Uma Musume Pretty Derby and Shibuya’s Relationship
“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a multimedia project by Cygames that personifies racehorses. In this anime and game work, the Shibuya area, particularly around Scramble Crossing, appears frequently as an important setting.
In the work, the streetscape of Shibuya is depicted in scenes of trainers and Uma Musume’s daily life, as well as interview scenes where they receive media coverage. It is believed that Shibuya, a symbolic place in Tokyo, was chosen in the story centered on characters modeled after actual racehorses to express the fusion of modern urban atmosphere and the traditional sport of horse racing.
Depiction of Shibuya Area in the Work
Shibuya area is used in Uma Musume Pretty Derby in the following scenes:
- Interview Scenes: Scenes where Uma Musume receive media coverage after races or at special events
- Daily Outing Scenes: Casual depictions of trainers and Uma Musume walking through the city
- Meeting Places: Spots where characters gather to meet
- Promotional Videos: Iconic urban backgrounds used in official PVs and CMs
The reason Shibuya is chosen includes the fact that the Keio Line runs directly through it. There is good access to Fuchu, where the Tokyo Racecourse (the setting for the work) is located, and the story maintains consistency.
Detailed Holy Site Pilgrimage Spots near Shibuya and Scramble Crossing
Shibuya Scramble Crossing
Basic Information
Shibuya Scramble Crossing is a world-famous symbolic spot in Tokyo. In Uma Musume Pretty Derby, there are multiple scenes with this crossing as the background.
- Address: Near 1-chome, Dogenzaka, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
- Access: 1 minute walk from JR Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit
- Features: One of the world’s largest crossings with approximately 3,000 people crossing at once
Appearances in the Work
In the anime version, the hustle and bustle of this crossing is depicted as the background in scenes of Uma Musume walking through the city. Particularly in Season 2, it was used in important scenes where characters’ conversations unfolded amid the noise and bustle of the city.
Photography Tips
Recommended spots for taking photos during holy site pilgrimage:
- Starbucks on the 2nd Floor of SHIBUYA TSUTAYA: An excellent vantage point overlooking the crossing. However, photography from inside the store requires consideration for other customers.
- Pedestrian Overpass at the Crossing: Currently demolished, but past works depicted perspectives from the overpass.
- Sidewalk in Front of 109: Allows capturing the crossing from the side, enabling photos close to the composition in the work.
- Hachiko Front Plaza: Positioned to overlook the entire crossing, ideal for recreating waiting scenes.
Points to Note When Visiting
- Crowded Times: Extremely crowded on weekday evenings (17:00-19:00) and weekends
- Photography Etiquette: Photography while standing still should be brief to avoid obstructing pedestrian traffic
- Signal Timing: The Scramble Crossing signal cycle is approximately 2 minutes
- Safety Assurance: Ensure not to neglect traffic rules due to focusing on photography
Shibuya Station Surrounding Area
Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit
A representative landmark of Shibuya, sometimes depicted in Uma Musume Pretty Derby as a meeting place for characters.
- Features: A meeting spot with the Hachiko dog statue installed
- Use in the Work: Appears as background when multiple Uma Musume gather
- Recommended Photography Time: Early morning (7:00-8:00) when relatively quiet
Center Gai Entrance
The entrance to Center Gai, the center of Shibuya’s youth culture, is also used in the work as a background to create an urban atmosphere.
- Address: Udagawacho, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
- Features: A lively shopping street with diverse stores
- Holy Site Appeal: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city as depicted in anime
Shibuya Modi Surroundings
Shibuya Modi previously hosted a collaboration event with “Uma Musume Pretty Derby Season 2”. Through collaboration with THE Character, limited merchandise was sold and panel exhibitions were held, attracting many fans.
Facility Information
- Address: 1-21-3 Shinan, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
- Access: 5 minutes walk from JR Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit
- Business Hours: 11:00-21:00 (varies by store)
There is currently no permanent collaboration space, but there is a possibility of future limited-time events, so it is recommended to check official information.
