Zhaotong Golden Apple Sweet Run 2026 (2026昭通金苹果甜蜜跑)

Set against the backdrop of picturesque Zhaotong, Yunnan Province, the 2026 Golden Apple Sweet Run promises to be an unforgettable experience for runners and visitors alike. Scheduled for October 5th, this vibrant race is set to welcome up to 6,000 participants at the Zhaotong Central Stadium.
The event features three distinct categories:
- The Apple Legend Race, a challenging 20-kilometer course that winds through scenic landscapes and urban landmarks.
- The Sweet Joy Run offers runners approximately 10 kilometers of joyful running along picturesque routes, perfect for those looking to enjoy the beauty without pushing their limits too far.
- The Beyond Health Run, designed for families and casual joggers with a shorter route around 5 kilometers that does not include official timing.
Registration opens on September 1st at 8:00 AM and closes on September 20th at 6:00 PM, or when capacity is reached.
The starting point of both the Apple Legend Race and Sweet Joy Run will be the Zhaotong Central Stadium, while participants in the Beyond Health Run will finish near the intersection of Rudian Road and Fengling Road.
This event marks a significant return for runners since its inception two years ago, continuing to celebrate the unique blend of culture and nature that defines Zhaotong. As autumn sets in early October, the city offers a serene environment with crisp air and an abundance of apple orchards along the route, enhancing the sensory experience for participants.
The race course starts at the bustling heart of modern Zhaotong, showcasing its rapid urban development through vibrant architecture before transitioning into natural beauty as it passes by lush greenery. Runners will encounter various turns named after iconic landmarks such as "Big Apple," where they'll find themselves running alongside scenic trails and orchards.
Beyond just a race day experience, the Golden Apple Sweet Run aims to provide runners with an immersive journey through Zhaotong's rich cultural heritage and natural splendor. This year’s event includes联动昭通文旅A级以上景区（国庆期间免票政策及消费优惠）优惠福利措施，联动昭通市旅居地产推出购房现金优惠福利措施，联动昭通市部分美食、住宿、金苹果甜蜜音乐节推出各类补贴优惠措施, which translates to numerous discounts and benefits at top-tier scenic spots in Zhaotong during the National Day holiday period. Additionally, there are special offers on real estate purchases within the city, as well as discounts on dining, accommodation, and entertainment options throughout the race weekend.
The festival also includes a series of cultural events such as the Sports Tourism Consumption Carnival and Sichuan-Yunnan-Guizhou Food Festival, featuring local cuisine and unique products that highlight Zhaotong's distinctive charm. These activities are designed to provide runners with an extended period of enjoyment beyond just completing their race.
Join us in October for a run through one of China’s most enchanting cities where every step is filled with the sweet scent of apples and memories made under blue skies.