Funabashi Keiba (Funabashi Racecourse) Located in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture, Funabashi Keiba is known as a local racecourse that is easily accessible from the Tokyo metropolitan area. In January 2024, a collaboration event with the popular content “Uma Musume Pretty Derby” was held, attracting many fans. This article comprehensively explains the details of this collaboration event, the appeal of Funabashi Racecourse, and future collaboration possibilities.
What is Uma Musume Pretty Derby
“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a multimedia project developed by Cygames. The story follows “Uma Musume” (horse girls), personified versions of real racehorses, competing for victory in races called the Twinkle Series.
The project is developed across diverse media including anime series, smartphone games, and comics, and is supported by a wide audience beyond just horse racing fans. In particular, the game app, since its release in 2021, has served as a catalyst for increased interest in horse racing and has contributed to increased visitors at actual racecourses.
Relationship Between Uma Musume and Local Horse Racing
The Uma Musume project features not only central racing but also local racing horses as characters. Uma Musume based on horses belonging to Funabashi Racecourse exist, making it relatable content for local racing fans.
Funabashi Keiba × Uma Musume Collaboration Event Overview
Event Period and Basic Information
During the Reiwa 5th Year 10th Session (January 15 (Monday) to January 19 (Friday)), the first Funabashi Racing event of 2024, a collaboration event with Uma Musume Pretty Derby was held. Throughout the five-day event period, special projects transformed the entire Funabashi Racecourse into Uma Musume-themed surroundings.
Event Overview
- Event Period: January 15 (Monday) to January 19 (Friday), 2024
- Location: Funabashi Racecourse (1-2-1 Wakamatsu, Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture)
- Gate Opening Time: Approximately one hour before race start each day (varies depending on congestion)
- Admission: Free
Collaboration Event Content
The Funabashi Keiba and Uma Musume collaboration offered diverse programs for fans visiting the racecourse.
Venue and Exterior Decorations
The entire racecourse was decorated with the Uma Musume aesthetic, welcoming visitors into a special world. Large banners and posters were displayed both inside and outside the stands, with Uma Musume characters livening up the racecourse.
Decoration Highlights:
- Large banner on the front of the main stand
- Character panels installed throughout the venue
- Decoration areas usable as photo spots
- Signage featuring collaboration-limited designs
The atmosphere differed from a typical racecourse, offering a fresh experience for both Uma Musume fans and general racing enthusiasts.
Life-Size Panel Photo Spots
Particularly popular with visitors were life-size panels of Uma Musume characters. Multiple character panels were installed throughout the venue, allowing fans to freely enjoy photography.
Installed Characters
Life-size panels of major Uma Musume characters were installed with careful attention to each character’s pose and expression. Lines formed in front of panels as they were so popular, with many photos shared on social media.
Photo Spot Considerations:
- Placement allowing the racecourse atmosphere to appear in backgrounds
- Spacing to accommodate group photography
- Installation locations considering lighting conditions
- Placement accounting for traffic flow during congestion
In-Venue Collaboration Announcements
As a special collaboration event project, in-venue announcements by five Uma Musume characters were conducted. Pre-race venue broadcasts and various announcements were made using character voices, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the racecourse.
Announcement Content
- Introduction of race participants before races
- Venue facility guidance
- Event information announcements
- Safety precautions
This unique presentation, different from typical racecourse announcements, allowed visitors to enjoy horse racing while immersed in the Uma Musume world. Many fans commented, “I was moved to hear Uma Musume voices at an actual racecourse.”
Uma Musume Collaboration Race
During the collaboration event period, a special “Uma Musume Collaboration Race” was held. Races featured special titles inspired by Uma Musume characters, and winning horses received original winning ticket designs, among other commemorative projects.
Collaboration Race Features
- Race names inspired by Uma Musume characters
- Special design race cards
- Collaboration race-limited commemorative items (distributed under certain conditions)
- Special pre- and post-race performances
Collaboration races were held each day, with content that both traditional racing fans and Uma Musume fans could enjoy.
Original Goods Giveaways
One of the main attractions of the collaboration event was the distribution of original goods to visitors. Limited-quantity goods were so popular they sold out early.
Original Clear File Giveaway
Clear files featuring the exclusive collaboration design of Funabashi Keiba and Uma Musume were distributed to visitors. The special design featuring Uma Musume characters and Funabashi Racecourse became a high-value collectible item.
Distribution Conditions
- First-come, first-served distribution each day
- Distribution at entry or specific locations
- One item per person limit
- Early termination possible due to quantity limitations
The clear files had practical utility and were well-received by many fans as event souvenirs.
Original Postcard Giveaway
Equally popular with the clear files were original design postcards. Multiple designs were prepared, with different designs distributed by day or based on conditions.
Postcard Features
- Combination of Funabashi Racecourse scenery and Uma Musume characters
- Highly collectible with multiple designs
- Beautiful visuals from high-quality printing
- Instagram-worthy commemorative items
Many fans displayed the postcards, and they were well-received as items to preserve event memories.
