【Uma Musume: Pretty Derby】Complete Guide to Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance (Tokyo) – Definitive Edition for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Introduction: Why Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance Has Become a Sacred Site for Uma Musume
In the anime and games of “Uma Musume: Pretty Derby,” Fuchu City in Tokyo is featured as a major setting. Among these locations, the area around Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic has become an important sacred site in the Fuchu Station vicinity that attracts many fans.
This article comprehensively explains everything needed for sacred site exploration, including detailed information about scenes from the anime at this location, access methods, photography tips, and nearby sacred site information centered on Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance.
Uma Musume: Pretty Derby Overview
Work Overview
“Uma Musume: Pretty Derby” is a multimedia content project developed by Cygames. With the setting of “Uma Musume” (anthropomorphized real racehorses) competing for victory in races called the Twinkle Series, the work has gained high popularity by bringing familiarity to the world of horse racing.
Anime Series Development
- Season 1: Special Week (nicknamed “Speсhan”) as the protagonist
- Season 2: The story of Tokai Teio and Mejiro Mcqueen
- Season 3: Development centered on Kitasan Black
- Movie “New Era Door”: New challenges for Uma Musume
Through these works, numerous real locations centered on Fuchu City, Tokyo are featured and have become fan pilgrimage destinations.
Basic Information About Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance
Location and Access
Address: Fuchu City, Miyaminishi-cho 1-chome (around Fuchu Station North Exit), Tokyo
Nearest Stations:
- Approximately 2-minute walk from Fuchu Station North Exit on Keio Line
- Approximately 15-minute walk from Fuchu Honcho Station on JR Musashino Line/Nambu Line
From Fuchu Station North Exit, heading left will lead you to the location quickly. Due to its very close proximity to the station, many fans visit this as their first sacred site.
Scenes in Anime
Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance appears as background scenery in scenes where Uma Musume walk through Fuchu’s streets and in daily-life moments. Particularly when depicting the streetscape around Fuchu Station, the characteristic buildings and signage of this location can be confirmed.
The anime faithfully recreates the actual location, with careful depiction of sign placement and surrounding buildings’ arrangement, making it a spot where visitors experience a strong sense of “This is it!” when visiting.
Photography Precautions
Since Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance is around an active medical facility, the following points require attention:
- Be considerate so as not to interfere with operations
- Avoid loud conversations and noise
- Avoid prolonged stays
- Photograph from positions that don’t obstruct pedestrian traffic
- Strictly prohibit trespassing on private property
- Always take trash with you
Sacred site pilgrimage is possible only with the understanding of local residents and facilities. Let’s enjoy pilgrimage while observing proper etiquette.
Complete Guide to Sacred Sites Around Fuchu Station
When visiting Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance, it’s recommended to explore nearby sacred sites together. Numerous sacred sites are concentrated within walking distance around Fuchu Station.
Fuchu Station North Exit Area
Fuchu Station North Exit
The Fuchu Station North Exit that appeared in Season 3 of the anime is depicted in scenes where Uma Musume use the station. Located immediately after exiting the station ticket gate, it’s an important spot on the way to Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance.
KURURU (Fuchu City Citizen Activity Center)
The complex facility “KURURU” right next to Fuchu Station North Exit has its distinctive exterior featured in the anime. This glass-walled modern building is one of the places symbolizing Fuchu’s streetscape.
Fuchu Station South Exit Area
Former Nomura Securities Fuchu Branch
This building located around Fuchu Station South Exit also appears in anime backgrounds. It’s depicted as an important element comprising Fuchu’s streetscape.
Okuunitama Shrine (Ookunitama Jinja)
Located approximately 5 minutes’ walk from Fuchu Station South Exit, this historic shrine is also a sacred site model in the game version of Uma Musume. The shrine’s atmosphere and approach’s scenery are reflected in the work. As the Grand Shrine of Musashi Province with over 1,900 years of history, it’s a venerable shrine.
Babadaimon Avenue of Zelkova Trees
The approach road from Fuchu Station leading to Okuunitama Shrine is famous for its avenue of zelkova trees designated as a National Natural Monument. It appeared in Season 3 of the anime, with the “Statue of Minamoto no Yoshiie, Hachiman Taro” also becoming one of the sacred sites.
