【Uma Musume Pretty Derby】Near Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Tokyo Metropolis

【Uma Musume Pretty Derby】Complete Guide to Sacred Sites Near Shibuya Scramble Crossing

The Relationship Between Uma Musume Pretty Derby and Shibuya

“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a multimedia project produced by Cygames that features anthropomorphized racehorses. In this anime and game work, the Shibuya area, particularly the area around Scramble Crossing, appears frequently as an important setting.

The anime depicts Shibuya’s streetscape in daily scenes with trainers and uma musume, as well as in interview scenes where characters receive media coverage. It is believed that Shibuya, a symbolic location in Tokyo, was chosen to express the fusion of modern urban atmosphere and horse racing, a traditional sport, in a story featuring characters modeled after actual racehorses.

Depiction of the Shibuya Area in the Work

Uma Musume Pretty Derby uses the Shibuya area in the following scenes:

• Interview scenes: Moments when uma musume receive media interviews after races or during special events
• Daily outing scenes: Casual depictions of trainers and uma musume walking around town
• Meeting places: Spots where characters gather to meet each other
• Promotional footage: Urban symbolic backgrounds used in official PVs and commercials

The reason Shibuya is chosen includes the presence of the Keio Line direct connection. The Fuchu area, where the Tokyo Racecourse—the setting of the work—is located, has good access, and story consistency is maintained.

Detailed Sacred Sites Near Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Scramble Crossing

Basic Information

Shibuya Scramble Crossing is a world-famous iconic spot in Tokyo. Uma Musume Pretty Derby features multiple scenes with this crossing in the background.

• Address: Near 1-chome, Dogenzaka, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
• Access: 1 minute walk from JR Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit
• Features: The world’s largest crossing where approximately 3,000 people cross at once

Appearances in the Work

In the anime, the bustle of this crossing appears as background in scenes where uma musume walk through the city. Particularly in Season 2, it was used in important scenes where character conversations unfold amid urban hustle and bustle.

Photography Tips

Recommended photography spots for sacred site pilgrimages:

1. Starbucks on the 2nd Floor of SHIBUYA TSUTAYA Building: An excellent vantage point overlooking the crossing. However, photography from inside the store requires consideration for other customers.
2. Pedestrian bridge at the crossing: Currently demolished, but past works also featured perspectives from the bridge.
3. Sidewalk in front of 109: Allows capturing the crossing from the side, producing photos close to the composition in the work.
4. Hachiko Plaza: Located at a position overlooking the entire crossing, ideal for recreating meeting scenes.

Notes for Visiting

• Rush hours: Extremely crowded on weekday evenings (17:00-19:00) and weekends
• Photography etiquette: Keep stops for photography brief to avoid obstructing foot traffic
• Signal timing: The Scramble Crossing signal cycles approximately every 2 minutes
• Safety: Be careful not to ignore traffic rules while focused on photography

Shibuya Station Area

Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit

A representative landmark in Shibuya where Uma Musume Pretty Derby characters are depicted meeting. This is a typical rendezvous spot.

• Features: A meeting spot with the Hachiko dog statue
• Use in the work: Appears as background when multiple uma musume gather
• Recommended photo time: Early morning (7:00-8:00) when relatively uncrowded

Center Gai Entrance

The entrance to Center Gai, which is the center of Shibuya’s youth culture, is also used as a background to create a cosmopolitan atmosphere in the work.

• Address: Utagawa-cho, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
• Features: A lively shopping street with diverse stores
• Sacred site appeal: You can experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city as depicted in the anime

Shibuya Modi Area

A collaboration event with “Uma Musume Pretty Derby Season 2” was held at Shibuya Modi in the past. Through THE Chara collaboration, limited merchandise sales and panel displays were conducted, attracting many fans.

Facility Information

• Address: 1-21-3 Jinnan, 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 future time-limited events are possible, so checking official information is recommended.

Dogenzaka Area

Dogenzaka is an inclined street extending westward from Shibuya Station, appearing as a background in street-walking scenes within the work.

Distinctive Spots

• Top of Dogenzaka: From where the slope ends, you can see the Shibuya streetscape
• In front of 109: A symbolic commercial facility in Shibuya, also depicted as background in the work
• Various signage: Lively signage typical of Shibuya creates the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the work

How to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimages in Shibuya

Efficient Pilgrimage Route

Here are recommended routes for efficiently visiting sacred sites in the Shibuya area.

