Commuter Rail Fun
←Tokyo Metro Mysteries
A cross between a scavenger hunt and a self-guided tour, you solve mysteries along the JR Yamanote Line, the commuter rail that runs in a circle bordering central Tokyo. Not only will you get to be a detective, but you will also learn about the city’s neighborhoods and metro. This usually runs from November to March. This was discontinued owing to the pandemic, but seems to have relaunched, but restricted to a limited number of kits per day. Buy the game kit from the Tokyo Metro pass office at Ueno station or Shinjuku station. Read more.
←Yamathon
Taking place in October or November, this is a charity challenge where teams of two to four people walk around the 30 stations of Tokyo’s JR Yamanote line, in less than 12 hours, and take pictures of their team at each one of the stations. The Yamanote line is Japan’s busiest and most important commuter rail line which circles the capital. It was revived in 2023 post-pandemic, but unsure whether it continues. Organizer site: https://tokyo-yamathon.com/.
You can also just plan your own personal yamanote-line walk, like I did. More of this.
Transportational Sports
Running
The running scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods. From imperial loops to riverside trails and mountain paths, there’s a route for every runner.
Imperial Palace Loop (5 km). A scenic 5 km loop around the moat, flanked by stone walls and skyline views. It’s popular—expect company, especially on weekends. Lockers and showers nearby make it commuter-friendly.
Yoyogi Park. Offers a mix of paved and dirt paths, ideal for intervals or a casual jog. Bonus: post-run people-watching among cosplayers and dog walkers.
Meguro River. A 3–4 km riverside path that shines during sakura season. Even off-season, it’s a tranquil route with cafes for a post-run refuel.
Komazawa Olympic Park. Originally built for the 1964 Olympics, the park offers a 2.1 km loop with dedicated lanes for runners, cyclists, and pedestrians . The park's facilities include a stadium, gymnasium, and various sports fields, making it a hub for athletic activities.
Aoyama Cemetery. One of Tokyo's largest cemeteries and is renowned for its cherry blossom-lined paths. The 26-hectare grounds offer a tranquil setting for jogging, especially during the hanami season when the blossoms are in full bloom. Can extend the run with Meiji Jingu Gaein loop (see below),
Meiji Jingu Gaien. An easy loop when you want something low-effort but scenic. A flat 1.3 km course wraps the new National Stadium, with Ginkgo Avenue stealing the show come fall—gold leaves, Tokyo glow. It’s central, accessible, and close to coffee after..
Rainbow Bridge to Odaiba (15 km). For those craving a longer run with a view. Cross the iconic bridge, loop through Odaiba’s waterfront, and soak in the skyline. Best at sunset when the city lights up.
Arakawa River Trail. A flat, uninterrupted path stretching over 50 km. Ideal for long-distance training or cycling. Less crowded, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle.
Mount Takao. A trail runner’s delight. Just an hour from central Tokyo, it offers various trails with elevation and nature. Perfect for a weekend adventure.
Cycling
Tokyo's bike rentals cater to all—from casual riders to cycling enthusiasts. With diverse routes and rental options, it's a city best explored on two wheels. I have personally never used a rental, having gone around the city with my mamachari.
Tama River Cycling Road runs 50K from near Haneda to the Chichibu foothills—flat, car-free, shifting from city to green. You’ll pass spots like Futako-Tamagawa and Komae, with cafes and vending machines spaced just right for a recharge.
Yoyogi Park: Great for beginners or casual riders. A short, kid-friendly loop (about 1.8 km) in the northwest corner is bike-only—flat, safe, and shaded.
Arakawa River Trail: Tokyo’s long-haul favorite. Over 50 km of riverside path, mostly flat, ideal for endurance rides or weekend spins. Few cars, lots of space.
Wakasu Seaside Park: Coastal route with ocean breeze. Quiet, open paths and views of Tokyo Bay, plus a campground and a giant wind turbine.
Sumida River: Urban ride with cultural sights—Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, old bridges. More stop-and-go, but great for photo breaks and people-watching.
Paddling
Tokyo Great Kayaking Tour offers guided paddles through the city's canals and rivers, providing a unique perspective of Tokyo from the water. Tours range from beginner-friendly routes to more extensive journeys. Seasonal options include cherry blossom viewing tours.
Kayaking in Okutama is, I want to say, the city’s best-kept secret, but it may just be that I didn’t know about it. Just 90 minutes from Shinjuku, Lake Shiromaru offers waters surrounded by forests—ideal for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. Guided tours provide all gear and instruction, making it a hassle-free adventure. I am not sure which tour we used since I didn’t make the booking, but I am sure they will all be nice, and some include visit the sake brewery and optional onsen visit.
Hiking
Tokyo’s got trails if you know where to look. I don’t really do it, so… Mount Takao is the go-to—an hour from Shinjuku, with views, temples, and soba at the top. For quieter climbs, head to Okutama or Mitake for forest hikes and river paths. Close enough for a day trip, far enough to feel like a reset. Hikes in Chichibu’s range from misty shrine trails to rugged mountain climbs, offering Tokyo day-trippers a hit of nature, history, and altitude without the crowds.
Climbing Fuji
To be clear, I haven’t done it. Including something here because this is a FAQ. You should plan a climb months in advance, figure out the right time to go. To prep for climbing Fuji, train your legs and lungs—it's a long, steep walk, not a technical climb, but the altitude can hit hard. Get the right gear. Book a mountain hut if you're overnighting. There are guides that will help you with all of this.
Infrastructure Tours
Infrastructure tourism in Japan offers visitors the chance to explore operational facilities like dams, bridges, harbors, and historical sites. This form of tourism provides dynamic views of massive structures and unique experiences, such as accessing normally restricted areas and witnessing limited-time construction scenes. Guided tours and exhibits educate visitors on the roles and historical contexts of these infrastructures. Additionally, partnerships with local communities enhance the experience by integrating nearby tourism resources.
Team Labs, Interactive Stuff, VR, Games
If you haven’t ever done Team Labs definitely worth a visit: immersive digital art installations that blend art, science, technology, and the natural world. In Tokyo, teamLab operates two prominent museums: teamLab Borderless and teamLab Planets. You will need to book in advance
Can’t even pretend I have any interest in VR or the mind energy that appears to power Akihabara. Best bet is to wander around that area, or at SkyTree, or Odaiba or Shibuya. I don’t know. Here are some highlights that seem interesting but never tried them.
Red Tokyo Tower
Dospara VR Paradise (Akihabara). You can choose from several booths equipped with a wide range of games, from wild action to less stressful exploration games. You’ll be in your own private booth for 30 minutes and can move around freely without anyone judging you. Make a booking in advance.
Cycle Studio R (Shibuya). This seems interesting: a virtual reality workout? This fitness studio lets you experience the latest, including spinning-meets-VR extravaganza