The Relationship Between Ōkunitama Shrine and Uma Musume Pretty Derby
Ōkunitama Shrine (大國魂神社) is an ancient shrine with a history of approximately 1900 years, located in Fuchu, Tokyo. This shrine is known as one of the important sacred sites for Uma Musume Pretty Derby fans.
Why Ōkunitama Shrine is a Sacred Site for Uma Musume
The reason Ōkunitama Shrine is considered a sacred site lies in its location. The shrine is positioned just near Tokyo Racecourse, and Fuchu City is one of the centers of Japanese horse racing. Uma Musume Pretty Derby is a work that personifies racehorses, and facilities and shrines in the vicinity of actual racecourses are deeply connected to the world of the work.
Ōkunitama Shrine is also known as a place where horse racing enthusiasts and fans visit to pray for fortune and guaranteed victory, making it a pilgrimage destination among fans as a place where the worldview of Uma Musume intersects with real horse racing culture.
Depictions in the Work and Actual Scenery
In Uma Musume Pretty Derby’s anime and games, the landscapes around Fuchu are faithfully reproduced. The characteristic approach, torii gate, and atmosphere of the grounds at Ōkunitama Shrine are familiar to many fans through the work.
When you actually visit, the scenery you saw in the anime overlaps with the real landscape, giving you the sensation of entering the world of the work. In particular, the tree-lined approach with zelkova trees displays beauty throughout the four seasons, allowing you to enjoy different appearances depending on the season of your visit.
Basic Information About Ōkunitama Shrine
History and Origins of the Shrine
Ōkunitama Shrine is said to have been founded in 111 AD (the 41st year of Emperor Keiko) and is the primary shrine of Musashi Province. It is also called “Rokusho Shrine” because it enshrined six shrines throughout Musashi Province, and has long been revered as a central shrine in Musashi Province.
The principal deity is Ōkunitama no Ōkami, worshipped as a god of fortune, matchmaking, and warding off evil and calamities. As the guardian spirit of Musashi Province, it is also the protective deity of the entire region.
Notable Sights Within the Grounds
Main Hall
The current main hall was built in 1667 (Kanmon 7) and is designated as a tangible cultural property of Tokyo. It is characterized by its sturdy construction and exquisite carvings, allowing visitors to appreciate the essence of Edo-period shrine architecture.
Zuishin Gate
The Zuishin Gate standing at the entrance of the grounds was rebuilt in 2010 (Heisei 22). Its vivid vermillion color makes it popular as a photography spot.
Zelkova Tree-Lined Approach
The zelkova trees lining the approach are designated as a national natural monument. The sight of giant trees, several hundred years old, standing in a row is awe-inspiring, with many visitors arriving especially during the season of fresh green leaves or when autumn leaves turn color.
Treasure Hall
The shrine houses many cultural properties, and the Treasure Hall holds regular exhibitions. Visitors can view historical documents and sacred treasures, items of high historical value.
Access
Access by Train
From Keio Fuchu Station
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from the south exit of Keio Fuchu Station
- The most convenient access method
- The approach continues from the station, making it easy to find your way
From JR Fuchu-Hommachi Station
- Approximately 8 minutes on foot from JR Nambu Line/Musashino Line Fuchu-Hommachi Station
- Convenient if using JR lines
From JR Musashi-Koganei Station
- About 10 minutes by bus, get off at “Ōkunitama Shrine” bus stop
Access by Car
From Chuo Expressway
- About 10 minutes from Inagi IC
- About 10 minutes from Kokuritsu-Fuchu IC
Parking Information
- The shrine’s parking lot is free for visitors
- Capacity is approximately 150 vehicles
- May reach full capacity during peak times such as New Year’s and festivals
- There are several coin parking lots in the surrounding area
Access from Tokyo Racecourse
Many Uma Musume fans visit both Tokyo Racecourse and Ōkunitama Shrine on a pilgrimage. The distance from Tokyo Racecourse to Ōkunitama Shrine is approximately 15 minutes on foot.
On race days, many visitors from the racecourse can be seen making prayers. The sight of horse racing fans visiting to pray for victory before races or to give thanks after races is a unique feature of this shrine.
