Kyoto Marathon Runner’s Guide

The Kyoto Marathon is fast approaching. To help runners make the most of their time in Kyoto, we have prepared a brief guide of where to go for a shakeout run, fuel, and purchase any last-minute items or forgotten running goods.

I. Where to run:
1. Kamogawa Riverside: With wide paths just over 30km long, the banks of Kyoto’s Kamogawa River are the most popular place to run in Kyoto. While many people prefer to run in the morning, sunset runs are also spectacular. The path runs north to south and is on the east side of town. For those staying near Kyoto Station or in the Shijo Karasuma areas, we recommend heading north towards Demachiyanagi Station, where there is a fork in the river. A short walk from here is Shimogamo Shrine. As one of the 17 UNESCO world heritage sites in Kyoto, Shimogamo Shrine can serve as either a shade-covered post-run resting place or a quick sightseeing break. In addition to seeing historic sites, ducks, and egrets, running along the Kamogawa also provides a chance for people watching. Part of the marathon course is along the Kamogawa, a shakeout run from Kitaoji heading south to Jingu Marutamachi will provide a bit of a course preview.

2. Nijo Castle: Another local favorite, the perimeter of Nijo Castle is nearly 2 km and runners can be found running around the course throughout the day. Nijo Castle’s East Gate and Southern Tower are illuminated at night, adding to the atmosphere of running around a world heritage site.

3. Imperial Palace: The grounds of the Imperial Palace contain multiple paths around historic sites connected with Kyoto’s past as the capital of Japan. While the marathon passes by the palace, a shakeout run here will provide an unforgettable experience and a chance to engage in some sight running.

II. Food:
Kyoto is a foodie paradise. From traditional Kaiseki meals, street food, sushi, noodles (ramen, soba, udon), or vegetarian meals covering everything from Buddhist temple meals to contemporary offerings, Kyoto has something to please even the pickiest of eaters. A couple of my favorite places in Kyoto are below:

1. The lunch plates at Vegout, a vegan cafe, are a favorite of vegetarians and carnivores. A meal at one of the many restaurants overlooking the Kamogawa is often an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.

2. If you are craving sushi, Sushisei is the place to go. Established in the Tsukiji area of Tokyo, Shushisei has two long running branches in Kyoto: opposite the Daimaru store on Takakura-dori Street, the other is on the 11th floor of the Iseten Department store connected to Kyoto Station.

3. A Buddhist Temple meal (Shojin ryori), should be on the to-do list of all visitors to Kyoto. I’ve never had a bad meal at any of Kyoto’s restaurants specializing in Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. Ajiro Honten is one of the only restaurants specializing in this type of meal that offers dinner, so it gets the nod here.

III. Running Specialty Stores
Stride Lab Osaka:  If you need more gels, realize you have forgotten something, or the airline lost your baggage, Stride Lab Osaka has what you need.
Take the Keihan Main Line (京阪本線) to Kitahama Station (北浜駅) and then walk about 700 meters to the store. Japan Rail (JR) and Hankyu trains can also get you near the shop, though it will involve a transfer to a different line or walking a bit more.