【Uma Musume Pretty Derby】Complete Guide to Higashi-Fuchu Station | Sacred Site Pilgrimage Highlights and Photography Spots Thoroughly Explained
The Relationship Between Higashi-Fuchu Station and Uma Musume Pretty Derby
Higashi-Fuchu Station is the memorable location where the protagonist Special Week first set foot in Tokyo in the first episode of the popular anime “Uma Musume Pretty Derby,” titled “Dream Gate!” The impressive scene where Special Week, who came from Hokkaido, crashes into the gate not knowing how to pass through the ticket barrier, has remained in the memory of many fans.
Located in Shimizugaoka, Fuchu City, Tokyo, this station is an important hub of Keio Electric Railway, known as the intersection of the Keio Line and the Keio Racecourse Line. In the anime, it appears as the station one before the “Fuchu Racecourse Main Entrance Station” where Special Week should have originally gotten off, serving as a symbolic setting that represents her innocence and unfamiliarity with the city.
What is Uma Musume Pretty Derby?
“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a youth sports story where actual racehorses transformed into beautiful girls run toward their dreams at Tracen Academy. The first season anime aired in 2018, followed by the release of a game app and the production of seasons 2 and 3, continuing to captivate many fans.
The story centers on the actual Tokyo Racecourse and surrounding areas. With many real locations centered on Fuchu City appearing in the narrative, the area has become a popular sacred site pilgrimage destination. Higashi-Fuchu Station, in particular, holds special meaning for anime fans as an emblematic sacred site.
Basic Information and Access to Higashi-Fuchu Station
Station Overview
Address: 〒183-0015 Higashioka 1-chome, Fuchu City, Tokyo
Higashi-Fuchu Station is operated by Keio Electric Railway, with two lines—the Keio Line and the Keio Racecourse Line—running through it. It is also the starting point of the Keio Racecourse Line and becomes crowded with racing fans on race days at the Tokyo Racecourse.
Access Methods
From Shinjuku Station:
- Approximately 20 minutes by Keio Limited Express or Semi-Express, transferring to local service at Chofu Station
- Approximately 30 minutes by Keio local service (direct)
From Shibuya Station:
- Approximately 10 minutes by Keio Inokashira Line to Meidaimae Station, then approximately 20 minutes by Keio Line
From Tokyo Station:
- Approximately 15 minutes by JR Chuo Line to Shinjuku Station, then approximately 20 minutes by Keio Line
Outside of race days, the station is relatively quiet, but with the anime as its setting, fans conducting sacred site pilgrimages can be seen visiting, particularly on weekends.
Nearby Parking Information
If visiting by car, there are several coin parking lots around the station.
Times Higashi-Fuchu Station Front
- Address: 〒183-0005 Fuchu City, Wakamatsu-cho 1-chome, 3, Tokyo
- Approximately 2 minutes walk from the station
- Open 24 hours
However, on race days, surrounding roads become congested and parking lots fill up quickly, so using public transportation is recommended.
Explanation of Famous Scenes from Anime Episode 1
Special Week’s Journey to Tokyo
In Episode 1, Special Week comes to Tokyo from Hokkaido to pursue her dreams. Her expression as she gazes out the window from inside the train shows a mixture of anticipation and anxiety. In the anime, the interior of the train heading to Fuchu Racecourse Main Entrance is depicted carefully, with the actual Keio Line train design faithfully recreated.
On non-race days, the Keio Line train interior is relatively empty, and the anime depicts this emptiness. This quiet atmosphere accentuates Special Week’s emotional state as someone from the countryside, serving as an effective narrative technique.
The Impressive Ticket Gate Scene
The most impressive scene at Higashi-Fuchu Station is the ticket gate sequence. Special Week, unaware of how to insert a ticket into the ticket machine, attempts to pass through without doing so and crashes into the gate. This scene, as a symbolic representation of her rural upbringing and innocent character, serves as an important moment in the story.
The image of her being worried over by a station attendant expresses her unfamiliarity with the city and innocent charm, capturing the hearts of many viewers. The actual ticket barrier structure at Higashi-Fuchu Station matches nearly identically with what is depicted in the anime, allowing for photographs from the same angle during sacred site pilgrimages.
Station Map Scene
A scene where Special Week views a station map appears in the anime. However, there is actually no map installed at the real Higashi-Fuchu Station where it is depicted in the anime. This is likely an element added as an anime artistic liberty.
