“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a media mix content that has captivated many fans with a story of youth and racing featuring “Uma Musume” characters that are anthropomorphized racehorses. Among the many real locations that appear in anime and games, Harajuku Karaoke Kan 2nd Branch (now: Karaoke Kan Harajuku No. 2) is known as an important sacred site where impressive scenes unfold within the work.
This article comprehensively explains information that Uma Musume fans want to know, from detailed information about Harajuku Karaoke Kan 2nd Branch, appearance scenes in the anime, pilgrimage points for actual sacred site visits, access methods, to surrounding sacred sites.
Uma Musume Pretty Derby
“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a media mix project centered on a smartphone game app and PC game handled by Cygames. Since its release in February 2021, it has enjoyed explosive popularity as a breeding simulation game where “Uma Musume”—anthropomorphized versions of real racehorses—compete with their friends at Tracen Academy while aiming to become “Japan’s Number One Uma Musume.”
The World of the Work
In this world, racehorses are born as “Uma Musume,” a existence that takes the form of human girls. While coexisting with humans, they aim for victory in races and strive daily in training to become top Uma Musume. The player becomes the protagonist trainer and raises the individual Uma Musume while supporting them in fulfilling their dreams.
Anime Series Development
The anime has been produced in three seasons: Season 1 (2018), Season 2 (2021), and Season 3 (2023), each centered on a different Uma Musume as the protagonist. In each season, various real racetracks and locations throughout Tokyo serve as settings and become targets for sacred site pilgrimages.
Basic Information on Harajuku Karaoke Kan 2nd Branch
Store Overview
Official Name: Karaoke Kan Harajuku No. 2
Address: 1-9-18 Jingumae, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
Nearest Stations: About 3 minutes walk from Harajuku Station’s Takeshita Exit on the JR Yamanote Line; about 2 minutes walk from Exit 5 of Meiji-jingumae (Harajuku) Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Lines
Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 5:00 AM the next morning (varies by season)
Facilities: All rooms are non-smoking, drink bar, food menu, latest karaoke equipment
Characteristics of Location
Karaoke Kan Harajuku No. 2 is located on Takeshita-dori, known as the hub of youth culture in Harajuku. With excellent accessibility right after exiting the Takeshita Exit of Harajuku Station, it is characterized by convenient access. With numerous fashion brand stores, cafes, and miscellaneous shops lining the surrounding area, visitors can enjoy Harajuku tourism at a comfortable distance along with sacred site pilgrimages.
Detailed Appearance Scenes in the Anime
Important Scenes from Season 1
Karaoke Kan Harajuku No. 2 appears in “Uma Musume Pretty Derby” Season 1 as an important place where Special Week, Silence Suzuka, Tokai Teio, and others gather. While simply called a “karaoke shop” in the work, the exterior and interior characteristics confirm that it is modeled after the actual Karaoke Kan Harajuku No. 2.
Dance Lesson Scene
Particularly impressive is the scene where Tokai Teio gives Special Week and others a dance lesson. This scene depicts a heartwarming moment in the Uma Musume’s daily lives and is an important scene where the characters’ bonds and individuality are expressed, remaining a memorable moment for many fans.
Depicted Building Features
The anime faithfully recreates the distinctive exterior of the karaoke shop, the sign design, and the building’s color scheme. The bustling atmosphere of Harajuku and the state of Takeshita-dori are also depicted as backgrounds, and many fans are amazed at the high level of accuracy when visiting the actual location.
Points for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Photography Spots
When visiting for a sacred site pilgrimage, photography is recommended at the following points:
- Building Front: By photographing at an angle that captures the Karaoke Kan signage and the entire building, you can recreate the same composition as the anime. The best position is to photograph from the Takeshita-dori side.
- Approach from Takeshita-dori: The path from Harajuku Station’s Takeshita Exit to Karaoke Kan can be enjoyed while comparing it with the backgrounds depicted in the anime.
- Surrounding Streetscape: The unique atmosphere of Harajuku and the surrounding landscape reflecting youth culture are important elements in feeling the work’s world view.
Precautions During Pilgrimage
- Awareness that it is an operating establishment: Since Karaoke Kan is an actual operating store, be considerate to other customers and passersby.
- Photography etiquette: While exterior photography of the store is fine, photography inside the store requires the store’s permission. Check with staff before photographing.
- Avoid peak hours: Takeshita-dori is extremely crowded on weekends and holidays during daytime. Early mornings or weekdays allow for more leisurely pilgrimages.
- Consideration for local residents: Avoid loud conversations and prolonged stays, remembering to be considerate to those in the area.
In Case of Actual Use
Actually using Karaoke Kan to sing Uma Musume songs is also one of the pleasures of sacred site pilgrimages. Karaoke Kan has the latest karaoke equipment installed, with many Uma Musume songs available. The experience of singing representative songs such as “Umapyoi Legend” and “Make debut!” at the place that became the anime’s setting will be a special memory for fans.
