【Uma Musume Pretty Derby】Hanshin Racecourse・Stand (Hyogo Prefecture) Complete Guide|From Sacred Site Pilgrimage to Practical Strategy
The Relationship Between Uma Musume Pretty Derby and Hanshin Racecourse
‘Uma Musume Pretty Derby’ is a multimedia content that transforms actual racehorses into beautiful girls, with racecourses run by the Japan Racing Association (JRA) serving as important settings. Among these, Hanshin Racecourse (Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture) is depicted in Anime Episode 2 “Sudden Debut Race” as the memorable place where Special Week makes her debut, becoming a special sacred site for many fans.
In the game ‘Uma Musume Pretty Derby,’ Hanshin Racecourse is implemented as an in-game track and is one of the important racecourses that frequently appears in breeding mode and team competitions. The actual Hanshin Racecourse is located at 1-1 Komano-cho, Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture, and as the main racecourse of JRA West Japan, hosts the Hanshin Racing twice a year in spring and fall.
Basic Information About Hanshin Racecourse
Hanshin Racecourse is a historic racecourse opened in 1907 (Meiji 40), featuring a modern stand renovated in 2006. With a capacity of approximately 130,000 people, it is the center of Kansai racing, hosting GI races such as the Sakura Blossom Prize, Takarazuka Memorial, and Hanshin Juvenile Fillies.
Location: 1-1 Komano-cho, Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture
Access: About 2 minutes on foot from Hanshin Electric Railway “Hanshin Racecourse Station”
Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 on race days (varies by season)
Admission Fee: 200 yen (free for children under 15)
Hanshin Racecourse Appearances in the Anime ‘Uma Musume Pretty Derby’
Episode 2 “Sudden Debut Race” Setting
In Anime Season 1 Episode 2, the debut race of protagonist Special Week is depicted at Hanshin Racecourse. This episode represents an important moment in her first step as an Uma Musume and remains a memorable scene for many fans.
The actual racehorse Special Week also debuted in a maiden race at Hanshin Racecourse on March 1, 1998, winning impressively. The anime faithfully recreates this historical fact while expressing it within Uma Musume’s unique world.
Depiction of Stand and Paddock
The anime depicts the stand and paddock of Hanshin Racecourse in detail. The following scenes are particularly impressive:
- Full Stand View: The course seen from looking down on the spectator seats
- Paddock: Where Uma Musume walk around before races
- Winner’s Circle: Commemoration photo location after victory
- Near Central Entrance: Scene where Trestin Academy members gather
These locations actually exist at Hanshin Racecourse and have become major pilgrimage spots.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Guide: Highlights of Hanshin Racecourse Stand
Stand 3rd Floor Paddock Viewing Area
The 3rd floor of Hanshin Racecourse’s stand has a viewing area overlooking the paddock. Many fans visit this spot as it depicts where trainers watched over Uma Musume in the anime.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Points:
- Optimal photography spot with panoramic paddock view
- Can observe actual racehorses before races
- Possible to photograph from the same angle as the anime
Central Entrance and Main Stand
The area near the main stand’s central entrance appears in anime scenes where characters gather. It features modern architecture design after the renovation, with a spacious open glass-walled space.
Viewing Points:
- Characterized by a large atrium space
- Excellent viewpoint overlooking the entire racecourse
- Well-equipped restaurants and cafes
Winner’s Circle
The Winner’s Circle where commemorative photos are taken after race victories is a special place for Uma Musume fans. The anime features a scene where Special Week expresses joy at this location after winning her debut race.
Normally the Winner’s Circle is off-limits to non-authorized personnel, but there are opportunities to get close through racecourse viewing tours. The atmosphere can be fully appreciated from the surrounding area.
Course and Turf Overview
Hanshin Racecourse has a turf course with an outer loop of 2,089m and inner loop of 1,689m, and a dirt course of 1,518m in a right-turn configuration. The entire course can be viewed from the stand, and on race days you can watch thrilling races.
Photography Spots:
- Full view from the stand’s top floor
- Premium seats near the finish line
- Free seating on the back stretch side
Game ‘Uma Musume Pretty Derby’ Hanshin Racecourse Strategy
Characteristics and Distance Aptitude of Hanshin Racecourse
Hanshin Racecourse in-game is implemented as a right-turn course with the following characteristics:
Course Features:
- Right Turn: Disadvantageous for Uma Musume skilled in left turns
- Slopes: Slope in the final straight line, power is important
- Four Corners: More corners on the outer course
- Straight: 356.5m (outer loop), relatively short
Hanshin Racecourse ◯ Skill Effect
“Hanshin Racecourse ◯” is a normal skill that slightly increases speed during races at Hanshin Racecourse. When challenging important races at Hanshin, acquiring this skill provides an advantage.