The zelkova avenue changes its appearance with the seasons—fresh green in spring, deep green in summer, autumn colors in fall, and fallen leaves in winter—offering beautiful scenery whenever you visit.
Sacred Sites in Tokyo Racecourse Area
Access to Tokyo Racecourse
From Fuchu Station where Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance is located, you can access Tokyo Racecourse, the most important Uma Musume setting, using the following methods:
Using Keio Racecourse Line:
- Board Keio Racecourse Line from Fuchu Station
- Get off at Fuchu Racecourse Main Gate Station (approximately 2 minutes travel time)
- Approximately 2-minute walk from the station to Tokyo Racecourse
By Foot:
- From Fuchu Station toward Higashi-Fuchu Station
- Approximately 10 minutes’ walk from Higashi-Fuchu Station to Tokyo Racecourse
- Total distance approximately 2.5km, approximately 30 minutes on foot
In Season 1 anime, the protagonist Special Week’s descent at Higashi-Fuchu Station is depicted impressively.
Higashi-Fuchu Station
Higashi-Fuchu Station on the JR Musashino Line is the memorable place where Special Week arrived in Episode 1, Season 1 of the anime. The station’s exterior, ticket gate, and platform scenery are depicted in detail, making it an important sacred site for fans’ pilgrimage.
Fuchu Racecourse Main Gate Station
Fuchu Racecourse Main Gate Station, the terminal of the Keio Racecourse Line, is a station exclusively for Tokyo Racecourse and bustles with horse racing fans on race days. In the anime, it’s featured as an important location where Uma Musume head toward races.
Sacred Sites Within Tokyo Racecourse
There are numerous spots within Tokyo Racecourse that appear in anime:
Paddock
The paddock where Uma Musume appear before races is featured in important anime scenes. It faithfully recreates the actual racecourse paddock, with the ringing fanfare reflected in the work’s atmosphere.
Winning Post
The straight before the finish and the winning post are the stage where Uma Musume engage in close races. The actual layout of Tokyo Racecourse’s course is accurately depicted.
Stands
Scenes from the spectators’ perspective looking down at the course frequently appear. The expansive atmosphere of Tokyo Racecourse’s stands enhances the anime’s sense of urgency.
Other Sacred Sites in Kanto Area
Nakayama Racecourse (Chiba Prefecture)
Nakayama Racecourse in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture is also an important Uma Musume setting. It’s featured in the work particularly as the location where major races like the Arima Memorial are held.
Access:
- Bus from JR Sobu Line Funabashi Station to Nakayama Racecourse
- Approximately 15 minutes’ walk from JR Sobu Line Nishi-Funabashi Station
- Approximately 3 minutes’ walk from Keio Main Line Nakayama Station
Nakayama Racecourse has different characteristics from Tokyo Racecourse and is known as a difficult course with steep hills. This characteristic is also depicted in the anime.
Tamagawa Riverbed
The Tamagawa riverbed flowing through Fuchu City appears in scenes where Uma Musume train. The open atmosphere of the expansive riverbed adds realism to training scenes.
Tachikawa Area
There are also locations in Tachikawa City near Fuchu that appear in the work. The streetscape and commercial facilities around Tachikawa Station are depicted as backgrounds.
Kichijoji Area
In the game version of Uma Musume, the streetscape of Kichijoji is also modeled as a location. The shopping street and station plaza atmosphere are reflected in the work.
Sacred Sites in Kansai Area
Kyoto Racecourse (Kyoto Prefecture)
Kyoto Racecourse in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City appears as the setting for races like the Kyoto Trophy and Emperor’s Cup (Spring).
Features:
- Japan’s longest straight (over 3,000m)
- Two courses: inner and outer loop
- Racecourse with historical atmosphere
Hanshin Racecourse (Hyogo Prefecture)
Hanshin Racecourse in Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture is featured in important race scenes. It’s the location where G1 races like Takarazuka Memorial and Cherry Blossom Prize are held.
Sacred Sites Within Osaka
There are also places in Osaka Prefecture that appear in Uma Musume’s daily scenes. Urban streetscapes are depicted as backgrounds.
Sacred Sites in Shiga Prefecture
Natural landscapes in Shiga Prefecture are also featured in some scenes. They appear in training camp episodes and similar storylines.