Collaboration between Karaoke Kan and Uma Musume
Past Collaboration Campaigns
Karaoke Kan has held multiple collaboration campaigns with Uma Musume. In November 2022, a collaboration campaign was held featuring newly illustrated visuals of Silence Suzuka, Tokai Teio, and Special Week.
Details of Collaboration Content
These collaboration campaigns featured the following initiatives:
- Singing Campaign: Campaign where special bonuses are given for singing targeted songs
- Collaboration Drinks: Sales of original drinks inspired by characters
- Photo Spot: Commemorative photography corner with character panels installed in the store
- Original Goods: Distribution and sale of limited design clear files and coasters
- Room Decoration: Provision of special rooms decorated with Uma Musume visuals
Latest Collaboration Information
In 2025, collaboration with “Uma Musume Cinderella Grey” was also held, with campaigns rolling out at Karaoke Kan stores nationwide. The continuous partnership between the Uma Musume Project and Karaoke Kan indicates that fans can look forward to more exciting initiatives in the future.
Elements to Enjoy Outside of Collaboration Periods
Even outside of collaboration campaign periods, Uma Musume songs are constantly distributed at Karaoke Kan. With the latest equipment such as LIVE DAM WAO!, it is possible to enjoy songs with game footage, enabling an immersive karaoke experience.
Access Methods and Surrounding Information
Access by Train
When using the JR Yamanote Line:
- Get off at Harajuku Station, walk about 3 minutes from the Takeshita Exit
- Exit from Takeshita Exit and enter Takeshita-dori, walking straight ahead will bring the shop into view on your left
When using Tokyo Metro:
- Get off at Meiji-jingumae (Harajuku) Station on the Chiyoda or Fukutoshin Lines, walk about 2 minutes from Exit 5
- From Exit 5, head above ground and head toward Takeshita-dori
Access by Car
The Harajuku area has limited parking and high rates. Additionally, surrounding roads often experience traffic congestion on weekends, making the use of public transportation strongly recommended. If you must visit by car, it is advisable to research nearby coin parking in advance.
Nearby Restaurants and Cafes
There are abundant dining options available before and after the pilgrimage:
- Crepe Shops on Takeshita-dori: Multiple stores offering Harajuku’s signature crepes
- Cafes on Omotesando: Extending slightly further yields numerous stylish cafes
- Fast Food near Harajuku Station: Convenient dining options are well-stocked
Nearby Tourist Spots
Sacred sites worth visiting along with the pilgrimage:
- Meiji Shrine: 5 minutes walk from Harajuku Station, popular as an urban oasis
- Yoyogi Park: A vast park for relaxation
- Omotesando: A shopping area lined with luxury brand stores
- Cat Street: An elegant street known as Ura-Harajuku
Other Uma Musume Sacred Sites (Within Tokyo)
When visiting Harajuku Karaoke Kan 2nd Branch, it is recommended to visit other Uma Musume sacred sites in Tokyo as well.
Fuchu Area
Tokyo Racecourse is one of the most important sacred sites in Uma Musume. Many race scenes depicted in the work are set here, and visiting on an actual racing day allows you to experience the work’s world view more deeply.
- Access: Direct connection to Fuchu Keiba Seimon Station on the Keio Line, or a walk from Fuchu Honcho Station on the JR Musashino and Nambu Lines
- Highlights: Many locations depicted in the anime are present, including Fuji View Stand, paddock, and Winners Circle
- Distance: About 40 minutes by train from Harajuku
Higashi-Fuchu Station Area is also known as a location appearing in daily scenes of the Uma Musume. The station front scenery and shopping streets allow you to feel the atmosphere of the work.
Tachikawa Area
Tachikawa Station area and Showa Kinen Park are also used as backgrounds in the anime. Training scenes in the vast park are particularly impressive.
Kichijoji Area
The Kichijoji Station area shopping arcade and Inokashira Park also appear in daily scenes of the Uma Musume. With access via the Chuo Line in about 20 minutes from Harajuku, it is well-located.
Other Sacred Sites in Tokyo
- Shibuya: Scramble Crossing and surrounding areas appear in the anime
- Shinjuku: High-rise buildings may be depicted in backgrounds
- Akihabara: Scenes featuring game shops appear
Nationwide Uma Musume Sacred Site Network
Sacred Sites in Chiba Prefecture
Nakayama Racecourse (Funabashi City) appears in the work as an important racecourse alongside Tokyo Racecourse. Accessible from Funabashi Station on the JR Sobu Line and Keisei Nakayama Station on the Keisei Line, it is close enough for a day trip pilgrimage from Tokyo.
Sacred Sites in Osaka Prefecture
Hanshin Racecourse (Takarazuka City) is an important sacred site in the Kansai region. It is accessible on foot from Nigawa Station on the Hankyu Kobe Line. Additionally, the urban scenery around Umeda also appears in the anime, making the Hankyu Umeda Station area a target for sacred site pilgrimages.
