Beijing vs Hangzhou Marathon — Key Differences
Compare the Beijing and Hangzhou Marathons side by side — course profile, weather, field size, qualification, and atmosphere to help you choose your next race.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | 2026 Beijing Marathon - Oct/Nov (date TBA) | 2026 Hangzhou Marathon - Nov 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Country/Region | China | China |
| Month | November | November |
| Avg Temperature | 2-10°C | 10-18°C |
| Course Type | Flat | Rolling |
| Elevation | ~50m | ~80m |
| Field Size | 30,000 | 25,000 |
| Entry | Lottery | Lottery |
| World Major | No | No |
| BQ Course | Yes | Yes |
| Crowd Support | Good | Good |
Detailed Comparison
Beijing and Hangzhou are two of China's most popular fall marathons, both drawing 30,000 runners through lottery entry. Beijing runs in late October or early November with cooler temperatures (8-16°C) on a mostly flat course (~60m elevation) past iconic landmarks like Tiananmen Square and the Olympic Park. Hangzhou races in November through the rolling terrain (~120m elevation) surrounding West Lake, one of China's most celebrated landscapes.
The course profiles create the biggest difference. Beijing's mostly flat streets favor runners chasing a fast time — check whether you're on track for a Boston qualifying time before you commit. Hangzhou's undulations require patience and a well-executed negative split strategy, but the scenery more than compensates. Beijing's cooler start temperatures (potentially dipping to 8°C) are ideal for performance, while Hangzhou's 10-16°C range is similarly comfortable.
Choose Beijing for historical gravitas and a faster course profile. Choose Hangzhou for natural beauty and a more relaxed atmosphere. Both deliver excellent organization and enthusiastic local crowds — you can't go wrong with either as a showcase China marathon.
Explore Each Marathon
2026 Beijing Marathon - Oct/Nov (date TBA)
Live countdown, race info, and training tools.
View Countdown →2026 Hangzhou Marathon - Nov 1
Live countdown, race info, and training tools.
View Countdown →Frequently Asked Questions
Which is faster, Beijing or Hangzhou Marathon?
Beijing features a flat course while Hangzhou has a rolling profile. The Beijing course may offer faster conditions.
How do I enter the Beijing Marathon vs Hangzhou Marathon?
Beijing Marathon uses a Lottery entry system with a field of 30,000 runners. Hangzhou Marathon uses Lottery with 22,000 full-marathon spots. Plan your entry strategy using our Marathon Lottery Calculator.
What is the best weather for running, Beijing or Hangzhou?
Beijing in November averages 2-10°C. Hangzhou in November averages 10-18°C. Use our Dew Point Calculator and Heat Adjustment Calculator to plan for race-day conditions.
Can I qualify for Boston at Beijing or Hangzhou?
Both the Beijing and Hangzhou Marathons are BQ-eligible courses. Use our Pace Calculator to determine your BQ target pace.
Which marathon has better crowd support?
Beijing is known for good crowd support, while Hangzhou offers good spectator atmosphere. Both races create memorable experiences. Plan your spectator strategy with our Spectator Planner.
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