20 September, 2011

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On November 20, 2011, Kobe Marathon will be held for the first time.
The theme for this event is “Thanks and Friendship.”

Through this event, the organizers want to share the experience of the earthquake that Hyogo, especially Kobe, went through. To see people accomplishing the marathon will hopefully give some courage to the people who are still suffering the effects of natural disasters.

The runners can enjoy beautiful views of Kobe, and the spectators also have a lot to see and do while they are in town. 


This is the course of the Kobe Marathon. You’ll be able to see lots of Kobe’s attractions along the way.

Start:
In front of Kobe City Hall.
The race starts right next to Japan’s first flower clock!


Flower Clock of Kobe
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Tetsujin 28-go (Ironman #28):
Kobe’s symbol of restoration from the disaster, Ironman #28 watches over the runners.

Tetsujin 28-go (Iron Man Number 28) Monument
http://www.hyogo-tourism.jp/english/spot/22_tetsujin.html

 
Tetsujin 28-go Monument
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Sumaura Park:
Suma is one of Kansai’s best beaches. Enjoy the nice cool sea breeze as you run.

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Turning Point
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge:
The world’s longest suspension bridge. Here you will find the Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall, the only facility in Japan dedicated to Sun Yat-Sen, a Chinese revolutionist, politician and philosopher.

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
http://www.hyogo-tourism.jp/english/spot/18_akashibridge.html

Ijokaku (Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall)
http://www.hyogo-tourism.jp/english/spot/21_ijokaku.html

Sun-Yat Sen Memorial Hall
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Hyogo Canal:
Completed in 1899, it is one of the largest canals in Japan.
This area prospered during the Heian period, because Taira-no-Kiyomori, one of Japan’s leaders at the time, used it as a major site for trade with China.  

 Hyogo Canal
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Kobe Bridge:
Once you get to Port Island after crossing the Kobe Bridge, you’re almost done!

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Finish Line
Shimin-Hiroba (Citizen’s Park)
Congratulations! You made it!!

Port Island

There’s a lot to see along the course of the Kobe marathon.
Please support the 2011 Kobe Marathon!


http://www.kobe-marathon.net/course_02.html（Japanese）

http://www.kobe-marathon.net/english/outline.html（English）
  
Next up, we’re going to start a new series【Art】because in Japan, fall is known as the season for art.
The first blog of the series is going to be on Tamba pottery and pottery making opportunities in Tamba!



Ping（Hyogo Tourism Association)