Now in its 40th year, the Niigata City Marathon has a course that takes participants past some of the urban area's scenic spots including the Niigata City History Museum and along the Sea of Japan coastline. The starting point for the marathon is Denka Big Swan Stadium, the home ground of J1 League club Albirex Niigata and the site of several matches in the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Entries for the marathon are set to open up in April; please visit the official website for more information on how to apply closer to the date. Entry fees have not yet been determined at the time of writing.
Getting there
The Denka Big Swan Stadium can be accessed in approximately 20 minutes by bus from JR Niigata Station – head out the south exit.
For those who opt to drive, the venue is around 5 minutes from Ubagayama IC on the Kameda Bypass, or approximately 8 minutes from the Meike IC on the Niigata Bypass.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
