Major sporting events in Xi'an - from world-class marathons to international tournaments. Complete guide with past results and future outlook.
Annual marathon held in April. The course passes the City Wall (古城墙), Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Tang Dynasty cultural sites, and modern Xi'an. Known for passing through 3,000 years of history. IAAF certified course.
Full name: Xi'an International Marathon (西安国际马拉松)
The world's only marathon run entirely on a historic city wall - the 600-year-old Ming Dynasty fortification. The 13.7km wall loop can be run multiple times for full distance. Held in November. Extremely limited places - extremely competitive ballot.
Full name: Xi'an City Wall Marathon (城墙国际马拉松)
China League One football at Yan'an Road Stadium. The passionate fan culture at matches is one of China's most memorable football experiences. Season April to October.
Full name: Shaanxi Football Club (陕西联合足球俱乐部)
New marathon event celebrating the ancient Qin culture of Shaanxi province. Route through the historic Xianyang area and connecting to Xi'an. Growing event attracting runners interested in imperial Chinese history.
Full name: China Qinhan Marathon (秦汉马拉松)
Annual martial arts championship showcasing traditional Shaanxi wushu styles. Held at Xi'an Sports Centre. Features both traditional and modern wushu competitive categories.
Full name: Shaanxi Provincial Wushu Championship (陕西省武术套路锦标赛)
Mountain trail running event in the Qinling Mountains near Xi'an. China's most biodiverse mountain range provides dramatic scenery and challenging terrain. Attracts ultra runners from across Asia. Multiple distance options available.
Full name: Qinling Mountain Trail Marathon (秦岭越野跑)
Looking back at recent years and what to expect in 2026-2027
Xi'an City Wall Marathon 2026 was oversubscribed 30:1 in the ballot - one of China's most exclusive running events. The regular Xi'an International Marathon attracted 30,000 runners including international participants for the first time since 2019. Shaanxi FC had a strong 2024-2026 China League One season.
Xi'an Marathon 2026 will expand participation capacity at the City Wall event. The International Marathon continues to grow with increased international running tourism to Xi'an. New mountain trail events are planned for the Qinling range.
Xi'an is developing a comprehensive annual sports calendar. New cycling events are being planned for the countryside roads around Chang'an and Huxian. The City Wall Marathon is seeking World Athletics recognition as a Heritage Marathon category event.
Our licensed English-speaking Xi'an guides can help you attend major sporting events, navigate venues, and combine sports with cultural tours.
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