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Routes
Fuchu Station Area One-Day Course
A model course for exploring sacred sites around Fuchu Station including Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance in one day:
Morning (9:00-12:00)
- Fuchu Station North Exit assembly (9:00)
- Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance (9:10-9:30)
- Around KURURU (9:35-9:50)
- Fuchu Station South Exit area (10:00-10:30)
- Okuunitama Shrine visit (10:40-11:30)
- Babadaimon Avenue of Zelkova Trees stroll (11:30-12:00)
Lunch (12:00-13:00)
- Lunch at restaurants around Fuchu Station
Afternoon (13:00-17:00)
- Move to Higashi-Fuchu Station (13:00-13:30)
- Around Higashi-Fuchu Station (13:30-14:00)
- Walk to Tokyo Racecourse (14:00-14:30)
- Tokyo Racecourse tour (14:30-16:30)
※Admission fee required on race days; free viewing may be available on non-race days
- Return to Fuchu Station from Fuchu Racecourse Main Gate Station (16:40-17:00)
Two-Day Thorough Course
Day 1: Complete Fuchu Area Exploration
- Morning: Sacred sites around Fuchu Station (Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance, KURURU, Okuunitama Shrine, etc.)
- Afternoon: Tokyo Racecourse and surroundings
- Evening: Experience training scenes at Tamagawa riverbed
Day 2: Expanded Surrounding Area
- Morning: Tachikawa area or Kichijoji area
- Afternoon: Excursion to Nakayama Racecourse (Chiba Prefecture)
Special Plan Aligned With Racing Days
Visiting aligned with Tokyo Racecourse’s race days allows for more immersive sacred site pilgrimage:
- Day before race day: Sacred site exploration around Fuchu Station (Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance, etc.)
- Race day: Observe actual races at Tokyo Racecourse
- After race viewing: Compare anime scenes with actual locations
Photography Tips and Best Timing
Photography Points at Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance
Recommended Photography Times:
- Morning (9:00-11:00): Photography possible with soft morning light
- Evening (16:00-18:00): Beautiful time when sunset illuminates the building
Photography Angles:
- Full view from the front
- Angle including Fuchu Station direction as background
- Close-up centered on signage
Seasonal Differences:
- Spring: Beautiful contrast of fresh greenery and blue sky
- Summer: Strong sunlight creates distinct shadows
- Autumn: Easy to photograph with mellow light
- Winter: Clear air provides sharp distant views
Comparative Shooting With Anime Scenes
Displaying anime screenshots on a smartphone or tablet while photographing from the same angle enables more accurate comparison.
Recommended Apps:
- Sacred site pilgrimage apps (Butai Meguri, etc.)
- Map apps for location confirmation
- Camera app grid function utilization
Preparation and Items for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Essential Items
- Smartphone: Essential for maps, anime image confirmation, photography
- Mobile Battery: Important for long-term pilgrimage battery concerns
- Transport IC Card: Smooth travel
- Drinking Water: Particularly important for summer heat illness prevention
- Comfortable Shoes: Walking is the main mode of transportation around Fuchu Station
Useful Items to Have
- Camera: When wanting to record higher quality images than smartphones
- Tripod or Mini-tripod: For group photos or night scenery
- Notebook and Pen: To note visit records and observations
- Umbrella/Raincoat: Rain equipment
- Sunscreen/Hat: Sun protection for summer
Prior Preparation
- Confirm relevant anime scenes: Understand where scenes were depicted
- Check map app routes: Plan efficient pilgrimage routes
- Check weather forecast: Confirm weather suitable for photography
- Confirm opening hours/closed days: Some facilities may be unavailable on certain days
- Confirm transportation schedules: Especially check return train times
Importance of Etiquette and Rules
Consideration for Local Residents
Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance and other sacred sites are places where people actually live and work. Always observe the following points:
- Avoid making noise: Loud conversations and screaming are strictly prohibited
- Don’t trespass on private property: Unauthorized entry for photography is a crime
- Take trash with you: Maintaining sacred sites’ beauty is fans’ responsibility
- Follow traffic rules: Don’t rush onto roads while engrossed in photography
- Don’t interfere with operations: Avoid prolonged stays in front of stores and facilities
Photography Precautions
- Be mindful that people may be photographed: Be aware of portrait rights issues
- Refrain from flash photography: Avoid disturbing surroundings
- Confirm surroundings when using tripods: Use positions that don’t obstruct traffic
- Obtain permission for commercial use: Be careful with uses other than personal records
SNS Posting Consideration
When posting sacred site pilgrimage records on SNS, observe the following:
- Avoid exact location information: Keep to general area names
- Pixelate other people’s faces and car license plates: Protect privacy
- Don’t spread negative information: Preserve sacred site image
- Don’t encourage rule violations in posts: Maintain exemplary pilgrimage practices
Fuchu City’s Charm and Tourism Information
About Fuchu City
Located nearly at the center of Tokyo, Fuchu City is a historic town where the provincial government of Musashi Province was once stationed. Currently, it has developed as a residential city with approximately 260,000 inhabitants.
