What is an EKIDEN?

Ekiden is a long-distance relay race where each team passes a sash from one runner to the next at the end of each leg. The race traces its origins to the Edo period in Japan, when couriers traveled between Tokyo and Kyoto, a distance of about 290 miles, stopping at relay stations (eki) to hand off messages (den) to the next messenger.

What makes Ekiden race special is the sense of unity it fosters. While distance running is often seen as an individual sport, Ekiden transforms it into a powerful display of teamwork and collective spirit. Wearing the team sash creates a deep connection with your teammates, motivating you to give your best for the greater good of the team.

Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN

Starting at Kapiolani Park, located on eastern end of Waikiki, the 5 km course ascend Diamond Head Road and turn back at the lookout point overlooking the ocean. This course allows participants to fully experience the grandeur of Hawaii's natural beauty. 

The appeal of this race lies in its loop course, enabling all runners to support and cheer fellow participants while waiting for their turn. The Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN welcomes participants as young as 7, perfect for families and runners of all ages. 

Don’t miss out on the ‘Oli‘oli Challenge in the kids' zone, open to children 12 and under, for an extra fun race experience.

Bring the whole family and celebrate the spirit of teamwork and fun! All categories, costumes encouraged, you could even win a prize!

 

EVENT

Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN 2026

LOCATION

Honolulu, HI

ORGANIZER

JTB Hawaii Travel, LLC.

Co-ORGANIZER

JTB Corp.

SUPPORTED BY

Honolulu Festival Foundation

DATE	Sunday, March 15, 2026

TIME	8:00 AM Start

COURSE

Kapiolani Park - Waikiki Aquarium - Diamond Head Road (turnaround) - Kapiolani Park (approx. 5Km per lap x 5 laps)

 

[RACE TYPES]

EKIDEN

• Teams of 3-5 members run 5 laps (about 5 km / 3.1 miles each). Pass the team sash to the next runner. For 3~4 members, runners must run multiple laps to complete 5 laps.
• Limited to first 200 teams (max 1,000 runners).
• Must be 7 years of age or older on the day of the event (under 18 years of age must have parental consent).

 

 

5K Fun Run & Walk

• Individual participation. Limited to first 100 entry.
• One (1) lap of approx. 5 km (3.1 miles).
• Must be 7 years of age or older on the day of the event (those under 18 years of age must have parental consent).
• No timed/ranking awards.　
• This category is for participants to enjoy running/walking one lap on race day with the other EKIDEN runners. This is not a single entry to be mixed in with the EKIDEN race.

 

 

ʻOLIʻOLI Kid’s Challenge

• Individual (child) participation. Limited to first 50 entry.　Approx. 1.6 km (1 mile) 
• Must be 5 to 12 years old on the day of the event (parent consent required)
• Accompaniment (running alongside) by adult family members is permitted.
• No timed/ranking awards.
• This category will incorporate part of the EKIDEN course and branch off into its own obstacle course.