More Than Miles: How ACT WOMEN'S RUNNING Redefines Joy in Tokyo
Crew at a Glance ACT WOMEN'S RUNNING is a Tokyo-based running crew founded in 2017 with a heartfelt mission: to make running a joyful and social experience for women. By challenging the perception of running as a tough, solitary sport, the crew creates a welcoming space filled with conversation, exploration, and fun. Meeting twice a month in the vibrant neighborhood of Ikejiri, they offer an open invitation for women to discover the excitement of running together.
Introduction
In 2017, a new kind of running community was born in Tokyo, started by Emi, a runner who wanted to share the positive feelings and happiness she found in the sport, especially with women who might not consider themselves "runners." She noticed that many women viewed running as monotonous, tough, or simply boring. With this in mind, Emi founded ACT WOMEN'S RUNNING not just to log miles but to fundamentally change that perception and build a community around a more holistic, fun, and connected vision of running.
Philosophy & Founders
The philosophy of ACT WOMEN'S RUNNING reflects its founder's goal. Emi set out to create a crew that showcases the excitement of running by emphasizing everything that surrounds it: engaging conversations during a run, the fun shared between crew members, and the thrill of exploring new neighborhoods together. The crew's focus extends beyond the pavement to encompass topics around a healthy lifestyle, creating a supportive environment for personal growth. The mission is not to be the fastest, but to cultivate joy and prove that running can be a vibrant and fulfilling social activity.
Community & Collaboration
The community of ACT WOMEN'S RUNNING is built on a foundation of shared discovery and mutual support. It's a space where women can feel comfortable regardless of their running experience. The bi-monthly meetups foster close-knit bonds, turning a simple run into a much-anticipated social event. The crew’s collaborative spirit focuses on the internal group dynamic, ensuring every member feels seen, heard, and encouraged.
Culture & Activities
The crew's culture is relaxed, social, and uniquely Japanese. They meet twice a month at a public bath (sento) in Ikejiri, a neighborhood near the bustling hub of Shibuya. This tradition allows members to conveniently store their belongings, head out for a run, and return for a relaxing post-run bath and chat—a perfect way to unwind and solidify friendships. Their runs are exploratory by nature, designed to conquer new cityscapes and uncover the hidden gems of Tokyo's diverse districts.
Invitation
ACT WOMEN'S RUNNING operates with a warm and open spirit. For any woman in Tokyo interested in joining, the process is simple: get in touch with the crew via their official Instagram account to check the dates for their next run.
About the City
Tokyo is a city of dynamic contrasts, where ancient traditions and modern technologies coexist. This landscape provides a stunning and varied environment for runners. The city is defined by the mountains that surround it and the majestic rivers that flow through it. This topography has cultivated a passionate running culture, with countless clubs and crews taking advantage of the city's unique mix of challenging hills and scenic, flat riverfronts.
Routes & Landmarks
Starting from Ikejiri, the crew enjoys prime access to some of central Tokyo’s best running areas. Their routes often wind through quiet residential streets and along scenic paths, offering both variety and visual appeal. A favorite is the Meguro River, renowned for its cherry blossoms each spring and its mostly flat, picturesque running trail. Setagaya Park and Komazawa Olympic Park are also close by, providing dedicated running loops, expansive green spaces, and a lively, active environment. For those seeking a larger urban park experience, Yoyogi Park—situated near Shibuya and Harajuku—offers an extensive network of paths and is always bustling with activity, making it a popular destination for group runs.
Local Races
Tokyo is home to a range of world-class running events that draw runners from around the globe. The most prominent of these is the Tokyo Marathon, held every March. Widely regarded as one of Asia’s most prestigious races and a World Athletics Platinum Label event, the marathon’s course weaves through the heart of the city, passing many of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks and offering an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike.
