[Complete Guide] Uma Musume Pretty Derby Fuchu Station (Tokyo) Sacred Site Pilgrimage Map | Access, Highlights, Photography Spots Thorough Explanation
In sacred site pilgrimage of “Uma Musume Pretty Derby,” Fuchu City, Tokyo, is an essential and important area. Fuchu City, set as the location of Tracen Academy, has many spots that actually exist, appearing in the anime and game. This article explains in detail the sacred site pilgrimage information, particularly around Fuchu Station.
The Relationship Between Uma Musume Pretty Derby and Fuchu
“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a story about “Uma Musume,” personified versions of actual racehorses, aiming for victory in the “Twinkle Series” alongside their trainer. Tracen Academy, which appears in the work, is set in Fuchu City, Tokyo, and many actual landscapes from Fuchu City appear in the story.
The reason Fuchu City was chosen as the setting is clear. This area is home to Tokyo Racecourse, the center of Japanese horse racing, where numerous G1 races including the Japan Derby are held. The fact that the dream stage the Uma Musume aim for and the place where their daily lives unfold are in the same area gives the story deep realism.
Basic Information and Access to Fuchu Station
Overview of Fuchu Station
Fuchu Station is located in Miya-cho 1-chome, Fuchu City, Tokyo, and is a major station of Keio Electric Railway. It is a limited express stop on the Keio Line and functions as the central station of Fuchu City. Commercial facilities and restaurants line the area around the station, and it serves as the gateway to Fuchu City.
Access Methods
Access by Train
- About 20 minutes from Shinjuku Station by Keio Line limited express
- About 30 minutes from Shibuya Station via Keio Inokashira Line → transfer at Meiji University → Keio Line
- About 40 minutes from Tokyo Station via JR Chuo Line → transfer at Shinjuku → Keio Line
Travel Time from Major Stations
- Shinjuku Station: About 20 minutes (when using limited express)
- Chofu Station: About 8 minutes
- Kichijoji Station: About 25 minutes (via Chuo Line → Shinjuku)
- Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station: 1 station on Keio Line (about 2 minutes)
Differences Between Fuchu Station and Higashi-Fuchu Station
What is often confused in sacred site pilgrimage are Fuchu Station and Higashi-Fuchu Station. These two stations are in different locations and play different roles in the anime.
Fuchu Station
- Major station on the Keio Line
- Located in the center of Fuchu City
- Appears as the nearest station to Tracen Academy in the game version
- The station plaza has access routes to shopping facilities and Okunitama Shrine
Higashi-Fuchu Station
- Station on the Keio Line (next to Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station)
- The station where Special Week first arrives in Episode 1 of the anime
- Setting for the memorable scene where she bumps into the gate at the ticket gate
- Also provides pedestrian access to Tokyo Racecourse
Anime and Game Appearance Scenes at Fuchu Station
Appearance in the Game Version
In the game “Uma Musume Pretty Derby,” Fuchu Station is set as the nearest station to Tracen Academy. The exterior of the station and the scenery in front of the station are faithfully reproduced, and among fans, the understanding that “Tracen Academy is located around Fuchu Station” has become established.
The landscape of the south exit of Fuchu Station, in particular, appears frequently in in-game event scenes and story. The station plaza’s rotary, the road leading to the zelkova tree-lined avenue, and other characteristic landscapes around Fuchu Station are incorporated into the work.
Appearances in Each Anime Season
Anime Seasons 1 and 2
In anime season 1, Higashi-Fuchu Station primarily appears, but scenery around Fuchu Station is also visible throughout. Particularly in scenes where Uma Musume walk through the city, actual landscapes from within Fuchu City are used as backgrounds.
Anime Season 3 (Road to the Top)
Fuchu Station appears more clearly in anime season 3. There is a scene depicting the area just to the left immediately after exiting the south ticket gate of Fuchu Station, which becomes a must-see point for sacred site pilgrims. The zelkova tree-lined avenue also appears, with the townscape of Fuchu deeply incorporated into the story.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots Around Fuchu Station
Fuchu Station South Exit Area
South Exit Ticket Gate
The area immediately to the left after exiting the south ticket gate of Fuchu Station is an important spot that appeared in anime season 3. Many fans take commemorative photos since the landscape at the moment of exiting the gate matches the work.
