If you’re a Tokyo resident looking for a new workout routine or a newcomer in your fitness journey, Tokyo offers countless ways to sweat, move, and recharge – without ever stepping into a big-name gym (though we’ll mention a couple, just in case).
Neon lights, crowded trains, convenience stores at every corner, and skyscrapers – these are usually the first things that come to mind about Tokyo. However, tucked between the urban bustle lies a vibrant and often overlooked fitness culture that blends modern trends, community spirit, and traditional values.
Here’s a beginner-friendly, hyperlocal guide to Tokyo’s unique health and fitness culture you probably didn’t know existed.
Did you know that most Tokyo wards have their own sports centers – complete with gyms, pools, running tracks, martial arts dojos, different sports courts, and even saunas. These are heavily subsidized, hence very cheap!, and well maintained.
Why go?
What to bring:
Your respective sports/gym attire, depending on the activity. You may need to pay for locker storage (around ¥100) and rent indoor shoes (around ¥200). Since these places don’t require a long-term membership, you pay per visit. You will need to show a valid ID showing that you are a resident of the Tokyo ward. The fee for non-residents is usually higher.
Take note that the staff at these public facilities often speak minimal or no English, so you may need to use translation apps. Most of these sports centers also have strict rules against tattoos. It’s advised to inquire prior to a visit.
Examples:
Welcome to the micro-gym era. ChocoZAP by RIZAP is Japan’s answer to fuss-free, frill-free, 24/7 fitness that goes beyond a workout. At first glance, the store looks like a choco shop but it’s technically meant to “zap” away our sweets indulgence.
Why it works:
As a disclaimer, these “gyms” are mainly for beginners, so if you’re decently fit or lift regularly, this might not be a good choice. You’ll end up maxing out the machines after a few months. Also, it’s important to take note that since there are no staff involved, it is up to the members to keep the place clean, such as wiping the machines before and after use. Lastly, certain branches might be cramped during peak hours.
Anytime Fitness – These are popular with foreigners and are more equipped and spacious than ChocoZAP. Has over 1,000 locations in Japan and gives you global access, meaning your Japan membership works anywhere in the world. It has showers and private changing rooms.
JOYFIT24 – Quite common in the suburbs with private booths for stretching or floor routines. Offers yoga and cycling classes at full-size branches.
FastGym24 – Often attached to train stations for convenience. Offers personal training, private lockers, protein vending machines, and more.
Pro tip: Most of these gyms offer excellent discount campaigns, so it’s best to check them out before signing up.
Even though Tokyo is a highly urbanized city, you can still get a breather from the hustle and bustle in its green spaces. They double as free wellness zones too! At Yoyogi Park, Koganei Park and even along the Meguro and Sumida Rivers, you can see locals jogging, walking, meditating, stretching or practicing radio taisō (ラジオ体操 – a morning calisthenics routine aired nationally every day).
Here are a couple more activities highlighting Tokyo’s nature spots:
Pro tip: Some parks host early morning yoga or stretching classes – just bring a mat!
For Tokyo residents looking for fitness outside the box, perhaps some dancing, yoga or climbing activities? AERAS, an aerial yoga studio in Setagaya offers group, semi-private and private lessons for beginners and advanced yogis. Aerial yoga is yoga with a lot of hanging from a hammock or sling. It is considered a lot more gentle on joints than traditional yoga. If dance is more your thing, you can get your groove on at En Dance Studio, with multiple branches around Japan. According to En, it is a dance studio, not a dance school, featuring a creative space where dance lovers from around the world gather and interact. The Shibuya studio offers English, French, and other foreign language support, with a foreigner-friendly environment. Lastly, Noborock is a bouldering gym that offers free lessons for first-time visitors. Test your core strength and endurance with this form of rock climbing without harnesses.
Being active and healthy isn’t just about the effort during the activities. Don’t forget to incorporate some form of recovery to get you ready for your next workout.
Recovery and wellness spaces worth visiting:
Fitness in Tokyo goes beyond treadmills and dumbbells – it’s all about finding something that you enjoy and can stick to consistently. Whether it’s a solo sport like swimming or a quiet moment immersed in nature, you can find a routine and community that works for you.
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