line
Where is the Tokyo Marathon finish line?
The finish line is in the Tokyo Station / Marunouchi district, offering a memorable end to the race in a central and historic part of the city. Timing is recorded using both gun time and net time, ensuring accurate results for all participants.
Entry fee for the TOKYO Marathon 2026
How much is the entry fee for the Tokyo Marathon 2026?
The entry fee varies depending on exchange rates and entry method.
The history of the TOKYO Marathon
What is the history of the Tokyo Marathon?
First held in 2007, the Tokyo Marathon quickly became one of the world’s most prestigious races and joined the Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2013. Known locally as 東京マラソン, the event attracts tens of thousands of runners each year.
The marathon is renowned for its meticulous organization, including strict cut-off time pace limits, accurate timing systems using gun time and net time, and extensive traffic control. These measures help prevent runners from lagging excessively and ensure smooth race operations.
The event also offers a lively post-race celebration, and many runners return in future races to experience the atmosphere again.
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