Station Plaza Rotary
The rotary in front of Fuchu Station serves as a model for the scenery appearing in the game version. The atmosphere of the modern station plaza with bus terminals and taxi stands expresses the urban atmosphere around Tracen Academy.
Zelkova Tree-Lined Avenue
The zelkova tree-lined avenue connecting Fuchu Station to Okunitama Shrine is a representative landscape of Fuchu City and appears in Uma Musume. Continuing for approximately 1 km, the tree-lined avenue displays different faces throughout the four seasons: fresh green in spring, deep green in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and bare branches in winter.
In anime season 3, a scene of walking along this zelkova tree-lined avenue appears, depicting the beautiful townscape of Fuchu. During sacred site pilgrimage, we recommend actually walking along it. Cafes and restaurants are located along the tree-lined avenue, making pilgrimage with rest breaks possible.
Okunitama Shrine
Located a 5-minute walk from Fuchu Station, Okunitama Shrine is a venerable shrine with over 1,900 years of history. It appears in the Uma Musume work and has become an important sacred site pilgrimage spot.
Pilgrimage Points
- The approach scenery appears in the anime
- The shrine’s atmosphere matches the work
- You can actually visit and pray for good luck in winning
- Commemorative stamps are also available
Okunitama Shrine is known as the Grand Shrine of Musashi Province and is said to have benefits for relationships and warding off misfortune. It is cherished not only by Uma Musume fans but also by local residents.
Access from Fuchu Station to Tokyo Racecourse
Access by Train
From Fuchu Station, you can easily access Tokyo Racecourse by Keio Line.
When Not on Race Days
- Fuchu Station → Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station: 1 station on Keio Line (about 2 minutes)
- Fare: 140 yen
- About 2 minutes walk from Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station to Tokyo Racecourse main gate
On Race Days
Extra trains are increased between Fuchu Station and Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station on race days. Additionally, a direct bus from Fuchu Station to Tokyo Racecourse may operate.
Access on Foot
The distance from Fuchu Station to Tokyo Racecourse is about 20 minutes on foot. Since you can enjoy the townscape of Fuchu along the way, walking is recommended when you have extra time.
Walking Route
- Exit Fuchu Station south exit
- Head east on Koshu Kaido
- Toward Fuchu City Art Museum
- Arrive at Tokyo Racecourse main gate
Other Sacred Site Spots Around Fuchu Station
Fuchu no Mori Park
Adjacent to Tokyo Racecourse, Fuchu no Mori Park is a metropolitan park with vast grounds. In Uma Musume, it sometimes appears as a background in scenes where Uma Musume train.
Park Features
- Spacious lawn plaza
- Jogging course
- Forest area
- Fuchu City Art Museum is adjacent
It is recommended to spend time leisurely in the park during sacred site pilgrimage. On fine days, it is crowded with many families and people enjoying sports.
Fuchu City Art Museum
Located within Fuchu no Mori Park, Fuchu City Art Museum is worth visiting as a nearby spot. In addition to permanent exhibitions, special exhibitions are regularly held, allowing for cultural experiences.
Commercial Facilities Around Fuchu Station
Isetan Fuchu
A department store directly connected to Fuchu Station where you can shop and dine. It is also convenient as a rest spot during sacred site pilgrimage.
Foris
A commercial facility at the south exit of Fuchu Station with a movie theater, restaurants, bookstores, and more. If looking for Uma Musume-related merchandise, check out the bookstore or anime shop.
