Ep 1. They Thought Godzilla Was Walking Down the Street

The Amazing Race season 15 episode 1 titled "They Thought Godzilla Was Walking Down the Street" is an adrenaline-pumping introduction to the reality show's newest season. As always, the show features teams of two racing across the world to complete challenges, engage with local cultures, and avoid elimination. This season's teams come from all walks of life, including professional stuntmen, Harlem Globetrotters, and yoga instructors.

The episode begins with the teams gathering in Los Angeles, California, where they receive their first clue. The clue instructs them to fly to Tokyo, Japan, where they will find their next clue at the top of the Tokyo Tower. The teams rush to the airport, eager to get a head start on the competition.

Once in Tokyo, the teams must navigate their way through the city to reach the Tokyo Tower. Along the way, they encounter cultural references to Godzilla, a beloved Japanese film icon. Despite the teams' exhaustion and jet lag, they remain determined to complete their first task.

The Tokyo Tower presents teams with one of their first physical challenges: climbing to the top of the tower's observation deck. The height and steep incline of the climb test the teams' fitness and perseverance. Those who can't keep up risk elimination right at the start of the competition.

After reaching the top of the tower, the teams receive their next clue, directing them to head to a famous sumo wrestling arena in the heart of Tokyo. Once there, they must find a clue hidden among dozens of paper lanterns. The teams must use all their wits and speed as they comb through the lanterns, searching for the hidden clue.

Next, the teams must take to the streets of Tokyo on foot, following a series of clues that lead them through some of the city's most vibrant urban landscapes. Along the way, they encounter challenges that test their knowledge of local customs and popular culture. One group must navigate a crowded street market while interacting with local vendors and street performers. Another team immerses themselves in Japanese manga and anime, identifying these cultural touchstones to move on to the next part of the race.

The highlight of the episode comes as the teams find themselves at the base of the imposing Mount Fuji. They are tasked with climbing the mountain, which stands at over twelve thousand feet tall. The race to the top tests their endurance and stamina, and some teams find themselves struggling to keep up.

At the top of the mountain, the teams are given a series of clues that lead them to navigate a snow-covered course filled with obstacles. The team that completes the course in the fastest time earns a crucial advantage in the upcoming leg of the race.

As the episode ends, the teams gather for the next leg of the competition, unsure of where they will be sent next. The first episode of The Amazing Race season 15 leaves viewers breathless with excitement, eager to see where the adventure takes them next. With a fresh cast of colorful characters and some of the most exciting locations yet, the season promises to be a wild ride.