The Tokyo Marathon is one of the world’s most prestigious running events and a part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors series. For many runners, participating in this marathon is a dream come true. In 2027, thanks to an initiative by the Tokyo Marathon Foundation, a unique opportunity emerged to secure a guaranteed entry to this race by joining the RUN as ONE virtual challenge.

How did the virtual challenge work?

As part of the RUN as ONE – GLOBAL Virtual Run Series 2025/2026, participants from around the world could take part in a virtual half marathon (21.0975 km) by registering through a dedicated app and syncing their results online. Completing the challenge gave runners a chance to enter a draw for one of 40 guaranteed, though paid, bib numbers for the Tokyo Marathon 2027.

Who could participate?

• The challenge was open to everyone, with a preference for ONE TOKYO GLOBAL members, who could enter for free, while other participants had to pay a registration fee.
• Participants needed to register within the set deadline, download the app, and run the required distance in one or several segments during the event period.

Prizes and chances to run in Tokyo

• Out of all finishers, 40 people were drawn and received a guaranteed right to participate in the Tokyo Marathon 2027 (the entry was not free, but it secured a spot without additional qualifications).
• The RUN as ONE – GLOBAL Virtual Run Series 2025/2026 includes a total of 10 challenges, spread across the months up to March 2026, each offering more chances to win a coveted Tokyo Marathon entry.

Recommended Reading

If you’re planning to run in any of the World Marathon Majors races, check out my e-book “Your journey through the world’s greatest marathons. World Marathon Majors 2025”. You’ll find everything there-from routes and strategies, to logistics, to mental preparation. Perfect for both amateurs and advanced runners.