Osaka vs Tokyo Marathon — Which Should You Run?

Compare the Osaka and Tokyo Marathons — Japan's biggest running events. Course, weather, entry odds, and which Japanese marathon is right for you.

Quick Comparison

Feature 2027 Osaka Marathon - Feb 28 2027 Tokyo Marathon - Mar 7
Country/RegionJapanJapan
MonthFebruaryMarch
Avg Temperature5-10°C8-12°C
Course TypeFlatFlat
Elevation~25m~40m
Field Size32,00038,000
EntryLotteryLottery
World MajorNoYes
BQ CourseYesYes
Crowd SupportExcellentExcellent

Detailed Comparison

Osaka and Tokyo are Japan's two premier marathons, both offering the impeccable organization and enthusiastic crowd support that make Japanese races special. The key differences are timing and prestige.

Osaka runs in late February — about one week before Tokyo's early March date. Temperatures are slightly cooler in Osaka (5-10°C vs 8-12°C), which some runners prefer. Osaka's course passes Osaka Castle, runs along the Yodo River, and finishes near Nagai Stadium. Tokyo's route through Shinjuku, the Imperial Palace, Ginza, and Asakusa is more iconic for international visitors.

Tokyo is a World Marathon Major, which adds significant prestige for runners pursuing all seven Majors. Osaka is not, but its lottery odds are slightly better for international runners. Both are flat, fast, and produce excellent racing conditions. For runners who want a Japanese marathon experience without fighting Tokyo's brutal lottery odds, Osaka is an outstanding alternative. For the Major medal, Tokyo is essential.

Explore Each Marathon

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is faster, the Osaka or Tokyo Marathon?

Osaka is slightly faster on course profile alone — its ~25m elevation gain is lower than Tokyo's ~40m, and the February race date means cooler temperatures (4-10°C vs 8-12°C). Osaka's course along the main boulevards is wide and well-suited for fast racing. However, Tokyo attracts a stronger elite field as a World Marathon Major. Use our Pace Calculator to plan your pacing for either race.

Is it easier to get into the Osaka or Tokyo Marathon?

Neither is easy, but they differ in approach. Osaka requires a time qualification — you need a proven finish time to enter, which favors experienced runners. Tokyo uses a pure lottery with roughly 10:1 odds for international runners, meaning fast and slow runners have equal chances. Experienced runners with solid times may find Osaka's system more predictable.

How does the weather compare at Osaka vs Tokyo?

Osaka in late February is colder at 4-10°C, which is excellent for fast racing but may require cold-weather gear at the start. Tokyo in early March is milder at 8-12°C with moderate humidity. Both offer favorable conditions, though Osaka's earlier date means a slightly higher chance of cold rain. Plan your outfit with our What to Wear tool.

Is the Osaka Marathon a World Marathon Major?

No, Osaka is not a World Marathon Major, while Tokyo is one of the seven WMM races. However, Osaka has been rapidly improving its international profile since rebranding from the Osaka Women's Marathon to an open elite race. Both courses are BQ-eligible and offer excellent Japanese race organization. Use our Boston Qualifying Calculator to check your target time.

Can I run both Osaka and Tokyo in the same season?

Yes, and many Japanese runners do exactly this. Osaka is typically held in late February, about 2-3 weeks before Tokyo in early March. With proper recovery planning, running both is feasible — use Osaka as your primary race and Tokyo at a relaxed pace, or vice versa. The close proximity of the two cities by bullet train makes logistics easy.

Prepare for Your Marathon

More Marathon Guides

Best Marathons for Beginners 2026 Easiest Boston Qualifying Marathons 2027 Best Marathons for Perfect Racing Weather in 2026 Best Marathons in Asia to Run in 2026 Flattest Marathons 2026 Best Marathons for Running Sub-3 Hours in 2026

More Marathon Comparisons

View all marathons