One thing I noticed since I started running is how beautiful the winter sky is. I used to hate the cold and gloomy winter weather, but running changed my perspective. Back then when I was in elementary and junior high school, I always wondered why the marathon competitions were held on cold winter days. I understand it now. The body shrinks in the cold, but running makes our cold body warm from the inside and boosts blood flow.
That’s why I’d like to introduce my go-to running place, Yoyogi Park, which is one of the most popular places for going for a walk and run in Tokyo, even for travelers and beginners. It’s easy to access and has almost flat roads.
Yoyogi Park is the Tokyo Metropolitan Park and is located within a 10 minute walk from JR Harajuku Station, Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingu-mae Station and Odakyu Line Yoyogi-hachiman Station, which is the hustle and bustle area in Tokyo, and is surrounded by rich nature in season. Not only runners but also the dog lovers, families who want to ride bicycles, and foreign people from around the world feel like dropping by here because of the beautiful nature and avoiding the crowds. They must be nature lovers.
In terms of seasonal trees, you can appreciate the plum and cherry blossom in spring and the garden flowers and stunning green leaves in summer, the ginkgo trees and the leaves are at their peak in fall. In winter, you can bask in the sun under the sunlight filtering through the branches that have no leaves.
The running and walking route is 1.15 km to 2.5 km loop and has a comfortable and wide road. If you want to see, there’s a spacious dog run, and it might make you feel relaxed.
For the runners, a club house named “Runtrip BASE YOYOGIPARK” is located in the BE STAGE building which is truly close to Yoyogi Park. There are lockers, and people stow their belongings while they are running. On the day I used the locker, a running event seemed to be held, and it was overcrowded. This place is the one for community interaction for runners.
The usage fee is 1000 yen excluding towel rental. You can pay in card, QR code apps, or services and electronic money. If you can install an app “Runtrip,” you can get a discounted price of 880 yen. There are some shower booths, and they have everything you need, such as dryers, skincare products, shampoo, and conditioner. Why not use this facility after work or while you’re staying in Japan?
FYI, the concept of this building is for the people who want to branch out and try something new, such as sports, yoga, art, nature, and food. Everyone can be themselves and live in their own style. If you are interested in BE STAGE, why not check it out on Instagram? (yoyogipark_bestage) You can see some urban sports and performances there.
If you’re visiting Tokyo and looking for a place to relax, Yoyogi Park is definitely worth adding if you have a pocket of time. You can enjoy nature, watch how locals spend their time, or simply take a break from the busy city. With its easy access and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot to stop by during your trip and experience a different side of Tokyo.
Lastly, I need to tell you about the cherry blossom season. People always enjoy gathering, eating and drinking under the trees. We call it Hanami, which has stood the test of time and is still popular. I went to see cherry blossoms at Yoyogi Park at the beginning of April, and was just walking down the street in the park. Surprisingly, the park was jam packed, and it was hard to walk, let alone run. During this season, I recommend appreciating the beauty of nature instead of exercising, and you should feel the vibe and the time-honored tradition.
Thank you for reading my article to the end. I hope you see Japan’s beautiful nature firsthand.
I live in Tokyo and am working at a pre-school. I’m a nature lover and enjoy experiencing the characteristics of each season. In addition, I like taking care of plants. My strength is improving myself and being able to think in a positive way.
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