Pro tips 

with Danielle McNeilly (@vexyspice)


HOW TO PACK
Race wise - you can get away with just a singlet and shorts. The weather appeared amicable at that time of year. Casually, Long sleeves and hoodies with a light fall/ winter jacket works.


BE. ON. TIME.

I cannot stress that enough with respect to this race. Arrive in a timely manner to go through security, check your bags, use the bathroom, and make it to your corral. You will waste your time if you go all the way to Tokyo and think you can be casual about getting into your corral as well as running the race. They do not operate like that and are very strict with cut off times.


READ THE RUNNERS GUIDE.

There are western and eastern porta potties, so pay attention to that and also know that they are NOT found in the corrals. The course itself is fast, flat, and boring. Most of the race (3/4) is out and backs so prepare to be unamazed. Look out for AFE cheer zone at 33KM (~mi 21).

GET DATA 
Make sure your phone has data. While Tokyo is surprisingly English friendly, the streets signs (or lack thereof) are not. Google maps will be your friend. As for transportation, I highly suggest you get a JR Rail pass. It is exclusively available to tourists and grants you unlimited amount of rides on the Shinkansens, JR trains, the NEX train (the one that runs to/from the airport) for the duration of your trip. It must be bought before your trip and will be sent to you.

GO TO KYOTO

Less hustle and bustle which makes it an ideal place to recover. While in Kyoto I went to the Nijo Castle and Bamboo Forest