A Must-Do Tokyo Running Trip: 4 Beautiful Slow Running Routes in Tokyo

Taiwanese Runners’ Top Choice for Overseas Running Trips

Japan is often the top choice for Taiwanese travelers, and Tokyo, in particular, attracts tourists from all over the world. Its delicious cuisine, stunning scenic spots, and fun attractions make it a place people want to visit again and again. For runners, bringing along running shoes while traveling and hitting the pavement is one of the most enjoyable aspects of a trip. Especially when running in one of the cities that host the World Marathon Majors, it’s an even more exciting experience.

As one of the six World Marathon Majors, the Tokyo Marathon is a dream race for many runners. The results for the 2025 Tokyo Marathon were recently announced, bringing joy to some and disappointment to others. Many runners hope to use the Tokyo Marathon as an excuse to visit Japan, but even if you don’t get a spot, it's still worth planning a running trip to Tokyo in any season. I was fortunate enough to arrange a five-day trip to Tokyo, visiting four different running spots, and now I’m sharing my experiences with you!

Tokyo's convenient transportation system, with its complex subway network, makes it easy to reach various areas. Within Tokyo itself, there are many routes worth exploring on foot. Let's take a look!

1. Imperial Palace

Known as the holy site for Tokyo morning runners, the Imperial Palace is a well-known training route. A loop around the perimeter is about 5.3 kilometers, with bustling city views on one side and the Emperor's Castle across the moat on the other. The route is well-designed with pathways that don’t require crossing traffic lights, and there are also route signs, restrooms, and water fountains, allowing runners to enjoy a worry-free run.

2. Ueno Park

Ueno Park is the oldest public park in Japan, featuring shrines, temples, museums, and even a zoo. Many tourists stroll around or go boating here during the day. When running in Ueno Park, the main route circles around Shinobazu Pond. Although it’s a small loop, you can still enjoy the natural scenery of the park. At night, the Benten Hall in the middle of the pond is beautifully lit, creating a grand atmosphere with its temples and shrines.

3. Sumida River

The Sumida River runs between Taito and Sumida wards, with a long riverside path. The riverbank has a dedicated pedestrian path where even bicycles aren’t allowed, making it a popular spot for morning runners. During cherry blossom season, I recommend running along the right bank in Sumida Park, where you can enjoy cherry blossoms while gazing at Tokyo Skytree. Along the way, there are also many pedestrian bridges where you can take in the wide view of the river. At night, you can see the Skytree illuminated, offering breathtaking views.

4. Shinjuku Central Park

Shinjuku is not only great for shopping and sightseeing, but it also has many running spots, including Meiji Jingu Gaien and Shinjuku Gyoen. This time, I chose Shinjuku Central Park, which is closer to Shinjuku Station. A loop around the park is about 1.2 kilometers, and despite being surrounded by a commercial district, you can still feel like you’re running in a forest. The park has varying elevations, and you can weave through its trails, enjoying the urban jungle experience.

Japan offers beautiful scenery all year round, but spring cherry blossom season and autumn foliage season are the most popular times for visitors. Although there may be more crowds during these times, I still highly recommend visiting Japan for a running trip during these seasons. Even though you're in a city, you can still experience the romance of nature, which is a unique benefit of running.

Don't forget Bone's Bike + Run Tie Connect Kit 2 on your next running trip! Whether for navigation, music, or using your Suica card on the subway, Bone makes it easy to bring your phone along wherever you go. It’s perfect for both running and biking.