Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon
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Date Date Date February 7, 2016 February 7, 2016 February 7, 2016 Location Location Location Wakayama Wakayama Wakayama Web Site Web Site Web Site http://kuchikumano-marathon.jp/ http://kuchikumano-marathon.jp/ http://kuchikumano-marathon.jp/ Athletic event Athletic event Athletic event Full marathon etc. Full marathon etc. Full marathon etc. Number of participants Number of participants Number of participants 4765 persons 4765 persons 4765 persons Now in its third decade the Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon has become a major draw in Wakayama prefecture, one of only many reasons to visit Kishu, one of Japan’s most serene and unique regions near the tip of the Kii Peninsula south of Osaka. The marathon course follows sections of the Kumano Kodo, spiritual pilgrimage routes between the area’s countless shrines that have existed for over 1000 years and are recognized worldwide as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vital representation of traditional Japanese culture. Experience that legacy and the area’s stunning natural environment when you run in the Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon’s full marathon or its equally popular half marathon, and share it with your children in the kids’ run events.
The gently rolling half and full marathon courses start and finish in central Kamitonda, passing through a series of loops through different parts of the region’s most historic areas in the first 20 km. The half marathon heads back to the finish, while the full marathon course traverses one more loop along the Ikuma River past Kanonji Temple before setting out on a long out-and-back along the spectacular Tonda River. Turn around at Ayukawa Shinbashi Bridge, bringing to mind the region’s famously delicious ayu fish, before a long, gradual downhill back along the river’s far shore to the finish.
After the finish enjoy a rare treat, the opportunity to experience genuine Kishu chagayu, a traditional vegetarian porridge made with tea and eaten by the region’s monks throughout history. An unforgettable addition to your memories of the race. Of course modern post-race drinks and snacks are also available! Before hurrying back to your busy day-to-day life it’s well worth planning a few extra days post-race to stay and take your time exploring the Kamitonda area and elsewhere in the Kishu region, recovering body and mind in a place that has attracted those seeking to do the same for generations.
Kamitonda and the Kishu region are remote, but access couldn’t be easier. Nanki Shirahama Airport is just 20 minutes away, with connecting flights to Japan’s major international airports. By express train from Tennoji Station in central Osaka it’s a two-hour trip with a 15-minute shuttle bus ride from Kii Tanabe Station taking you right to the race venue in Kamitonda and back post-race. There’s even plenty of free parking just a short walk from the start and finish. If you are looking for one essential experience of running in Japan, the Kishu Kuchikumano Marathon may just be what you need.
