Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on March 2011

Forget the Tokyo Sky Tree, and even Tokyo Tower—real Tokyoites know a far more iconic symbol of the city is the Yamanote line. Now you’ve got the chance to get to know it even better, while getting some exercise and supporting a worthy cause along the way. Organized by Oxfam Japan IVG, the Tokyo Yamathon sees participants travel around the entire length of the Yamanote line as quickly as possible—on foot, naturally. Teams of three or four people are eligible, and all proceeds will be donated to Oxfam. If you aren’t too tuckered out by the time you’ve looped the loop, head to the after party at Footnik pub in Osaki.

Apr 9, 7am. ¥6,000 per team. Meet at the entrance of Yoyogi Park. Nearest stn: Harajuku. For more info or to register, see www.tokyo-yamathon.com.

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Local NGO Resilience has been helping women in Tokyo heal from the trauma of domestic violence—and now they are reaching out to English-speaking residents as well. The group is offering a series of workshops for women who have been victims of abuse or harassment, as well for their family and friends and anyone who wants to improve their ability to communicate on the issue. Participants are free to come and go at any time, and may participate in just the topics that interest them. Advance registration is not required, but the workshops are limited to female participants.

English workshops from Apr 8, 10am-noon, ¥2,100. Resilience Studio R, 4-14-9 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Email info@resilience.jp or see http://resilience.exblog.jp/i48 for more info.