With a mission to promote a healthy lifestyle, the Tokyo Marathon Foundation hosts a city marathon every year on the first Sunday of March.
The course symbolizes the past, present, and future of Tokyo. The 42.2 kilometer race starts at the Metropolitan Government Office in Shinjuku. It takes runners past iconic landmarks such as Tokyo Tower, Asakusa Kaminarimon Gate, and the Imperial Palace. The race ends at the outer garden of the Imperial Palace and the gateway to Tokyo Station.
With about 35,000 participants, the runners include men, women, and non-binary people over the age of 19 years old. Wheelchair users are welcomed to participate.
The Tokyo Marathon also features a 10.7 kilometer race with approximately 500 participants. The course has the same start line, but finishes at Nihonbashi near Tokyo Station. The race allows anyone over the age of 16 to participate with the added inclusion of visually and mentally impaired athletes.
The online application period begins the preceding summer. The participants are determined by a lottery system and the results are announced by autumn.
With thousands of spectators and about 10,000 volunteers, the large-scale city marathon culminates to a day filled with festivities. Whether as a spectator or a participant, the Tokyo Marathon brings the opportunity to be a part of change through the joy of running.
For those interested in the latest gear and apparel of all aspects in running lifestyles, consider visiting the Tokyo Marathon Expo.
Tiffany Aguilar @u11747
Deep love for experiencing the miracles in the mundane, connecting with kind locals, and daydreaming the next adventure.
