With the U.S. Championships beginning this week in Eugene, and the World Championships in Tokyo quickly approaching, we're veering from our usual format for a look inside Japanese running culture, particularly the nation's unparalleled love for the marathon. The following is an updated and adapted version of an article I wrote leading up to the pandemic-delayed 2021 Tokyo Olympic Marathon. As you grind through long runs and workouts on the way to your next marathon, we hope you'll find inspiration in the shared experience of a nation obsessed with racing 26.2 miles.