Held on January 18, 2026! Thorough description of the Ishigakijima Marathon course, highlights, and traffic regulation information.
Table of Contents
- 1 What is the appeal of the Ishigakijima Marathon?
- 2 History of Ishigakijima Marathon
- 3 Ishigakijima Marathon 2026 to be held!
- 4 Ishigakijima Marathon Course Highlights
- 5 How to participate in Ishigakijima Marathon 2026
- 6 Traffic regulations and access for the 2026 convention
- 7 Can beginners participate in the Ishigakijima Marathon?
- 8 Activities to enjoy before and after the conference
- 9 Q&A about Ishigakijima Marathon
- 10 summary
What is the appeal of the Ishigakijima Marathon?
Ishigakijima Marathon is,An attractive event where you can run while enjoying the beautiful nature unique to Ishigaki IslandIt is.
The event is scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026, and will accommodate a variety of runners, from a 10-kilometer course to a full marathon.
This article details the course details, highlights, traffic regulation information, and how to participate regarding the 2026 Ishigakijima Marathon!
◆Plan to participate in the Ishigakijima Marathon to be held in 2026
◆If you want to know about the traffic regulations for the Ishigakijima Marathon
◆If you want to know if it is possible for beginners to participate in the Ishigakijima Marathon
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Ishigaki Island.
History of Ishigakijima Marathon
The history of the Ishigakijima Marathon dates back to the Yaeyama Marathon that started in 1987.
In 2003, the management of the marathon was transferred to the local government, the name was changed to Ishigakijima Marathon, and the first marathon was held.
Since then, the marathon has been held every January, and as Japan's southernmost citizen's marathon, it is familiar to many runners in multiple events including full, half, and 10 km.
Ishigakijima Marathon 2026 to be held!
The Ishigakijima Marathon is characterized by the following points.
The marathon is held at the southernmost tip of Japan, and visitors can enjoy the warm weather, blue ocean, and mountains that surround the marathon in a tropical natural setting.
All courses are one-way with no turnaround. Coastlines, cityscapes, fields, forests, etc,You can enjoy the diverse scenery typical of Ishigaki Island.
There are multiple events: full, half, and 10 km,Easy to participate for beginners and veterans alike.Composition.
The at-home hospitality of the runners is also a major attraction of the event, with cheering by the islanders, aids using locally produced brown sugar and fruits, and social events after the race is completed.
Ishigakijima Marathon Course Features
Ishigakijima Marathon is,Challenging course with lots of ups and downs in the terrainIt is.
While the first half is relatively flat and easy to run, the second half is a test of stamina with sections of varying elevation, including Mt.
The varied landscapes and ups and downs make Ishigaki Island's unique “travel run” appealing.
Ishigakijima Marathon Course Highlights
The main attraction of the Ishigakijima Marathon is that you can enjoy the unique location of Ishigaki Island♪
You can drive through idyllic landscapes of sugarcane fields, pineapple fields, and ranches.
Ishigakijima MarathonStarting point is Ishigaki Central Athletic Park Athletic FieldThe following is a list of the most common problems with theFrom there, the course is set to circle clockwise around the island of Ishigakijima.
10km course
The Ishigakijima Marathon 10km course starts and finishes at Ishigaki City Central Athletic Park,Relatively flat route running mainly through the city and along the seaIt is. (Time limit is 2 hours)
The maximum difference in elevation is about 20 meters, making the course easy to run for beginners and runners who want to participate casually.
Although it is a short distance, it is popular as a “travel run” that allows you to feel the atmosphere of the island's nature and townscape.
Half Marathon Course
The half marathon course runs through a common section with the 10km course from the beginning to the middle of the course, and gradually progresses to a more natural area of the island.
Ups and downs appear after the midpoint,The maximum height difference is around 75 meters, making it a challenging configuration to run.It is. (Time limit is 4 hours)
It has a good balance of distance and undulations and is suitable for runners who want to challenge themselves while enjoying the scenery.
Full Marathon Course
The full marathon course starts and ends at Ishigaki City Central Sports Park, with a spectacular route around the southern part of the island,Enjoy the diverse landscapes typical of Ishigaki Island, including coastlines, sugar cane fields, ranches, and urban areas.You can do it. (Time limit is 7 hours)
The course is a challenging one that will test your stamina and pace distribution, especially from around the 15km mark, where ups and downs continue and hills of up to 75-80m in maximum appear.
It is a marathon that combines the beauty of nature with the challenge of running, and is truly a marathon where you can experience the “Ishigaki Island character”.
Highlights after finishing the race
After completing the Ishigakijima Marathon,warm receptionis waiting for you.
The venue will be lined with kitchen cars and stalls, where you can enjoy the stage events while relieving your fatigue with delicious food.
The sponsors' booths will sell local specialties and offer health checkups,Free baths and showers to freshen upIt is.
Local entertainment, band performances, raffles, etc. at the social eventwill be held, and you can take a commemorative photo of your completion of the race at the photo booth.
How to participate in Ishigakijima Marathon 2026
Here is how you can participate in the Ishigakijima Marathon 2026!
How to enter and apply
For the Ishigakijima Marathon to be held on January 18, 2026, registration is available through RUNNET, Run Japan, Furusato Tax Quota, or a dedicated transfer form.
The entry period is from August 20 to October 31, 2025.(*We do not accept applications on the day of the event.)
On January 17, 2026, the day before the tournament, number cards, etc. will be accepted at the Ishigaki City General Gymnasium, after which you will be officially registered.
Flow of the day
Participants meeting: 7:35 a.m.
