#Japan #Tokyo #Volunteer #Charity Walk #Tokyo Yamathon

Tokyo Yamathon: A Unique Charity Walk in Tokyo

On October 4, 2025, the Tokyo Yamathon will take place, a remarkable charity walk along the JR Yamanote Line. This event challenges participants to walk approximately 42 km in teams within 12 hours, traversing all 30 stations and capturing lively photos along the way. Participants can rediscover Tokyo with friends, family, or colleagues while contributing to society through this compelling charity activity.

Organized by the International Volunteer Group, located at 3-8-8 Iwamotocho, Chiyoda, Tokyo, under the leadership of Joseph Pournovin, the Tokyo Yamathon aims to not only promote physical activity but also raise awareness of important causes in Japan. The name `Yamathon` is a blend of `Yamanote Line` and `marathon`, emphasizing the event’s unique perspective on charity walking, focused more on enjoyment than speed. For those who may not be confident in their physical abilities, there are alternative options available: the Half Yamathon, which covers approximately 21 km and concludes at Mejiro Station, and the Half-a-Half, which is about 10 km and ends at Osaki.

Despite being a commonly traveled line, not many have walked the entirety of the JR Yamanote Line. The Tokyo Yamathon presents a unique opportunity for participants to engage in a meaningful activity while discovering the diverse neighborhoods of Tokyo.

Event Details

Each team of walkers is required to pay a participation fee of 14,000 yen, which is entirely donated to partnering NPO organizations. This initiative is an essential part of the Tokyo Yamathon, as it strives to establish and popularize fundraising activities typically seen worldwide within Japan.

With over 15 years of history, the Tokyo Yamathon has seen a significant increase in participants over the years. In 2024, the event attracted around 2,600 participants, supported by over 200 volunteers, showcasing its growing appeal.

The event is also notable for its international diversity, with nearly half of the attendees being foreigners residing in Japan as well as participants who travel from overseas. This creates a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere, making the event not just local but also internationally welcoming.

Participants are encouraged to form teams of 2 to 4 members. The event will start at 8:00 AM, with staggered entry every 15 minutes to prevent overcrowding, and the final cutoff to cross the finish line is at 9:30 PM. There will be distinct deadlines for the Half Yamathon and Half-a-Half categories, ensuring that every participant knows their limits.

Charity Partners

The proceeds from the Tokyo Yamathon will benefit several NPOs:

1. NPO Waffle: Focuses on bridging the gender gap in the IT field, offering programming classes and awareness activities for female and gender minority students.
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2. Tochigi Environmental Future Base: A group that engages in forest creation activities primarily involving youth, fostering a connection between people and nature.
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3. National Children's Hospice Support Council: Aims to strengthen networks among child hospice operators and those in preparation for establishing similar organizations.
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4. World Central Kitchen: A non-profit organization responding to crises globally by leveraging the power of food to build resilient food systems.
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Due to the charitable nature of the event, participation fees are non-refundable once payment is completed, irrespective of whether a participant decides to withdraw.

Participation Categories

• - Full Yamathon (approx. 42 km): Circular walk starting and finishing at Tokyo TOKIA, passing through all 30 stations within a time limit.
• - Half Yamathon (approx. 21 km): Culminates at Mejiro, with a specific deadline for completion.
• - Half-a-Half (approx. 10 km): Ends at Osaki, with its own designated deadline.

Walking routes can be chosen freely, whether clockwise or counterclockwise, with options to share team photographs at each station.

The event will also feature a ranking based on timing recorded via the Tokyo Yamathon app, though the focus remains on fun and camaraderie rather than competitive racing.

Registration

Registration is open until September 10, 2025. For inquiries, contact the International Volunteer Group at [email protected].

Join the Tokyo Yamathon and experience a blend of physical activity, community engagement, and cultural exchange while making a positive impact through your participation!