About this race
The Niigata City Marathon is a full marathon held in October in Niigata City, a major rice-producing region in Japan. This year marks the race's 42nd edition. The event attracts participants from Niigata Prefecture, other Japanese regions, and international locations, giving it a broad, mass-participation character rather than that of a small local event.
The course highlights central Niigata, featuring Bandai Bridge over the Shinano River and a 2km city-center stretch. Local food is a significant element: aid stations offer regional items like mini rice cups with Kajishima Shoten salmon chazuke. Finishers receive large onigiri made with Niigata rice (Sato no Gohan) or freshly baked mochi. Participants also select goods from the Niigata outdoor brand Captain Stag, and complimentary public bath access is provided post-race.
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