On Sunday, March 1, 2026, the Tokyo Marathon 2026 was held, with Room to Read Japan participating as an official charity partner. Among approximately 39,000 runners from around the world, 161 charity runners from over 20 countries ran in support of children’s education.
From the EXPO through race day, employees from our corporate partners and more than 40 volunteers warmly welcomed and cheered on the runners along the course.
In addition to donations from the runners themselves, Room to Read Japan raised funds through corporate matching gifts and crowdfunding, surpassing our original goal and raising funds equivalent to supporting the education of more than 11,000 children. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this impact possible.
東京マラソンEXPO 2026の様子(2月26日~2月28日) Scenes from the Tokyo Marathon EXPO 2026 (February 26 – 28)
The day before the race, we held a morning shakeout run led by Reiji, a long-time supporter who was also running in this year’s Tokyo Marathon. We ran from Tokyo Station to a lap around Hibiya Park, making our final preparations for race day.
Volunteer supporters came to cheer the runners on at the Ryogoku – Tamachi (27Km – 37Km) point, which is said to be the most challenging section for the runners, and of course, at the finish area! Many runners responded to the cheers, exchanging high-fives!
After the run, we welcomed charity runners at the Charity Lounge in Tokyo International Forum! This time, the lounge also served as a meeting point for family and friends, bringing together many people to celebrate the runners’ finish.
I am a woman and a scientist. Reading a single book can completely change the way you see the world. Books can introduce you to friends across time and teach you kindness. Today, I find purpose in writing myself. Even in the most difficult moments, books have given me the strength to keep going. I want to give something back in return.
Ayako Onzo
As an avid reader growing up, I’ve always known how books can open minds, spark imagination, and help us learn and grow. That’s why I was honored to run my first marathon in support of Room to Read, an organization that helps children around the world access quality education through its focus on literacy and gender equality—making the marathon more than just a physical challenge.
My friends and family were incredibly supportive. They donated to the cause and cheered me on throughout the race. Three things that made the biggest difference in my fundraising were:
making it as easy as possible for people to donate (the Room to Read personal fundraising page is great for this),
not being shy about sharing the campaign (posting on social media, messaging friends and family, and mentioning it to coworkers), and
taking advantage of corporate matching whenever possible.
It was an amazing experience, and I would highly recommend running the Tokyo Marathon for Room to Read.
世界中のチャリティランナーの皆様、ありがとうございました!
Thank you very much for your wonderful run!
Room to Read Japan will continue to participate as a beneficiary organization for the Tokyo Marathon 2027 Charity, scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 7, 2027! For any inquiries or questions regarding this, please feel free to contact Room to Read Japan at japan@roomtoread.org.