Running In Japan

Historic Kyoto is known to most people as the Japanese city of religious landmarks, with literally thousands of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.

As a runner, I think of Kyoto more for the beautiful Obata River, located in Kyoto near where our dear friends Moto and Renier live.

Like many rivers that etch their way through the heart of Japanese cities, the banks of the wide Obata River have been made pedestrian and runner friendly.

In the spring time runners tracing the path of the Obata River are greeted by blooming cherry blossoms, and in the fall they can enjoy the glorious hues of reds, yellows and greens from the same trees.

There are frequent entrances and exits from the running path, making it easy to get to the widely available public transportation for a ride home, or stop by a cafe for a morning coffee.

MUSIC: My music selection for Kyoto is the rambuncious acoustic guitar instrumental "SPLASH" by Kotoro Oshio (押尾 コータロー ). Kai Battenberg (the son of Moto and Renier), actually gave me this recording when he visited us one Christmas.

Kai thought I would like it, and he was right! Kotoro is clearly influenced by one of my favorite guitar players, the great Michael Hedges. But I also think this "woodsy" instrumental tune is the perfect backdrop for a run along the rivers of Kyoto.