The cuts filmed inside the station contain finely detailed depictions of the station’s clock and information boards, with the actual station atmosphere faithfully recreated.
Detailed Photography Spots for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Ticket Gate Area
Photography Point: In front of the ticket gate
The ticket barrier at Higashi-Fuchu Station is where the most crucial scene in the anime unfolds. The automatic ticket gate that Special Week crashes into is currently installed in the same location, allowing for photographs from the same angle as in the anime.
Notes for Photography:
- Entry fee required for photographing inside the ticket gate
- Avoid during commuting and student hours
- Be considerate not to inconvenience other users
- Refrain from flash photography
Photography is possible even from outside the barrier, but to capture the same angle as in the anime, entry inside the barrier is necessary. Entry tickets can be purchased from ticket machines at the station.
Platform Area
Photography Point: Keio Line downbound platform
The scene where Special Week exits the train can be photographed at the actual Higashi-Fuchu Station platform. Photography from a composition similar to the anime is possible from the platform heading toward Fuchu Racecourse Main Entrance.
Recommended Photography Times:
- Weekday mornings (relatively uncrowded)
- Non-race day weekends
When photographing on the platform, be sure not to interfere with train operations and avoid inconveniencing other passengers. Photograph within the yellow safety line and never enter the tracks.
Station Exterior
Photography Point: Station building viewed from the front plaza
The exterior of the station also appears in the anime. Higashi-Fuchu Station has a relatively compact structure, allowing for full photographs from the station front plaza. The station building is depicted in the background as Special Week heads toward the Tokyo Racecourse.
Walking Route to Tokyo Racecourse
Route Depicted in the Anime
Special Week walks from Higashi-Fuchu Station to Tokyo Racecourse. Since she got off one station early at Higashi-Fuchu instead of the intended Fuchu Racecourse Main Entrance, she takes this route.
Duration: Approximately 15 to 20 minutes walk
Distance: Approximately 1.2 km
Detailed Actual Walking Route
- Exit North Exit of Higashi-Fuchu Station
- From the ticket barrier, head left toward the North Exit
- Head North on Fuchu-Kaido
- Continue straight on the main road in front of the station toward Tokyo Racecourse
- Tokyo Racecourse Entrance
- Arrive at the racecourse perimeter in approximately 15 minutes
- The main gate is approximately 5 minutes further
In the anime, Special Week is depicted running to reach her destination. Actually walking this route provides a valuable opportunity to experience her emotions firsthand.
Highlights Along the Route
Several landscapes appearing in the anime remain along the walking route. The streetscape along Fuchu-Kaido in particular was used as background scenery in the series, serving as one of the pleasures of sacred site pilgrimage.
Outside of race days, the route passes through a quiet residential area, allowing for leisurely enjoyment of the scenery. The area displays different faces depending on the season.
Differences from Fuchu Racecourse Main Entrance Station
The Station Where She Should Have Gotten Off
Fuchu Racecourse Main Entrance Station is located as the closest station to Tokyo Racecourse, serving as the terminus of the Keio Racecourse Line. It is approximately one station and about 2 minutes from Higashi-Fuchu Station.
Characteristics of Fuchu Racecourse Main Entrance Station:
- Approximately 2 minutes walk to Tokyo Racecourse
- Very crowded on race days
- May be closed on non-race days
Why Special Week Got Off at Higashi-Fuchu Station
In the story’s setting, Special Week mistakenly got off at Higashi-Fuchu Station, one station before the nearest station to Tracen Academy. This “mistake” serves as important character development, effectively emphasizing her setting as an innocent rural girl unfamiliar with the city.
In reality, the locations that served as models for Tracen Academy are believed to be combinations of multiple Fuchu City facilities, with no definitive “nearest station” specified.
How to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimage and Proper Etiquette
Basic Etiquette for Photography
Sacred site pilgrimage is an enjoyable experience, but when visiting actual locations, consideration for local residents and other users is essential.
Etiquette to Observe:
- Do not trespass on private property without permission
- Avoid loud noise
- Always take litter with you
- Do not interfere with station operations
- Be considerate not to inconvenience other users
- Check surroundings before using tripods
- Avoid occupying locations for extended periods
In particular, Higashi-Fuchu Station is an actively operated station used daily by many people. There are cases where photography has been prohibited due to etiquette violations during sacred site pilgrimages, requiring careful attention.