Dogenzaka Area
Dogenzaka is a sloping street extending west from Shibuya Station, and sometimes appears in the work as a background in scenes of characters walking through the city.
Characteristic Spots
- Top of Dogenzaka: From the top of the slope, you can see an overview of Shibuya’s cityscape
- In Front of 109: A symbolic commercial facility of Shibuya, depicted as background in the work
- Various Signboards: Lively signboards characteristic of Shibuya create the urban atmosphere of the work
How to Enjoy Holy Site Pilgrimage in Shibuya
Efficient Pilgrimage Route
Here is a recommended route for efficiently visiting holy sites in the Shibuya area.
Standard Course (Time Required: Approximately 2-3 Hours)
- JR Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit – Starting point, commemorative photo with Hachiko statue
- Scramble Crossing – Photograph the representative background of the work (15 minutes)
- SHIBUYA TSUTAYA – View the crossing from Starbucks on the 2nd floor (30 minutes)
- Center Gai – Enjoy the city atmosphere while strolling (20 minutes)
- Shibuya Modi – Visit merchandise shops and Animate Shibuya store (40 minutes)
- Dogenzaka – Photograph the streetscape while climbing the slope (20 minutes)
- Shibuya Station Area – Finally, view the redevelopment area around the station (15 minutes)
Leisurely Course (Time Required: Half Day – Full Day)
In addition to the standard course above:
- Shibuya Hikarie: Panoramic space overlooking Shibuya
- Shibuya Stream: The new face of Shibuya, a noted spot
- Miyashita Park: Complex facility that opened in 2020
- Café and Restaurant Breaks: Spend time leisurely immersed in the work’s worldview
Photography Techniques and Tips
Equipment Selection
- Smartphone: Convenient and sufficient image quality. A wide-angle lens makes it easier to capture the entire crossing
- Mirrorless or DSLR Camera: For higher quality photos. Wide-angle lens (approximately 16-35mm) recommended
- Action Camera: Convenient for video shooting while walking
Best Timing for Photography
- Early Morning (6:00-8:00): Few people and beautiful morning sun
- Dusk (17:00-19:00): Mystical atmosphere of the magic hour
- Night (19:00 onwards): Shibuya’s neon-lit nightscape
- After Rain: Beautiful reflections on road surfaces
Composition Points
- Comparison with Work: Prepare screenshots from anime beforehand and find the same angles
- Rule of Thirds: Divide the screen into thirds vertically and horizontally, placing main subjects at intersections
- Character Placement: If with friends, photograph in the same positional relationship as characters in the work
- Layers: Be conscious of foreground, middle ground, and background for depth
Visiting Periods and Event Information
Recommended Visiting Periods
- Spring (March-May): Comfortable weather, ideal for extended pilgrimage
- Autumn (September-November): Similarly pleasant temperature. Clear skies despite limited foliage
- Winter (December-February): Beautiful illuminations. However, cold weather precautions necessary
- Summer (June-August): Caution regarding heat and crowds. Do not forget water intake
Regular Events
Uma Musume Pretty Derby-related events are held irregularly, but opportunities include:
- Anniversary Events: Large-scale advertising displays at Shibuya Station around the game release date (February 24)
- New Anime Broadcast: Collaboration cafes and merchandise shop pop-ups
- Theater Edition Release: Special screenings at venues like TOHO Cinemas Shibuya
- Seasonal Limited Campaigns: Collaboration events at Shibuya Modi, etc.
Latest information can be confirmed at the official portal site (https://umamusume.jp/).
Relevance to Holy Sites Outside Shibuya
Connection with Fuchu Area
About 30 minutes from Shibuya by Keio Line is Fuchu, which houses the Tokyo Racecourse, the central setting of the work. Daily scenes in Shibuya and racing scenes in Fuchu are depicted contrastively, expressing the two faces of Uma Musume—”daily life” and “competition.”
Travel to Fuchu
- Keio Line: Direct from Shibuya Station to Fuchu Station in approximately 30 minutes
- JR: Via Shinjuku using Chuo Line and Musashino Line also possible
- Holy Site Pilgrimage Route: Shibuya→Fuchu→Tokyo Racecourse one-day course is popular
Tachikawa and Kichijoji Areas
Tachikawa and Kichijoji also appear in the work. These are all located in western Tokyo and share the common point of good access to the racecourse.