Standard Course (Duration: About 2-3 hours)

1. JR Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit – Starting point, commemorative photo with Hachiko statue
2. Scramble Crossing – Photograph representative background from the work (15 minutes)
3. SHIBUYA TSUTAYA – View the crossing from Starbucks on the 2nd floor (30 minutes)
4. Center Gai – Enjoy the atmosphere while strolling (20 minutes)
5. Shibuya Modi – Visit merchandise shops and Animate Shibuya (40 minutes)
6. Dogenzaka – Photograph streetscape while ascending the slope (20 minutes)
7. Shibuya Station Area – Final viewing of the station’s redeveloped area (15 minutes)

Leisurely Course (Duration: Half day to full day)

In addition to the standard course above:

• Shibuya Hikarie: Observation space with panoramic views of Shibuya
• Shibuya Stream: New face of Shibuya drawing attention
• Miyashita Park: Complex facility opened in 2020
• Break at cafes and restaurants: Spend time slowly immersed in the work’s world

Photography Techniques and Tips

Equipment Selection

• Smartphone: Convenient with sufficient image quality. Wide-angle lens helps capture the entire crossing
• Mirrorless/DSLR cameras: For higher quality photos. Wide-angle lens (approximately 16-35mm) recommended
• Action camera: Convenient for video while walking

Best Timing for Photography

1. Early morning (6:00-8:00): Few people, beautiful morning light
2. Twilight (17:00-19:00): Magical hour’s fantastical atmosphere
3. Night (19:00 or later): Glowing neon creating Shibuya-like night scenery
4. After rain: Beautiful photos from road surface reflections

Composition Points

• Comparison with the work: Prepare anime screenshots in advance and locate similar angles
• Rule of thirds: Divide the screen vertically and horizontally into thirds, positioning main subjects at intersections
• Character placement: If with friends, photograph in the same positional relationship as characters in the work
• Layers: Compose with awareness of foreground, middle ground, and background for depth

Recommended Visiting Periods and Event Information

Recommended Visiting Periods

• Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather ideal for extended pilgrimages
• Autumn (September-November): Equally comfortable temperatures. High fair-weather rates despite minimal fall foliage
• Winter (December-February): Beautiful illumination period. Requires cold weather preparation
• Summer (June-August): Watch out for heat and crowds. Don’t forget to hydrate

Regular Events

Uma Musume Pretty Derby-related events are held irregularly, but opportunities include:

• Anniversary events: Large-scale advertising at Shibuya Station around game launch date (February 24)
• New anime broadcast: Collaboration cafes and merchandise shop pop-ups
• Film release: Special screenings at Toho Cinemas Shibuya and others
• Seasonal campaigns: Collaboration events at Shibuya Modi and other locations

Latest information can be confirmed at the official portal site (https://umamusume.jp/).

Connections with Uma Musume Sacred Sites Beyond Shibuya

Fuchu Area Connection

About 30 minutes from Shibuya via Keio Line, Fuchu houses the Tokyo Racecourse, the central setting of the work. Daily scenes in Shibuya and race scenes in Fuchu are depicted contrastively, expressing the two faces of uma musume: “daily life” and “competition.”

Travel to Fuchu

• Keio Line: Approximately 30 minutes from Shibuya Station to Fuchu Station via direct connection
• JR: Via Shinjuku and central/Musashino lines also possible
• Popular pilgrimage route: Shibuya→Fuchu→Tokyo Racecourse one-day course popular

Tachikawa and Kichijoji Areas

Tachikawa and Kichijoji also appear in the work. All are located in western Tokyo with a common feature of good racecourse access.

Tachikawa Area

• Features: Developed as the center of the Tama region
• Work appearances: Shopping scenes and street-walking backgrounds
• Sacred sites: Area around Tachikawa Station, near Showa Commemorative Park

Kichijoji Area

• Features: Popular area ranked high in “towns you want to live in” surveys
• Work appearances: Depicted as everyday outing destination
• Sacred sites: Inokashira Park, Sunroad shopping street

Sacred Sites in Chiba, Osaka, Kyoto, and Shiga

Uma Musume Pretty Derby features racecourses and related facilities throughout Japan as settings, so sacred sites are widespread.

Chiba Prefecture

• Nakayama Racecourse: Venue for G1 races including Arima Memorial
• Work significance: Appears in important race scenes

Kansai Area (Osaka, Kyoto, Shiga)

• Kyoto Racecourse: Spring and autumn G1 race venue
• Hanshin Racecourse: Takarazuka Memorial venue
• Biwako Racecourse: Local horse racing sacred site

Shibuya is positioned as a starting point for touring these nationwide sacred sites or as a location to enjoy daily life scenes in Tokyo.

Merchandise Purchase and Dining Information in Shibuya Area

Animate Shibuya Store

One of the primary stores for purchasing official Uma Musume Pretty Derby merchandise.

• Address: 20-15 Utagawa-cho, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, Humaxs Pavilion Shibuya Kouen-dori
• Business Hours: 11:00-21:00
• Merchandise: Figures, character goods, CDs, Blu-rays, books, etc.
• Features: Early new product arrivals, handles limited items

Shibuya Modi THE Chara

A facility with past collaboration event track records and future limited event possibilities.

