Introduction: The Relationship Between Uma Musume Pretty Derby and Hanshin Racecourse
“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a work that depicts a story where beautiful girl characters who are personifications of real racehorses aim for victory in races alongside their trainers. In the anime adaptation, actual racecourses are faithfully recreated, and in particular, the Hanshin Racecourse that appears in Episode 2 “Sudden Debut Race” becomes an important location as the stage for the protagonist Special Week’s debut race.
Located in Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture, Hanshin Racecourse is one of the important pilgrimage sites for Uma Musume fans. Among these, the 3rd floor of the paddock is a place where many memorable scenes depicted in the anime were filmed, attracting many fans.
Hanshin Racecourse Paddock 3rd Floor Overview
Basic Information About the Paddock
The paddock at Hanshin Racecourse plays a central role in the design of the racecourse. The entire stand is arranged to surround the paddock, making it possible to observe the competing horses from any angle. Due to this design philosophy, from the 3rd floor paddock, you can observe the horses before the race with excellent visibility and a sense of excitement.
The paddock is a place where horses scheduled to run in a race circle before entering the main track and are displayed to spectators. In actual horse racing, it functions as an important area for confirming the condition of horses, and this atmosphere is faithfully recreated in the anime as well.
Characteristics of Paddock 3rd Floor
The 3rd floor paddock is an excellent viewing point from which to see the entire paddock. Due to its height, it is easy to grasp the overall appearance of the Uma Musume circling in the paddock, and you can experience the bird’s-eye perspective depicted in the anime.
In actual Episode 2 of the anime, scenes appear where the trainer and members of Team Spica watch Special Week from near the 2nd and 3rd floors of the paddock. The background depiction is extremely detailed, matching the actual structure of Hanshin Racecourse down to the smallest details, and there are numerous points where pilgrims can feel moved by thinking “This is it!”
Detailed Explanation of Scenes Depicted in Anime Episode 2
Special Week’s Debut Race
Episode 2 “Sudden Debut Race” of the anime “Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is an important episode where protagonist Special Week participates in a race for the first time. The Hanshin Racecourse depicted in this episode faithfully recreates the atmosphere of an actual racecourse, earning high praise from horse racing fans as well.
In a scene filled with the tension of a debut race, where Special Week first comes face-to-face with other Uma Musume, the scene is depicted from near the 3rd floor of the paddock. Her facial expression mixing anxiety and anticipation, along with the appearance of the surrounding Uma Musume, is effectively expressed through the paddock as a stage.
Key Points for Recreating the Scene from Paddock 3rd Floor
There are several important points for recreating the perspective from the 3rd floor paddock as depicted in the anime.
The Place Where Team Spica Watched
The place where the trainer and members of Team Spica watched over Special Week was in the area from the 2nd to 3rd floors of the paddock. At an actual racecourse, the entire paddock can be seen from this position, allowing for detailed observation of the competing horses.
In the anime, the figure of the trainer looking worriedly at Special Week while leaning against the railing is depicted impressively. The shape of this railing and the structure of the background objects match the actual Hanshin Racecourse precisely, and by standing in the same position, you can experience a feeling of being immersed in the world of the work.
How to View the Paddock and Landmarks
At actual racecourses, information on “how to view the paddock” is posted. In the anime as well, these signs and guidance displays are drawn in the background, and by using them as landmarks, you can identify the location that served as the model.
By matching the positional relationship of specific pillars and railings on the 3rd floor of the paddock with the structure of the stands visible in the background and other details, it becomes possible to photograph the same angle as a scene from the anime.
Scenes Near the Central Entrance
The area near the central entrance of Hanshin Racecourse also serves as the stage for important scenes in the anime. In the scene where Special Week arrives at the racecourse and experiences the atmosphere of a full-scale racecourse for the first time, the spacious area around the central entrance and the impressive appearance of the stands visible from there are depicted strikingly.
