AMAMI Yori Yori Run 2027 - Amami Oshima

The sixth AMAMI yori yori RUN takes place on Sunday 7 February 2027 on Amami Oshima in Japan's Kagoshima Prefecture. The Amami expression “yori yori” means taking things slowly. This long-distance running event celebrates the island's subtropical coast, green hills, local villages and community hospitality. Amami Oshima is part of a UNESCO World Natural Heritage area, making the journey a distinctive destination running experience.

Runners can choose 100 km or 50 km, each with solo, huarache sandal and team relay options. The 100 km relay accepts teams of four to ten, while the 50 km relay accepts four or five. The organiser sets overall limits of 15 hours 30 minutes for the longer course and eight hours 30 minutes for the shorter course. Individual checkpoints have earlier cut-offs, and wristbands record runners' progress. Volunteers offer water, light food and local Amami refreshments.

The 2027 course has changed at several points. The 100 km route uses the Aranami no Yadori checkpoint in the Akina area, and the relay exchange formerly at Uttabaru moves to Kise Fishing Port. The Ayamaru Park checkpoint closes at 08:40. Consult the organiser's current maps and timing charts before travelling.

This is not a closed-road marathon. Participants must follow ordinary traffic rules, use footpaths where available and respect local residents. Required equipment includes front and rear lights, rain protection, a mobile phone and a reusable cup, as disposable drinking cups are not supplied. Runners may normally withdraw only at checkpoints.

Race headquarters are at Amami Resort Bashayama Village, near Yoan Beach. Check-in takes place only on Saturday 6 February from noon to 17:00 at the poolside Shibana area. There is no race-day registration. A briefing begins at 05:30 on Sunday, with wave starts assigned by bib number. Baggage must be deposited by 05:30, and successful finishers receive completion certificates.

The venue is about ten minutes by car from Amami Airport and forty minutes from Naze. Because check-in is the day before, overnight accommodation is essential. Pre-booked race parking and optional pre-race food gathering and post-race meals are available for additional charges.