Shanghai Marathon 2026

Make your way to your centrally located 4 or 5-star hotel, just steps from the iconic Bund and close to the marathon start line. Our Sports Tours International reps will be on hand throughout the day to greet you, assist with check-in, and answer any questions.

Use the afternoon to relax, adjust to the time zone, or take a short stroll along the Huangpu River before a relaxed welcome reception in the evening, a perfect chance to connect with fellow runners and our team before the big day.

Start your day with an energizing 5 km shake-out run, guided by our reps, the perfect way to loosen up, beat jet lag, and get into race mode.

We’ll then head to the official Shanghai Marathon Expo, where you’ll collect your bib and explore partner stalls and official merchandise.

Today’s all about getting prepped, informed, and inspired.

Today you have another opportunity to visit the marathon Expo for bib collection.

Use this day to explore Shanghai’s unique blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and futuristic skyline. It’s the ideal balance of movement and discovery in one of Asia’s most exciting cities.

Race day begins with a short walk to the start line alongside fellow runners, with our reps nearby for any last-minute support.

As you take on the course, soak up the electric atmosphere and iconic city sights, while your friends and family cheer you on from our exclusive Cheer Zone.

In the evening, celebrate your achievement in style at our Post-Race Celebration – a chance to relax, share stories, and toast to an unforgettable day.

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Whether you’re continuing your travels or heading home, our team will be on hand to assist with departure arrangements or any last-minute needs.

Leave Shanghai with medals, memories, and maybe even a new personal best.

The Shanghai Marathon 2026 is scheduled for Sunday, December 6, 2026. Runners from around the world will gather to experience this candidate race for the Abbott World Marathon Majors and Platinum Label Road Race, recognized by World Athletics for its fast course and world-class organization.

The easiest and most secure way to take part in the Shanghai Marathon 2026 is through a Sports Tours International package, which includes guaranteed race entry.

The public lottery for entries is competitive, and independent runners must manage registration, entry fees, and documentation themselves. Non-lottery or non-elite entry options are limited, so booking through Sports Tours International ensures your race bib, registration, and logistics are handled, giving peace of mind on race day.

There are no qualifying times required when booking through Sports Tours International.

While elite runners compete for world-class finishing times, recreational participants entering independently must rely on the lottery or charity entry routes. Shanghai’s prestige, Platinum Label Road Race status, and candidacy for the Abbott World Marathon Majors make it one of the highest-rated marathons in Asia.

Sports Tours International offers carefully selected hotel packages in Shanghai, chosen for their convenient locations near Shanghai Stadium and along the marathon course.

We strongly recommend travel insurance to provide peace of mind when traveling internationally.

The Shanghai Marathon is organized by the Shanghai Sports Bureau and sanctioned by World Athletics. It is recognized as a Platinum Label Road Race and is a candidate Abbott World Marathon Majors event. Local authorities coordinate traffic control and safety measures to ensure smooth race day operations for participants and spectators.

The marathon takes place early December, when Shanghai experiences cool and dry conditions, with average temperatures between 12–18°C (54–64°F). These ideal conditions make for a comfortable marathon experience while helping runners maintain a steady pace.

The race starts at Bund, a landmark venue that provides an electrifying atmosphere on race day. Transportation from nearby hotels is usually arranged as part of official packages, ensuring a smooth journey to the start line.

The finish line is Xujiahui Sports Park. Each finisher receives a custom medal commemorating their achievement in one of Asia’s highest-rated marathons.

Entry fees vary depending on registration method. When booking through Sports Tours International, your race entry is $330 and is part of a package.

First held in 1996, the Shanghai Marathon has grown into one of China’s premier road races. Today it is a Platinum Label Road Race and a candidate for the Abbott World Marathon Majors, attracting elite athletes and recreational runners worldwide.

The marathon features full hydration stations along the course, showcases Shanghai’s historic and modern landmarks, and celebrates participants with a custom finisher medal. It is considered a must-run race for marathon enthusiasts across Asia.