Best running destinations in Asia
Best running destinations in Asia
Paved coastal pathway networks and high-altitude trail loops across Asia
One East Asian capital's marathon ranks among the world's most significant annual races, drawing elite and recreational runners alike through closed city streets. A Southeast Asian temple half marathon offers an entirely different experience, running directly past ancient ruins.
The destinations on this list range from major city marathons with international entry systems and significant infrastructure to smaller, scenic races through landscapes and historic sites that larger events couldn't easily accommodate.
Entering through official lottery or charity systems matters for the region's biggest races, several of which receive far more applications than available places each year. Entry systems vary considerably between lottery allocation and straightforward registration. Packing for sudden weather changes also matters considerably depending on the specific course and season.
Lists by region
City in Japan
Tokyo
Japan's capital of temples, towers and food
Runners circle the Imperial Palace counterclockwise, a loop of about five kilometers with lockers and showers nearby. Yoyogi Park and the Sumida River have quiet paths for easy daily runs. The Tokyo Marathon is held in March and is one of the six World Marathon Majors.
City in Japan
Kyoto
Temples, geisha districts and kaiseki dining
Flatter and calmer than Tokyo, this city has riverside paths along the Kamo River and temple hill trails. The stone gate paths at Fushimi Inari lead up a wooded mountain. They are narrow and busy with visitors by midday. The Kyoto Marathon is held each February.
Country
Singapore
Tropical city-state of hawker food and gardens
As a small city state, this place has a network of park connectors of more than 300 kilometers. Routes link green spaces, reservoirs and the waterfront. Humidity is high all year, so run early or late in the day. The Singapore Marathon is held each December.
Country
Bhutan
Himalayan monasteries, dzongs and trekking trails
Peaceful and mountainous, this kingdom has trails past monasteries, prayer flags and rice terraces. Thimphu sits at about 2,300 meters, so easy, slow runs are wise in the early days. The hike to Tiger's Nest near Paro climbs to about 3,100 meters through pine forest.
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