For Special Week, who came from the countryside, Hanshin Racecourse as a major stage had overwhelming presence. In the anime, this sense of tension of “the first major stage” is effectively expressed through the structure of the building and the expanse of space.
Detailed Guide for Pilgrimage
How to Get There
Access by Train
Access to Hanshin Racecourse is primarily by the Hankyu Railway. The nearest station is “Nikawa Station” on the Hankyu Imazu Line, which is just a 2-minute walk from the racecourse.
- From Osaka/Umeda area: Take the Hankyu Kobe Line to Nishinomiya-Kitaguchi Station and transfer to the Imazu Line to Nikawa Station
- From Kobe area: Similarly transfer at Nishinomiya-Kitaguchi Station to the Imazu Line
On race days, many horse racing and Uma Musume fans head in the same direction from the station, so you’re unlikely to get lost.
Access by Car
By automobile, it takes about 15 minutes from the “Nishinomiya IC” on the Meishin Expressway or “Takarazuka IC” on the Chugoku Expressway. The racecourse has a large parking lot, but on race days, especially on days when major races are held, it gets crowded, so arriving early is recommended.
Admission and Fees
The admission fee for Hanshin Racecourse is typically 200 yen on regular race days (free for those under 15 years old). The admission fee may change on days when special races are held, so it is recommended to check the official JRA (Japan Racing Association) website in advance.
There are multiple admission gates, but entering from the central entrance depicted in the anime allows you to feel the worldview of the work more strongly.
How to Get to Paddock 3rd Floor
Once you enter the racecourse, head to the paddock area. Since Hanshin Racecourse is designed around the paddock as its center, you can reach it without getting lost by following the guidance signs.
To get to the 3rd floor of the paddock, use the escalators or stairs inside the stand. An elevator is also installed, so it is designed with accessibility in mind.
Best Photography Positions
Points for Anime Recreation Photography
Here are some photography positions for recreating anime scenes at the 3rd floor paddock.
- Team Spica’s Perspective: Near the railings from the 2nd to 3rd floors of the paddock. This angle overlooking the entire paddock is the same perspective from which the trainers watched over Special Week.
- Paddock Bird’s-Eye View Perspective: From a position in the center or slightly left of the 3rd floor, looking down at the entire paddock. This angle is optimal for recreating the scene where Special Week first saw the other Uma Musume.
- Background Match Points: By finding places where pillars, railings, and the background stand structure match, more accurate anime recreation becomes possible. The information board showing how to view the paddock also serves as a landmark.
Precautions When Photographing
There are several manners and rules for photographing at a racecourse.
- Be considerate so as not to disturb other visitors
- During races or when horses are circling, be careful not to interfere with the horses or jockeys
- Avoid using tripods during crowded times
- Do not occupy the same location for long periods
- Always follow staff instructions
Race Days and Recommended Visiting Times
Hanshin Racecourse operates year-round, but race days are limited. It is recommended to check the schedule on the JRA official website and visit on race days.
Recommended Visiting Times
- Spring season (March-June): Overlaps with cherry blossom season, and the scenery around the racecourse is beautiful
- Fall season (September-December): Good weather and many major races
- GI Race Days: Days when major races held at Hanshin Racecourse such as the Takarazuka Kinen (June) are held have a special atmosphere
Even on non-race days, racecourse tour programs may be held, so checking JRA event information is recommended.
Other Highlights at Hanshin Racecourse
Near the Winner’s Circle
The anime also depicts scenes at the winner’s circle after the race. This is the place where the winning Uma Musume receives an award, and Special Week’s emotional moment of victory is expressed here.
The winner’s circle is located adjacent to the paddock, and in actual horse racing, it is a place where the winning horse, jockey, and related parties gather after the race. The view of the stands from here is also faithfully recreated in the anime.
Views from the Stands
The stands at Hanshin Racecourse are designed around the paddock as its center, so the paddock is easy to see from any seat. Additionally, because they are positioned to overlook the entire course, you can fully experience the thrill of a race.