Uma Musume POP UP STORE in Funabashi Keiba
During the collaboration event period, a pop-up store was set up within the venue. Uma Musume-related goods were sold, including collaboration-limited merchandise.
Merchandise Examples
- Apparel items such as t-shirts and towels
- Small items like keychains and enamel pins
- Stationery items including clear files and posters
- Collaboration goods with Funabashi Keiba-limited designs
- Official Uma Musume merchandise
The pop-up store was crowded immediately after opening, with popular items often selling out early. Entry restrictions were sometimes implemented due to congestion, so early arrival was recommended for those wanting to make certain purchases.
Animate Café Pop-Up Edition
As a special collaboration project, a pop-up version of Animate Café appeared at Funabashi Racecourse. Food trucks serving Uma Musume collaboration menus were set up, allowing visitors to enjoy event-limited food and beverages.
Collaboration Menu Features
- Original menus inspired by Uma Musume characters
- Collaboration-limited packaging designs
- Bonus items with menus (placemats, coasters, etc.)
- Visually appealing designs perfect for social media
Long lines often formed in front of food trucks, with wait times especially on weekends and for popular items. Visiting between races proved effective for efficient enjoyment.
Events & Fan Services
During the collaboration event, in addition to the above permanent projects, day-specific and time-limited events were held.
Examples of Implemented Events
- Character greetings during specific time periods (panel display)
- Mini-game corners
- Stamp rally programs
- Social media posting campaigns
- Lottery drawings (with participation conditions)
These events provided entertainment beyond horse racing observation, appealing to families and couples, and proposing new ways to enjoy the racecourse.
Funabashi Racecourse Basic Information
Access Methods
Funabashi Racecourse is located in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture, with excellent access from the Tokyo metropolitan area.
Train Access
- 2-minute walk from “Funabashi Keiba” station on the Keisei Main Line
- Approximately 10 minutes by Keisei bus from JR Sobu Line “Funabashi Station”
- Approximately 15-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Tozai Line “Nishi-Funabashi Station”
The most convenient access is via the Keisei Main Line, with the location’s advantage being within walking distance of the racecourse-dedicated station.
Car Access
- Approximately 5 minutes from “Hanawa IC” on the Keiyo Road
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Wangan Narashino IC” on the Higashi-Kanto Expressway
- Parking: Approximately 1,000 spaces available (paid)
During the collaboration event period, more visitors than usual were expected, and parking lots could reach capacity, making public transportation use recommended.
Facility Information
Funabashi Racecourse boasts well-developed facilities for a local racecourse.
Main Facilities
- Main Stand: Comfortable viewing area with complete heating and air conditioning
- Reserved Seating Area: Spacious paid seating for leisurely race observation
- Food Court: Diverse restaurants available
- Kids’ Space: Family-friendly amenities
- Betting Windows: Both automatic machines and staffed counters
Operating Schedule and Hours
Funabashi Racing typically centers on weekday evening operations (night racing).
Standard Operating Schedule
- Gate Opening: Around 3:00 PM
- First Race: Around 4:00 PM
- Final Race: Around 8:00 PM
- Closing Time: Approximately 30 minutes after the final race
Operating schedules vary monthly, requiring confirmation on the official website before visiting.
Precautions for Uma Musume Collaboration Events
The following considerations were necessary to fully enjoy the collaboration event.
Congestion Status
During the collaboration event period, visitor numbers increased significantly compared to typical racing days. The following time periods and locations were expected to be especially crowded:
- Immediately after gates open (for goods distribution and pop-up store entry)
- Before and after collaboration races
- Meal times around food trucks
- Life-size panel areas (photography queues)
Avoiding crowds was effective by visiting on weekdays or during time gaps between races.
Notes on Goods Distribution and Sales
Original goods giveaways and merchandise sales had quantity limitations.
Points to Verify
- Distribution and sales start times
- Purchase and receipt limits per person
- Inventory status (regularly updated on official social media)
- Lottery ticket availability
- Payment methods (cash only/cashless accepted)
Popular items often sold out or had distributions end early, so early arrival was recommended to ensure purchase of desired items.
Photography Rules
While photography of life-size panels and collaboration decorations was generally permitted, the following rules applied:
- Consideration for other visitors’ experiences
- Avoiding prolonged occupation of spaces
- Restrictions on large equipment such as tripods
- Horse and jockey photography limited to designated areas
- Commercial photography requires prior permission
Observing photography etiquette maintained a comfortable environment for all visitors to enjoy the event.
Affinity Between Funabashi Racecourse and Uma Musume
Appeal of Local Horse Racing
Funabashi Racecourse and other local racing venues offer appeal distinct from central racing.
Local Racing Characteristics
- Free admission (at most racecourses)
- Close proximity to horses and jockeys
- Homey atmosphere
- Unique schedules such as weekday evening operations
- Community-focused event development
The Uma Musume collaboration successfully leveraged these local racing characteristics to develop new fan bases.
Interaction Between Uma Musume and Racing Fans
The collaboration event provided Uma Musume fans an opportunity to experience actual horse racing while simultaneously introducing racing fans to Uma Musume content.