Recommended Times to Visit
Weekday Mornings:
- Around 10am to 12pm, avoiding the morning commute
- Relatively uncrowded, making photography easier
Non-race Day Weekends:
- The station area is quiet, closer to the anime’s atmosphere
- Allows for leisurely sacred site pilgrimage
Times to Avoid:
- Race days (especially G1 race days)
- Weekday commuting and student hours (7-9am, 5-7pm)
On race days, the station becomes extremely crowded, making photography nearly impossible. It is recommended to check the JRA official website for race schedules before visiting.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Kit
Items useful to bring when visiting Higashi-Fuchu Station:
- Smartphone/Camera: For comparative photography
- Anime screenshots: For composition reference
- Small change for entry tickets: For photographing inside the barrier
- Comfortable walking shoes: For walking to Tokyo Racecourse
- Beverages: Essential especially in summer
- Sacred site pilgrimage notebook: For record-keeping
Related Sacred Sites in Surrounding Areas
Tokyo Racecourse
Address: 1-1 Hiyoshi-cho, Fuchu City, Tokyo
Tokyo Racecourse is the most important setting in the Uma Musume world. In the anime, numerous race scenes are depicted using this racecourse as a model.
Highlights:
- Turf Vision (large video display)
- Paddock (parade ring)
- Winner’s Circle
- Grandstand exterior
Admission is required on race days, though weekday guided tours are also offered. However, the facility is generally closed on non-race days, so advance confirmation is necessary.
Other Spots in Fuchu City
Around Fuchu Station:
In the game version of Uma Musume, Fuchu Station is believed to be a likely model for Tracen Academy’s nearest station. The station front scenery and shopping arcade atmosphere are noted as resembling in-game backgrounds.
Tamagawa Riverside:
The riverside appears in the background of training scenes. The actual Tamagawa riverbank is bustling with people enjoying running and cycling.
Other Sacred Sites in Tokyo
Harajuku and Omotesando Area:
Urban scenery appearing in shopping scenes. Aspects of the Uma Musume girls’ daily lives are depicted here.
Kichijoji Area:
There are shopping streets and parks used as background scenery in certain scenes.
Voices from Fans Who Have Visited
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Experience Reports
Many Uma Musume fans have visited Higashi-Fuchu Station and shared their experiences on SNS and blogs.
Common Impressions:
- “I was moved seeing the scenery from the anime exactly as it is”
- “Seeing the ticket gate helped me understand Special Week’s feelings”
- “Walking to Tokyo Racecourse gave me a sense of the actual distance”
- “The quiet atmosphere of the weekday station matched the anime’s worldview perfectly”
Photography Tips
Advice from fans who have conducted sacred site pilgrimages:
- Preparation for Comparative Photography:
- Prepare anime screenshots beforehand
- Take time finding the same angle
- Time Selection:
- Morning with natural light is recommended
- Evening tends to create backlighting
- Multiple Visits:
- Don’t try to capture everything on one visit
- Visiting at different seasons and times reveals new discoveries
History and Present of Higashi-Fuchu Station
Station History
Higashi-Fuchu Station opened in 1916 (Taisho 5). Originally named “Racecourse Front Station,” it was renamed to the current “Higashi-Fuchu Station” in 1955.
As the starting point of the Keio Racecourse Line, it has long served as an access point to Tokyo Racecourse. Temporary ticket gates are installed on race days, reflecting the station’s deep connection with the racecourse.
Station Structure
Platform Configuration:
- One island-type platform with 2 faces and 4 tracks
- Keio Line (toward Shinjuku and Hashimoto)
- Keio Racecourse Line (toward Fuchu Racecourse Main Entrance)
Station Facilities:
- One ticket gate (North Exit only)
- Equipped with elevators and escalators
- Barrier-free accessible
Changes Since Uma Musume
Since the broadcast of “Uma Musume Pretty Derby,” fans conducting sacred site pilgrimages have visited Higashi-Fuchu Station. Camera-carrying fans can be spotted especially on weekends and holidays.
While the station itself has no special decorations or collaboration projects, it has become recognized among local residents as a sacred site for Uma Musume, with an atmosphere of warm acceptance toward fans.
Nearby Restaurants and Rest Spots
Cafes and Restaurants Around the Station
A few dining options to visit during sacred site pilgrimage:
Chain Stores in Front of the Station:
- Fast food restaurants
- Cafe chains
- Convenience stores
The area around Higashi-Fuchu Station is primarily residential, so large commercial facilities are limited, but basic dining options are available. Moving to Fuchu Station provides more choices.
Places to Rest
Station Front Plaza:
Though small, benches are installed for brief rest periods.
Tokyo Racecourse (Race Days Only):
Numerous restaurants and rest areas exist within the racecourse. However, admission is required.
Photography Equipment and Setting Advice
Recommended Camera Settings
Smartphone Photography:
- Enable HDR mode
- Display grid for composition confirmation
- Use burst mode for multiple shots
DSLR/Mirrorless Camera:
- Wide-angle lens (24mm to 35mm) is convenient
- ISO sensitivity: 400-800 (indoors), 100-200 (outdoors)
- Aperture: F8-F11 for overall focus
Composition Tips
Tips for capturing the same composition as the anime:
- Match Height: Eye level of Special Week (approximately 150cm)
- Adjust Distance: Try various distances from the subject
- Check Background: Be careful not to capture unnecessary elements
- Keep Level: Be conscious of horizontal and vertical lines
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March to May)
During cherry blossom season, street trees around the station bloom beautifully. Along the way to Tokyo Racecourse, you can enjoy cherry blossom-lined streets.
Recommended Points:
- Collaboration of cherry blossoms and station building
- Spring G1 season brings more activity to the racecourse
Summer (June to August)
While heatstroke prevention measures are necessary, the contrast between blue sky and station building is beautiful during summer.
Notes:
- Take thorough heatstroke precautions
- Strong sunlight requires hats and sunscreen
Fall (September to November)
Fall is also the G1 season for racing, when the Tokyo Racecourse area is most active. Autumn leaves are also beautiful, making it an ideal season for photography.
Recommended Points:
- Combination of autumn leaves and station building
- Clear autumn days are optimal for photography
Winter (December to February)
Winter offers clear, crisp air, allowing for crystal-clear photographs. However, cold-weather protection is essential.
Recommended Points:
- Winter’s transparent atmosphere
- Night scenery during illumination season
Using Contactless IC Cards and Entry Tickets
Entry Tickets for Photography Inside the Barrier
To photograph inside the barrier from the same angle as the anime, an entry ticket purchase is necessary.
How to Purchase Entry Tickets:
- Select “Entry Ticket” at the station’s ticket machine
- Pay the fare (140 yen as of 2024)
- Pass through the barrier and photograph
- Exit within 2 hours (additional charges apply for exceeding)
Notes:
- Entry tickets cannot be used to board trains
- Valid for 2 hours
- Must enter and exit from the same station
Using Contactless IC Cards
Contactless IC cards such as Suica and PASMO can be used as entry tickets. Touch the card when entering the barrier and again when exiting, and the entry fee is settled.
Uma Musume Related Event Information
Periodic Events
Tokyo Racecourse occasionally hosts collaboration events with Uma Musume.
Past Event Examples:
- Uma Musume Collaboration Races
- Voice actor talk shows
- Life-size panel displays
- Original merchandise sales
How to Obtain Event Information
Official Information Sources:
- Uma Musume Official Twitter
- JRA Official Website
- Keio Electric Railway Official Website
- Fuchu City Tourism Information Website
During event periods, expect unusually high crowding, making it advisable to plan visits with flexible schedules.
Conclusion: The Appeal of Higashi-Fuchu Station Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Higashi-Fuchu Station holds special meaning for many fans as the symbolic location where the story of Uma Musume Pretty Derby begins. The scene where Special Week first arrives in Tokyo and crashes into the ticket gate is an important moment that defines her character and concentrates the series’ appeal.
By visiting the actual location, you can deepen your understanding of the anime’s world and connect emotionally with the characters. Retracing the walking route to Tokyo Racecourse allows you to experience the footsteps Special Week follows.
When conducting sacred site pilgrimages, it is important to be mindful of local residents and other users, following proper etiquette and rules. By selecting appropriate times and following photography guidelines, the sacred site pilgrimage environment can be maintained for long-term enjoyment.
Higashi-Fuchu Station, where you can feel the Uma Musume world at an actual location. Please visit at least once and confirm the anime’s iconic scenes with your own eyes. Your affection for the series will surely deepen.