Opening Ceremony: 7:40 a.m.
Competition begins: 8:00 a.m. (full)
8:30 a.m. (10 km and 10 km relay)
9:00 (Half)
End of competition: 3:00 p.m.
Social party and raffle:11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
What to bring on the day
◆Running gearThe following items are required: well-worn running shoes, sweat- and movement-resistant clothing and socks, and UV-protective goods such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
◆Bib, measuring chip, ID, etc.You will need to bring the "voucher" sent to you in advance and pick up your bib, chip, participation prize, etc. at the registration desk the day before the race. Don't forget to bring your ID (driver's license, my number card, etc.).
◆Hydration and replenishment: Water, sports drinks, small rice balls/jellies/energy gels, etc. for water and energy supply during the race. Prepare for the sweaty island climate.
◆Post-race items: Towel, change of clothes, and light sandals (for recovery). This is useful for changing clothes and foot care after sweating it out.
◆Other personal effects: phone, wallet, cash, transportation, lodging information, etc. To secure transportation and return means after the tournament.
Points to keep in mind when participating in conventions
(1) Reception the day before is required.:No entries or registration on the day of the tournamentThe day before the race, you must pick up your bib, etc. at the venue indicated. You must pick up your bib and other necessary items at the venue you were informed of the day before the race. If you forget it, you will not be able to run.
(2) Weather and UV protectionThe island can be hotter than you might imagine, with strong sunlight and humidity. Be prepared for UV rays and heat by wearing a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
(3) Plan water supply and replenishmentThe long distance is a good time to decide in advance when to replenish fluids and sugar, as sweat and energy expenditure can easily deplete your energy levels.
(4) Consider transportation and baggage storage on the day of the event.: It is best to allow plenty of time to manage your time and luggage, as you may leave early in the morning or take public transportation or shuttle buses.
(5) Take care of yourself and don't overdo it:Considering the ups and downs of the course and the island's climate, due consideration should be given to heat, fatigue, and physical condition. It is important to run at your own pace without overdoing it!
Traffic regulations and access for the 2026 convention
Here we will introduce the traffic regulations and access to the Ishigakijima Marathon!
Road closure section and time zone
On the day of the marathon, many roads on the island will be closed to traffic due to the Ishigakijima Marathon.(in Japanese history)Usually around 7:30 a.m.)
The area is not only around the start/finish line, but also along the course, on major roads, and around hotels, so please be careful when traveling by car, rental car, or public transportation.
In particular, buses are advised to act early and check alternative means of transportation in preparation for unusual traffic conditions, as changes in operation routes and suspensions of some bus stops have been announced.
How to get to the venue
How to get to Ishigaki Central Athletic Park, the venue of the event,20 minutes drive from Ishigaki Airportor airport bus near the venueAbout 5 minutes walk after getting off at the bus stopand relatively convenient.
For car users,City Hall parking lot is open free of chargeThe venue is accessible by a free shuttle bus from there.
However, the parking lot has restrictions on the number of cars parked and security, so early arrival is recommended.
Access: 20 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport
Can beginners participate in the Ishigakijima Marathon?
The 10-kilometer marathon is,Relatively easy course design compared to full or half courseThe first two are the following.
Even beginners can easily participate and enjoy the scenery of Ishigaki Island while riding at a leisurely pace.
It is also an ideal distance for family participation and sightseeing.
Activities to enjoy before and after the conference
We will introduce activities that can be enjoyed in conjunction with the Ishigakijima Marathon and activities that can heal your body after the marathon!
Ishigaki Island Sauna Experience
For post-convention relaxation, the sauna experience on Ishigaki Island is the perfect choice.
Refresh your body in the sauna while feeling the nature of the island.
Click here for sauna experience in Ishigaki Island.
Ishigakijima Massage Experience
After a long run, massage to relieve muscle tension.
Soothe your body at the island's relaxing spa.
Click here for massage experience in Ishigaki Island.
Ishigaki Island Yoga Experience
Activities to relax your body and mind with yoga are also recommended.
Refresh yourself in the tranquil environment of the island.
Click here for yoga experience in Ishigaki Island.
Ishigakijima Glass Boat Experience
Why don't you enjoy the beautiful sea of Ishigaki Island from the glass boat?
Spend a relaxing time watching the underwater world.
Click here for plans to enjoy glass boats in Ishigaki Island.
Ishigaki Island Cruising Tour
You can enjoy the sea of Ishigaki Island with a cruising tour.
It is the best activity to enjoy the great view after the competition.
Click here for cruising plans in Ishigaki Island.
Q&A about Ishigakijima Marathon
The Ishigakijima Marathon is basically held regardless of weather conditions, but if extreme weather conditions (typhoons, etc.) are expected to affect the event, please follow the official announcement from the organizer. We recommend that you check the weather forecast before the event.
Because the Ishigakijima Marathon has elevation differences, it is important to train with an awareness of ups and downs. It is also effective to train in a hot environment to get used to the island's unique temperature and humidity, as well as slope runs and stairway training. Be sure to run with race pace in mind beforehand.
Restrooms will be provided along with aid stations on the course. Restrooms are provided at several locations, especially during the long distance sections of the full marathon, so you can run with peace of mind.
summary
Ishigakijima Marathon 2026 is an event where you can enjoy running while enjoying beautiful nature.
Make sure you are well informed about the course, how to participate, traffic regulations, etc., and be fully prepared for the event.
Sightseeing and activities can be enjoyed before and after the tournament, allowing you to spend quality time on Ishigaki Island while creating wonderful memories.
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