The Hangzhou Marathon is a prestigious World Athletics Gold Label race featuring a scenic route through the historic West Lake area and the modern Qiantang River district.
Course Highlights
The Hangzhou Marathon offers a breathtaking route that transitions from the ancient beauty of the West Lake (Xi Hu) to the modern skyline along the Qiantang River. Runners begin at the iconic Huanglong Sports Center and soon find themselves traversing the shores of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed West Lake, passing landmarks like the Broken Bridge and the Su Causeway. The course is famously scenic, featuring lush tea gardens and historic temples that exemplify the “heaven on earth” reputation of the city. As participants reach the later stages, the scenery shifts to the impressive urban developments of Qianjiang New Town, culminating in a grand finish at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Stadium, known as the “Big Lotus” for its stunning architectural design.
Race Details
As a World Athletics Gold Label road race, the Hangzhou Marathon maintains the highest standards of organization and competition. The next edition is confirmed for November 1, 2026, with an expected start time of 07:30. The event accommodates over 30,000 participants across various categories, including the full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon, and shorter fun runs. The race is known for its technological integration, recently featuring robotic pace runners and extensive medical support, including hundreds of volunteers and AED-equipped personnel along the route. Registration typically opens in late August via the official portal and WeChat mini-programs, with slots allocated through a lottery system due to its immense popularity.
Why Runners Love It
Runners from around the globe are drawn to Hangzhou for its unique blend of cultural immersion and professional race experience. Established in 1987, it is one of China’s longest-running marathons, offering a deep sense of history with every step. The “most beautiful marathon route” award is well-deserved, as the track allows runners to experience the poetic charm of Jiangnan gardens alongside the vibrant energy of China’s digital economy hub. Beyond the scenery, the enthusiastic local support and the prestige of finishing in the Asian Games stadium provide an unforgettable atmosphere. It is not just a test of endurance, but a journey through the evolution of one of China’s most elegant cities. Register here
At a Glance
- Location: Hangzhou, Zhejiang — China
- Next Date: 2026-11-01
- Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, Mini Marathon (7km), Couple Run (4.5km), Family Run (1.2km)
- Start Time: 07:30
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://hm.zhetiyu.cn