Skill Effect:
- Speed slightly increases when the racecourse is Hanshin
- Activation Condition: Racecourse is Hanshin
- Skill Level: Normal
Acquisition Methods:
- Learn from specific support cards
- Obtain through event choices
- Some Uma Musume possess it inherently
List of Major Races Held at Hanshin Racecourse
Major races staged at Hanshin Racecourse in-game are as follows:
Classic Class (Age 3):
- Sakura Blossom Prize (Mid-April, Turf 1600m, Fillies Only, GI)
- Hanshin Juvenile Fillies (Mid-December, Turf 1600m, Fillies Only, GI)
- Asahi Cup Futurity Stakes (Late December, Turf 1600m, GI)
Senior Class (Age 3 and above):
- Takarazuka Memorial (Late June, Turf 2200m, GI)
- Osaka Cup (Late March, Turf 2000m, GI)
- Hanshin Cup (Mid-December, Turf 1400m, GII)
Other Important Races:
- Tulip Prize (Sakura Blossom Prize Trial)
- Spring Stakes (Satsuki Prize Trial)
- Saint-Ule Stakes (Sprinters Stakes Prep)
Breeding Strategy at Hanshin Racecourse
To breed Uma Musume strong at Hanshin races, focus on these points:
Important Stats:
- Power: Most essential for slope countermeasures
- Speed: Basic speed improvement
- Wisdom: Important for courses with many corners
Aptitude:
- Right-turn aptitude B rank or above
- Adjust distance aptitude for target races
- Mile to middle distance aptitude important
Recommended Skills:
- Hanshin Racecourse ◯
- Right Turn ◯
- Corner Specialist ◯
- Hill Climber ◯
- Straight Specialist (low priority due to short straight)
Actual Hanshin Racecourse Visitor’s Guide
Access Methods
By Train:
- Hanshin Electric Railway Main Line “Hanshin Racecourse Station” Exit, about 2 minutes walk (nearest station)
- JR Takarazuka Line “Nikawa Station” Exit, about 15 minutes walk
- Hankyu Imazu Line “Nikawa Station” Exit, about 15 minutes walk
By Car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Takarazuka IC” on Chugoku Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Nishi-Nishinomiya IC” on Hanshin Expressway
- Parking: Approximately 3,000 spaces (fee required, congested on race days)
Admission Fees and Opening Hours
Admission Fees:
- General: 200 yen
- Under 15: Free
- Green Seat: 1,000 yen (reserved seating)
- Turfie Sheet: 3,000 yen (special viewing seat)
Opening Hours:
- Race Days: 9:00-17:00 (approximately 30 minutes after final race ends)
- Off-track Betting Days: 9:00 until sales end
- Non-event Days: Usually closed (except during special events)
In-Course Facilities and Food Information
Hanshin Racecourse has various facilities that Uma Musume fans can enjoy:
Dining Facilities:
- Turf Buffet (buffet-style)
- Cafeteria (light meals and drinks)
- Food Court (various cuisine)
- Dishes using local Hyogo specialties
Other Facilities:
- Betting windows (many automated machines)
- Racing Museum corner
- Kids space (popular with families)
- Park zone (green relaxation area)
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Notes
Manners and Rules:
- Photography for personal use only (commercial use prohibited)
- Be considerate of other visitors
- Keep voices down during races
- Remember to be considerate of horses and jockeys
Recommended Visit Times:
- Spring Season (March-June): Sakura Blossom Prize, Takarazuka Memorial, etc.
- Fall Season (September-December): Hanshin JF, Asahi Cup FS, etc.
- Weekdays are relatively quiet, allowing leisurely viewing
- Arrive early on GI race days due to congestion
Uma Musume Collaboration Events at Hanshin Racecourse
Past Collaboration Projects
Collaborations between JRA and ‘Uma Musume Pretty Derby’ are held periodically at various racecourses. Hanshin Racecourse has hosted the following types of projects:
Collaboration Content Examples:
- Limited merchandise sales (clear files, enamel badges, etc.)
- Standing panel displays
- Photo spot installations
- Original novelty distributions
- Voice actor talk events (at some occasions)
Merchandise Sales Information
Uma Musume-related goods can be purchased at merchandise shops within the racecourse and anime shops like Animate. Hanshin Racecourse-exclusive design goods are sometimes sold, unmissable for collectors.
