FAQs

Who benefits from the fees for this race?

The proceeds from this race support the Yu-Ai Kai Senior Community, which provides nutritious meals, Senior Day Services, Financial Counseling, Case Management and Family Support, and many other Health and Information related services.  See the Organizer Notes at the right, or find more information at http://www.yuaikai.org

What does "The Run is Back" mean?

The Nihonmachi (Japantown) Run has been held annually for over 25 years, with the EXCEPTION of 2012.  In 2012, the run was cancelled due to last-minute requirements for route changes, street closures, and increased police presence.  The late revelation of these requirements left no time for adjustment, and would more than likely have caused an overall financial LOSS to Yu-Ai Kai.  Planning for the 2013 event began well in advance and has resulted in many changes which, we hope, will translate to a positive outcome this year and for many years in the future.

What time does it start?

Registration opens at 8AM and the Race starts promptly at 9AM

What is the distance?

This is a Fun Race for family and friends.  It is NOT a sanctioned 5k race.  The approximate distance is a little over 3 miles, close to a 5k distance, but not exact.  There are cutoffs at approximately 1 and 2 miles for those who do not want to run/walk the entire distance

Where is the Start/Finish?

The Start and Finish is located in front of the Yu-Ai Kai Senior Center at 588 N. 4th Street in San Jose

What do I get?

A really cool T-shirt with exclusive design by Steve Yamaguma of Design2Market.  Pick up your T-shirt at the Registration Desk on the day of the event.

PRIZES! PRIZES! PRIZES!

There will be prizes for the top 3 finishers in each of the 12 categories, as well as a prize for the BEST COSTUME, a prize for the MOST FAMILY MEMBERS, and a prize for the person who brings in the MOST DONATIONS.  The awards ceremony will be held close to the finish line beginning approximately 10:15 AM, or as soon as the winners in each group have been determined.  Results will be posted at Yu-Ai Kai and will be published in the San Jose Mercury News.

Age Categories are as follows (Separate categories for Female and Male)

Age 0-12, Age 13-19, Age 20-39, Age 40-59, Age 60-69, Age 70 and over

What does it cost?

Please see the ticket type that is appropriate for your age.  There are separate costs for Seniors(60 and over), Children(12 and under), and Adults.

Are discounts available?

YES!  Your entry fee is WAIVED if you gather and send to Yu-Ai Kai at least $75 in sponsor donations (provide the sponsor names, telephone numbers, and amounts).  Please contact Yu-Ai Kai at 408-294-2505 and ask for a SPONSOR DONATION REGISTRATION FLYER.

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?

Light Rail stops at First Street near Jackson Street
Paid parking is available at the Corporate Yard, bordered by 6th and 7th Streets and Jackson and Taylor Streets

Parking can be difficult in the Japantown area, so please allow sufficient time.  We suggest approaching the area from the East due to the closure of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th streets between Mission and Julian streets for the race

What else is happening in the area on the day of the race?

1) The annual Yu-Ai Kai Health Fair at Akiyama Wellness Center, 110 Jackson Street, from 9AM - noon
2) The Nikkei Matsuri Festival, with food, culture, crafts and entertainment, from 10AM - 5PM

The name on the registration/ticket doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay?

Unfortunately, no.  Because each participant must have accepted the waiver, the name on the registration must match the attendee name.

Here is a map of the race course