• Address: 6F, 1-21-3 Jinnan, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, Shibuya Modi
• Business Hours: 11:00-21:00
• Features: Anime and game-related time-limited shops available

Cygames WebStore

Online purchasing is also possible. You can leisurely select merchandise at home before or after the Shibuya sacred site pilgrimage.

• URL: https://webstore.cygames.com/umamusume/
• Features: Link Cygames ID and game ID to purchase in-game items
• Benefits: Full selection of limited and pre-order items

Collaboration Cafe Information

Collaboration cafes held irregularly offer precious opportunities to experience the work’s world. Past events have included:

Menu Examples

• Drinks inspired by characters
• Food menus with work motifs
• Limited design dessert plates
• Original coasters and other novelties

Ways to Get Event Information

• Follow official Twitter (@uma_musu)
• Check official portal site event information pages
• Check 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.

Railway Lines

• JR Lines: Yamanote Line, Saikyo Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line
• Tokyo Metro: Ginza Line, Hanzomon Line, Fukutoshin Line
• Tokyu Electric Railway: Toyoko Line, Den-en-toshi 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 Keikyu Line and Tokyo Metro Asakusa Line
• From Narita Airport: Approximately 90 minutes via Narita Express and JR

Station Interior Navigation

Shibuya Station is known for its complex structure. Here’s how to reach Hachiko Exit, the starting point for sacred site pilgrimages:

From JR Lines to Hachiko Exit

1. Exit JR ticket gates
2. Follow “Hachiko Exit” signs
3. Go through West Exit ticket gates
4. Walk 1 minute to Hachiko Plaza

From Metro to Hachiko Exit

1. Exit each line’s ticket gates
2. Look for “JR Line” or “Hachiko Exit” signs
3. Proceed through underground passages (5-10 minutes depending on line)
4. Either go through JR gates or directly to the surface

Advice for First-Time Visitors

• Utilize smartphone map apps
• Allow plenty of time for movement
• Don’t hesitate to ask station staff for directions
• Check Shibuya Station interior maps in advance

Parking Information

Parking information for those driving. However, public transportation use is strongly recommended for Shibuya.

Major Parking Lots

1. Shibuya Hikarie Parking

• Capacity: Approximately 300 vehicles
• Rate: 400 yen per 30 minutes
• Hours: 7:00-24:00

1. Shibuya Mark City Parking

• Capacity: Approximately 370 vehicles
• Rate: 300 yen per 30 minutes
• Hours: 24 hours

1. Tokyu Plaza Shibuya Parking

• Capacity: Approximately 100 vehicles
• Rate: 400 yen per 30 minutes
• Hours: 8:30-23:00

Notes

• Likely to be full on weekends and evenings
• Parking fees may become expensive
• Surrounding roads have severe congestion
• Coin parking is an option but often even more expensive

Deepening Understanding of Uma Musume Pretty Derby

Work Basic Information

Overview

Uma Musume Pretty Derby is a multimedia project centered on an acquisition simulation game for smartphones featuring anthropomorphized racehorses called “Uma Musume” who aim for victory in races called the “Twinkle Series.”

Media Expansion

• Game app: iOS/Android (launched February 24, 2021)
• PC game: DMM GAMES version also available
• TV anime: Season 1 (2018), Season 2 (2021), Season 3 (2023)
• Theatrical film: “Doors to a New Era” (released 2024)
• Manga: Multiple spinoff works
• Music CDs: Numerous character songs

Work Appeal

Respect for Historical Facts

The greatest feature of Uma Musume Pretty Derby is its careful reproduction of historical facts of actual racehorses. Legendary thoroughbreds known to racing fans—Special Week, Silence Suzuka, Tokai Teio, and others—are anthropomorphized while faithfully depicting their achievements and stories.

Emotional Storytelling

Beyond mere anthropomorphization, universal themes such as effort, friendship, setback, and comeback are carefully portrayed. Particularly, the comeback story of Tokai Teio depicted in Season 2 moved many viewers to tears.

Gateway to the Horse Racing World

The work sparked interest in horse racing, creating what is called the “Uma Musume Boom.” An increase in young and female racing fans has brought new vitality to the horse racing industry.