Popular Merchandise:
- Acrylic stands with Hanshin Racecourse design
- Racecourse-specific character illustration goods
- Collaboration commemorative T-shirts
- Limited enamel badge sets
Hanshin Racecourse History and the Uma Musume World
Memories of Famous Horses
Many famous horses have left legends at Hanshin Racecourse. Many characters appearing in ‘Uma Musume Pretty Derby’ have actually competed at Hanshin Racecourse:
Notable Horses Active at Hanshin (Uma Musume Characters):
- Special Week: Debut race victory (1998)
- Taiki Shuttle: Sprinters Stakes consecutive wins
- Grass Wonder: Takarazuka Memorial winner (1999)
- El Condor Passer: Mainichi Okan winner
- Uotska: Hanshin Filly Stakes winner
Evolution of the Racecourse
Hanshin Racecourse has undergone several renovations since its 1907 opening to reach its current form:
- 1907: Opening
- 1991: First major renovation period
- 2006: Stand complete renovation
- Present: Modern racecourse with latest facilities
The anime and game depict Hanshin Racecourse as it appears after the 2006 renovation.
Surrounding Tourist Information for Uma Musume Fans
Sightseeing in the Takarazuka Area
Takarazuka City, home to Hanshin Racecourse, is a cultural city famous for the Takarazuka Revue. You can enjoy tourism together with a racecourse visit:
Tourist Spots:
- Takarazuka Grand Theater: Home of the Takarazuka Revue
- Osamu Tezuka Museum: Exhibits the work of the God of Manga
- Kiyoshikojin Kiyosumi Temple: Famous for warding off misfortune
- Takarazuka Hot Spring: Day-bathing facilities available
Food Information
Food in Takarazuka and Hanshin Areas:
- Takarazuka Ramen (many popular local shops)
- Hanshin Area Western Confectioneries (many famous shops near Kobe)
- Cafes along the Mukogawa River
Accommodations
For out-of-town visitors, the following areas are convenient:
- Hotels in Takarazuka (near the racecourse)
- Nishinomiya/Amagasaki area (along Hanshin Electric Railway line)
- Osaka/Kobe (major cities, about 30 minutes by train)
Copyright and Content Usage
The copyright for ‘Uma Musume Pretty Derby’ belongs to Cygames Inc. When engaging in sacred site pilgrimages or fan activities, please note the following:
Usage Notes:
- Unauthorized reposting of game images and anime footage prohibited
- Secondary creations must follow official guidelines
- Photography at the racecourse limited to personal use
- Creating and selling counterfeit official goods is illegal
Official Relations:
This article is an individual fan site and has no official relationship with Cygames Inc., JRA, or Hanshin Racecourse. Information posted is as of 2024 and subject to change.
Comparison with Other Racecourses
‘Uma Musume Pretty Derby’ features numerous racecourses beyond Hanshin:
Kansai Region Racecourses
Kyoto Racecourse (Kyoto Prefecture):
- Left-turn course
- Hosts GI races including the Emperor’s Prize (Spring) and Chrysanthemum Prize
- About 1 hour from Hanshin by train
Chukyo Racecourse (Aichi Prefecture):
- Left-turn course
- Hosts GI races including the Takamatsunomiya Memorial
Kanto Region Racecourses
Tokyo Racecourse (Fuchu, Tokyo):
- Left-turn course, venue of the Japan Derby
- Largest racecourse
Nakayama Racecourse (Funabashi, Chiba):
- Right-turn course, venue of the Arima Memorial
- Characterized by steep slopes
Among these racecourses, Hanshin Racecourse is known as a “well-balanced course,” serving as a stage where diverse types of Uma Musume can thrive.
Conclusion: The Appeal of Hanshin Racecourse and Uma Musume
Hanshin Racecourse is the memorable site of Special Week’s debut race in the world of ‘Uma Musume Pretty Derby’ and a location where numerous important races are held in-game. The actual Hanshin Racecourse in Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture, features a beautiful stand and comprehensive facilities exactly as depicted in anime and games, and is gaining popularity as a sacred pilgrimage site.
Visiting in person allows you to re-experience anime scenes while also savoring the exhilaration and fascination of real horse racing. For Uma Musume fans, Hanshin Racecourse is not merely a sacred site but the “stage of dreams” where characters galloped.
In game strategy too, understanding the characteristics of Hanshin Racecourse and raising Uma Musume equipped with appropriate skills and stats brings you closer to victory in prestigious races like the Sakura Blossom Prize and Takarazuka Memorial.
By all means, stand once at Hanshin Racecourse’s stand and see with your own eyes the landscape across which Uma Musume raced. There awaits a special emotion that only in-person experience can provide, beyond what anime or games alone can offer.
