A Course with Overwhelming Views of Mt. Fuji!
The course runs along the shores of Lake Yamanakako, located on a plateau at approximately 1,000m elevation. On clear days, snow-capped Mount Fuji spreads out right before your eyes. The scenery—featuring the famous "inverted Fuji" reflection on the lake or crystal-clear views extending to the mountain's foothills—offers an unforgettable, quintessentially Japanese landscape!
Held in late May during the fresh green season, you can run comfortably in the refreshing early summer air. Unlike large-scale urban marathons, this is a "picture-perfect race." where you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and Mount Fuji. With plenty of photo spots, it's also perfect for stunning SNS posts.
A Flat Course Perfect for Enjoying the Spectacular Scenery
With minimal ups and downs, this lakeside course bathed in pleasant early summer sunshine is popular among young women and veteran runners alike. Enjoy the ever-changing scenery without ever getting bored!
Two race options are available: the Half Marathon (21.0975 km) and the Lake Loop (13.6 km), allowing runners to choose based on their fitness level. About 30% of participants in the lake lap event are women.
After crossing the finish line, relax at booths featuring local specialties from Yamanashi Prefecture and sports gear—an experience that reflects Japan's warm hospitality.
Easy Access and Beginner-Friendly Race
This race actively welcomes international runners. Entry fees are relatively affordable (Half: approx. 7,000 yen; Lake Lap: 6,000 yen), with generous time limits of 2 hours 45 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes, respectively. With a completion rate of over 90%, even beginners and overseas runners participating for sightseeing can join with confidence.
Convenient access from Narita or Haneda Airports, about 2 hours by car from Tokyo or Yokohama. Direct highway buses from Shinjuku are available (bus tours from Shinjuku, Yokohama, and Gotemba on race day too).
Perfect to Combine with Sightseeing
Lake Yamanakako is a popular resort area in the Kanto region. Many international travelers join the race as part of their Mount Fuji trip, enjoying nearby hot springs, Oshino Hakkai, Hana-no-Miyako Park, and Fuji-Q Highland before or after the event. Refreshing at a local onsen after the race is highly praised by participants!
