Run to Taiwan’s Southernmost Point: Kenting Marathon Registration Opens

Registration is now open for the 2026 Pingtung Kenting Japan Airlines International Marathon, inviting runners to trade days of rain for sunshine, sea air and a demanding coastal course.

The race will start at Dawan Lawn in Kenting on Nov. 15. Runners will pass Eluanbi Lighthouse and the dramatic cliffs of Longpan Park, while the full-marathon route continues toward the unusual rock formations of Jialeshui. The course offers views and Pacific waves, but it also includes as much as 480 meters of elevation gain and Pingtung’s strong downslope winds.

Pingtung County and title sponsor Japan Airlines are promoting the event as both a physical challenge and a distinctive running trip. Since 2014, organizers have operated it as an environmentally friendly race, requiring runners to bring their own cups.

This year’s rewards include 20,000 JMB miles for 30 winners, along with opportunities to win tickets, a pre-race celebration, hotel vouchers and combined admission packages for the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium and Hengchun Deer Resort. The organizers are encouraging runners to head south for a winter escape built around Kenting’s sunshine and coastline.