Main Features:
- Historical culture centered on Okuunitama Shrine
- Horse racing culture from Tokyo Racecourse
- Natural environment of Tamagawa River
- Transportation convenience (Keio Line, JR Musashino Line/Nambu Line)
Fuchu Gourmet
Fuchu gourmet information you can enjoy while taking a break from sacred site pilgrimage:
Fuchu Specialties:
- Fuchu Burger: Regional burger using local ingredients
- Fuchu Vegetables: Fresh local vegetables from local production/local consumption
- Racecourse Gourmet: Diverse dining options within Tokyo Racecourse
Restaurants Around the Station:
- Dining plaza in Fuchu Station building “Le Signe”
- Commercial streets around Fuchu Station North/South Exit
- Dining establishments along Okuunitama Shrine approach
Annual Events
Kurayami Festival:
- Held annually April 30 – May 6
- Okuunitama Shrine Grand Festival
- One of Kanto’s three major strange festivals
Fuchu Keyaki Festa:
- Citizens’ festival held in autumn
- Zelkova avenue is illuminated colorfully
Major Races at Tokyo Racecourse:
- Japan Derby (May)
- Yasuda Kinen (June)
- Japan Cup (November)
- Arima Memorial (December, at Nakayama Racecourse)
Uma Musume Fan Communities
Online Communities
For exchanging sacred site pilgrimage information and interacting with other fans, the following communities are available:
- Twitter: Hashtags “#ウマ娘聖地巡礼” “#ウマ娘舞台探訪”
- Instagram: Photo-centered sharing of pilgrimage records
- Butai Meguri App: Sacred site pilgrimage specialized app utilizing location information
- Fan Sites/Blogs: Detailed pilgrimage reports
Offline Events
Sacred sites pilgrimage tours and fan-hosted events are occasionally held. Check official sites and fan communities for information.
Methods for Recording Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Photography Records
How to Make Comparison Photos:
- Prepare anime screenshots
- Photograph from the same angle with real images
- Use image editing apps to display two images side by side for comparison
Recommended Compositions:
- Same angle as anime
- Memorial photos including yourself
- Landscape photos highlighting seasonality
- Close-ups capturing details
Pilgrimage Notebook/Diary
Recording visit date/time, weather, impressions, etc. will make memories vivid when reviewing later.
Recording Items Example:
- Visit date and time
- Weather and temperature
- Companions
- Corresponding anime episode/scene
- Observations and impressions on-site
- Next visit goals or reasons to revisit
SNS Sharing
Sharing sacred site pilgrimage records on SNS creates interaction with other fans. However, maintain the previously mentioned etiquette in posts.
Effective Posting Tips:
- Use appropriate hashtags
- Comparison images with anime
- Concise and easy-to-understand explanations
- Visit timing and time of day information
- Access method hints
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May)
Highlights:
- Cherry blossoms at Okuunitama Shrine
- Fresh greenery of zelkova avenue
- Spring flowers in Tamagawa riverbed
- Japan Derby racecourse opening
Clothing:
Mornings and evenings can be cool, so prepare layering. Daytime is warm; dress for easy walking.
Summer (June-August)
Highlights:
- Deep green zelkova avenue
- Summer race openings
- Waterside scenery of Tamagawa River
Precautions:
- Heat illness prevention essential (water intake, hat, sunscreen)
- Morning or early evening cooler hours recommended
- Take rest breaks in shade periodically
Autumn (September-November)
Highlights:
- Zelkova avenue autumn colors (mid-late November)
- Autumn racing big races (Japan Cup, etc.)