Practical Sacred Site Pilgrimage Guide
Recommended Pilgrimage Routes
Half-Day Course (About 4 hours)
- Arrive at Fuchu Station (photograph at south exit ticket gate)
- Stroll through zelkova tree-lined avenue
- Visit Okunitama Shrine
- Return to Fuchu Station
- Go to Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station by Keio Line
- View Tokyo Racecourse
- Stroll through Fuchu no Mori Park
Full-Day Course (About 8 hours)
- Start at Higashi-Fuchu Station (follow Special Week’s footsteps)
- Walk to Tokyo Racecourse
- Detailed viewing of the racecourse
- Travel from Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station to Fuchu Station
- Lunch around Fuchu Station
- Sacred site pilgrimage of zelkova tree-lined avenue and Okunitama Shrine
- Relax in Fuchu no Mori Park
- View Fuchu City Art Museum (if time permits)
Photography Points
Photography at Fuchu Station
- Area immediately to the left after exiting the south exit
- Full view of the station plaza rotary
- Entrance to the zelkova tree-lined avenue
Precautions
- Be considerate so as not to disturb other users
- Avoid using tripods during crowded times
- Follow station staff instructions for photography within the station
- Photography permission may be required inside commercial facilities
Pilgrimage Packing Checklist
- Smartphone/Camera
- Mobile battery
- Transit IC card (Suica/PASMO)
- Beverages
- Rain gear (depending on weather)
- Map/pilgrimage map
- Notebook (for scene collection)
- Uma Musume app (confirm event scenes on-site)
Other Sacred Sites in the Fuchu Area
Higashi-Fuchu Station
This is the station where Special Week, coming up from Hokkaido, arrives first in Episode 1 of the anime. It became the setting for the memorable scene where she bumps into the gate at the ticket gate and is told by a station employee, “The nearest station to Tracen is the next one.”
Highlights
- Ticket gate (where Special Week bumps into the gate)
- Station exterior
- Scenery in front of the station
Higashi-Fuchu Station is the station next to Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station and is within walking distance to Tokyo Racecourse. It is recommended to visit it along with Fuchu Station.
Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station
Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station, which can be called the dedicated station for Tokyo Racecourse, is an important spot appearing in anime. From the station to the racecourse main gate is directly connected by a roofed passage, allowing movement without getting wet on rainy days.
Features
- Scenery right after going up the escalator (appeared in anime season 3)
- Atmosphere of the main gate passage
- Bustle on race days
On race days, extra trains are operated, and many racing fans gather. Many Uma Musume fans also visit, so you might encounter people with the same interests.
Tokyo Racecourse
In Uma Musume sacred site pilgrimage, Tokyo Racecourse is the most important spot. In the anime, numerous race scenes are depicted with this racecourse as the stage.
Main Highlights
- Paddock (where to view Uma Musume before the race)
- Winner’s Circle (place for commemorative photos after victory)
- Main track (the course where actual races are held)
- Stands (spectator seating)
- Fuji View Stand (viewpoint where Mt. Fuji can be seen)
Even on non-race days, some areas within the racecourse are available for viewing (confirmation required). Also, on race days, you can experience the world of Uma Musume while watching actual races.
Seasonal Ways to Enjoy Pilgrimage
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons in Fuchu. The zelkova tree-lined avenue displays beautiful fresh green, and cherry blossoms can also be enjoyed at Okunitama Shrine.
Spring Events
- Kuraiyami Festival (May): Grand Festival of Okunitama Shrine
- G1 races such as the Japan Derby (May) and Victoria Mile (May) are held at Tokyo Racecourse
Summer (June to August)
Summer is when the green becomes deeper and walking through Fuchu no Mori Park feels pleasant. However, heat countermeasures are essential.
Summer Precautions
- Heat stroke prevention (water intake, hats, sunscreen)
- Pilgrimage during cool early morning or evening hours is recommended
Fall (September to November)
Fall is the best season for Fuchu pilgrimage. The zelkova tree-lined avenue’s autumn foliage is beautiful, and the comfortable weather makes long pilgrimages comfortable.
Fall Events
- G1 racing season at Tokyo Racecourse (Emperor’s Cup Autumn, Japan Cup, Japan Cup Dirt, etc.)
- Zelkova tree-lined avenue autumn foliage (mid-November to early December)
Winter (December to February)
Winter is a season when tourists are few, allowing you to pilgrimage in peace. You can quietly visit sacred sites in the clear winter air.
Winter Events
- Arima Kinen (December): A grand race concluding the year
- New Year’s visit (Okunitama Shrine)
Gourmet and Rest Spots Around Fuchu Station
Restaurants Around the Station
Japanese Cuisine
Around Fuchu Station, there are various Japanese restaurants ranging from long-established restaurants to casual restaurants. Enjoying authentic Japanese cuisine during pilgrimage breaks is also recommended.
