Great Wall of China Autumn Marathon 2025

Embark on a marathon challenge in the Land of the Rising Sun 🌄, during its prime season... autumn 🍁. And it's in October when the race kicks off! The Autumn Great Wall Marathon is a special edition set against a backdrop straight out of "The Last Emperor" ⛩️, with its reddish and orange landscape thanks to the fallen leaves 🍂. Created in 1999, the Great Wall Marathon is no stranger to the running community 😎. This race, now iconic among runners worldwide, is THE marathon to do in Asia! 🌏 But the organizers have thought bigger (bigger than the wall? yes) 😳! They’ve dedicated an entire edition to the autumn season. Perfect for those who missed the April marathon or those who are passing by during this time of year.

As the Chinese 🇨🇳 say: "He who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true hero, and he who comes to the Great Wall conquers bravery" 💪. So, get those legs in shape 🦵 before coming to run what some call "The Long Cemetery"... 💀 Legend has it that some ghosts of Chinese warriors roam to make you run faster... Just in time for Halloween! 👻 With its 5,164 steps, it's not about talent but discipline and training to conquer this challenge without (too much) suffering 🥹. Rumor has it that certain steep segments of the course require ladders to climb... 🏃 A new concept of climb-up marathon? Not quite 😂. We hope we didn't scare you too much with all this 🤪. If the thought of running 42.195 km gives you chills, there are shorter routes like the half-marathon, a 10 km, and a 5 km 🏃. And besides that, the Beijing area is very pleasant at this time of year. Expect temperatures ranging from 9°C in the morning to 19°C during the day, ideal for running without sweating too much 💧.

But aside from performance, the friendly atmosphere of the Autumn Great Wall Marathon is truly unique! 🌟 This race, considered one of the hardest in the world, paradoxically brings people closer ❤️. You'll find running enthusiasts, just like you, of all ages and levels, running alongside and encouraging each other throughout this substantial challenge... ☝️ No pun intended! 😅 Past participants have reported that it's this special and warm atmosphere 🥰 that helped them finish the race with flying colors! Yes, the race is open to everyone 🙋‍♀️. Many come from all corners of the globe to experience what it's like to run on one of the most exceptional monuments in existence. Do you know many races that literally pass through a monument? We don’t 😮. Additionally, many describe this marathon as a mix of running and hiking, where it’s common to slow down and take in the breathtaking scenery... 💨

8,206 km? And you're planning to head back right after your race? No, no, no 🙂‍↔️. After your odyssey on the footsteps of the ancient Chinese army, you'll want to savor some local dishes like Jiaozi (Chinese dumplings) 🥟. Also, take advantage of your trip to explore the region. You’ll have the chance to visit the Forbidden City 🚫, the famous imperial palace located in the heart of Beijing, and then meet 13 of the 16 emperors of the Ming Dynasty! 👲 The burial site is located a short distance from the wall and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site! You can even end your trip with a final fortune cookie 🥰. Maybe you'll find a little message about your future… 🥠

Still hesitating? We know you're dreaming of those delicious spring rolls and that crispy Peking duck 😋.