On October 3, under clear autumn skies, thousands of runners took to the 5-kilometer loop encircling Tokyo’s Imperial Palace, a popular urban running route known for its scenic views and central location near the Marunouchi and Otemachi financial districts. The path, which skirts the sprawling 340-hectare royal grounds, attracts a diverse mix of casual joggers, competitive runners, and tourists, with peak days drawing at least 10,000 users.
However, rising congestion on the shared pathway has sparked debate over calls to ban running along the route entirely. Narrow sections of the loop, especially near the Imperial Palace East Gardens—a crowded tourist spot—have led to frequent near-collisions between runners and pedestrians. Social media users have reported instances of runners displaying impatience or rudeness, including shouting at pedestrians or passing too closely by children and elderly visitors, raising safety and etiquette concerns.
Critics argue that the pavements, designed primarily for walking, are being dominated by runners who behave inconsiderately, with some describing the practice as intimidating or unsafe. One pedestrian described feeling “terrified” when runners speed past, detracting from the enjoyment of the area’s natural and historical beauty.
Supporters of the running community caution against a blanket ban, emphasizing that only a minority exhibit poor behavior. Advocates suggest that encouraging greater awareness and mutual respect between runners and pedestrians would be a more balanced approach. They stress the cultural significance of the “kokyu run” as an emblematic element of Tokyo’s urban lifestyle, celebrating its role as a communal space where corporate workers, elite athletes, and international visitors share the path.
In response to growing complaints, Chiyoda ward—which administers the area—announced on October 1 plans to conduct a comprehensive field survey throughout the fiscal year ending in March 2027. The study will examine user behavior, including acts of intimidation or violations of the established counterclockwise running direction, record pedestrian and runner volumes, and gather feedback through interviews.
Chiyoda ward mayor Takaaki Higuchi has acknowledged the concerns but urged for empathy over strict enforcement. In late August, he encouraged runners to communicate politely with pedestrians, emphasizing the shared enjoyment of the historic site for residents, tourists, elderly individuals, and families, alongside its status as a premier running spot.
The Imperial Palace loop has long been a favored location for runners, including prominent figures such as Emperor Naruhito and author Haruki Murakami. The route’s popularity surged following the inaugural Tokyo Marathon in 2007, sparking a broader fitness boom and the emergence of running clubs and supportive services nearby.
Efforts to alleviate congestion, however, face challenges. Widening sidewalks is complicated by the fragmented jurisdiction over the roads, involving Chiyoda ward, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and national authorities. Moreover, police officers stationed for palace security are not tasked with managing pedestrian or runner traffic.
Observers note that the pathway is a rare urban sanctuary that allows people from various backgrounds to share a unique public space, underscoring the importance of a collective commitment to courtesy and safety. While occasional frustrations arise, many participants emphasize the mutual benefit and camaraderie found in the shared experience of running around one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks.