38th Suwako (Lake Suwa) Half Marathon 2026

The 38th Suwako Half Marathon takes runners around Lake Suwa in Nagano Prefecture, combining autumn lakeside scenery with a road course renowned for its gentle profile. Organisers describe a route with approximately 6.5 metres of elevation difference, making it appealing both to newcomers to the half-marathon distance and runners looking for a steady, even-paced effort. The 2026 edition has capacity for 7,000 participants.

Important 2026 course changes: The main event hub has moved from the yacht harbour to Suwako Event Plaza, on the site of the former Toyo Valve factory. The race still starts on the road in front of Lake Suwa Yacht Harbour, but now finishes beside the Event Plaza near the Suwa Red Cross Hospital intersection. Organisers have also straightened the Yokokawa River section and adjusted a turnaround near Suwa Central Park. Due to these changes and associated works, the 2026 course is not certified by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations.

Race-day information: Runners start at 9:00 am Japan time and must finish the half marathon within three hours. Intermediate course cut-offs apply. The race is open to high-school-age and older entrants who satisfy the health and race rules; high-school participants need parental permission. Organisers send race numbers and timing chips to registered runners in advance, rather than holding a conventional on-site runner registration. Finisher certificates are issued online.

Getting there: The Event Plaza is at Kogandori 5-chome 11, Suwa City. Due to the venue relocation, fewer temporary parking spaces are available than in previous years. Parking allocation was tied to entry, so public transport or car-sharing is strongly recommended. The surrounding Suwa area also offers hot springs and local restaurants for visitors travelling to the race.

Registration: The 2026 race reached its capacity and entries closed early on 25 June. The advertised entry fee was ¥7,700. The details here describe the confirmed 2026 event, not a future or presumed edition.