Cafes
Stylish cafes are scattered along the zelkova tree-lined avenue. Taking a break from pilgrimage and enjoying coffee while reflecting on the work is also enjoyable.
Fast Food and Chain Restaurants
Around Fuchu Station, convenient chain restaurants such as McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Saizeriya are well-stocked.
Racecourse Gourmet
There are diverse restaurants within Tokyo Racecourse. Special menus appear on race days, so be sure to check them out.
Accommodation Information
Since accommodation facilities are limited around Fuchu Station, when visiting from afar, accommodation in the following areas is recommended.
Shinjuku Area
- About 20 minutes by train to Fuchu Station
- Abundant accommodation facilities
- Good access to other tourist sites
Chofu Area
- About 8 minutes by train to Fuchu Station
- Relatively quiet and peaceful environment
- Accommodation fees cheaper than Shinjuku
Tachikawa Area
- About 20 minutes by bus or train to Fuchu Station
- Can also pilgrimage other Uma Musume sacred sites (Tachikawa)
- Excellent commercial facilities
Combined Pilgrimage with Other Sacred Sites
Complete Fuchu Area Conquest
A plan to visit all sacred sites in the Fuchu area starting from Fuchu Station in one day.
- Higashi-Fuchu Station
- Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station
- Tokyo Racecourse
- Fuchu no Mori Park
- Fuchu Station
- Zelkova tree-lined avenue
- Okunitama Shrine
Combined with Tachikawa Area
From Fuchu to Tachikawa is about 20 to 30 minutes by bus or train. Since there are also Uma Musume-related spots in the Tachikawa area, pilgrimage them together is also recommended.
Combined with Kichijoji Area
The Kichijoji area also has Uma Musume-related spots. From Fuchu to Kichijoji via Keio Line → Meiji University → Inokashira Line takes about 30 minutes.
Manners and Rules for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Basic Manners
- Consideration for Local Residents
- Do not make noise in residential areas
- Do not trespass on private property
- Always take your trash home
- Photography Precautions
- Be considerate of people who might be photographed
- Photograph in places that do not obstruct traffic
- Obtain permission before photographing inside shops
- Use of Public Transportation
- Avoid large luggage during crowded times
- Silence your mobile phone near priority seating
- Follow station staff instructions
Manners at the Racecourse
- Cosplay only in designated areas
- Photography of horses and jockeys may be restricted
- Watch races quietly
- Check betting methods in advance
Conclusion: The Appeal of Fuchu Station Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Fuchu Station and its surroundings are sacred sites where you can most deeply experience the world of Uma Musume Pretty Derby. Set as the nearest station to Tracen Academy, Fuchu Station has high frequency of appearances in the game version and has become a special place for fans.
Unlike Higashi-Fuchu Station and Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station that appear in anime, Fuchu Station is frequently depicted as the setting for everyday scenes, allowing you to feel the “ordinary daily lives” of the Uma Musume. You can also enjoy the beautiful townscape of Fuchu, including the zelkova tree-lined avenue and Okunitama Shrine, making it possible to spend fulfilling time not only as a sacred site pilgrimage but also as sightseeing.
The special environment where Tokyo Racecourse, the sacred site of Japanese horse racing, and the sacred site of Uma Musume are in the same area is a charm unique to Fuchu. Being able to immerse yourself in the world of Uma Musume while watching actual horse racing is an experience you cannot have at other sacred sites.
It is also appealing that you can efficiently visit sacred sites starting from Fuchu Station, including Higashi-Fuchu Station, Fuchu Racecourse Seimon-mae Station, Tokyo Racecourse, Fuchu no Mori Park, and Okunitama Shrine on foot and by train. Please take a half day to a full day and leisurely visit the sacred sites.
For Uma Musume fans, Fuchu is a special place where new discoveries await no matter how many times you visit. When you actually see the landscapes you saw in anime and games, your love for the work will deepen further. Please use this article as a reference and enjoy the sacred site pilgrimage around Fuchu Station.
