A course with diverse scenery from city streets to nature
The Tokushima Marathon will celebrate its 20th edition in the next event, featuring a renewed course. The new course starts in a convenient central location, just a 5-minute walk from JR Tokushima Station. You can enjoy views of the gently flowing Yoshino River, a symbol of Shikoku, and the beautiful landscapes, including Mount Bizan, which is mentioned in the Manyoshu poetry collection. The course runs north across four cities, offering a variety of scenery along the way.
While there are short ups and downs on the 'Awa Shirasagi Bridge' over the mouth of the Yoshino River, the course remains mostly flat and easy to run, just like the old course. It's a course where you can aim for good records.
Three turnaround points to enjoy
The course has three turnaround sections, allowing you to experience the powerful, high-speed running of the leading runners up close, and giving you the fun of cheering and interacting with friends along the way.
Support and culture unique to the city of Awa Odori
Awa Odori is a traditional Japanese dance known worldwide for its uniqueness. The synchronized movements of the dancers and the lively rhythms of drums and bells will energize runners.
Unique sightseeing like the Naruto whirlpools
Tokushima is also an attractive spot for sightseeing. In Tokushima City, the starting point, you can visit or experience Awa Odori at the 'Awa Odori Kaikan,' or enjoy the breathtaking view from the summit of Mount Bizan just six minutes by ropeway. In the direction of the finish line in Naruto City, we recommend a cruise close to the rare natural phenomenon of the Naruto whirlpools or a visit to the 'Otsuka Museum of Art,' which houses a collection of famous artworks from around the world.
If you venture further, you’ll find temples associated with the Shikoku Pilgrimage and scenic hidden spots like Iya Valley and Oboke, which are perfect for a multi-day visit.
Finish line at Pocari Sweat Stadium
The finish is on the track of Tokushima’s largest stadium, Pocari Sweat Stadium. Imagine crossing the finish line to the cheers of spectators filling the stands, and seeing yourself on the stadium’s huge video screen! The excitement and shared thrill are sure to be a lot of fun.
Experience Tokushima’s Unique "Osettai Culture"
One thing you’ll find in Tokushima is the culture of "osettai," said to be rooted in the famous Shikoku pilgrimage visiting 88 temples across the region. It’s the spirit of welcoming travelers and pilgrims without expecting anything in return, often described as a distinctly Japanese kind of hospitality.
At the Tokushima Marathon, every year, the so-called "Magic 'AWA' Supporters" cheer on runners with lots of energy through Awa Odori dance, Japanese drums, wind instruments, and cheerleading. The food at aid stations, like Handa somen noodles and fish katsu, is also a hit, bringing a taste of Tokushima to participants.
The passionate support along the course and the warm hospitality of the "osettai culture," which is said to be connected to the pilgrim tradition, are sure to motivate and encourage the runners.
