Side Quest: Marathon Spectating

Every year, some 35,000 people participate in the Tokyo Marathon. Part of the World Marathon Majors, the 2016 race winds through the Tokyo metropolitan area, starting in Shinjuku and finishing in Odaiba. Today we join the million or so people who showed up to watch the event.

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That doesn’t look like normal running attire.

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Superman?

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A clown with balloons? Sure why not.

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The Tokyo Marathon is known for runners who take a costumed approach to running.

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Some runners commit to costume running more than others.

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Spectators cheer and hold up signs of encouragement. This sign roughly translates to that’s the way!

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We drop in on the race near the Imperial Palace, which also happens to be the 10km finish line.

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Imperial guards on horseback help with crowd control.

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Quick pit stop at the toilets. No time for doors though, adds too many seconds to their times.

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Volunteers cut up bananas at the food stations.

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Runners grab handfuls of tomatoes for that extra boost.

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Plenty of water cups ready for thirsty competitors.

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Seeing the Tokyo Marathon in person was a lot of fun. The unique atmosphere of the event makes it interesting for spectators too. Sure there were many serious runners on the course. But you can’t really beat a man dressed as a swan princess, even if you are faster than him.