Before my trip to Japan, family and friends kept telling me that I would lose weight because of how healthy the food is over here ?. I should have known better than to listen to people who have never been to Japan… The food here is not only accessible and convenient, it is ridiculously delicious. Fried foods such as tempura?, katsu-don, and croquettes can be found in every convenience store, along with a wide variety of perfectly fried juicy chicken right next to the register… Not only is it hard to lose weight, you may even see yourself gaining a few pounds if you aren’t careful! What saved me was the walking. Everyone walks everywhere in Japan, and it makes a big difference. Since coming here I have realized that on average I walk about 3-5 miles a day, with the weekends averaging about 7-10 miles depending on where I chose to explore. Pair careful eating with the right kind of exercise and you will get in shape in no time!
Walk Japan??♀️
This organization focuses on providing 5-11 day walking tours around the historical parts of Japan. They offer tours at any season from guided custom tours to self guided tours. Featured in Forbes, The Telegraph, CNN Travel, and more, this is perfect for those who love to exploring and learn about the rich and deep culture that Japan has to offer.
Mac's Adventure??♂️
Alternatively, you can choose a walking tour from here as well. They offer tours of the most popular trails with a detailed description of the itinerary and activity level. This company focuses on providing self guided walking and bike tours all over the world, and is perfect for those who like an individual experience.
Exercise in Japan can be fun, enjoyable, and a place for you to meet new friends. Although anyone can opt to go to the gym for a quick workout, it’s nothing like attending a yoga session or going for a brisk hike on Mt. Takao surrounded by Japan’s beautiful nature. Here you can find my experience journeying up to the top of the mountain!
Sun and Moon Yoga??♂️
This studio is located in Shinagawa and is perfect for those who just feel like a spontaneous work out. Drop in any time and their bilingual staff will help you find the perfect class, from beginner to advanced. Classes run all week, usually from 10:30AM to 8:30PM.
YogaJaya??♀️
Located in Ebisu, YogaJaya is one of the biggest yoga studios in Tokyo, with an easily accessible website providing detailed information on the classes that they offer. Their bilingual staff will encourage you to challenge yourself and grow. Register to attend their classes, events, and workshops and learn more about what they are doing in the yoga community here in Tokyo.
Mt. Takao⛰
If you live in Tokyo, then the best hiking place near you would be this famous mountain packed with history. This 599 meter tall mountain is very popular among locals and tourists alike, attracting 2.5 million visitors every year. This mountain has 8 routes for you to choose from, and is a relatively easy hike that can be enjoyed with the whole family. Below the mountain is a street filled with local goods and sweet treats such as dango and ice cream. Near the top of the mountain is a popular beer garden, which serves foot long sausages and delicious small eats. There is much to be explored here, so pack some water and invite your friends for a fun filled workout!
Going for a day trip to an amusement park can burn off so many calories while still having fun. For an easy early morning warm-up you can head to the park to do some radio exercises with elderly people. It is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Another way to stay in shape while being productive is by cycling. There are cycle tours readily available, where a tour guide takes you around the city. Those who prefer traveling by wheels can buy a bike in one of the many bike shops available in Japan.
Tokyo Great cycling tour??♂️
TGCT offers a wide variety of tours and is considered to be the main cycle tour company for tourists in Tokyo. They have an easy to navigate website and architecture and evening tours. It is the perfect weekend activity to book with your friends. Check the sitefor their availability calendar and start your cycling adventure now!
Samurai sports⚔️
This company is dedicated to cultivating a healthy and active lifestyle for foreigners and locals alike in Japan. They have 4 categories, from running, swimming, cycling, and triathlon. All of their events and tours will be in english so there is no excuse not to work out! The have a lot of races and marathons for the runners to participate in, which is an amazing way to meet new friends during your stay.
Competitive runners can rejoice as Japan has a pretty challenging running culture. The Hakone Ekiden is a two day race that is filmed on Nippon T.V.during the New Years, so tune in to support them! It is so popular that there is an anime dedicated to this race. Run With the Windtopped the charts when it aired in Oct 2018, and it focuses on a young group of college kids who banded together to fulfill their dream of running in the Hakone Ekiden.
No matter what you fancy, whether it is lifting weights at the gym, doing some peaceful yoga, or hiking up one of Japan’s many mountains, there is a place and activity for everyone, you need only look?!
Check this collection here for more information on where you can get your sweat on!
