SRC Run Crew: Bringing the 'Run Party Party' Vibe to the Streets of Kobe

In January 2015, a new kind of running crew was born in the stylish port city of Kobe. SRC Run Crew was founded by a bunch of designers who wanted to run together and create a community that reflected their interests. They set out to be different from a traditional, serious running club, building a group of friends who shared a passion not just for running, but for music, fashion, design, and parties.

A Philosophy of 'Run Party Party'

The philosophy of SRC Run Crew is that running should be fun, social, and stylish. They define themselves as an urban running crew and a collective of creative minds. Their motto, "Run Party Party," is a core part of their identity. It reflects their idea of seeing every run as a party and always celebrating together after a race. For them, the streets are a place to run and a place to party, and they have successfully created a community that embodies this energetic spirit.

The culture of SRC is flexible and spontaneous. Unlike crews with a rigid weekly schedule, most members work independently during the week. The official crew night runs are held irregularly, though at least once a month, with a couple of "standard" routes that are chosen based on the participants for that run. This approach keeps things fresh and exciting, perfectly aligning with their fun-loving, party-focused ethos.

SRC Run Crew extends a unique invitation. While everyone who is able to run at least 5k is always welcome to join them, they are specifically looking for runners who share their similar vision of urban running, partying, and the global "crew love" movement. It's an invitation to be part of a community with a strong and distinct culture.

The Kobe Running Scene

SRC is a key player in the running scene of Kobe and the wider Kansai region of Japan. The city is also home to other running groups and traditional athletics clubs that, together with SRC's creative and social energy, create a diverse and supportive ecosystem for the area's athletes.

The city of Kobe is the beautiful and cosmopolitan capital of Hyōgo Prefecture. It is a major port city famous for its delicious Kobe beef, its scenic location between the Rokko mountains and the sea, and its resilience. This stunning geography, from the waterfront to the mountains, provides an incredible and varied playground for runners.

The runners of Kobe have a spectacular landscape to explore. The crew's runs can take them along the modern waterfront of Meriken Park, with its iconic Kobe Port Tower and Maritime Museum. For a taste of history and a challenging climb, the steep streets of the historic Kitano-cho district offer beautiful views. For true adventure, the trails of the Rokko mountain range, which form a dramatic backdrop to the city, provide endless opportunities for trail running. The premier racing event in the city is the Kobe Marathon, a major race that attracts thousands of participants each year to its scenic course.