What this is
The Kumejima Marathon is a scenic road race held on Kumejima Island, one of Okinawa's most celebrated remote islands, known as the 'most beautiful island in Ryukyu.' Organized under the theme 'FUN RUN,' the event welcomes participants of all abilities with course options ranging from a full marathon down to a 3km run. Runners are treated to breathtaking views of emerald waters and the island's lush, unspoiled landscapes throughout the race. It is both a competitive event and a celebration of Kumejima's natural beauty, drawing participants from across Japan.
Who should go
This event suits runners of all levels — from seasoned marathoners chasing a scenic PB to casual joggers looking for a memorable island experience. The 'FUN RUN' ethos means the atmosphere is welcoming and community-spirited rather than intensely competitive. Families and first-time race participants will feel comfortable given the range of shorter course options. Book accommodation on Kumejima well in advance, as the island has limited lodging and demand spikes around the race weekend.
Good to know
Race entry is typically handled through Japanese running event platforms such as RunNet (runnet.jp) or Sports Entry — foreign credit cards may not always be accepted, so using a service like PayPay or asking a Japanese contact to assist with registration is advisable. Kumejima is a small island with limited accommodation, so book your hotel or guesthouse as early as possible — options fill up quickly around the marathon. The start and finish area is at Kumejima Town Nakazato Baseball Stadium, which serves as the race hub for bag storage and post-race facilities. Bring cash for on-island spending, as many small restaurants and shops on Kumejima do not accept cards. October in Okinawa can still be warm and humid, so light, breathable running gear and sun protection are essential.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.