Dispel negative stereotypes of pollution in China—Yunnan Province has been rated for having high-quality air conditions. Remote areas like Shangri-La have never been afflicted by smog; Kunming is dubbed the "Spring City" due to its consistently moderate temperatures with bountiful foliage and year-round flower blossoms. The pure air and refreshing scenery makes for the perfect inaugural marathon.

The Yunnan • Qiubei International Marathon race will take place on Saturday, 24 October 2015. Race organisers advise runners to plan a 3 to 5 day travel itinerary, arriving into Kunming on the 22nd and departing on 25th.

The race currently features four distances: Full Marathon (42km), Half Marathon (21km), 10km and a 5km fun run. All competitive races will start at 7:00 a.m. while the 5km fun run will flag off at 7:30 a.m.

The marathon event will have runners coursing through narrow trails, pathways and stairs in the captivating Puzhehei scenic area in Yunnan, China. Here, there are impressive karst land formations, caves, crystal clear lakes, darling islands and lush landscapes, making for a truly unique running adventure.

Sign Up Now For Cheaper Fees!

Whilst early bird registration has closed, you can still sign up for the any of the runs for US$200 until 1 May 2015. After that, you'd have to pay US$250, or US$275 for last minute registrations from 1 October 2015 onwards.

Race entry fees include a welcoming bonfire celebration—a memorable evening of interactive local traditional dances and festivities. On top of that, runners will get an official Yunnan • Qiubei International Marathon technical running shirt, collectible finisher medal, official finisher certificate and goodie bag. The race fees also includes a free round-trip transportation from Kunming to Tiancheng Taihe Hotel in Qiubei (Race HQ), course support, a light breakfast before the race, and other food and refreshments.

Spectators can also register for US$150. Get US$30 off when you sign up for race and spectator packages with added features. There are also several other optional travel and tour activities to choose from.

Check out their detailed official website for more information and even training tips!