This Spring, Run For Tohoku’s Reconstruction

This March marks the sixth anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami. Here is what you can do to help the still-struggling region to recover.

Spring is all about starting fresh and motivated; become inspired by others and feeling good in your own skin. The annual Tohoku Food Marathon and Festival, held from March 18 through March 20 in Tome city in Miyagi Prefecture, is a great opportunity to do all of the above, while contributing to a good clause: the reconstruction of the quake-hit Tohoku region in northern Japan.

To help you secure a spot at the event, as well as introduce you to the Tohoku area, the ANZCCJ, Australian Embassy Tokyo and Club Australia are organizing a two-day volunteer weekend trip to Minamisanriku, Miyagi Prefecture from March 18 to March 19. Tour participants will also be guided around towns in Minamisanriku that were most severely affected by the tsunami in 2011, as well as have the chance to hear directly from survivors about their experience during the disasters.

The basic cost for the tour includes accommodation, dinner on the first day, breakfast on the second, the guided town tour, and bus to and from Kurikoma Kogen Station while in Tohoku. You will, however, need to secure your own bullet train tickets from Tokyo to Kurikoma Kogen.

The Tohoku marathon is a wonderful opportunity to try something new and explore the region. Officially supported by the world-famous Medoc Marathon in France, the event’s main purpose is to bring people to the Tohoku region to assist with its economic recovery.  

The event is a great fun for all and there will be something for everyone: a full and half marathon for those seeking the challenge, to a 5km fun run and a 500-meter run for kids. As an alternative activity to the marathon, Club Australia will also be organizing street rugby matches for locals and visitors (and their children) in a grassed area at the festival. For those who wish to be volunteers, there will still be plenty of work to do in support of the runners and organizers.

So, if you’re looking for a unique event that will take you out of the city and assist you in helping others — as well as get fit — book your spot now. 

The Deets

Date & Time: From March 18, 7 a.m. to March 19, 6 p.m. 
Basic Cost: Adult ANZCCJ Members & Partners: ¥11,000, Adult Non-members ¥14,000, Children of ANZCCJ Members ¥8,000, Children of Non-members ¥11,000.
Tour Options and Costs:  Marathon: ¥8,000, Half marathon: ¥6,000, 5km run: ¥3,000, 500-meter parents run: ¥1,000, Kids run: Free, Volunteers: Free
Registration and payment deadline: Feb 17
Registration: For registration and more information see here.