Located a 10-minute walk from The Gate Hotel Tokyo is the Imperial Palace, a recent mecca for runners. The scenery varies depending on the season, but there is never a bad time to visit. Start your day with a run around the Imperial Palace first thing in the morning when you come to Tokyo for sightseeing.
In this article, we will introduce the Imperial Palace Run, including etiquette and recommended runner’s stations.
Start of the Imperial Palace Run
Leave the hotel and walk along Harumi-dori Avenue in the direction of Hibiya. You will soon see the Imperial Palace and start running. It is said that the circumference of the Imperial Palace is about 5 km. If you run from the hotel, the distance will be about 6.6 km. You can see various views from different places and enjoy the city of Tokyo while running. Run early in the morning to get a good start to the day, or run in the evening and watch the sky change color as the sun sets.
The area is lined with skyscrapers and offers a view unique to the center of Tokyo.
The historical Sakuradamon gate is also a must-see. As you proceed inside, you will see a large expanse of land, which many runners use as their starting point.
The abundant greenery surrounding the Imperial Palace makes for an even more pleasant running experience, allowing you to enjoy nature even though you are in the city.
Points and manners to keep in mind when running at the Imperial Palace
- Pedestrians have priority. As a rule, run on the left side of the road.
Some sidewalks are narrower than others. If you are running with more than one other runner, form a single file and run with consideration for pedestrians.
- Run counterclockwise.
It seems to be the norm to run counterclockwise around the Imperial Palace.
- Take your garbage home with you.
This is a standard rule in Japan, and everyone should be aware of it to keep the environment clean.
Running Map
Running maps are distributed to guests staying at The Gate Hotel Tokyo.
Please take it with you for reference on your travel runs.
Recommended Runners’ Stations
Raffine Running Style Neo is a runner’s station that is a 4-minute walk from the hotel.
This run station also rents towels and running clothes, so even if you come empty-handed, you will be ready to run as soon as you arrive here.
Lockers, shower rooms, and make-up rooms are also available, so those who have plans after their run can relax and get ready here.
SHOP DATA
Raffine Running Style Neo
| Address | Tokyo Midtown Hibiya MB1F, 1-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0006 |
| TEL | 03-6205-4858 |
| Business hours | Weekdays 7:00-22:00 (last appointment 21:00) Weekends and holidays 7:00-20:00 (last appointment 19:00) |
| Regular holiday | No holidays |
*Please contact the store directly for the latest information on business hours and holidays.
