Feb. 26 - Tokyo is an excellent jogging city. The topography is rather flat, drivers are courteous, and there is so much to see while exercising! Most joggers agree that the run around the Imperial Palace is among Tokyo's best.

I usually run very early in the morning. As I run past Tokyo Tower, through Toranomon's office district and then by Kasumigaseki's government buildings, the sidewalks are virtually deserted. Usually my only human company is rather bored-looking guards.

However, I am always inspired to increase my pace at the sight of the imposing rock walls of the Imperial Palace. The sheer scale of the palace walls and surrounding moat were meant to awe visitors with a visible demonstration of the Shogun's power and wealth. They certainly have that effect on me.

As I share the path with other runners on the 5 km circuit around the palace, we can together enjoy fine views of carefully pruned pine trees, the Nijubashi stone bridge at the main palace entrance, and swans and ducks swimming in the surrounding moat. During this winter season, runners enjoy seeing the camellia flowers, and we are also looking forward to the cherry blossoms.

After jogging once around the Palace, I generally pass near the Japanese National Diet building on the way home. I feel fortunate to live in a country that shares the democratic values I hold dear. But I also enjoy living in a city with such visible symbols of its rich, historical tradition.

Until next time,

Jim