Japan has always been a land of runners. Running culture is strong, and there are special facilities for runners, a plethora of running communities and some of the world’s most iconic races. This includes one of the largest marathons worldwide, the Tokyo Marathon, while the Hakone Ekiden relay race is one of the most popular races nationally broadcast on television. That said, are you looking for the best running routes in Tokyo?
Here are ten routes for runners of all levels who want a good run across Tokyo. They vary in length but are all easily accessible.
1. Asakusa Jogging Route
This route takes you from Sumida Park, where you’ll have the best view of SkyTree, before going down the pavement to a pathway right next to Sumida River, where you’ll see boat cruises and about to set out. Spot the shimmering gold Asahi Beer headquarters before going up the stairs at Komagata Bridge, where you can also head to the iconic Sensoji Temple for a quick look. The trail is wide and flat, making it easy to run. Dogs are also welcome on this route. However, be careful on warm days as much of the route is on concrete, which can be hot for our little animal friends.
2. Meiji Jingu Gaien Jogging Route
The Meiji Jingu Gaien route totals around 1 km. Lined with beautiful gingko trees, easy access and a flat path, it is a popular running route despite its short distance. There are no traffic lights, and few cars are around, making it an easy run. Run around this area, especially during Autumn, to admire the golden colors of the gingko, or head towards the National Stadium designed by architect Kengo Kuma to admire the dedications of past and recent Olympics. Dogs are welcome on this route. Don’t confuse this with Meiji Jingu, as the shrine prohibits running on shrine grounds.
3. Meguro River Jogging Route
For those seeking a leisurely city run, the Meguro River route is perfect for a quiet run. This tree-lined path stretching from Nakameguro station towards Meguro station has tons to see and do along the way, including cafes, bars, and art galleries, and it is lined with cherry blossoms the entire length of the run in the Spring, making it especially lovely. This path is popular with walkers, cyclists and the occasional car, so soundproof earphones are perhaps not the best option.
4. Tama River Jogging Route
Tama River is a little further out of the city center towards the west. Enjoy the view of fall colors in the Autumn and cherry blossoms in the Spring while running along the Tama River. The route is a mix of pavement and gravel and is one of Tokyo’s best and most beautiful distance-running routes. Look out for cyclists and double-check the signs on the ground to not venture onto the cycling lane. Start from Futakotamagawa Station and end at Tamagawa Station.
5. Odaiba Running Route
Choose from two marker courses that loop around Odaiba. You’ll spot the popular Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo’s mini Statue of Liberty. Opt for some light shopping when running by malls along the way, such as Aqua City and Venus Fort. Perfect for those wanting to explore Odaiba off the beaten path.
6. Yoyogi Park
In the book The Way of the Runner, Adharanand Finn writes about elite Kenyan runners training in Yoyogi Park. Yoyogi Park is beloved by runners for its soft dirt path and slight incline terrain. With paved routes of varying lengths on the park map, choose from your preferred route, including routes with more elevation. Popular with the weekend crowd, opt for weekdays to avoid picnickers and crowds on the weekends.
7. Komazawa Olympic Park
Located in the Meguro ward in a residential neighborhood, Komazawa Olympic Park offers runners a paved path with little elevation and color-coded markers for runners to keep track of distances. The path is shared with cyclists, so do not stray into the cycling lane when running in this beautifully green park.
8. Kasai Rinkai Park
Kasai Rinkai Park in Edogawa ward is built on man-made reclaimed lands and overlooks Disneyland across the sea. It includes a bird sanctuary, aquarium, ferris wheel and waterfront views. With a barbecue site also available, it’s a great park for a social run with friends and activities to check out after. This route is slightly elevated and recommended for runners looking for something that isn’t too strenuous.
9. Showa Kinen Park
This loop trail on the outskirts of Tokyo is a moderately challenging route recommended for runners and walkers. Run around the park and admire its beautiful seasonal flowers and plants. Enjoy the golden ginkgo trees in Autumn and cherry blossoms in the Spring. Choose from three different routes, or be ambitious and run the most photogenic spots of the park. The park has multiple bathrooms around the park, which makes for a convenient run.
10. Koganei Park
Koganei Park has a strong running community with a local running club based out of the park. Check out the club’s recommendations for running courses catered to runners of all levels. Opt for other sports facilities at the park along with your run, including archery, tennis and a playground for children. It’s a park where you can spend a whole day enjoying yourself while making new running friends.
Bonus: Tokyo Imperial Palace
One of the busiest and most crowded running routes in Tokyo is the Imperial Palace loop. One lap is about five kilometers with views of the Imperial Palace moat that boasts of cherry blossom trees, making it extra scenic come spring time. There’s a slight uphill climb that poses a good enough challenge for beginner runners and the downhill towards Sakuradamon Gate is especially fun. Be warned that this route is extra crowded on weekends and national holidays.
Are there any other places you would love to recommend for running routes in Tokyo? Let us know in the comments!
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I’ve ran half the courses mentioned above.
Showa Kinen Park in Tachikawa is good for running but it requires an entry fee.
Tama River is great whether someone runs towards Haneda Airport or towards Chofu (or beyond) but be warned that there are some aggressive cyclist too.
Yoyogi Park is ok but I would avoid weekends after 10am. Gets crowded quickly.
Komazawa Olympic Park is the worse unless runners go before 9am.
Asakusa (or Sumida River) running route is best at night. Especially during the summer season.
Odaiba is cool if runners plan to run on the bridge and test their city marathoning legs.
Chehui Peh, I’m surprised you didn’t mention Imperial Palace. Many running groups meet there and probably the most famous city course to run around. I recommend early morning running but night time is ok too. Has nice ups and downs with long flats. Perfect to test speed, endurance, and stamina. Walking is also fine to take in the beautiful day time views of the Palace environment.