Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on December 2013

Keen on prolonging holiday season indulgence, but also determined to stick to your New Year’s resolution to get into shape? Check out the 17th All-Japan Sweets Marathon (well, 10k race) January 19 in Odaiba ¥5,000 (junior high and under ¥3,500). Launched in Osaka in 2010, the event elevates the traditional aid station to a delight of patisserie goodness. Japan being the land of self-restraints, it’s no surprise that the name of the game is hitokuchi (one bite) and not tabehodai. That said, with 20 confectioners participating, chances are you’ll finish your run licking your fingers. You can tackle the 10km in teams relay style or individually, but with over 5,000 runners participating, you will need to maintain a good pace to get first pick of the goodies. Your support team can even indulge if they buy a ticket for the accompanying sweets expo. The entry deadline is December 20, so register soon and get training. www.sweets-marathon.jp