3 Spots for a Morning Run in Tokyo

· running,Imperial Palace,Yoyogi Park,Arakawa River,active

What better way to beat the jetlag than to get up early for a run on your first morning in Tokyo? Below are 3 great places for a run, depending on where in the city you're staying.

Yoyogi Park

Easily accessible from Shinjuku and Shibuya, Yoyogi Park is just south of the Meiji Jingu complex. There are a series of paved and dirt paths meandering around the park, making it ideal for an easy jog, or more intensive fartlek training. There are a number of public toilets around the park.

Yoyogi Park Map

Arakawa River

For those looking for a longer run, the paved trail following the Arakawa River on the east side of Tokyo is a popular option. This can be made into an out-and-back run, but with a number of subway and train lines crossing the river, this can be easily done as a one-way run of up to 35km. There are kilometer markers, and occasional public toilets at the sports parks that dot the riverside.

Arakawa River Map

Imperial Palace

Always a fan favorite, this 5km running route circles the Imperial Palace in the center of Tokyo. As this is a popular route, runners are encouraged to run in a counter-clockwise direction, and early morning is best for beating the tourist crouds. Toilets and drinking fountains are frequent along the route.

Imperial Palace Map