Japanese marathon culture is deeply rooted in the values of endurance, respect, and honor. While marathons are a global phenomenon, Japan’s approach to long-distance running stands out for its unique emphasis on discipline, mental strength, and communal spirit. The country’s dedication to this sport has cultivated a marathon culture that reflects not just physical prowess but a deeper connection to personal growth, teamwork, and the reverence of tradition. This culture of endurance and honor is not just a reflection of the race itself but of broader cultural principles such as perseverance (ganbatte), respect for others, and commitment to excellence.
Historical Context and Development
The significance of marathons in Japan can be traced back to the early 20th century when the sport was introduced to the country. However, Japan’s marathon culture truly took root in the post-World War II era, when the nation underwent rapid industrialization and social transformation. As Japanese society adapted to the changing global landscape, marathons became an important symbol of personal and national endurance. The 1964 Tokyo Olympics, where the marathon became a major event, was pivotal in cementing the importance of long-distance running in Japanese culture.
In the decades since, marathons have become one of Japan’s most popular sports, with millions of runners participating in races annually, both at the professional and amateur levels. Cities like Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Osaka have become famous for their large-scale marathons, attracting participants from around the world. Yet it is not only the international aspect of these events that has shaped Japanese marathon culture—it is the country’s emphasis on the values of endurance and honor that distinguishes it from other nations.
Endurance as a Core Value
Endurance in Japan is more than just physical stamina—it is a mental and spiritual strength that is central to the marathon experience. The concept of endurance, or “ganbatte” (頑張って), is one of Japan’s most important cultural values. It can be roughly translated to “do your best” or “persevere,” but it encompasses a deeper meaning: a determination to continue despite challenges, setbacks, or pain. This value is instilled from an early age and applies not only to sports but to all areas of life.
In marathons, this value is displayed through the rigorous training routines, which are often grueling and demanding. Japanese runners are known for their disciplined approach to training, which includes long runs, speed drills, and other techniques designed to build mental and physical toughness. For both amateur and professional runners, the journey leading up to the marathon is one of sacrifice, consistency, and dedication. The Japanese ethos of perseverance in the face of difficulty is manifested in the marathon, where runners push themselves to their physical limits, embodying the spirit of “ganbatte.”
Even the structure of marathon races in Japan emphasizes endurance. The races are often longer and more demanding than those found in other countries, with extreme weather conditions, steep hills, and high humidity being common factors that test a runner’s limits. This reflects Japan’s cultural attitude that true success is achieved through overcoming adversity. The celebration of endurance goes beyond just completing the race; it is about conquering oneself.
The Role of Honor in Japanese Marathon Culture
In Japan, honor is a guiding principle that extends beyond the individual and into the realm of social responsibility. In the context of marathons, honor is closely linked to respect for others—whether it be fellow competitors, the spectators, or the country’s traditions. This sense of honor can be seen in various aspects of Japanese marathon culture, from the reverence for historical marathon events to the treatment of fellow runners.
One of the most significant examples of honor is the reverence given to marathon runners who finish the race, regardless of their position. While winning a marathon is celebrated, there is also immense respect for those who finish with determination and humility, especially those who may not be the fastest but who demonstrate incredible perseverance. This is reflective of the Japanese cultural belief that the journey is just as important as the destination. The focus is not just on crossing the finish line but on the effort put forth to get there.
Moreover, the concept of “honor” in marathon culture also extends to the act of volunteering. In Japanese marathons, volunteers play a crucial role in supporting runners, from offering water and food to providing medical assistance. The selfless contributions of volunteers are seen as an honorable duty, underscoring the importance of community and the collective spirit that permeates Japanese marathon events. This sense of duty and respect for others can also be seen in how the races are organized, with a meticulous attention to detail that ensures smooth operations and the well-being of participants.
Another form of honor in Japanese marathon culture is the reverence for marathon legends and historical figures. Icons such as Shizo Kanakuri, known as the “father of the marathon” in Japan, are highly respected figures whose achievements have shaped the national identity surrounding long-distance running. Kanakuri’s perseverance during the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, where he was forced to drop out of the marathon due to heat exhaustion but returned many years later to finish the race, epitomizes the Japanese values of endurance and honor. His story is a source of national pride and serves as an inspiration for modern runners.
The Influence of Japanese Universities
Japanese universities have played an essential role in shaping the marathon culture through their long-standing tradition of university relay races, known as “ekiden.” The ekiden is a team-based relay marathon, and the event is deeply ingrained in Japanese society. Universities like Keio University, Waseda University, and the University of Tokyo are known for their competitive ekiden teams, which compete annually in the famous Hakone Ekiden, a prestigious race that spans over two days and covers a grueling 200 kilometers.
The Hakone Ekiden is not just a race—it is a symbol of unity, teamwork, and dedication. The event has become a major part of the New Year’s holiday in Japan, attracting millions of viewers. The relay format emphasizes the importance of working together toward a shared goal, showcasing how endurance and honor are not only individual pursuits but also collective ones. The relay system is built on the idea that each runner contributes to the overall success of the team, thus honoring not only their own efforts but the efforts of those they run alongside.
The focus on teamwork in the ekiden is a reflection of the broader Japanese cultural emphasis on group harmony and cooperation. The marathon, in this context, is not only about individual endurance but also about the collective honor and strength derived from shared effort. This communal approach enhances the sense of duty, responsibility, and pride that participants carry during these races.
Marathons as a National and Cultural Event
Marathons in Japan are also a manifestation of the country’s cultural values on a larger scale. The events often bring communities together, showcasing the importance of support networks in helping runners achieve their goals. The level of enthusiasm and encouragement shown by spectators is unmatched, with fans cheering for every runner, regardless of their position. This communal atmosphere fosters a sense of national pride and solidarity, creating a connection between the runners and the broader population.
In addition to the Hakone Ekiden, the Tokyo Marathon has become one of the most important marathons globally, attracting over 30,000 runners each year. The marathon itself is an embodiment of Japanese culture, combining the country’s modern technological prowess with a deep respect for tradition. Spectators along the course cheer not only for the elite runners but also for the thousands of others participating, creating an inclusive environment that reflects Japan’s sense of unity and collective effort.
Conclusion
Japanese marathon culture is a powerful symbol of endurance and honor. From the emphasis on mental toughness to the respect for historical figures and communal spirit, marathons in Japan are not merely athletic events; they are cultural expressions of perseverance, self-discipline, and collective strength. The values of “ganbatte” and “honor” that permeate the sport are central to Japan’s broader cultural identity. For both runners and spectators, marathons are a way to celebrate personal and collective achievement, honor tradition, and embody the spirit of endurance that is so deeply embedded in Japanese society.