Key Characters and Their Connection to Shibuya

Special Week

• Season 1 protagonist
• Bright and forward-thinking personality
• Central role in daily life scenes in Shibuya

Tokai Teio

• Season 2 protagonist
• Depicts compelling comeback from injury
• Shibuya appears in interview scenes

Silence Suzuka

• Known for dominant wire-to-wire running style
• Cool personality but compassionate to companions
• Notable in street-walking scene contrasts

Other Popular Characters

• Gold Ship: Popular for distinctive behavior
• Vodka: Competitive personality
• Daiwa Scarlet: Vodka’s rival
• Oguri Cap: “Gray Monster” from local racing

Sacred Site Pilgrimage Etiquette and Precautions

Basic Etiquette

Consideration for Others

1. Avoid loud conversations: Especially in residential areas or during early morning/evening
2. Don’t obstruct foot traffic: Move to the side while photographing
3. No trespassing on private property: Confirm photography-permitted locations
4. Take all trash home: Responsibility to keep sacred sites clean

Photography Precautions

• Be considerate when 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 on SNS

• Blur faces if other people appear
• Be cautious about sharing location information
• Consider spoilers (especially after new releases)
• Avoid defamatory or inappropriate content

Safety Precautions

Traffic Safety

• Always follow signals at Scramble Crossing
• Don’t walk while looking at your smartphone
• Never run into the roadway
• Watch out for bicycles

Valuables Management

• Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas
• Be careful not to forget cameras or smartphones
• Don’t carry large sums of money
• Carry bags in front of your body

Health Management

• Summer: Heat stroke prevention (hydration, rest)
• Winter: Cold weather protection
• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Take regular breaks during extended pilgrimages

Coexistence with Local Residents

Sacred site pilgrimages are tourist activities, but local residents live in these areas.

Things to Keep in Mind

1. Keep noise levels down: Especially early morning and night
2. Avoid prolonged loitering on streets: Don’t obstruct other pedestrians
3. Follow local rules: No smoking outside designated areas, etc.
4. Support local businesses: Contribute to the local economy

How to Handle Troubles

• Follow instructions if told off
• Apologize without making excuses
• Don’t repeat the same mistake
• Consult police or facility management if necessary

Hints for Maximum Enjoyment of Shibuya Sacred Site Pilgrimages

Pre-Visit Preparation

Information Gathering

1. Confirm relevant anime scenes: Save screenshots
2. Register locations in map apps: Mark places in Google Maps, etc.
3. Check weather forecasts: Plan for rainy day contingencies
4. Confirm congestion status: Weekends and holidays are especially crowded

Packing List

• Smartphone (charger, power bank)
• Camera (if needed)
• Beverages
• Towel, handkerchief
• Rain gear (folding umbrella)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Small change (vending machines, coin lockers)
• Eco bag (for merchandise purchases)

Solo Pilgrimage vs. Group Pilgrimage

Solo Pilgrimage Benefits

• Travel at your own pace
• Concentrate on photography
• Change plans freely
• Immerse yourself quietly in the work’s world

Group Pilgrimage Benefits

• Share memories
• Take photos of each other
• Security reassurance
• Discuss the work

Time-of-Day-Based Enjoyment

Early Morning (6:00-9:00)

• Fewer people make photography easier
• Enjoy fresh morning air
• Café visits including breakfast
• Quiet Shibuya before commute rush

Daytime (10:00-17:00)

• Stores are open
• Ideal for merchandise purchases
• Bright lighting for photography
• Café and restaurant breaks

Evening-Night (17:00-22:00)

• Beautiful magic hour sky
• Glowing nighttime scenery
• Busy after-work crowds
• Impressive night Scramble Crossing

Seasonal Highlights

Spring (March-May)

• Pleasant weather
• Beautiful fresh greenery
• Golden Week brings increased crowds

Summer (June-August)

• Many summer festivals and events
• Heat protection essential
• Evening cooling time recommended

Autumn (September-November)

• Comfortable temperatures
• Beautiful photos in crisp autumn air
• Numerous events during festival season

Winter (December-February)

• Beautiful illuminations
• Special New Year atmosphere
• Don’t forget cold weather protection

Conclusion: Experiencing the Uma Musume World in Shibuya

The Shibuya Scramble Crossing area is an important sacred site where you can experience the world of Uma Musume Pretty Derby. In contrast to race scenes at the racecourse, it holds special significance in the work as a place depicting the daily lives and human aspects of uma musume.

Shibuya, at Tokyo’s center, has excellent access and is perfect as a starting point for sacred site pilgrimages. By visiting various spots featured in the work—from the bustling Scramble Crossing to the cosmopolitan atmosphere around Shibuya Station—the anime and game worlds will feel much closer.

Through sacred site pilgrimages, you can deepen your understanding of Uma Musume Pretty Derby’s world and strengthen your affection for the work. Simultaneously, your appreciation for Shibuya as a city and understanding of horse racing culture will expand.

Please create wonderful memories of sacred site pilgrimages while respecting etiquette and showing consideration to those around you. May your experiences in Shibuya further enhance your enjoyment of the world that Uma Musume have traversed.

Why not next visit the Tokyo Racecourse in Fuchu and racecourses throughout the country to deepen your Uma Musume Pretty Derby sacred site pilgrimage experience? Surely new discoveries and emotions await.