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Run Local,
Explore Deeper

Find a Running Buddy in Japan

Running Destination

Find a Running Buddy in Japan

1Hokkaido

Running in Hokkaido gives you a totally different side of Japan: big skies, wide streets, crisp air, and a relaxed northern vibe that’s perfect for putting in the miles.
In Sapporo, you can literally follow in the footsteps of elite athletes—this is the stage of the Hokkaido Marathon and the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Marathon (held in 2021). Parts of those courses run through the leafy campus of Hokkaido University, a beloved local running route where students, office workers, and club runners all share the same tree-lined paths. It’s an easy, safe, and scenic loop that feels like a green oasis in the middle of the city.
In Hakodate, the city is a playground for runners. Long, flat stretches along the bayfront are ideal for steady runs with the sea always beside you, while early-morning loops past the red-brick warehouses and morning market add a local flavor to your workout. If you want a challenge, the climbs around Motomachi and toward Mt. Hakodate make for perfect hill sessions, rewarded with stunning views over the city and bay.

Top Running Tour Cities

Explore the best cities to run.

Tokyo
Kyoto
Osaka
Yokohama
Hiroshima
Wakkanai
Sendai
Aomori
Fukushima
Sapporo

Premium Tour

Experience our exclusive running tours.

  • Fukuoka
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42,195km(Full marathon)
  • running hub japan
    Nagano
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)
  • Nara
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)
  • Fukuoka
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)
  • Nagoya
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)
  • Naha
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)
  • Kobe
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)
  • Fukuoka
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42,195km(Full marathon)
  • running hub japan
    Nagano
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)
  • Nara
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)
  • Fukuoka
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)
  • Nagoya
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)
  • Naha
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)
  • Kobe
    500,000 ¥
      Premium
      Private Run
      42.195km (Full marathon)

Popular Guides

Meet our top running guides.

  • Hidehito
    4.2/5
    (10 reviews)
    I'm a passionate marathon runner living in Tokyo. I've completed the Tokyo Marathon six times and know the Tokyo running course inside and out. I'm looking forward to running with you.
    "The guide was very friendly and enthusiastic. Great local knowledge and always helpful throughout the trip."
  • KB
    KB
    5/5
    (2 reviews)
    I'm Masamichi
    No reviews yet
  • Aaron
    5/5
    (2 reviews)
    I’m a Japanese runner with American roots. I completed a famous half marathon in Tokyo in under 100 minutes. I can guide you not only around Tokyo but also Yokohama—leave it to me!
    "Professional guide with excellent communication skills. Very attentive to guests’ needs. Highly recommended!"
  • キャン
    キャン
    4/5
    (1 reviews)
    テストアカウント
    "bbbbbbbbbbbbbb updated"
  • ユーザー
    ユーザー
    0/5
    (0 reviews)
    No reviews yet
  • hung
    hung
    0/5
    (0 reviews)
    No reviews yet
  • hbg589
    hbg589
    0/5
    (0 reviews)
    No reviews yet
  • HungBui
    0/5
    (0 reviews)
    Hello world
    No reviews yet
  • huya
    0/5
    (0 reviews)
    hello world
    No reviews yet

Why Running Japan
With Guides

FAQs

Common questions about our tours .

If you have more questions? Please contact us.

What routes do you offer—major landmarks, local neighborhoods, or both?

We design the route specifically for you. After we learn your preferences—distance, pace, interests, and the type of experience you want (sightseeing-focused or run-focused)—a local runner will plan the best route to match your goals and timing.

How far do we run, and what pace should I expect?

You’ll run the distance you booked. That said, depending on conditions on the day—such as pedestrian/traffic flow, route access, or your schedule—the total distance may end up slightly longer or shorter. There is no price change in either case.

As for pace, your guide will match your comfortable pace, so you can run at a level that feels right for you.

What’s included in the price (guide fee, photos, facility fees, etc.)?

The price includes the guide fee as well as photo and video shooting during the run.

Except for the Premium Tour, transportation to the meeting point and any personal expenses such as drinks or fuel are not included and are at your own cost.

Can I store my bag during the run?

We’re not able to store bags during the run. In most cases, the route starts and finishes at your accommodation, so we recommend leaving your belongings in your room and coming dressed to run so you can stay light and comfortable.

What happens if I feel unwell or get injured during the tour?

If you feel unwell or get injured, we will stop the tour and arrange for you to return to your accommodation by taxi or public transportation. Your local guide will help organize the best way to get back safely.

Please note that we are not able to provide compensation for injuries or related costs, so we strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance that covers running and outdoor activities.

Should I bring water and fuel, or can I buy them during the run?

It’s not strictly necessary, but we recommend bringing water and fuel if you can. In major cities like Tokyo or Osaka, it’s usually easy to buy drinks or snacks during the tour at convenience stores. In more rural or regional areas, however, shops may not be nearby, so please plan accordingly.

How far in advance do I need to book? Do you accept last-minute or same-day bookings?

You can book up to 24 hours before the tour start time, as long as there is availability. For that reason, we do not accept same-day bookings.

Cancellations are also accepted up to 24 hours before the tour start time. Please note that cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable.