One of Japan's most well-known civic marathon races is back once again this spring on the shores of Lake Kasumigaura, the second largest lake in this country. With an astounding 27,000 participants in 2014, this is also ranked the 4th largest marathon race in Japan.

Taking place rain or shine on Sunday, 19 April 2015, all participants will start and finish at the Kawaguchi Athletic Park area. In this year's equally massive event, 20,000 full marathoners, 5,000 16km runners, 2,000 2km runners and 15 wheelchair participants are expected to turn up. There will also be no limit on the number of visually-impaired runners.

Easily accessible from Tokyo, the marathon events are sited amidst scenic nature, with a sweeping view of Mt. Tsukuba and Lake Kasumigaura. What makes runners keep running back for more, though, is the warm sense of community as numerous local volunteers warmly welcome, support and cheer runners on.

Hosted by Tsuchiura city and Kasumigaura city of Ibaraki Prefecture, the 25^th edition of this event is officiated by Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF), International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), and International Paralympic Committee (IPC). The top finishers will be invited to participate in other international races such as the Sidney Running Festival.

For more information about the Kasumigaura Marathon/ International Blind Marathon, visit their official website. You can also get to watch marathon videos to see how the race routes pans out.