The anime also depicts race scenes viewed from the stands in an impressive manner, and by actually sitting in the same position to watch a race, you can realistically experience the world of the work.
Facilities and Amenities
Hanshin Racecourse has abundant facilities that families can enjoy.
- Restaurants and Cafes: There are multiple dining establishments within the racecourse where you can enjoy meals while watching races
- Kids Room: Facilities where families with children can stay comfortably
- Horse Museum: Exhibition space where you can learn about the history and culture of horse racing
- Shop: Where horse racing merchandise and Uma Musume-related goods are sold
The World of Uma Musume Pretty Derby and Hanshin Racecourse
The Meaning of the Racecourse in the Work
In the work “Uma Musume Pretty Derby,” the racecourse is not merely a backdrop but an important narrative device. As a place where Uma Musume grow, pursue their dreams, and compete with rivals, the racecourse holds special significance.
For Special Week, her debut race at Hanshin Racecourse was a major stage she experienced for the first time after coming from the countryside to the city. The complex emotions mixing her tension and anticipation, anxiety and hope, are depicted on the real stage of Hanshin Racecourse, making the story more realistic and relatable.
Relationship with Actual Horse Racing
The Uma Musume appearing in the anime are based on real racehorses. Special Week is also modeled after a famous horse who was active in the 1990s and actually had her debut race at Hanshin Racecourse.
While faithfully recreating this historical fact, the anime spins a story with its own unique Uma Musume worldview. For both actual horse racing fans and Uma Musume fans, Hanshin Racecourse is a special place where both worlds intersect.
Tips for Enjoying Your Pilgrimage More
Advance Preparation
To make your pilgrimage more fulfilling, the following preparations are recommended.
- Rewatch the relevant anime scenes: Focusing on Episode 2, check the scenes where Hanshin Racecourse appears beforehand, and the emotion you feel at the location will increase
- Prepare screenshots: For comparison photography, save screenshots of the relevant anime scenes on your smartphone, which is convenient
- Confirm the race schedule: Check the race schedule on the JRA official website and, if possible, visit during an actual race day
- Check the weather: Since it is an outdoor facility, the atmosphere changes greatly depending on weather. A sunny day is recommended
Combinations with Other Pilgrimage Sites
The paddock is not the only Uma Musume pilgrimage site. There are other pilgrimage sites in the Kansai area.
Kyoto Racecourse
Kyoto Racecourse in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture is another important stage that appears in the anime. It is about an hour by train from Hanshin Racecourse, so it is possible to visit both on the same day.
Other Pilgrimage Sites in the Kansai Area
Other locations that appear in the work are scattered throughout the Kansai area. When planning a pilgrimage, you can have a more fulfilling experience by considering an efficient route and visiting multiple locations.
Enjoy Horse Racing as Well
Since you’re visiting a racecourse, it’s recommended to also enjoy actual horse racing. Not only can you better understand the worldview of Uma Musume, but you can also discover the appeal of horse racing itself.
The racecourse has various guides and services designed to be enjoyable even for beginners. Since you can purchase betting tickets for small amounts, you can casually enjoy the fun of cheering on races.
The Joy of Paddock Observation
How to Observe Horses at an Actual Paddock
Just as scenes of Uma Musume circling the paddock are depicted in the anime, in actual horse racing, horses also circle the paddock before the race. This time is an important opportunity to observe the condition of horses.
Points of Observation
- Horse’s gait: Is it walking rhythmically?
- Coat shine: An indicator of health status
- Spirit: Does it show eagerness, or is it calm?
- Horse physique: How the muscles are developed and body shape
By observing these aspects, you can increase anticipation for the race and enjoy horse racing more deeply.
Advantages of Observing from Paddock 3rd Floor
Observing from a high position like the 3rd floor paddock makes it easier to grasp the overall movement and balance of horses. You can also observe how the jockey mounts and the relationship between horse and jockey.
