The Tokyo Marathon is one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors and one of the most difficult marathons in the world to enter. With over 300,000 applicants for approximately 38,773 places, the acceptance rate is around 10-12%. The impeccably organized race takes runners through the heart of Tokyo, from the Metropolitan Government Building to Tokyo Station. It's a bucket-list race that combines world-class organization with Japanese hospitality.
Entry is primarily through a public lottery that opens in summer, about six months before the race. For the official entry and all details, head to the Tokyo Marathon website.
Key Dates
- Race Day: Mar 7, 2027
- Lottery Window: Aug 2027
Tokyo has one of the lowest acceptance rates of any World Major. Set up a BibsAlert to know when the lottery opens.
How to Enter
1. General Lottery
Apply on the official website. Entry fee approximately ¥23,300 (~$155 USD) for international runners. Random selection. ONE TOKYO membership (free) may offer additional lottery chances.
2. ONE TOKYO GLOBAL Membership
ONE TOKYO GLOBAL members get access to an early entry window before the general lottery opens. Paid membership also provides an additional lottery entry and other benefits like free participation in virtual run series. Worth considering if Tokyo is a priority.
3. Charity Entries
Tokyo Marathon Charity program offers guaranteed entry for donations of ¥100,000+ (~$670 USD) to partner organizations.
4. Tour Operators
Official international tour operators offer guaranteed entry packages with accommodation.
5. Premier Entry (Time Qualification)
Fast runners who meet qualifying standards can apply for guaranteed entry.
The Course
Starts at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku. Runs through Iidabashi, the Imperial Palace, Nihonbashi, Asakusa (past Sensoji Temple), Ginza, and finishes at Tokyo Station. Mostly flat and fast.
March weather is cool (5-13°C / 41-55°F), ideal for marathon running.
Didn't Get In?
If you weren't selected in the Tokyo Marathon lottery, you still have options:
- Charity entries: Many official charity partners offer guaranteed places in exchange for fundraising commitments. Check the official website for partner organizations.
- ONE TOKYO GLOBAL membership: The paid tier (~¥4,400/year) gives you an additional lottery entry, effectively doubling your chances.
- Tour operator packages: Official international tour operators offer guaranteed entry with accommodation packages.
- Try a similar race: Check the related races below for marathons with similar entry types, dates, or locations.
- Apply again next year: Set up a BibsAlert so you don't miss the next entry window.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ONE TOKYO GLOBAL and is it worth it?
ONE TOKYO GLOBAL is the official membership program. Members get an early entry window before the general lottery. The paid tier (~¥4,400/year) also gives you an additional lottery entry, effectively doubling your chances.
What are the lottery odds?
Approximately 10-12% for general lottery entries. Over 300,000 people apply for ~38,000 spots.
Can I defer or transfer my entry?
No. Tokyo Marathon entries are non-transferable and non-deferrable. If you can't run, you forfeit your entry.
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Looking Ahead
If this year's lottery has closed, the next one typically opens around August. Set up a BibsAlert to get notified when the next lottery opens.