Tachikawa Area
- Features: Developed as the central city of the Tama region
- Appearances in Work: Background for shopping scenes and city walks
- Holy Sites: Tachikawa Station area, near Showa Memorial Park
Kichijoji Area
- Features: Top-ranked in “most desirable city to live in” surveys
- Appearances in Work: Depicted as daily outing destinations
- Holy Sites: Inokashira Park, Sunroad Shopping Street
Holy Sites in Chiba, Osaka, Kyoto, and Shiga
Uma Musume Pretty Derby features racecourses and related facilities throughout Japan as settings, so holy sites span a wide range.
Chiba Prefecture
- Nakayama Racecourse: Venue for G1 races such as the Arima Kinen
- Significance in Work: Appears in important racing scenes
Kansai Area (Osaka, Kyoto, Shiga)
- Kyoto Racecourse: Venue for spring and autumn G1 races
- Hanshin Racecourse: Setting for events like the Takarazuka Kinen
- Biwako Racecourse: Holy site of local horse racing
Shibuya is positioned as the starting point for visiting these national holy sites or as a place to enjoy daily scenes in Tokyo.
Merchandise Purchasing and Dining Information in Shibuya Area
Animate Shibuya Store
One of the main stores where official Uma Musume Pretty Derby merchandise can be purchased.
- Address: 20-15 Udagawacho, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, Humax Pavilion Shibuya Kouen-dori
- Business Hours: 11:00-21:00
- Merchandise: Figures, character goods, CDs, Blu-rays, books, etc.
- Features: Early arrival of new products and handling of limited items
Shibuya Modi THE Character
A facility with past collaboration event experience and potential for future limited-time events.
- Address: 1-21-3 Shinan, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, Shibuya Modi 6F
- Business Hours: 11:00-21:00
- Features: Period-limited anime and game-related shops open
Cygames WebStore
Online purchasing is also available. You can leisurely select merchandise from home before or after holy site pilgrimage in Shibuya.
- URL: https://webstore.cygames.com/umamusume/
- Features: Connect Cygames ID and game ID to purchase in-game items
- Benefits: Rich selection of limited and pre-order products
Collaboration Café Information
Collaboration cafes held irregularly are valuable opportunities to experience the work’s worldview. Past events included the following content:
Menu Examples
- Drinks inspired by characters
- Food menus with work motifs
- Limited design dessert plates
- Novelty items such as original coasters included
How to Obtain Event Information
- Follow official Twitter (@uma_musu)
- Check official portal site event information page
- In-store announcements at Animate and Gamers
Access Information and Transportation
Access to Shibuya Station
Shibuya Station is one of Tokyo’s major terminal stations with multiple lines serving it.
Railway Lines
- JR Lines: Yamanote Line, Saikyo Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line
- Tokyo Metro: Ginza Line, Hanzomon Line, Fukutoshin Line
- Tokyu Electric Railway: Toyoko Line, Denentoshi Line
- Keio Electric Railway: Keio Inokashira Line
Travel Time from Major Stations
- From Tokyo Station: Approximately 30 minutes via JR Yamanote Line
- From Shinjuku Station: Approximately 5 minutes via JR Yamanote Line, or 20 minutes on foot
- From Haneda Airport: Approximately 40 minutes via Keikyū Line/Metropolitan Expressway Asakusa Line
- From Narita Airport: Approximately 90 minutes via Narita Express/JR
Moving Within the Station
Shibuya Station is known for its complex structure. How to get to the Hachiko Exit, the starting point for holy site pilgrimage:
From JR Lines to Hachiko Exit
- Exit from JR ticket gate
- Follow signs for “Hachiko Exit”
- Use the west exit gate area and exit
- 1 minute walk to Hachiko Front Plaza
From Subway to Hachiko Exit
- Exit from each line’s ticket gate
- Look for “JR Line” or “Hachiko Exit” signs
- Proceed through underground passages (5-10 minutes depending on line)
- Via JR ticket gate or directly above ground
Advice for First-Time Visitors
- Utilize smartphone map applications
- Travel with time to spare
- Do not hesitate to ask station staff for directions
- Check Shibuya Station interior map in advance
Parking Information
Parking information for those visiting by car. However, using public transportation is strongly recommended in Shibuya.
