2025 Yodogawa Kanpei Marathon
The Fujipan Presents Yodogawa Kanpei Marathon 2025 will take place on December 6 and 7, 2025, along the scenic Yodogawa Riverside Special Course in Hirakata, Osaka. This two-day running event is held at Yodogawa Riverside Park and serves as a platform to support areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. In early December, Hirakata experiences typical winter weather with temperatures ranging between 5-12°C (41-54°F), with occasional rainfall possible. Participants can expect cool, crisp conditions ideal for running, though layered clothing is recommended. The event features diverse race categories accommodating runners of all ages and abilities, from young children to competitive adult athletes, with both individual and relay team options available across the two days.
What race categories are offered on Saturday, December 6?
- →Elementary School 3 km (open to Grades 1–6)
- →Baby Stroller Walk (~1.5 km) for ages 0–3 with guardian
- →Heartful Run (~2 km) for participants with disabilities
- →Pair 5 km (two runners must finish together)
- →Walk (~8 km) open to ages 3 and older with optional guardian participation
What race categories are offered on Sunday, December 7?
- →Half Marathon (for ages 16 and older with a 2 hour 30 minute time limit)
- →10 km (for ages 16 and older with a 1 hour 30 minute time limit)
- →Ekiden relay (~17 km) with teams of 5 runners plus 1 substitute (maximum 250 teams)
What distances can participants choose from at this event?
- →1.5 km Baby Stroller Walk
- →2 km Heartful Run
- →3 km Elementary School race
- →5 km Pair race
- →8 km Walk
- →10 km race
- →16+ km Half Marathon
- →17 km Ekiden relay
Who are the organizers and sponsors of this event?
The event is organized by Yoshimoto Kogyo, Sankei Shimbun, Sankei Sports, and the Yodogawa River Park Management Center. Fujipan serves as the special sponsor, while Hirakata City provides special cooperation. Supporting organizations include the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (Kinki Bureau), Osaka Prefecture, Hirakata City Board of Education, Neyagawa City, and Neyagawa City Board of Education. The Osaka Athletics Association provides judging cooperation.
Is the event held rain or shine?
Yes, the Yodogawa Kanpei Marathon 2025 is scheduled to take place rain or shine on both December 6 and 7, 2025. Participants should prepare accordingly with appropriate weather gear for potential rainy conditions.
What is the purpose of this marathon event?
The Fujipan Presents Yodogawa Kanpei Marathon 2025 is held in support of areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, with proceeds and awareness efforts directed toward earthquake relief and recovery initiatives.
What are the time limits for the competitive races?
- →Half Marathon: 2 hours 30 minutes maximum
- →10 km race: 1 hour 30 minutes maximum
Are there race options for families and people with disabilities?
Yes, the event includes several inclusive categories. The Baby Stroller Walk (~1.5 km) accommodates families with infants and toddlers ages 0–3 with a guardian. The Heartful Run (~2 km) is specifically designed for participants with disabilities. Additionally, the Walk category (~8 km) welcomes ages 3 and older with optional guardian participation, making it family-friendly.
What is the Ekiden relay format?
The Ekiden relay is approximately 17 km in total distance and requires teams of 5 runners plus 1 substitute runner. A maximum of 250 teams can participate in this relay category on Sunday, December 7.
What age requirements exist for the different races?
- →Elementary School 3 km: Grades 1–6
- →Baby Stroller Walk: Ages 0–3 with guardian
- →Heartful Run: Open to participants with disabilities (no specific age restriction mentioned)
- →Pair 5 km: No specific age requirement stated
- →Walk: Ages 3 and older
- →Half Marathon: Ages 16 and older
- →10 km race: Ages 16 and older
- →Ekiden relay: Ages 16 and older (team-based)