The Hangzhou Marathon, one of China’s most scenic road races, returns in November 2024 with a breathtaking course weaving past West Lake, tea plantations, and the Qiantang River. As an IAAF Gold Label event, it attracts elite runners and recreational joggers alike.
This comprehensive preview covers:
✔ Race date & registration details
✔ Course map & elevation profile
✔ Prize money & elite runners
✔ Training & travel tips
✔ Why it’s a bucket-list marathon
1. Key Event Details
Race Date & Categories
- November 3, 2024 (First Sunday of November)
- Categories:
- Full Marathon (42.195 km) – 15,000 slots
- Half Marathon (21.1 km) – 10,000 slots
- Fun Run (5 km) – 5,000 slots
Registration
- Opens: August 15, 2024 (via www.hangzhou-marathon.com)
- Fees:
- Full: ¥200 (28) for Chinese, ¥400 (28)forChinese,¥400(55) international
- Half: ¥150 (21) / ¥300 (21)/¥300(41)
- Lottery System: Oversubscribed races use a draw (results September 10).
*Pro Tip: Join a charity entry program (¥1,500+) for guaranteed spots.*
2. Course Breakdown: A Scenic Tour of Hangzhou
Start/Finish
- Start: Yellow Dragon Sports Center (Huanglong)
- Finish: Olympic Sports Center (Binjiang)
Key Landmarks
- West Lake (Km 5–8) – Run along Sudi Causeway with willow-lined views.
- Longjing Tea Fields (Km 15–18) – Gentle uphill through terraced plantations.
- Qiantang River (Km 30–35) – Flat stretch with river breezes.
- G20 Summit Venue (Km 38) – Futuristic architecture boost morale.
Elevation Profile
- Net downhill: 50m (easier than Beijing/Shanghai marathons)
- Biggest climb: Longjing segment (Km 16, +40m over 2km)
3. Elite Field & Prize Money
2024 Elite Runners (Expected)
- Men’s Favorite: Kipchirchir (Kenya) – 2:05:12 PB
- Women’s Favorite: Zhang Deshun (China) – 2:26:56 national record holder
Prize Purse (USD)
| Position | Full Marathon | Half Marathon |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | $30,000 | $10,000 |
| 2nd | $15,000 | $5,000 |
| 3rd | $8,000 | $3,000 |
| Course Record Bonus | +$10,000 | +$5,000 |
*Note: Time bonuses for sub-2:10 (men) / sub-2:30 (women).*
4. Training Tips for the Course
3-Month Preparation Plan
- Long Runs: Simulate the Longjing climb with hill repeats.
- Speedwork: Qiantang River’s flat section suits negative splits.
- Weather Prep: November averages 12–18°C (54–64°F) – ideal racing temps.
Local Training Spots
- West Lake Loop (10 km) – Perfect for tempo runs.
- Nanshan Road Hills – Build climbing strength.
5. Spectator Guide: Best Cheering Points
- Leifeng Pagoda (Km 7) – Iconic photo backdrop.
- Meijiawu Tea Village (Km 17) – Fuel stations serve tea samples!
- Qiantang River Bridge (Km 33) – Drum performances energize runners.
6. Travel & Accommodation Tips
Where to Stay
- Near Start Line:
- Dragon Hotel (4-star) – 5-min walk to Yellow Dragon.
- Near Finish Line:
- InterContinental Hangzhou (5-star) – Post-race massages available.
Getting There
- Metro: Line 3 to Huanglong Sports Center Station (start).
- Taxis: Book Didi early—race morning demand spikes.
7. Why Run Hangzhou Marathon?
- UNESCO Scenery: The only major marathon circling a World Heritage Site (West Lake).
- Cultural Flair: Tea stations, calligraphy finisher certificates.
- Organization: Impeccable Chinese efficiency (vs. chaotic Southeast Asian races).
8. 2024 Updates & Sustainability Efforts
- Eco-Medals: Made from recycled tea waste.
- Virtual Race Option: For those who can’t travel.
Final Advice
“Train for the Longjing climb, savor the lake views, and leave energy for Binjiang’s cheering crowds!”
Will you be running Hangzhou 2024? Share your goals below!
