Returning to the ancient capital on 19/4, VnExpress Marathon Hue 2026 focuses on developing the half marathon and shorter distances, ensuring the entire race route remains within Hue's distinctive cultural and architectural zones. This approach means the event not only presents a sporting challenge but also offers the experience of "striding into the imperial city" at the heart of the former capital.

Runners at VnExpress Marathon Hue 2025 starting near Phu Van Lau at dawn. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*

The central hub of the event begins at the Nghinh Luong Dinh - Phu Van Lau complex, an image associated with the race for many seasons and featured on this year's medals. This location also hosts the expo and serves as both the start and finish area for the race.

Nghinh Luong Dinh is situated on the banks of the Perfume River, where Nguyen kings once rested, enjoyed the breeze, and admired the scenery. Directly opposite stands Phu Van Lau, a structure that once displayed royal edicts from the imperial court. Hosting the race within this complex, rich in historical significance, helps create a unique character for VnExpress Marathon Hue, as the spirit of the ancient imperial city emerges from the landscape, architecture, and cultural depth of the starting location itself.

Runners at VnExpress Marathon Hue 2026 striding through the Imperial City. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*

From the banks of the Perfume River, runners will embark on a journey through the ancient imperial city, passing time-worn city gates, moss-covered walls, and the tranquil moat surrounding the Imperial City. This heritage route is lined with two rows of shady trees, offering open roads and cool breezes along the river, providing a much more pleasant experience than typical urban races.

“We want runners coming to Hue not just to participate in a race, but also to feel the distinct ancient and serene atmosphere of the former capital through each route and city gate along the race course”, a representative of the organizing committee stated.

Beyond the heritage area around the Imperial City, this year's race route is also expected to pass many iconic Hue structures, including Truong Tien bridge, Quoc Hoc high school, and Hue train station. This ensures the race journey is not only rich in local identity but also enhanced with historical and cultural depth.

The royal-inspired race kit for VnExpress Marathon Hue 2026. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*

Notably, the emotional highlight of the race lies in the final kilometers. Along the tree-lined route bordering the Imperial City, athletes have the opportunity to witness the sunrise over the Perfume River. The early morning sun illuminates the riverside area, highlighting the national flag on Ky Dai, creating a magnificent and proud scene for the finish stretch.

After crossing the finish line, the runners' experience continues through the race kit. The 21km finisher shirt is inspired by traditional art, complemented by medals shaped like a *khanh* (a traditional Vietnamese chime), creating a reward deeply rooted in the cultural identity of the ancient capital. Through meticulous design details, runners can fully appreciate the heritage spirit that VnExpress Marathon Hue 2026 aims to convey.

Hai Long

The race is currently selling tickets for the Regular phase, with fees of 640,000 dong for 5km, 800,000 dong for 10km, and 990,000 dong for 21km. Runners registering in groups will receive additional discounts from 5% to 25% depending on group size. Interested runners can register here.