Shanghai Marathon 2026

Marathon Overview

The Shanghai Marathon 2026 is not just a marathon: it is a sporting and human experience in the heart of a bustling metropolis. Running in Shanghai means immersing yourself in one of Asia’s most iconic cities, a place of dizzying modernity and ancestral traditions.

The race starts from the legendary Bund Bull Plaza, right in the heart of the city. From the starting line, the atmosphere is electric: tens of thousands of runners from all over the world take part in this great sporting event. Then it’s on to the 42.195 km of flat, flowing, fast running, punctuated by iconic monuments, broad avenues lined with skyscrapers, and preserved historic districts. The finish is in the triumphant atmosphere of Shanghai Stadium, an emotional place for every finisher.

With a time limit of 6 hours 15 minutes, the Shanghai Marathon course is accessible to a wide range of runner profiles. Its rolling profile is particularly popular with those aiming for a personal best, and it also attracts the attention of the international elite.

It is no coincidence that the Shanghai marathon is officially a candidate to join the Abbott World Marathon Majors, alongside legendary races like New York, Boston, Berlin or Tokyo. This testifies to the exceptional quality of the organization, and the growing prestige of the event on the world stage. Clearly, this is an organization on par with the major marathon capitals

Participating in the Shanghai Marathon means immersing yourself in a major international race on the rise, on a fast and spectacular course, supported by a professional organization and a unique atmosphere.

With Planet Tours, transform this race into a true sporting and cultural adventure. We will assist you in choosing the accommodation which has been carefully selected, and we can book your plane ticket for you upon request if you wish.

Why run the Shanghai Marathon with Planet-Tours?

The Shanghai Marathon is open to international runners — but organizing a marathon trip to China from France requires specific preparation: a 7-hour time difference and complex logistics in a city of 25 million inhabitants. Planet-Tours takes care of all the arrangements so you arrive at the starting line in the best possible condition.

Our package includes: 3 nights at the Radisson Collection Hyland ★★★★ ideally located on Nanjing East Road, a 10-minute walk from the Bund, breakfasts included, airport/hotel transfers, guaranteed official race bib and support from our team on site for the expo and the race.

And if Shanghai is included in the Abbott World Marathon Majors during its next evaluation, participating runners could automatically receive an additional star. Be among the first to run a future Major with Planet-Tours.

Practicalities

Each runner registered for the Shanghai Marathon 2026 will be given a personalized bib at the expo, equipped with an integrated electronic timing chip to guarantee the accuracy of split times. Refreshment points are set up all along the course, approximately every 5 kilometers, offering water, isotonic drinks and solid refreshments. The volunteers, who are very numerous and remarkably efficient, provide constant support, always with a smile.

The marathon also offers a responsive medical service, rest areas at the finish and a warm welcome for international runners. The event benefits from exemplary logistics, tested every year by thousands of participants and acclaimed by the specialist press.

Entry onto Chinese soil

Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa. We encourage you to check this directly on a dedicated website: https://www.traveldoc.aero/