Tokyo Marathon 2026 Draws Tens of Thousands Through the Capital

The Tokyo Marathon 2026 has taken place, bringing one of the world's largest annual road races through the heart of the Japanese capital. The event, held earlier this year, saw tens of thousands of runners compete across the full 42.195-kilometre course, with the route passing some of Tokyo's most recognisable urban landmarks.

What the Race Looked Like on the Ground

The Tokyo Marathon follows a point-to-point course that traditionally starts at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku and finishes near Tokyo Station in Marunouchi. The route takes runners through Asakusa, past Sensoji Temple, along the Imperial Palace outer gardens, and through Ginza before the final stretch towards the finish line.

For visitors who were in Tokyo on race day, large sections of central Tokyo were subject to road closures and traffic diversions. Key thoroughfares including Shinjuku-dori and Chuo-dori in Ginza were closed to vehicles for much of the morning, affecting bus routes and taxi access across several central wards. The Tokyo Metro and Toei subway lines continued to operate normally, though some exits near the course were temporarily closed.

What This Means for Travellers Visiting Now

If you were in Tokyo during the marathon and found roads busier than expected, or noticed closures around Shinjuku, Asakusa, or Ginza, the race explains why. Road closures typically lift by early afternoon on race day, so normal access to these areas will have resumed.

For anyone planning a trip to Tokyo who missed the event, the Tokyo Marathon is an annual fixture. The race typically takes place in March, and entry is by lottery for general participants, with applications usually opening around the previous summer. If you are interested in running or watching in a future year, it is worth monitoring the official site well in advance, as the lottery for general entry is competitive and fills quickly.

Watching as a Spectator

The Tokyo Marathon is free to watch from the roadside. The Ginza section of Chuo-dori is a popular spectator spot because the road is wide and the runners pass twice - once heading towards Asakusa and once on the return. Hibiya Park near the finish area in Marunouchi also attracts crowds. If you plan to spectate in a future year, arrive at your chosen spot at least an hour before the lead runners are due to pass, as pavements fill up quickly along the Ginza stretch.

Asakusa is another practical choice. Runners pass Kaminarimon gate, and the area around Nakamise-dori gives a good view without the same density of spectators you find in Ginza. Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Toei Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station and walk north.

Good to Know

The race affects central Tokyo transport and access for most of the morning into early afternoon. If you are visiting Tokyo on marathon day in a future year and your accommodation is in Shinjuku, Ginza, or Asakusa, factor in longer walking times between your hotel and the nearest open Metro exit. Konbini (convenience stores) along the route can also sell out of drinks and snacks quickly on race morning, so stock up the evening before if you plan to be out early.

Source

Tokyo Marathon official website