Just as Team Spica members watched over Special Week in the anime, trainers, horse owners, and related personnel actually observe horses from this position. You could say this is a place where you can experience a small part of the professional perspective.
How to Enjoy as an Uma Musume Fan
Cosplay Events
From time to time, Uma Musume-related events are held at racecourses. Events where cosplayers gather or collaborative events with Uma Musume are special opportunities for fans.
Such event information is announced on the JRA official website, SNS, and the Uma Musume official account, so it is recommended to check regularly.
Sharing on SNS
Sharing your pilgrimage experience on SNS makes it even more enjoyable. By exchanging information with other fans who love the same work and teaching each other photography tips, you can gain a sense of fulfillment as a member of the community.
By posting using hashtags like “#UmaMusumeHolyLandPilgrimage” “#HanshinRacecourse,” you can connect with many fans.
Merchandise Collection
Horse racing-related merchandise and Uma Musume collaboration goods are sometimes sold at the racecourse and surrounding shops. Collecting merchandise as a souvenir of your visit and as a way to express your love for the work is another enjoyment of pilgrimage.
History and Characteristics of Hanshin Racecourse
History as a Racecourse
Hanshin Racecourse was established in 1907 (Meiji 40). With a history of over 100 years, it has greatly contributed to the development of Japanese horse racing culture.
The current facilities underwent a major renovation in 2006 and were reborn as a modern and comfortable racecourse. The design philosophy centered on the paddock was also realized in this renovation.
Major Races
Throughout the year, many important races are held at Hanshin Racecourse.
- Takarazuka Kinen (June): Positioned as the final major GI race of spring
- Sakura Blossom Sho (April): The first leg of the mare classics
- Hanshin Juvenile Fillies (December): The race that determines the best two-year-old filly
On days when these big races are held, many horse racing fans visit, and the atmosphere becomes special.
Course Characteristics
Hanshin Racecourse has inner and outer loops and accommodates races of various distances. The corners are relatively tight, and horses with good cornering skills are said to have an advantage.
In the anime as well, race developments are depicted considering the characteristics of this course, and it is praised by horse racing fans as being “well researched.”
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Points of Interest in Takarazuka City
Takarazuka City, where Hanshin Racecourse is located, is a cultural city famous for the Takarazuka Revue. You can also enjoy sightseeing in the city before or after your pilgrimage.
- Takarazuka Grand Theater: The headquarters of Takarazuka Revue
- Osamu Tezuka Memorial Museum: A museum dedicated to manga god Osamu Tezuka
- Takarazuka Hot Spring: A historic hot spring resort
Gourmet Spots
There are numerous gourmet spots in Takarazuka City and the Hanshin area. It is recommended to enjoy local cuisine during your pilgrimage.
Restaurants within the racecourse offer menus unique to the racecourse, which you can enjoy together with watching horse races.
Conclusion: Experiencing the World of Uma Musume at Hanshin Racecourse Paddock 3rd Floor
The 3rd floor of the paddock at Hanshin Racecourse holds special significance for Uma Musume Pretty Derby fans. It is the stage of Special Week’s debut race, an important turning point in the story, and as a real location faithfully recreated in the anime, it is visited by many fans.
The sight of the paddock seen from the 3rd floor is exactly as depicted in the anime. By standing in the perspective where Team Spica members watched over Special Week, you can experience a special feeling of being immersed in the world of the work.
As a living facility, if you visit on a race day, you can also see real racehorses circling the paddock. The ability to experience the moment when the anime world and reality intersect is a unique charm of a pilgrimage site like a racecourse.
When planning a pilgrimage, it is recommended to check the race schedule and choose a day with good weather. By rewatching anime scenes in advance and identifying photography points, you can have a more fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
At the 3rd floor of the paddock at Hanshin Racecourse, feel the air of the place where the dreams and passion of the Uma Musume intersected. A precious opportunity awaits you to re-experience the tension and excitement Special Week felt when standing on a major stage for the first time, in the very same place.
