Event Detail
The 46th Running Sakurajima takes place in Kagoshima on Sunday 6 December 2026. Runners take to the roads around Sakurajima, one of Japan's most recognisable active volcanoes, enjoying views across Kinko Bay and a route shaped by historic lava flows. The event also marks a countdown commemorating Saigo Takamori's birth and death anniversaries.
Both courses are certified by Japan's national athletics federation. The half marathon begins at 10:05 am JST and the 10K at 10:25 am JST. The half marathon has a 1:05 pm checkpoint cut-off at 16.5 km. The organisers allow up to 2,500 half-marathon participants and 1,000 10K participants. The event finishes at Nanei Lease Sakurajima Plaza (Sakurajima Multipurpose Square).
Standard entry was JPY 5,000 for either distance, and applications closed on 15 September 2026. Participants must be aged at least 15, with parental consent required for high-school students and junior-high-school pupils excluded. Bibs and timing chips are posted in advance. Entries include a hot-spring ticket and light meal; finishers receive a towel and a digital certificate. Optional T-shirts cost JPY 1,500 and baggage storage is planned at JPY 500. Organisers arrange medical support along the course and at the finish.
For transport, take the ferry from Kagoshima Port to Sakurajima Port, an approximately 15-minute crossing, followed by a 10-minute walk to the venue. Follow the assigned ferry crossing time and race-day road closure instructions. The course offers an unusual combination of ocean scenery, lava fields and rolling terrain, with local weather and volcanic conditions requiring attention to official safety announcements.
This listing uses the 2026 organiser regulations, not previous-edition schedules. Race-day logistics may be updated by the organiser.