SPORTS

Head down to two of Tokyo's islands for a tropical getaway full of good waves and relaxing hot springs.

Launched in 2007, the Tokyo Marathon now draws up to 37,000 competitors, over 10,000 volunteers and more than 1.5 million spectators, and has become one of the world’s dominant marathons.

The opening ceremony of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics was held on October 10, which in 1966 became a national public holiday known as Health and Sports Day. Many schools hold athletic events and sports meets on this day.

How often does a sumo wrestler wash his loincloth?

While the Tokyo Marathon may get a lot of attention, there are a number of other prime sporting events you can watch or take part in throughout the year, from triathlons and trail running to snowboarding and surfing.

If you know anything about volleyball, you likely know the name Mizuno. Find out how they ended up being long-time supporters of the U.S. volleyball team.

Like visiting Kyoto, climbing Mount Fuji and catching a Japanese baseball game, watching a live sumo match is one of those things that 'must be done' while in Japan.

Practice Pilates near the serenity of Lake Biwa.