Sacred Sites in Kyoto Prefecture
Kyoto Racecourse (Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City) is positioned as historically important and occupies an important place in the work. It is accessible on foot from Yodo Station on the Keihan Main Line.
Sacred Sites in Shiga Prefecture
The scenery around Lake Biwa is used as a background, and sacred sites are scattered throughout Shiga Prefecture.
Uma Musume Karaoke Song Information
Major Song List
Numerous Uma Musume songs are distributed at Karaoke Kan and karaoke shops nationwide:
- Umapyoi Legend: The representative song of the work, most popular among fans
- Make debut!: Special Week’s theme song
- Silent Star: Silence Suzuka’s character song
- Winning the Soul: Tokai Teio’s song
- Growth Up Shine!: A song themed around growth and challenge
Distribution on Karaoke DAM and JOYSOUND
Karaoke DAM distributes numerous songs with game footage on LIVE DAM WAO!. The Uma Musume Pretty Derby karaoke rankings are regularly announced, allowing you to check trends in popular songs.
JOYSOUND also has a full lineup of songs by each character, including Oguri Cap, Taiki Shuttle, and Glass Wonderland, with a lyric search function making it easy to find songs.
Points for Singing
Uma Musume songs are characterized by lyrics that reflect character individuality and storytelling. The singing by the voice actors of each character is also a charm, and by singing while respecting the original atmosphere, you can more fully enjoy the work’s world view.
Tips for Maximizing Your Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Advance Preparation
- Re-watch the relevant anime scenes: Re-viewing the relevant scenes before your visit increases the emotional impact at the location
- Prepare comparison screenshots: Save images to your smartphone so you can compare anime scenes with the actual location
- Plan your pilgrimage route: To efficiently visit multiple sacred sites, planning your route in advance is recommended
- Confirm business hours: Verify the business hours and holidays of facilities you plan to visit
Etiquette During Pilgrimage
- Respect public space manners: Be careful not to speak loudly or obstruct foot traffic
- Prohibition of trespassing on private property: Confirm whether photography is permitted at locations
- Take trash with you: Show environmental consideration to keep sacred sites clean
- Consideration for other fans: Share photography spots with a spirit of cooperation
Recording Methods
- Share on SNS: Use hashtags such as “#UmaMusumeSeicchiJunrei” and “#UmaMusume” when sharing
- Create a pilgrimage notebook: Keep personal records of visit dates, impressions, and photos
- Create comparison photos: Comparison images placing anime scenes and actual photos side by side are popular on SNS
Recommended Pilgrimage Times
- Spring (March-May): Good weather and ideal for sightseeing. However, cherry blossom season is crowded
- Autumn (September-November): Comfortable weather allows for extended pilgrimages
- Weekdays: Less crowded than weekends, allowing for leisurely pilgrimages
- Racing Days: If visiting racecourses, actual race days are recommended
Connection with Uma Musume Community
Online Communities
The following communities can be utilized for information exchange and sharing pilgrimage experiences:
- Twitter (X): Ideal for real-time information sharing
- Sacred Site Pilgrimage Specialist Sites: Sites like “Seichi Search” confirm detailed location information
- Fan Sites and Blogs: Reference other fans’ pilgrimage records
Offline Events
The Uma Musume Project regularly holds fan events. Large-scale events such as “WORLD TOUR” bring together many fans from across the country, creating a space to share love for the work.
Find Pilgrimage Companions
Embarking on a pilgrimage with people who share the same interests makes for a more enjoyable experience. Finding pilgrimage companions through SNS and events is one of the pleasures of Uma Musume fan activities.
Conclusion: Experience Something Special at Harajuku Karaoke Kan 2nd Branch
Harajuku Karaoke Kan 2nd Branch (Karaoke Kan Harajuku No. 2) is a precious sacred site where you can experience the world of “Uma Musume Pretty Derby.” As the setting for impressive scenes depicted in the anime, it has become a popular spot visited by many fans.
Located on Takeshita-dori, the center of youth culture, with excellent accessibility, this place is perfect for a first sacred site pilgrimage. By actually enjoying karaoke while singing Uma Musume songs, you can feel a deeper love for the work.
Additionally, with diverse tourist spots and dining options in the Harajuku area, you can enjoy Tokyo sightseeing alongside your sacred site pilgrimage. Furthermore, by planning a pilgrimage route that combines other Uma Musume sacred sites in Tokyo (Tokyo Racecourse in Fuchu, Tachikawa, Kichijoji, etc.), you can immerse yourself in the Uma Musume world all day long.
Sacred site pilgrimages are a special experience that deepens your understanding of the work and allows you to feel a connection with other fans. While respecting etiquette, fully enjoy the Uma Musume world view. Trainers, create wonderful memories at Harajuku Karaoke Kan 2nd Branch!
By creating a comprehensive pilgrimage plan that includes racecourses and the nationwide network of sacred sites, you will be able to appreciate how carefully the “Uma Musume Pretty Derby” work incorporates real locations. Feel the traces of Uma Musume galloping through each place and enjoy your own unique sacred site pilgrimage journey.
