Ekiden (Hakone)
OtherKanto(Kanagawa)
Annual eventDates
2026-01-02 — 2026-01-03
Venue
Otemachi (Tokyo) to Hakone Ashinoko
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Extremely crowdedJapan's most famous long-distance relay race from Tokyo to Hakone and back.
The Hakone Ekiden is Japan's most prestigious and watched university relay marathon, covering 217.1 km between Tokyo's Otemachi and Hakone's Lake Ashi over two days. Ten university teams of ten runners each compete in this New Year tradition that captivates the entire nation with dramatic team rivalries.
Highlights
Japan's most-watched sporting event during New Year; 217.1 km relay course from Tokyo to Hakone over mountain passes; Dramatic team rivalries and emotional moments at relay exchanges
Access
Start/finish at Otemachi, Tokyo (near Tokyo Station). Various viewing points along the route. Hakone turnaround at Lake Ashi.
Tips for Visitors
Best viewing spots fill up early, especially at relay exchange points and the Hakone mountain section. The race is broadcast live on Nippon TV. Dress warmly as it's early January.