Running In Japan

If you want a short run in Tokyo, you can not do better than running around the historic Imperial Palace. At almost exactly 5 kilometers, you can take it easy, or try to race with some of the younger runners who show up in the mornings. While much of the course is flat, the backside of the run features a pretty steep hill to really test yourself.

If you want something a little longer, how about 42.2 kilometers, or 26.2 miles? Of course, I am talking about the incredibly popular Tokyo marathon. With a turnout of around 35,000 runners, it is a big event.

I really loved running the Tokyo marathon in 2008, but a few tips for you: get lots of rest if you fly in for the race, there are NO mile markers (only kilometer markers), and finally, your GPS will probably NOT work correctly due to the tall buildings of Tokyo.

MUSIC: My music selection for running around Tokyo is "Ue O Muite Arukoo", as arranged and performed by Hiromi Uehara (上原ひろみ). Americans better know this song as "Sukiyaki."

Hiromi's version is a blending of old a new, much like Tokyo itself, where skyscrapers are found along side an ancient temples!