Tips for Visiting
Visiting Hours
- The grounds are accessible 24 hours a day
- The office hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Seal stamps and amulets are also available during office hours
Proper Etiquette When Visiting
- Make a bow before passing through the torii gate
- Walk to the side of the approach, avoiding the center (the center is considered the path of the gods)
- Purify your hands and mouth at the water basin
- Perform the proper ritual of two bows, two claps, and one bow before the main hall
Recommended Visiting Times
Early morning (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM)
With few people around, you can pray in a quiet setting. Praying in the fresh, clear morning air is particularly special.
Weekday mornings
Relatively uncrowded, allowing you to leisurely explore the grounds.
Late afternoon (4:00 PM to 5:00 PM)
The grounds illuminated by the setting sun create a mystical atmosphere. This time is also recommended for photography.
Seal Stamps and Amulets
Seal Stamp Information
Ōkunitama Shrine offers not only standard seal stamps but also seasonal limited editions.
Standard Seal Stamp
- Initial offering: 500 yen
- Available at the office
- Available both in pre-written and hand-written versions
Limited Edition Seal Stamps
- Limited seal stamps are offered during special times such as Kuraiyami Festival and New Year
- Many feature special designs and are popular with collectors
Seal Stamp Books
- Original seal stamp books are also available
- Beautifully designed with the zelkova tree-lined approach and main hall
- Initial offering: approximately 1,500 to 2,000 yen
Recommended Amulets
Victory Amulet (Kachi-Mamori)
Popular among horse racing fans and those facing competitions. Among Uma Musume fans, many purchase this amulet wishing for the victory of their favorite character.
Good Matchmaking Amulet
Ōkunitama no Ōkami is also known as a god of matchmaking. Recommended for those wishing for a good relationship.
Evil Removal Amulet
An amulet said to bring benefits of warding off evil and calamities.
Traffic Safety Amulet
Popular among those who frequently travel by car or motorcycle.
Annual Events and Festivals
Kuraiyami Festival (April 30 – May 6)
The most important festival at Ōkunitama Shrine is the “Kuraiyami Festival.” It is designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Tokyo and is considered one of the three major unusual festivals of the Kanto region.
Highlights
- Portable shrine procession on May 5
- Sound of large drums
- Festival float processions
- Komakurabe (horse racing ritual)
The festival period draws approximately 700,000 visitors, and the entire city of Fuchu becomes filled with festival spirit. For Uma Musume fans, the Komakurabe ritual, which involves horses, is a particularly interesting point.
Plum Festival (July 20)
Also known as “Karasu Uchiwa Festival,” this is a summer festival. Plums are sold, and karasu fans and karasu fans are distributed.
Annual Festival (October)
The autumn grand festival also draws many worshippers. Sacred dances are performed and various events are held.
New Year’s Visit (January 1-3)
Approximately 500,000 people visit for New Year prayers during the first three days of January. Although it is very crowded, the sight of so many people coming to pray for the new year is spectacular.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Guide for Uma Musume Fans
Photography Spots
Zelkova Tree-Lined Approach
The zelkova tree-lined approach, which displays beauty throughout the four seasons, is a must-photograph spot. Particularly recommended during the season of fresh green leaves or autumn foliage.
Zuishin Gate
The vividly colored vermillion gate is popular as an Instagram-worthy photography spot.
Before the Main Hall
A photo with the solemn main hall in the background becomes a memorable keepsake of your pilgrimage.
Manners and Precautions
Photography Etiquette
- Be considerate not to disturb other visitors
- Judge whether to use a tripod based on the surrounding situation
- Avoid or minimize photography during festivals or crowded times
Visiting Etiquette
- Do not speak loudly
- Do not run
- Take your trash with you
- Remember this is a sacred place
About Cosplay
- Cosplay within the grounds should generally be avoided
- Change clothes in designated areas
- Permission from the shrine may be required
Recommended Pilgrimage Route
Half-Day Course
- Arrive at Fuchu Station
- Visit Ōkunitama Shrine (60 minutes)
- Explore the Baba-Daigon zelkova tree-lined area (20 minutes)
- Fuchu City Local History Museum (60 minutes)
- Lunch near Fuchu Station
Full-Day Course
- Arrive at Fuchu Station
- Visit Ōkunitama Shrine (90 minutes)
- Visit Tokyo Racecourse (120 minutes)
- Lunch (at the racecourse or near Fuchu Station)
- Fuchu City Local History Museum (60 minutes)
- Explore Fuchu no Mori Park (60 minutes)
- Dinner near Fuchu Station
Nearby Sacred Sites
Tokyo Racecourse
Located approximately 15 minutes on foot from Ōkunitama Shrine, Tokyo Racecourse is the setting itself for Uma Musume.
