Shanghai Marathon 2026
6.12.26
Marathon
4 Nights
Guaranteed Entry
Shanghai Marathon: Returning Bigger and Faster
The Shanghai Marathon is now a candidate race for the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors, featuring a flat, fast course ideal for athletes chasing a personal best (PB). The race starts at the Bund and showcases breathtaking views of the city.
Book the 2026 Shanghai Marathon with Sports Tours International and get guaranteed marathon entry, group shake -out run, escorted trip to the Shanghai Marathon expo and a sightseeing tour to experience the city’s unique blend of rich history and vibrant culture.
As one of the highest-rated marathons in Asia, this Platinum Label Road race attracts thousands of participants from around the world. From the race start along the Huangpu River to the modern skyline and historic districts, the event offers a unique marathon experience. With other races, qualifying times, and world-class organisation, the Shanghai Marathon is truly an unforgettable global event.
Due to race regulations, our package is NOT available to residents of China, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan or those travelling on a Chinese passport.
ENTRY & EXTRAS
Marathon
£275
Per Person
SHANGHAI MARATHON ROUTE
The route starts at the Bund and finishes at the Xujiahui Sports Park. The route passed through several key districts, including Huangpu, Jing’an, and Xuhui, showcasing some of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Getting to Shanghai:
International travellers arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), approximately 30 km (19 miles) from the city centre.
• Taxi: Licensed taxis are available outside the terminals. Fares to central Shanghai typically range from CNY 150–250, depending on traffic. Apps like DiDi provide a convenient alternative. Avoid unofficial taxi offers.
• Maglev & Metro: The Maglev train connects Pudong Airport to Longyang Road Station in about 8 minutes. From there, transfer to the Shanghai Metro for access to the city centre.
Getting around Shanghai:
Metro: Shanghai has one of the world’s largest metro systems, with 16 lines covering the city’s major attractions and districts. Trains are frequent, affordable, and signage is in both Chinese and English.
Public Transportation Card: The Shanghai Public Transportation Card (Jiaotong Card) is rechargeable and provides seamless access to metro, buses, and ferries, making travel simple and cost-effective.
Taxi: Licensed taxis and DiDi are widely available for flexible, door-to-door travel. Be cautious of unlicensed taxis, especially near airports or tourist hotspots.
WHY BOOK WITH US?
With Sports Tours, you never run alone. We’ll meet you at your hotel, escort you to the race expo and get you to the start line with ease. Join us for a 5KM shakeout run, meet fellow runners and celebrate together post-race.
INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- 4-night accommodation at a 4* hotel in a prime location
- Comprehensive support from Sports Tours reps in your hotel
Itinerary
DAY 1 – ARRIVAL DAY
Make your way to your centrally located 4-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 drink gathering in the evening, a perfect chance to connect with fellow runners and our team before the big day.
DAY 2 – shake out run & expo
Start your day with an energising 5KM 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.
DAY 3 – ESCORTED Expo TRIP
We’ll 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.
DAY 4 – Shanghai Marathon Race Day!
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.
DAY 5 – Departure 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.
Accommodation
To ensure our runners best experience at the Shanghai Marathon, we are offering accommodation options at some of Shanghai’s most iconic and strategically located hotels.
By booking with Sports Tours International, you are not just getting a room. You are joining the Sports Tours community. From early runner’s breakfast to guided escorts to the Shanghai Marathon expo, we handle the logistics so you can focus on your 26.2 mile marathon journey.
For special requests or questions, contact our team: 0161 703 8161 or sales@sportstoursinternational.co.uk
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Things to do in SHanghai
EXPLORE THE BUND
The Bund is Shanghai’s iconic waterfront, where historic European-style buildings line the river opposite Pudong’s modern skyline. It’s especially stunning at night when the skyscrapers light up.
TAKE IN THE VIEWS FROM SHANGHAI TOWER
Standing at 632 meters, the Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world. The observation deck on the 118th floor offers 360-degree views of the city. The high-speed elevator ride to the top is an experience, reaching speeds of over 20 meters per second.
EXPLORE TIANZIFANG IN THE FRENCH CONCESSION
Tianzifang is a charming maze of alleys filled with art studios, indie shops, cafés, and restaurants. Set in the former French Concession, it blends historic architecture with a creative, local atmosphere—perfect for coffee, unique souvenirs, and a relaxed escape from the city’s bigger commercial areas.
WHAT PAST PARTICIPANTS SAY
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Toby
Newbury
As ever all the Sports Tours team were helpful, fun, approachable, patient, tolerant as they always are. Great team, lots of knowledge and experience.
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Darren Ewer
34, Manchester
The trip exceeded my expectations. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Sports Tours.
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David
London, UK
Great team: friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable.
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Jane
Wells, UK
Excellent from booking to the flight home!
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Mary
Bath, UK
This team was very personable and demonstrated a caring attitude for the runners. As a sole traveler I felt very welcomed, especially by Ian. He has a gift for the position in making runners feel included in all aspects of the trip.
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Keith
Wymondham, UK
I would gladly say the team we had went above and beyond what anyone would have expected they were with out a doubt exceptional
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Toby
Newbury, UK
Bent over backwards to make trip smooth and enjoyable. Super friendly and informative. Went extra mile (literally) in doing recce incredibly early on Sunday morning before emergency bib collection. We all knew what to expect at every step of the experience and as a result zero dramas (that I am aware of). An ace team of reps who all deserve special praise.
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James
Fort Wayne, UK
Wonderfully kind, helpful, encouraging, took the time to talk with everyone, and were great in their roles.
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Tracey
Crewkerne, UK
Lovely friendly group of reps
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Susie
Romford, UK
Not sure you can top the customer care and experience as it was amazing – as are all your events we have done! So much interaction from the team especially Sam who was amazing. Cannot wait for the next one.
FAQs
What date is the Shanghai Marathon 2026?
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, recognised by World Athletics for its fast course and world-class organisation.
How can I register for the Shanghai Marathon?
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.
What are the Shanghai Marathon qualifying times?
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.
What travel and accommodation options are available?
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.
Who are the official organisations involved at the Shanghai Marathon?
The Shanghai Marathon is organized by the Shanghai Sports Bureau and sanctioned by World Athletics. It is recognised 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.
What is the expected weather during the Shanghai Marathon?
The marathon takes place in 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.
Where is the Shanghai Marathon start line?
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.
Where is the Shanghai Marathon finish line?
The finish line is located in Xujiahui Sports Park. Each finisher receives a custom medal commemorating their achievement in one of Asia’s highest-rated marathons.
How much is the entry fee for the Shanghai Marathon 2026?
Entry fees vary depending on registration method. When booking through Sports Tours International, your race entry is included in the package.
What is the history of the Shanghai Marathon?
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.
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