Running in Tokyo: My 5km at the Imperial Palace (and Chatting in Japanese!) 

I packed my running shoes with the best intentions, but when it came time to join a group of strangers on the other side of the world, my notorious shyness almost got the better of me. Almost.

We were in Tokyo, right in the middle of an incredible vacation, and I found out the Tokyo Run Club was organizing a 5km run around the Imperial Palace. It’s a massive classic, an absolute must-do for any runner visiting the city. There was just one tiny problem: the thought of showing up alone, surrounded by new people, completely paralyzed me.

My mind was already crafting the perfect excuses to skip the workout and head straight for the nearest udon stand. Luckily, my husband deployed his infinite patience. With his usual pragmatism, he encouraged me, reminding me that running there would be unforgettable and that, worst case scenario, I’d just do my own solo lap. I couldn't argue with that logic.

So, with a pounding heart, I laced up my shoes and took the leap. It ended up being the best decision of the whole trip. The atmosphere was incredibly welcoming, full of smiles, and not at all competitive. The route around the Imperial Palace is magical: immense gardens, moats reflecting the sky, and the vibrant energy of a metropolis breathing right alongside you.

But the real turning point was something else: speaking a little bit of Japanese, I gathered my courage and started making conversation. Breaking the ice in their language changed everything. We chatted about the route, swapped race tips, and the initial awkwardness melted away with every stride. Not only did I enjoy that pure well-being that running gives you, but I also met fantastic people I’m still in touch with today. Running is great for the body, but sometimes it works miracles in getting us out of our shell.

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