Shanghai vs Xiamen Marathon — How Do They Compare?
Compare the Shanghai and Xiamen Marathons side by side — course profile, weather, field size, qualification, and atmosphere to help you choose your next race.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | 2026 Shanghai Marathon - Dec 6 | 2027 Xiamen Marathon - Jan 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Country/Region | China | China |
| Month | November | January |
| Avg Temperature | 12-18°C | 12-18°C |
| Course Type | Flat | Flat |
| Elevation | ~20m | ~20m |
| Field Size | 38,000 | 35,000 |
| Entry | Lottery | Lottery |
| World Major | No | No |
| BQ Course | Yes | Yes |
| Crowd Support | Good | Excellent |
Detailed Comparison
Shanghai and Xiamen are two of China's most sought-after flat marathons, separated by season and geography. Shanghai races in November (12-18°C) with 38,000 runners through the urban canyons of Pudong and along the Huangpu River. Xiamen takes place in January (10-16°C) with 30,000 runners on a stunning coastal route — one of the most scenic marathon courses in Asia.
Both courses are genuinely flat (Shanghai ~25m, Xiamen ~30m elevation gain), making either an excellent choice for runners targeting a fast time. The difference lies in the experience. Shanghai is a big-city spectacle with skyscraper backdrops and dense crowds. Xiamen delivers ocean views, island scenery, and sea breezes along the Huandao Road coastal section. Xiamen's January timing also means it's one of the earliest major marathons in the calendar year — perfect for runners using the race time predictor to set a benchmark for the season ahead.
For a fast, high-profile urban marathon, Shanghai is the answer. For an equally fast course with coastal beauty and a fresh-start-to-the-year feel, Xiamen delivers. Both are lottery-entry, so many runners apply to both and race whichever accepts them first.
Explore Each Marathon
2026 Shanghai Marathon - Dec 6
Live countdown, race info, and training tools.
View Countdown →2027 Xiamen Marathon - Jan 10
Live countdown, race info, and training tools.
View Countdown →Frequently Asked Questions
Which is faster, Shanghai or Xiamen Marathon?
Shanghai features a flat course while Xiamen has a flat profile. The Xiamen course is generally well-suited for fast times.
How do I enter the Shanghai Marathon vs Xiamen Marathon?
Shanghai Marathon uses a Lottery entry system with a field of 38,000 runners. Xiamen Marathon uses Lottery with 35,000 spots. Plan your entry strategy using our Marathon Lottery Calculator.
What is the best weather for running, Shanghai or Xiamen?
Shanghai in November averages 12-18°C. Xiamen in January averages 12-18°C. Use our Dew Point Calculator and Heat Adjustment Calculator to plan for race-day conditions.
Can I qualify for Boston at Shanghai or Xiamen?
Both the Shanghai and Xiamen Marathons are BQ-eligible courses. Use our Pace Calculator to determine your BQ target pace.
Which marathon has better crowd support?
Shanghai is known for good crowd support, while Xiamen offers excellent spectator atmosphere. Both races create memorable experiences. Plan your spectator strategy with our Spectator Planner.
Prepare for Your Marathon
Running Pace Calculator — Min/km, Finish Time & Pace Chart
Free running pace calculator for 5K, 10K, half marathon, and marathon. Get min/km or min/mile, your ...
Use Calculator →Marathon Predictor — 5K, 10K & Half Marathon Race Predictor
Free marathon predictor — convert your 5K, 10K, or half marathon time into race-day estimates from R...
Use Calculator →Training Plan Generator — 5K to Marathon Schedules
Need a running plan generator for your next race? Build a custom 5K to marathon training plan with m...
Use Calculator →2027 Boston Qualifying Times — BQ Standards by Age & Gender
See the full 2027 BQ standards by age and gender — plus the real cutoff most tables miss: 2026 neede...
Use Calculator →What to Wear Running Calculator — Outfit by Weather
Not sure what to wear for your run? Enter the weather and get instant clothing recommendations — lay...
Use Calculator →