Tokyo Marathon

The Tokyo Marathon uses a lottery system due to high demand. Most runners apply through the general lottery, but entry can also be secured via the ONE TOKYO membership program (which provides up to 3 lottery chances), a charity donation bib (RUN with HEART), a Semi-Elite qualifying time, or an official international tour package. Recent years have seen roughly 300,000 applications for ~38,500 marathon spots, putting standard lottery odds at approximately 8–10%.

General marathon participants must complete the course within 7 hours. The wheelchair marathon has a separate cut-off of 2 hours and 10 minutes. Runners who exceed the cut-off at intermediate timing points may be removed from the course.

Yes, the Tokyo Marathon is a certified Boston qualifier. The course is road/pavement and meets all BAA eligibility requirements. Note that the Tokyo course has a modest net downhill (~98m loss vs ~60m gain), which falls well below the BAA's new downhill adjustment threshold, so times are accepted as-is.

The course is largely flat, with approximately 198 feet (60 meters) of elevation gain and 322 feet (98 meters) of elevation loss over the full 42.195 km. After an initial mild rise in the first few miles, the route is essentially flat, making it a strong course for personal bests.

The Tokyo Marathon has a field of approximately 38,500 marathon runners plus 500 participants in the 10.7 km race, for a total of 39,000. The 2026 edition increased the marathon field from 33,000 (2025) to 38,500, and the 2027 edition may expand further if logistically feasible.

Standard voluntary deferrals for personal reasons are not permitted — entry fees are non-refundable if you withdraw. However, if the event is canceled by the organizer, entries may be deferred to Tokyo Marathon 2027 or 2028 depending on the cancellation timing. An exception exists for runners who withdraw due to pregnancy or childbirth, who may transfer their entry rights under specific conditions.

Based on historical data, race-day temperatures in early March in Tokyo typically feature highs around 52–57°F (11–14°C) and lows around 37–43°F (3–6°C). Conditions are generally cool and partly cloudy, which are considered favorable for marathon racing.