Running the Tokyo Marathon: How does it feel?

Of all the Abbott World Marathon Majors, the Tokyo Marathon is arguably the most eye-catching. As it is the latest addition to the marathon series, its demand far outweighs its availability. In addition to this, its location in the Eastern Pacific makes it one of the most attractive and engaging events in the world.

That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate guide to the Tokyo Marathon. In this article, we will put your mind at ease and provide you with everything worth knowing about the Tokyo Marathon. We’ll take a look back at the event’s history, track and crowds, and give you a closer look at what to expect on race day.

What’s so special about the Tokyo Marathon?

Most runners who are lucky enough to run the Tokyo Marathon will say that it is one of the most special marathons they have ever participated in. This is because it is very different from any marathon in Europe or the United States.

You may be wondering how a marathon is different from other marathons. But there really is no marathon like the Tokyo Marathon. So, what makes it so different?

Tokyo Marathon History

The first official Tokyo Marathon was held on February 18, 2007. Japanese runner Niiya Hitomi won the first women’s race and Kenyan runner Daniel Njenga won the men’s race. Although the official race date of the Tokyo Marathon is on this day, the history of the Japanese capital marathon began earlier.

Prior to the first Tokyo Marathon, the city had hosted two marathons, which were held alternately. The first marathon is the Tokyo International Marathon held in even years, followed by the Tokyo-New York Friendship Marathon held in odd years.

However, the official Tokyo Marathon has really helped the city solidify itself as a major marathon hotspot. Since its inception in 2007, the event has grown rapidly and was included in the Abbott World Marathon Majors Series in 2012.

Incredible Tokyo Marathon Route

Copyright: Tokyo Marathon Foundation

Another indescribably special aspect of the Tokyo Marathon is of course the course. Where else in the world can you complete a marathon where at one point you pass giant futuristic skyscrapers, and at other points along the route you pass stunning temples and beautiful parks?

From a runner’s perspective, the course is mostly flat, with just a few inclines around the beautiful bridges you’ll cross. It also works across much of the course and is very broad, meaning you never feel cramped or restricted. This makes it a relatively quick course and therefore a great activity for PB.

Throughout the course, you will have the opportunity to see some of Tokyo’s most famous and stunning sights. You’ll travel through the incredible Shinjuku district, where you’ll pass the iconic Tokyo Dome before heading to Ueno Hirokoji to visit one of the city’s most famous parks.

Next, you’ll head to Kanda and embark on a journey back in time. Kanda is a stunning neighborhood filled with charming traditional Japanese architecture. Then, before you know it, you’re at the halfway point between the two countries, a town famous for sumo wrestling.

The second half of the Tokyo Marathon will pass through the areas of Monzennakacho, Ginza and Hibiya before crossing the iconic Tokyo Station finish line, where the buildings and greenery are more modern.

Unique crowd experience

When you typically think of marathon crowds in the United States and Europe, you picture streets lined with hundreds of thousands of screaming and excited spectators. The Tokyo Marathon is slightly different, though.

Japan as a country is a very peaceful and very respectful place. People usually don’t scream or cheer because it’s not in keeping with their culture. So you shouldn’t expect this on race day. While the crowd isn’t as rowdy as you might imagine, there are still thousands of spectators waving, jumping, and clapping to support your goal of completing the race.

What should you pay attention to when participating in the Tokyo Marathon?

There are many more logistical challenges to consider when running the Tokyo Marathon than running a marathon in the United States or Europe. This is because the country is very different.

This includes time zones, food, culture and the overall game day experience. Here we list the main factors to consider when planning to run the Tokyo Marathon.

time zone difference

One of the main factors you have to consider when running the Tokyo Marathon is the time difference. The time difference from Tokyo to the US and Europe is huge, so it can have a huge impact on your energy levels and how you feel on race day.

The time difference from Tokyo to the UK is huge, a full 8 hours ahead of the Japanese capital. However, Tokyo can be 14 to 19 hours ahead of some US states such as Hawaii. These timing differences can have a significant impact on runners.

Since runners can experience severe jet lag, we recommend arriving approximately three to four days before the race. This will help your body adjust better and allow you to feel 100% on race day.

food differences

Tokyo is one of the most amazing cities in the world when it comes to food. With sushi, tempura, ramen, miso soup and many other incredible dishes on every corner, be sure to sample the local cuisine when visiting Tokyo. However, we recommend that you keep things as basic as possible until race day.

This is mostly because we’ve heard so many cautionary tales of people trying all the local food in the days leading up to a race, only to get sick before the race. So if you don’t want to risk your marathon experience, stick to foods you’re familiar with and eat simple, nutritious meals whenever possible.

What happens on game day?

Copyright: Tokyo Marathon Foundation

By race day, you’ve probably already acclimated, so the last thing you want to do is get to the start line and run. Here’s how to spend game day.

Arrive at the starting line

There are two things you need to pay attention to on the morning of the race. These are the nutrients for your morning and your journey to the starting line. The starting line of the Tokyo Marathon is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (2-chōme-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan).

The best way to get to the start line is on foot or by public transport. Race organizers strive to make reaching the start line as easy and convenient as possible, which is located near numerous train and metro stations. The closest stations to the departure line are Shinjuku Station and Nishi-Shinjuku Station.

All entrants will receive a travel pass in their race pack, allowing them to travel on public transport free of charge on race day. If you are concerned about getting to the start line, speak to an event staff member at Event Expo and they will be happy to help you determine the best race day route.

put down the luggage

At the start line entrance, you can choose from a number of different ways to store your luggage. It’s important to note that the different options usually cost around $10 (£8), so make sure you have enough cash to cover the cost. The brochure given to you at Runner’s Expo will specify where you should collect your luggage after the race.

During the marathon

Once you successfully reach the starting line, all that’s left to do is run. When racing, there are many different parts of the track to pay attention to. These are home to first aid stations, toilet stations and first aid stations.

rescue station

Copyright: Tokyo Marathon Foundation

There are 15 different aid stations along the route. Each different station offers runners different food and drink options to maintain hydration and energy levels. There is an aid station every 2-3k, so you don’t have to worry about missing one.

medical station

During the race, there are 17 different medical stations at various locations along the route. So if you need medical care for any reason, there are hundreds of trained medical personnel and first responders ready to help.

In addition, there are 6 medical stations in the city to provide services to runners who may need medical care after the race. So no matter what happens, there are hundreds of health care workers across the city to support you.

toilet station

There will be numerous marked restroom stops throughout the run. So if you need a toilet urgently, there are a number of toilet stations throughout the course. While queues may occur at certain points during the course, the activity requires that you use designated toilet facilities on the course.

after marathon

Once you cross the finish line you will be greeted by a friendly member of staff who will give you a finisher towel, a foil blanket and of course your well earned medal. Once you receive your medal, you will be escorted along with all other runners to an area where you can claim all your dropped gear.

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