Synergistic Effects
- Promotion of racecourse visits among Uma Musume fans
- Acquisition of younger and female racing fans
- Increased awareness through social media information sharing
- Revitalization of local horse racing
- Succession and development of racing culture
During the collaboration event period, increased visits from demographics not typically attending racecourses were observed, resulting in the creation of new racing fans.
Previous Uma Musume Collaboration Cases
Beyond Funabashi Racecourse, the Uma Musume project has collaborated with various racecourses.
Major Collaboration Results
- Commemorative events at central racing venues (Tokyo, Nakayama, Kyoto, etc.)
- Collaboration events at other local racecourses (Ohi, Kawasaki, etc.)
- Collaborative projects with horse racing museums
- Panel displays at racing-related facilities
These collaborations have contributed to revitalization of the racing industry, with further development expected.
Future Collaboration Event Prospects
Possibility of Continued Collaboration
The Funabashi Keiba × Uma Musume collaboration event was a major success, with regular future events anticipated.
Anticipated Developments
- Seasonal collaboration event hosting
- Projects coordinating new character releases
- Implementation of larger-scale events
- Installation of permanent collaboration corners
- Online-coordinated programs
Fan Expectations
Sustaining continued collaboration event hosting requires fan compliance with rules and understanding of the racecourse.
Expected of Fans
- Adherence to racecourse rules
- Consideration for other visitors
- Respect for horses and staff
- Appropriate betting (supporting the racecourse’s revenue)
- Positive social media information sharing
Maintaining an environment where Uma Musume fans and racing fans can both enjoy themselves is key to sustaining future collaboration.
Horse Racing Introduction for Uma Musume Fans
Basic Horse Racing Rules
For those interested in horse racing through Uma Musume, basic rules are explained here.
Horse Racing Fundamentals
- Race Types: Distance, track conditions, grade classifications
- Participant Horse Information: Pedigree, past performance, jockeys
- Betting Types: Win, place, quinella, trifecta, etc.
- Reading Odds: Relationship between popularity and payouts
- Race Development: Front-running, leading, closing gaps, late surges
Recommended Beginner Enjoyment Methods
There’s no need to attempt difficult predictions immediately. Various methods allow beginners to enjoy the experience.
Beginner-Friendly Approaches
- Start with 100-yen bets
- Select horses by name or jockey colors you like
- Observe horses at the paddock (preview area)
- Reference veteran fan predictions
- Enjoy the race observation itself
You’ll discover that knowledge learned from Uma Musume proves useful in actual racing.
Tourism Information Around Funabashi Racecourse
Spots enjoyable before and after racecourse visits are introduced here.
Tourist Attractions Within Funabashi
LaLaport TOKYO-BAY
- Approximately 10 minutes by car from the racecourse
- Large-scale shopping mall
- Diverse restaurants available
Funabashi Andersen Park
- Popular with families
- Seasonal flowers available
- Includes athletic facilities and museums
Funabashi Fishing Port
- Fresh seafood available
- Morning markets held
- Tokyo Bay scenery viewable
Dining Information
Funabashi City, facing Tokyo Bay, offers fresh seafood dining.
Recommended Cuisine
- Seafood dishes at Funabashi Fishing Port
- Izakaya establishments near Funabashi Station
- Funabashi Racecourse food court offerings
- Local specialty dishes
Combining horse racing observation with enjoying the Funabashi area is recommended.
Conclusion: Significance of Uma Musume × Funabashi Keiba Collaboration
The “Uma Musume Pretty Derby × Funabashi Keiba” collaboration event held in January 2024 represented a groundbreaking endeavor in merging entertainment content with traditional public gaming.
Collaboration Event Achievements
- Promotion of racecourse visits among new fan demographics
- Enhanced awareness of local horse racing
- Cross-generational interaction creation
- Contemporary updating of racing culture
- Regional economic contribution
Throughout the five-day event period, numerous projects were implemented including venue decoration, life-size panels, collaboration announcements, original goods giveaways, pop-up stores, and Animate Café pop-up editions. Particularly, original clear file and postcard giveaways along with the Uma Musume Collaboration Race generated significant response, with numerous social media posts.
Funabashi Racecourse, located in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture, boasts excellent access, a mere two-minute walk from Keisei Main Line’s “Funabashi Keiba” station. Centered on weekday evening night racing, the venue is easily accessible for after-work visits. Free admission further facilitates casual visitation.
The Uma Musume project, as multimedia content communicating racing appeal in new forms, anticipates further collaborations with various racecourses. With respect for actual racehorses maintained and adherence to racecourse rules and etiquette observed, culture enjoying both Uma Musume and horse racing together will expand, heightening the realization potential of further collaborations.
Through the collaboration event, Uma Musume fans encounter horse racing’s profound depth while racing fans discover Uma Musume content’s appeal. The Funabashi Keiba × Uma Musume collaboration event holds significant meaning as a venue for such mutual understanding and interaction. Continued hosting and further development are eagerly anticipated.