Major Parking Lots
- Shibuya Hikarie Parking Lot
- Capacity: Approximately 300 vehicles
- Fee: 400 yen per 30 minutes
- Operating Hours: 7:00-24:00
- Shibuya Mark City Parking Lot
- Capacity: Approximately 370 vehicles
- Fee: 300 yen per 30 minutes
- Operating Hours: 24 hours
- Tokyu Plaza Shibuya Parking Lot
- Capacity: Approximately 100 vehicles
- Fee: 400 yen per 30 minutes
- Operating Hours: 8:30-23:00
Points to Note
- Likely to be full on weekends and evenings
- Parking fees may accumulate to high amounts
- Severe congestion on surrounding roads
- Coin parking is also an option but often more expensive
Deepening Understanding of Uma Musume Pretty Derby
Basic Information About the Work
Overview
Uma Musume Pretty Derby is a media mix project centered on an育成 (development) simulation game for smartphones where “Uma Musume”—personified versions of actual racehorses—aim for victory in races called the “Twinkle Series.”
Media Formats
- Game App: iOS/Android (Distribution began February 24, 2021)
- PC Game: Also distributed via DMM GAMES
- TV Anime: Season 1 (2018), Season 2 (2021), Season 3 (2023)
- Theater Film: “New Era’s Door” (Released 2024)
- Manga: Multiple spinoff works
- Music CDs: Numerous character songs
Appeal of the Work
Respect for Historical Fact
The greatest feature of Uma Musume Pretty Derby is that it carefully reproduces the actual history of real racehorses. Legendary horses such as Special Week, Silence Suzuka, and Tokai Teio are depicted in personified form while faithfully recreating their activities and stories, earning appreciation from horse racing fans.
Touching Stories
Rather than being merely a personification work, it carefully depicts universal themes such as effort, friendship, setback, and recovery. Particularly, the comeback story of Tokai Teio depicted in Season 2 moved many viewers to tears.
Gateway to the World of Horse Racing
The work sparked interest in horse racing, leading to what is called the “Uma Musume Boom.” The number of young people and women interested in horse racing has increased, bringing new wind to the entire horse racing industry.
Main Characters and Their Relationship with Shibuya
Special Week
- Protagonist of Season 1
- Bright and positive personality
- Plays a central role in daily scenes in Shibuya
Tokai Teio
- Protagonist of Season 2
- Touching story of recovery from injury
- Shibuya appears in interview scenes
Silence Suzuka
- Known for overwhelming leading strategy
- Cool personality but considerate of others
- Contrast is striking in city-walking scenes
Other Popular Characters
- Gold Ship: Popular for distinctive behavior
- Uoqua: Competitive personality
- Daiwa Scarlet: Rival to Uoqua
- Oguri Cap: “Gray Monster” from local horse racing
Manners and Precautions for Holy Site Pilgrimage
Basic Etiquette
Consideration for Others
- Avoid loud conversations: Especially in residential areas or early morning/late night
- Do not obstruct traffic: Move to the side when photographing
- Prohibition of trespassing on private property: Confirm where photography is allowed
- Always take trash with you: Responsibility to keep holy sites clean
Photography Precautions
- Consider if other tourists or pedestrians appear in photos
- Many commercial facilities prohibit photography
- Flash photography may disturb surroundings
- Tripod use is prohibited in some locations
Consideration When Posting to SNS
- Apply mosaic processing to photos containing other people’s faces
- Be cautious about sharing location information
- Be considerate of spoilers (especially after new releases)
- Avoid defamatory or inappropriate content
Safety Precautions
Traffic Safety
- Always obey signals at Scramble Crossing
- Do not walk while looking at smartphone
- Never dash into roadways
- Be cautious of bicycles
Valuables Management
- Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas
- Be careful not to leave cameras or smartphones behind
- Do not carry large amounts of cash
- Hold bags in front of you
Health Management
- Summer heat stroke precautions (water intake, breaks)
- Winter cold weather measures
- Choose comfortable walking shoes
- Take adequate breaks during extended pilgrimage
Coexistence with Local Residents
Holy site pilgrimage is a form of tourism, but it takes place where residents conduct their daily lives.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Avoid making noise: Be quiet especially early morning and late night
- Avoid lingering on streets for extended periods: Do not obstruct other pedestrians
- Respect area rules: No smoking outside designated areas, etc.
