Tokyo Marathon elevation profile: 198 m gain and 167 m loss over 42.195 km, with segment pacing, fueling notes, and race tips.
The Tokyo Marathon showcases Japan's capital from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to the Imperial Palace. Known for exceptional organization, enthusiastic crowds, and unique cultural experience.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Tokyo, Japan |
| Distance | 42.195 km |
| Elevation gain | 198 m (650 ft) |
| Elevation loss | 167 m (548 ft) |
| Start / finish elevation | 25 m / 45 m |
| Official site | https://www.marathon.tokyo/en/ |
Tokyo starts with more climbing and finishes flatter. The net uphill profile favors a conservative start. The polite, organized crowds provide steady support throughout.
| Miles | Terrain | Advice |
|---|---|---|
| 1-5 | Gentle climb from Shinjuku | Start conservative. The crowds are enthusiastic but polite. Find your rhythm. |
| 6-10 | Undulating through central Tokyo | Pass the Imperial Palace. Enjoy the scenery. Stay patient. |
| 11-16 | Through Ginza district | Shopping district. Crowds thick. Halfway point - assess how you feel. |
| 17-22 | Out and back section | Can be mentally challenging. You'll see elite runners returning. Stay focused. |
| 23-25 | Flatter finish approach | Course flattens. If you ran smart, you can push now. |
| 26 | Tokyo Station finish | Finish near Tokyo Station. Soak in the accomplishment. |
Japanese aid stations are impeccable but may have unfamiliar products. Bring your own gels. Aid stations offer rice balls and miso soup later in the race - an acquired taste during a marathon!
Extremely competitive. The lottery has over 300,000 applicants for about 38,000 spots - roughly 12% acceptance rate. Charity and tour packages offer guaranteed entry.
Tokyo has 198m of elevation gain - more than Chicago or Berlin but still runnable for PRs. The net uphill makes it slightly harder than the flattest majors.
The organization is legendary - everything runs like clockwork. Spectators bow and cheer politely. Aid stations offer unique Japanese snacks. It's a cultural experience beyond just a race.
Early March typically offers 5-12°C (41-54°F) with low humidity. Occasionally cold rain. Generally good marathon weather but bring layers for the start.
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