Highlights
- You can watch actual races on race days
- Horsemanship Park allows interaction with horses
- Uma Musume-related events are sometimes held
- The JRA Racing Museum allows you to learn about the history of horse racing
Access
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Fuchu Station
- Free shuttle buses operate from Fuchu Station on race days
Fuchu City Local History Museum
This museum allows visitors to learn about the history and culture of Fuchu. Exhibitions related to horse racing and horses are also on display, making the content interesting for Uma Musume fans as well.
Baba-Daigon Zelkova Tree-Lined Approach
The zelkova tree-lined approach, maintained as the approach to Ōkunitama Shrine, is designated as a national natural monument. The landscape of approximately 150 zelkova trees stretching about 500 meters is awe-inspiring.
Dining and Souvenir Information
Dining Around Fuchu
Fuchu Specialty Dishes
- Fuchu-yaki: Fuchu’s local cuisine
- Racecourse curry: A specialty of Tokyo Racecourse
- Cafes along the zelkova tree-lined approach
Recommended Restaurants
- Historic Japanese confectionery shops are scattered throughout the approach
- The area around Fuchu Station has restaurants of various genres
- Gourmet food from within the racecourse can be enjoyed on race days
Souvenirs
Souvenirs from Ōkunitama Shrine
- Various amulets
- Seal stamp books
- Shrine original merchandise
Souvenirs from Fuchu
- Fuchu specialty confections
- Products inspired by the zelkova tree-lined approach
- Horse racing merchandise (purchased at the racecourse)
Accommodation Information
There are few accommodation facilities around Fuchu, so for those wishing to stay during a pilgrimage, it is recommended to use hotels in nearby areas such as Shinjuku or Tachikawa.
Areas with Good Access
- Shinjuku: About 20 minutes to Fuchu by Keio Line
- Tachikawa: About 10 minutes to Fuchu-Hommachi by JR Nambu Line
- Chofu: About 10 minutes to Fuchu by Keio Line
Attractions by Season
Spring (March to May)
- Cherry blossoms bloom (late March to early April)
- Kuraiyami Festival (April 30 – May 6)
- Beautiful fresh green foliage on the zelkova trees
- Spring G1 races are held at Tokyo Racecourse
Summer (June to August)
- Plum Festival (July 20)
- The lush grounds provide a cool sensation
- Early morning visits are recommended during this season
Autumn (September to November)
- Autumn foliage of the zelkova tree-lined approach (mid to late November)
- Annual Festival (October)
- Autumn G1 races are held at Tokyo Racecourse
- The most pleasant weather, ideal season for exploring
Winter (December to February)
- New Year’s visit (January 1-3)
- Prayers in clear, crisp air
- The winter zelkova tree-lined approach also has its charm
Summary: What You Should Know Before Visiting Ōkunitama Shrine
Ōkunitama Shrine is not only a sacred site to visit as a Uma Musume Pretty Derby pilgrimage destination, but also a place of deep cultural value as a historic shrine with 1900 years of history.
Best Season for Visiting
Recommended are April to May when the fresh green foliage of the zelkova trees is beautiful, or November when the autumn leaves are at their peak. The period during Kuraiyami Festival is particularly lively, though crowds are also to be expected.
Estimated Time Required
For a simple shrine visit, plan on 30 minutes to 1 hour; for a leisurely exploration, plan on 1.5 to 2 hours.
Packing Checklist
- Camera (smartphone is also fine)
- Seal stamp book (if you collect seal stamps)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Seasonal clothing
- Beverages (especially in summer)
In Conclusion
When visiting Ōkunitama Shrine as a sacred site pilgrimage for Uma Musume Pretty Derby, remember that it is a sacred place with the faith of many people and visit while observing proper etiquette. By touching the history and culture of the shrine, your understanding of the work will deepen further.
While fully experiencing the atmosphere of “the horse racing town” woven by the city of Fuchu, Tokyo Racecourse, and Ōkunitama Shrine, experience the world of Uma Musume. This will surely be a memorable sacred site pilgrimage that deepens your affection for the work even further.
