Welcome back to Republic of Wanderlust! After exploring the iconic streets of San Francisco, this week we're heading to Japan for a race that blends the excitement of long-distance running with the tranquil beauty of the Far East.
The Hokkaido Marathon, set to take place on August 31, 2025, offers runners a chance to experience the charm of Sapporo, Japan's fifth-largest city, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. Imagine running through tree-lined boulevards, historic parks, and streets surrounded by mountains.
Race Details
- Date: August 31, 2025
- Start Time: 9:00 AM
- Distances and Entry Fees:
- Full Marathon (42.2 km): ¥22,000 JPY (approximately €135)
- Course Profile: The marathon course is relatively flat, with some mild elevation changes in the final stretch. Starting in Sapporo’s city center, the route will take runners through scenic parks, past the iconic Odori Park, and alongside the beautiful Maruyama Park, before finishing at the Sapporo Dome. See the full course map here
How to Enter
Registration recently opened on the Run Japan website here. It's advisable to register early, as the race is popular and can sell out quickly.
Why the Hokkaido Marathon?
- Scenic Course: The marathon route takes you through the beautiful parks and scenic streets of Sapporo, offering stunning views of both the city and the surrounding mountains.
- Perfect Weather: The late summer date ensures that temperatures are mild, typically between 15°C and 25°C, making for comfortable running conditions.
- Cultural Immersion: Hokkaido is famous for its rich culture, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine. This marathon provides the perfect opportunity to explore this fascinating region of Japan.
Things to See & Do in Sapporo
- Odori Park: This central park in the heart of Sapporo is ideal for a leisurely walk or picnic. In the summer, it hosts various events, including the famous Sapporo Summer Festival.
- Sapporo Beer Museum: Discover the history of Japan’s famous beer, with tours that include tastings of Sapporo's finest brews.
- Hokkaido Shrine: A peaceful retreat in Maruyama Park, this Shinto shrine is surrounded by lush forests and is one of Sapporo’s top spiritual sites.
- Mount Moiwa: Take a cable car up Mount Moiwa for panoramic views of Sapporo, the surrounding countryside, and even the distant Sea of Japan.
- Ramen Alley: Sapporo is renowned for its unique style of miso ramen. A visit to Ramen Alley will let you indulge in this comforting local dish.
Accommodation & Travel
Where to Stay
- Budget: Sapporo Guest House – A cozy and affordable option, perfect for those looking for a place to crash before the race.
- Mid-Range: Mercure Hotel Sapporo – A stylish hotel located in the heart of Sapporo with easy access to shopping and local attractions.
- Splurge: JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo – Offering luxurious rooms and spectacular views of the city from the top of the JR Tower.
Transport
- Getting There: Flights from Ireland to Sapporo typically require a stopover, with connections in Tokyo or Seoul. Airlines such as Aer Lingus, All Nippon Airways (ANA), and Japan Airlines operate flights with a total travel time of around 16-18 hours.
- Local Transport: Sapporo has an efficient public transportation system, including subway lines and buses. The city is easy to navigate, with the marathon’s race course being centrally located and accessible by foot or public transport.
Participating in the Hokkaido Marathon is a unique opportunity to experience the cultural richness and stunning natural beauty of one of Japan’