If You’re Building a Dream List of Marathons…
If you’re building a dream list of marathons to run, Tokyo has to be on it. It’s not just another race—it’s a full-blown experience.
Even though it joined the World Marathon Majors in 2013, Japan’s been obsessed with distance running for ages. And as someone who’s coached folks aiming for Tokyo, I can tell you—it hits different.
It’s like the precision of Berlin mixed with the spirit of Boston, all dressed up in neon lights and anime headbands.
A Young Major with Old-School Roots
Here’s the cool part: the current Tokyo Marathon kicked off in 2007. Compared to Boston or London, that’s pretty fresh.
But Japan? They’ve been marathon fanatics for decades. The Hakone Ekiden—basically a college relay race—gets Super Bowl-style ratings. People treat it like a national treasure.
Before 2007, Tokyo actually had two separate elite races: one for men (Tokyo International Marathon) and one for women (Tokyo Ladies Marathon). When they merged into one giant event, it wasn’t just a logistical move—it sent a message: this is for everyone now.
And runners came in droves. It jumped to over 36,000 finishers in no time. By 2013, Tokyo was crowned a World Major. These days, entering is like hitting the jackpot—hundreds of thousands apply in the lottery every year.
Japan-Style Efficiency on Race Day
If you think Berlin is well-run, Tokyo takes it up a notch. I’ve had athletes come back raving about how smooth everything is—from bib pickup to post-race snacks.
Corrals are calm, aid stations are flawless, and volunteers? Let’s just say I’ve never heard anyone complain about a Tokyo volunteer. They’re that good.
One runner told me a volunteer jogged alongside him just to make sure he got his drink safely. That kind of attention to detail? It’s peak Japan.
Oh—and don’t even think about showing up in a giant inflatable costume. There are strict guidelines to keep everyone safe. No Big Ben tower guy here—but you will see runners in samurai gear or anime outfits that somehow still allow for a decent 4:30 finish.
Cheering, the Tokyo Way
Now, don’t expect the screaming chaos of New York. Tokyo’s crowd is a bit more… composed. Think polite clapping, rhythmic chants, and yes—signs that say “Ganbatte!” (“Do your best!”).
But don’t confuse quiet for lack of passion. The support runs deep. Running in Japan is almost sacred.
Just look at Yuki Kawauchi—the “Citizen Runner” who held a full-time desk job and still won the 2018 Boston Marathon. When he races in Tokyo, the crowds lose it. He’s proof that guts, grit, and grind still matter more than sponsorships.
And if you’re struggling at kilometer 35? Expect a stranger to hand you a snack or whisper words of encouragement like you’re on a noble mission. Because to them, you are.
Sights, Scenery & Sakura (If You’re Lucky)
The course? Pure Tokyo.
You start near the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and pass the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Tower, and finish near Tokyo Station.
If you hit a warm spring, you might even catch cherry blossoms in bloom mid-race. I mean… come on. Running under pink petals with skyscrapers in the background? That’s next-level marathon magic.
The Clock Is Ticking
Now here’s the kicker—Tokyo doesn’t mess around with cut-off times. Most runners get 7 hours, and if you fall behind the pace bus, that’s it. They’ll politely ask you to step off the course.
It’s strict but respectful.
But cross that finish line, and you’re rewarded like royalty. I’ve heard they hand out high-quality towels or traditional-style wraps instead of those metallic blankets. It’s such a classy, very-Japanese touch.
Why This Race Hits You in the Feels
What really makes Tokyo stand out isn’t just the streets or the snacks or the signage. It’s how seriously the country takes the marathon.
They air it live on TV. Everyone watches. People bow to you afterward if you’re wearing your finisher medal around town.
One friend told me, “I’ve never felt so respected for just running 42 kilometers kind of slowly.”
That stuck with me.
Because running Tokyo isn’t just about time. It’s about being part of something bigger. You’re stepping into a culture that gets the grind. A place that doesn’t care how fast you ran—just that you ran with heart.
So… What About You?
- Have you ever thought about taking on Tokyo?
- What’s your dream marathon destination?
- Ever been to a race where the crowd changed everything for you?
- And if you’ve run Tokyo already—what was your favorite moment?
Let me know. And wherever you’re running next, bring that same energy.
Keep grinding.
– David