The 3 Best Mountain Road Marathons in Taipei

Here are the three best mountain road marathons in Taipei City and New Taipei City: the Feng Gui Tzuei Marathon, Taipei YangmingShan Ultra-Marathon, and U-Lay Marathon. If you’re seeking races with beautiful mountain scenery and challenging climbs, read on for our recommendations below.

Feng Gui Tzuei Marathon

This AIMS-certified (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races), out-and-back marathon consists of two big climbs and two steep descents. You’ll be running parts of the famed Mt. Yaming (Yaming Shan) range, with lovely views of both Taipei City and New Taipei City. A half-marathon category is also available.

Local runner tips:

  • The course is essentially 10+ km uphill to the high point, 10+ km downhill to the turnaround, 10+ km back up, and 10+ km down to the finish.
  • The event venue is conveniently located in Taipei City’s Shilin District. Many buses or a quick cab ride will get you there.

 

Taipei YamingShan Ultra-Marathon

Visiting ultra runners should consider the Taipei Yangmingshan Ultra-Marathon, one of Taiwan’s oldest road ultras. The race offers six race distances: 63 km, 50 km, marathon, 20 km, 10 km, and 5 km. The hilly course is as scenic as it’s challenging, winding through various locations in Yangmingshan National Park. 

Local runner tip:

  • The organizer is well-known for its lengthy race information website, often confusing foreign participants instead of providing clarity. Patience and a little help from AI translators should get you through the registration process.

 

U-Lay Marathon

Starting and ending in the iconic Wulai Old Street, U-Lay Marathon has been a long-time local favorite. New Taipei City’s Wulai district is rich in geothermal resources, with numerous hot spring bath houses and hotels. The marathon course is gorgeous, passing several waterfalls along the way.

Local runner tips:

  • Unless the weather forces the organizer to modify the course, the turnaround segment is on a trail most years. Don’t worry. It’s not technical, and road shoes should be sufficient to handle the terrain change. However, expect congestion if you’re a middle-of-the-pack runner.
  • Book yourself into a hot spring hotel and enjoy a post-run soak. Wulai is about an hour’s drive from Taipei City and New Taipei City centers, so getting there the day before is recommended. It’s also worth spending a few days exploring the area’s many trails.
  • The event does offer early-morning shuttle buses. So remember to select the option when signing up.

Taipei City and Taiwan as a whole offer many great races every weekend. Here’s a complete race calendar if you’re keen to join a race during your visit.

 

For more information and tips on running in Taipei City and New Taipei City, check out these articles:

Taipei Running Weather Explained

The 4 Best Organized Marathons in Taipei

The Best Running Stores in Taipei

The Best Running Tracks in Taipei