Lost sleep, found strides: Running through jet lag in Tokyo

Landing in Japan after nearly 24 hours in transit was the easy part. The real challenge? Sticking to my marathon training plan while adjusting to the time zone.

🕓 Jet Lag 1 – Runner 0

Three days in, and jet lag is still winning the battle. My sleep is fragmented, my patience thinner than usual, and my energy levels far from ideal.

But runners are creatures of habit. So I laced up and hit the treadmill for a 40-minute progressive run. Not quite the open-air sessions I envisioned, but it’s something. And right now, something is good enough.

📉 Adapting the plan without guilt

I feel some guilt about not following the plan exactly. But I keep reminding myself: consistency also means knowing when to adapt.

With a tight travel schedule, a perfect plan isn’t realistic. Right now, I’m prioritizing quality over quantity in my miles.

🏃‍♂️ Still hoping for a Tokyo street run

I had hoped to squeeze in a few street runs in Tokyo, especially around the Imperial Palace, known for its scenic 5K loop and vibrant running scene.

I’m still aiming for that before we leave. If not, maybe Kyoto will offer a second chance.

🌤️ Weather & inspiration

The weather’s been surprisingly good for running: 22°C, no rain, just a bit humid. Conditions are tempting, even if the schedule isn’t.

I keep thinking how great it would be to return and run the Tokyo Marathon one day.

🚶‍♂️ 20K+ steps, amazing food & unexpected wins

Even with fewer structured runs, we’re walking over 20,000 steps a day, exploring incredible places.

The food? Exceptional. From delicate veggie dishes to sushi bowls that feel like art. Every meal is a highlight. I may be taking in more calories than usual, but between jet lag and long days on foot, I think it evens out.

People, culture, and running stores (still searching)

People here are incredibly polite and kind. We’ve had a few “lost in translation” moments but they’ve only added charm to the trip.

I’m still searching for a local running store, especially to check out Asics models not sold back home; no luck yet.

🔁 Final thoughts before Kyoto

This week may not boost my VO₂ max, but it’s reminding me what it means to stay consistent, even in unpredictable environments.

Next stop: Kyoto.
Fingers crossed I can clock some proper kilometers there.

Until then, always chasing the next mile.