[Tour Korea = Reporter Seong-ran Cho] Hana Tour has expanded its lineup of overseas full-marathon travel packages to meet the growing demand for running-focused trips. As running cements itself as a mainstream lifestyle sport and more people look to combine races with vacations—what the industry calls a “Run Trip”—the company is beefing up themed packages that bundle entries to major international marathons with independent travel time.
These offerings put a premium on free time so participants can manage their pre- and post-race recovery while still enjoying local sightseeing at an unhurried pace. The itineraries are designed to let runners recover and explore without the pressure of a tight schedule, which improves the overall travel experience.
The four-day Japan: Okinawa Naha Marathon package departing Dec. 5 is exclusively for full-marathon runners. The hotel is roughly a five-minute walk from the starting line to minimize race-day logistics. The itinerary includes a course preview the day before the event, and after the finish, runners have free time to soak up Okinawa. The trip also includes a stop at the Sports Depot Ameku branch, a local favorite for running gear shopping.
The Istanbul package stands out, too. The seven-day Türkiye Istanbul Marathon package departing Oct. 28 lets participants run across two continents—Asia and Europe—a rare and unforgettable experience. Runners can choose between the full marathon or a 15.5 km (9.63-mile) route. With arrivals scheduled four days before the race, participants get ample time to adjust to the time difference and tune up their condition. The overall schedule centers on free time, so travelers can shape their own experience.
The four-day 2026 Shanghai Marathon package, departing Dec. 4, also includes full-marathon entry. Accommodations are assigned at a hotel about 1 km (0.62 mile) from the start line to make race-day travel easier. Interest in the Shanghai Marathon has been rising as it vies for a spot among the world’s top marathons, building excitement among runners.
A Hana Tour spokesperson said, “Interest in overseas marathon travel has surged among runners. We plan to continue expanding themed packages and global marathon-entry programs that blend sports and travel.”
Most Commented