- Fuchu Keyaki Festa
- Clear air ideal for photography
Best Season:
Autumn offers stable weather and beautiful fall colors, making it ideal for sacred site pilgrimage.
Winter (December-February)
Highlights:
- Dignified appearance of bare zelkova avenue
- Distant scenery photography with clear winter air
- Year-end Arima Memorial (Nakayama Racecourse)
- Illuminations
Precautions:
- Thorough cold protection
- Plan pilgrimage times with early sunset in mind
- Note facility closures during year-end/New Year period
Frequently Asked Questions
Regarding Visits to Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance
Q: Can I enter inside Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic?
A: Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic is an actively operating medical facility, so non-patients cannot enter for sightseeing purposes. Restrict yourself to photographing the exterior.
Q: What is the best time for photography?
A: Morning (9:00-11:00) or evening (16:00-18:00) are recommended. Particular consideration is necessary during business hours.
Regarding Pilgrimage Around Fuchu Station
Q: Can I explore all sacred sites around Fuchu Station in one day?
A: Main spots like Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance, KURURU, and Okuunitama Shrine are within walking distance and can be explored in approximately 3-4 hours. Including Tokyo Racecourse will take a full day.
Q: Can I pilgrimage on rainy days?
A: It’s possible, but photography quality will be inferior to clear days. Additionally, outdoor spots like Okuunitama Shrine and riverbed should be avoided in rain.
Regarding Tokyo Racecourse
Q: Can I tour Tokyo Racecourse if I’m not interested in horse racing?
A: Yes, you can visit on race days by paying admission. On non-race days, only parts of the facility may be viewable. It’s recommended to check the JRA official site beforehand.
Q: Is photography allowed within the racecourse?
A: Personal recording photography is allowed, but commercial use and photography that disturbs other visitors are prohibited. Additionally, there may be restrictions on photographing horses and jockeys.
Regarding Access
Q: Is car access possible?
A: Paid parking is available around Fuchu Station, but spaces are limited. Public transportation is strongly recommended. Parking becomes congested on the racecourse’s race days.
Q: What is the travel time from the nearest station?
A: Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance is very close at approximately 2 minutes’ walk from Fuchu Station North Exit. All major sacred sites around Fuchu Station are within 10 minutes’ walk.
Conclusion: The Charm of Sacred Site Pilgrimage Starting From Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance
Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance is one of the important sacred sites in the Fuchu Station vicinity for Uma Musume Pretty Derby sacred site pilgrimage. With its excellent location just a 2-minute walk from Fuchu Station and numerous concentrated sacred sites nearby, it’s an optimal starting point for efficient pilgrimage.
Key Points for Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance Pilgrimage
- Excellent Accessibility: 2-minute walk from Fuchu Station North Exit
- Proximity to Nearby Sacred Sites: KURURU, Okuunitama Shrine, etc. within walking distance
- Faithful Anime Recreation: High degree of alignment between actual location and anime
- Easy Photography: Photography possible from public roads
- Good Pilgrimage Starting Point: Easy to expand to other sacred sites from here
For Successful Sacred Site Pilgrimage
- Don’t Neglect Preparation: Confirm anime scenes, plan routes, check weather
- Observe Etiquette: Show consideration for residents, follow photography rules
- Plan With Time to Spare: Avoid rushed schedules and ensure time to enjoy
- Record Memories: Create memories through photos, notes, SNS
- Enjoy Revisiting: Visiting in different seasons reveals new discoveries
Experiencing the Uma Musume World
Visiting sacred sites including Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance brings the anime and game world closer. Walking the streets where Uma Musume traveled (in the story) and seeing the same scenery will deepen your understanding and affection for the work.
Uma Musume Pretty Derby, a work that brings familiarity to the horse racing world. Actually visiting Fuchu, the work’s setting, allows discovering the work’s charm from new angles.
We hope that sacred site pilgrimage at Hirayama Ophthalmology Clinic Entrance becomes a wonderful experience enriching your Uma Musume life. Observing etiquette and never forgetting gratitude toward locals, enjoy your sacred site pilgrimage.
Umapyoi!
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※Information in this article is current as of writing. It’s recommended to confirm the latest information from official sites before visiting. Additionally, sacred sites are places where people actually live. Please always observe etiquette and enjoy pilgrimage.