Guide to the 2026 Lake Tazawa Marathon (Tazawako Marathon)

The Lake Tazawa Marathon (Tazawako Marathon) is one of Akita Prefecture’s signature running events, set around the shores of Japan’s deepest lake. In 2026, the race returns for its 39th edition on Sunday, September 20, inviting runners to take on a course known for both its beauty and its difficulty. The marathon began in 1986 as Akita’s first full marathon event and now draws around 3,000 participants from Japan and overseas.

Lake Tazawa (Tazawako) itself gives the race its character. Its deep blue water (the deepest in Japan), forested shoreline, and surrounding mountains create a striking backdrop, especially in early autumn when the summer heat begins to ease.

Lake Tazawa is located in Semboku City, Akita Prefecture. From Tokyo, take the Akita Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Tazawako Station, a journey of about two hours and 50 minutes. From  Akita Station, Tazawako Station takes around an hour by shinkansen.

From Tazawako Station, the lakeshore can be reached by bus in about 15 minutes. On race day, the marathon operates free shuttle buses to the venue from Tazawako Station. Shuttle timings are published by the event organizers, so participants should confirm the latest schedule before race weekend.

Getting around Lake Tazawa

The marathon venue is centered on the Lake Tazawa shore, and public transport is the most practical option during race weekend. The organizers note that parking is limited and traffic congestion is expected, so runners and spectators are encouraged to use trains, buses, or the official shuttle services.

Outside of race day, Lake Tazawa can be explored by car, sightseeing boat, bicycle, or local loop bus. The lake is almost circular and measures about 12 miles (20 kilometers) around, which is part of why it creates such a distinctive marathon setting.

The 2026 Lake Tazawa Marathon includes four race categories: a full marathon, a 20-kilometer marathon, a 10-kilometer marathon, and a 3-kilometer pair marathon. The full and 20-kilometer races use Japan Association of Athletics Federations-certified courses. Entry for the 2026 event opened on April 1st and closed on June 10 (was originally scheduled to close on May 27th).

The full marathon is capped at 1,600 runners, the 20-kilometer race at 2,000, the 10-kilometer race at 1,600, and the pair marathon at 350 teams. Each race has a time limit, including the full marathon, which has a six-hour finish limit, with additional checkpoints along the course.

A small number of day-before entries may be accepted on September 19 for an additional fee, though availability is limited and may be canceled depending on registration numbers.

The full marathon route is known as one of Japan’s toughest scenic courses. It circles the lake and includes rolling elevation changes that test runners over the distance.

For runners, the reward is the scenery. Lake Tazawa’s water is famous for shifting from cobalt to sapphire tones depending on the light, and the road course keeps the lake close for much of the race.

Lake Tazawa is worth exploring before or after the marathon. The Statue of Tatsuko, standing on the western shore, is one of the lake’s best-known landmarks and is tied to the legend of a young woman who became a dragon guardian of the lake. On the northern shore, Goza no Ishi Shrine is marked by a vivid red torii gate set close to the water.

The Lake Tazawa area is a good place to sample Akita’s specialties. Locals will recommend dishes such as kiritanpo (mashed rice-cake), Hinai chicken, Inaniwa udon, and handmade pickles. The wider Tazawako area is also known for soba, mountain vegetables, river fish, honey products, and locally brewed sake and beer. For a lakeside meal, Lake Tazawa Rest House offers regional food and shopping with views across the water, making it the perfect place to grab a bite any time before or after the race.

Lake Tazawa and the wider Semboku area host several major events throughout the year. In spring, Kakunodate’s cherry blossom season draws visitors to the samurai district and Hinokinai Riverbank. Summer brings outdoor lake activities and traditional regional events.

Autumn is anchored by the Lake Tazawa Marathon itself, followed nearby by the Kakunodate Festival, known for its ornate floats and longstanding local traditions. Winter also has a lot going on. The Tazawako Kogen Snow Festival features snow sculptures, local food stalls, torchlight displays, and fireworks.

1. Tazawako Rose Park Hotel

Tazawako Rose Park Hotel sits near the lakeshore and offers views toward Lake Tazawa and Mount Akita-Komagatake. Its location makes it a fitting choice for travelers who want to stay close to the marathon setting and enjoy a quieter lakeside atmosphere before or after race day.

2. Tazawako Lake Resort & Onsen

Tazawako Lake Resort & Onsen is a larger resort-style stay near the lake, with hot spring facilities, a restaurant, sauna, and access to numerous outdoor attractions. Those booking with the meal-inclusive accommodation plans can enjoy a buffet with Japanese, Western, and Chinese options, as well as local Akita cuisine.

3. Hotel B4T Kakunodate

For travelers who want easier rail access and a broader sightseeing itinerary, Hotel B4T Kakunodate sits next to Kakunodate Station, just one Shinkansen stop from Tazawako Station. It also places guests within walking distance of Kakunodate’s historic samurai residence district.