By Sophie Wilder
Konnichiwa, amigos fitness! Today, our adventure takes us to a land where ancient temples, peaceful gardens, and rich traditions meet an active, outdoor lifestyle. Welcome to Kyoto, Japan, a city where you can find harmony between movement, mindfulness, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re jogging past historic shrines, practicing kendo, or stretching in a serene Zen garden, Kyoto offers a unique blend of fitness and culture. Let’s dive in!
Morning Zen: Jogging Through Fushimi Inari Shrine
Rise and shine, because there’s no better way to start the day than with a run through the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. This breathtaking path winds through thousands of bright red torii gates, creating an unforgettable workout with a perfect mix of endurance and stair training.
Challenge: Try a HIIT-style run—sprint for 30 seconds between every 10 gates, then walk or jog for 1 minute. The inclines will push your stamina to the limit while the atmosphere keeps you motivated!
Pro Tip: Go early! The shrine gets packed with tourists after 8 AM, so if you want to feel the magic in solitude, get there at sunrise.
Strength and Discipline: Kendo and Martial Arts Training
Kyoto is home to some of the most respected kendo and martial arts dojos in Japan. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the way of the samurai, this is your chance!
- Butokuden Dojo: This historic dojo offers kendo classes, where you can train in the art of Japanese sword fighting.
- Kyoto Budo Center: A hub for martial arts enthusiasts, offering lessons in judo, aikido, and kyudo (Japanese archery).
Fun Fact: Kendo isn’t just about combat—it’s also about mental discipline, respect, and self-control, making it a fantastic full-body and mind workout!
Park Workouts: Calisthenics at Maruyama Park
If you prefer bodyweight training, Kyoto’s Maruyama Park is the perfect spot. This beautiful, spacious park is ideal for a jump rope session, bodyweight circuits, or even Tai Chi with the locals.
Try this quick Kyoto Calisthenics Circuit:
- Jump Rope Warm-Up – 3 minutes
- Push-ups – 3 sets of 20
- Squats – 3 sets of 25
- Triceps Dips (on a park bench) – 3 sets of 15
- Plank Hold – 60 seconds
Local Tip: If you’re here in spring, Maruyama Park is one of the best spots for cherry blossom viewing—a perfect post-workout cooldown!
Temple Yoga: Finding Balance in Kiyomizu-dera
Want to mix fitness with mindfulness? Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera Temple offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for outdoor yoga and stretching.
- Sun Salutations at Sunrise: Set up your mat near the temple’s wooden stage and let the calm surroundings guide your flow.
- Zen Breathing Exercises: Kyoto’s temples are great places to practice pranayama, helping you reset and refocus after an intense workout.
Pro Tip: Some temples offer meditation sessions led by monks. A great way to experience Kyoto’s deep spiritual roots!
Recovery and Refueling: Kyoto’s Best Healthy Eats
After a long day of exploring and training, it’s time to nourish your body with Kyoto’s incredible healthy food options:
- Ain Soph. Journey: A plant-based restaurant serving delicious, nutrient-packed meals, including vegan ramen!
- Mumokuteki Café: A cozy spot for fresh, organic Japanese dishes, perfect for post-workout recovery.
- Nishiki Market: Stroll through Kyoto’s famous food market and grab a matcha protein smoothie or fresh sushi.
Why Kyoto is the Ultimate Fitness and Wellness Destination
Kyoto isn’t just about temples and traditions—it’s a city that embraces movement, mindfulness, and strength. Whether you’re running through historic sites, training like a samurai, or flowing through a yoga session in nature, Kyoto offers an inspiring and energizing way to stay fit.
Where to Next, Amigos?
That’s it for this Kyoto fitness adventure! Where should I take my jump rope next? A desert challenge? A frozen tundra? Let me know! Until then, keep moving, stay balanced, and train like a warrior! 💪🏯🧘♀️
Until next time, amigos!