⏱ About 3 min read
Golden Week First Run! 12km Through Mizumoto Park, Cutting Through the Breeze of Fresh Green
Saturday, May 2nd — the second half of Golden Week has begun.
It was 8 o’clock in the morning, and the sky was crystal clear. I thought to myself, “There’s no way I’m missing a day like this,” laced up my shoes, and headed out the door.
Today’s Running Data
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Distance | 12.22 km |
| Time | 1 hour 3 minutes 58 seconds |
| Average Pace | ~5 minutes 14 seconds/km |
| Average Speed | 11.46 km/h |
| Top Speed | 12.18 km/h |
| Calories Burned | 852 kcal |
| Finish Time | 9:12 AM |
Over 12 kilometers. I really gave it my all today.
The Joy of Running Through a Tunnel of Fresh Green
As I entered Mizumoto Park, all the tree leaves were gleaming in the sunlight.
May’s fresh greenery really is something special.
Trees that have been nothing but bare branches all winter suddenly burst into vivid color this time of year. The way the light filters through, that softness to it — it’s hard to capture in a photograph, but I found myself saying out loud while running, “This is beautiful.”
The contrast between the blue sky and green leaves. Just being able to see this makes it worth waking up early for.
The Park is Lively During Golden Week
The park was packed today.
Children running all around. An elderly couple walking slowly hand in hand. A young couple parking their bikes side by side.
Watching these scenes unfold as I run, I find myself feeling a warm, quiet happiness.
I was once a child myself, and I suppose one day I’ll be that elderly couple. And that makes me grateful — grateful that I can be running right now, in this moment.
At 56, good health isn’t something you can take for granted. I stick with my gut health routine and fermented foods because I want to keep moving, keep living actively.
12 Kilometers
Lately I’ve been running around 10 kilometers, but today I just kept going. The run felt so good, my legs wouldn’t stop.
“A little further,” “just to that spot” — before I knew it, I’d gone over 12 kilometers.
When I got back inside and closed the door, my whole body was dripping with sweat, but my mind felt completely clear. And somehow, burning 852 calories gave me a real sense of accomplishment.
Breakfast After the Run
Once home, I drank some water right away and took a shower.
Then breakfast.
Today it was miso soup made with homemade miso, natto, and brown rice. It was absolutely delicious.
There’s something special about fermented foods after a good run — they seem to sink into your body in a way that nothing else does. It feels like your gut is saying “thank you,” and I find myself genuinely satisfied.
The second half of Golden Week is off to a good start.
How are you spending your holiday break?
I really think that having a day where you move your body makes the whole time off feel that much better.
Toshi / 56 years old, passionate about fermentation, health, and running
※ This article is based on personal experience and publicly available information. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease. If you have health concerns, please consult a doctor or registered dietitian. See our Disclaimer.