- Support local businesses: Contribute to the local economy
Response to Trouble
- If warned, comply obediently
- Apologize without excuses
- Do not repeat the same mistake
- Consult police or facility managers if necessary
Tips for Maximizing Enjoyment of Shibuya Holy Site Pilgrimage
Preliminary Preparation
Information Gathering
- Check relevant anime scenes: Save screenshots
- Register locations in map app: Mark in Google Maps, etc.
- Check weather forecast: Plan for rainy weather countermeasures
- Confirm traffic conditions: Especially crowded on weekends and holidays
Packing List
- Smartphone (charger, mobile battery)
- Camera (if necessary)
- Drinking water
- Towel, handkerchief
- Rain gear (folding umbrella)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Small change (for vending machines or coin lockers)
- Eco bag (for merchandise purchases)
Solo Pilgrimage vs Group Pilgrimage
Benefits of Solo Pilgrimage
- Travel at your own pace
- Concentrate on photography
- Free to change plans
- Immerse quietly in the work’s world
Benefits of Group Pilgrimage
- Share memories
- Take photos of each other
- Peace of mind regarding safety
- Discuss the work together
Enjoying by Time of Day
Early Morning (6:00-9:00)
- Few people, easy to photograph
- Enjoy fresh morning air
- Breakfast café hopping
- Quiet Shibuya before commute rush
Daytime (10:00-17:00)
- Shops are open
- Optimal for merchandise purchases
- Bright lighting for photography
- Café and restaurant breaks
Evening-Night (17:00-22:00)
- Beautiful magic hour sky
- Glittering neon nightscape
- Bustling after-work crowd
- Impressive nighttime Scramble Crossing
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May)
- Comfortable weather
- Beautiful fresh greenery
- Note crowding during Golden Week
Summer (June-August)
- Many summer festivals and events
- Heat precautions essential
- Evening cool hours recommended
Autumn (September-November)
- Comfortable temperature
- Beautiful photos in clear autumn air
- Many events during festival season
Winter (December-February)
- Beautiful illuminations
- Special atmosphere around year-end/new year
- Remember cold weather precautions
Conclusion: Experiencing Uma Musume’s World in Shibuya
The Shibuya area and the vicinity around Scramble Crossing are important holy sites where one can experience the worldview of Uma Musume Pretty Derby. In contrast to racing scenes at the racecourse, this location holds special significance in the work as a place where the daily lives and human aspects of Uma Musume are depicted.
Shibuya, located in the center of Tokyo, has excellent access and is ideal as a starting point for holy site pilgrimage. Through visiting the bustling Scramble Crossing, the urban atmosphere around Shibuya Station, and the various spots featured in the work, the anime and game worlds become more tangible.
Through holy site pilgrimage, you can gain deeper understanding of Uma Musume Pretty Derby’s worldview and deepen your affection for the work. Simultaneously, your understanding of Shibuya’s charm and horse racing culture will expand.
Conduct pilgrimage while respecting manners and without forgetting consideration for those around you, creating wonderful holy site pilgrimage memories. Through your Shibuya experience, may you continue to enjoy the world that Uma Musume have dashed through even more.
Why not next visit the Tokyo Racecourse in Fuchu and racecourses throughout the nation to deepen your Uma Musume Pretty Derby holy site pilgrimage further? Surely new discoveries and emotions await.
