[Uma Musume Pretty Derby] Hanshin Racecourse・Winners Circle Vicinity Complete Guide|All About Sacred Ground Pilgrimage
Introduction: The Deep Connection Between Uma Musume Pretty Derby and Hanshin Racecourse
“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a media mix content project where real racehorses are transformed into beautiful girl characters who compete in races. It has expanded across anime, games, and manga, gaining support not only from horse racing fans but from a wide audience.
The racecourses that serve as the stage for this work are based on real facilities, and among them, Hanshin Racecourse is one of the important sacred sites. Located in Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture, Hanshin Racecourse is one of the major central racecourses operated by the JRA (Japan Racing Association), hosting numerous Grade I races such as the Takarazuka Memorial and the Hanshin Juvenile Fillies, earning its reputation as a prestigious racecourse.
In the anime series and in-game content of Uma Musume Pretty Derby, Hanshin Racecourse appears in numerous scenes. In particular, the area around the Winners Circle serves as the stage for touching scenes where winning Uma Musume are honored, making it a place of special significance for fans.
This article comprehensively explains all the information necessary for sacred ground pilgrimage centered around the Winners Circle vicinity at Hanshin Racecourse. From scenes of appearance in anime and games, actual visiting methods, photography spots, surrounding facilities, and precautions during visits, we provide information useful for those planning sacred ground pilgrimage.
Uma Musume Pretty Derby: The Appeal of the Work and the Role of Racecourses
Basic Information About the Work
Uma Musume Pretty Derby is a media mix project developed and operated by Cygames. The first anime series aired in 2018, the second period in 2021, and the third in 2023. A smartphone game application was released in 2021 and achieved great success.
In the world of the work, famous real-life racehorses are reborn as “Uma Musume,” humanified beings who compete in races called the “Twinkle Series.” Famous horses that have left their mark on racing history appear as beautiful girl characters, including Special Week, Silence Suzuka, Tokaiteio, Daiwa Scarlet, and Rice Shower, each weaving their own stories.
The Role Racecourses Play in the Work
In Uma Musume Pretty Derby, racecourses are not merely backgrounds but important stages for the story. All ten real central racecourse locations in Japan (Sapporo, Hakodate, Fukushima, Niigata, Tokyo, Nakayama, Chukyo, Kyoto, Hanshin, Kokura) are implemented in the game with faithful reproductions of the characteristics and course formations of each racecourse.
In the anime series as well, characteristic architectural and landscape features of each racecourse are carefully depicted, achieving such a high level of reproduction that those who have actually visited a racecourse would instantly recognize it. This high fidelity is a major factor driving fans to undertake sacred ground pilgrimage.
Hanshin Racecourse is the stage for numerous important races within the work, and in particular, real Grade I races such as the Hanshin Juvenile Fillies and the Takarazuka Memorial are recreated in the game. The dramas that unfold as Uma Musume compete on this stage have captured the hearts of many fans.
Basic Information and Facility Overview of Hanshin Racecourse
History and Characteristics of Hanshin Racecourse
Hanshin Racecourse was opened in 1907 (Meiji 40) and boasts over 100 years of tradition. In 2006, after completing major renovation work, it was transformed into a modern and comfortable facility.
Main Features of the Facility:
- Location: 1-1 Komano-cho, Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture
- Course: Right-handed turn, grass course 1 lap 1689m, dirt course 1518m
- Stand Capacity: Approximately 56,000 people
- Characteristics: Inner and outer loop courses; tight corners and small turning radius, giving the facility its favor for front-running horses
The greatest characteristic of Hanshin Racecourse lies in its course formation. The inner loop course is a relatively small 1 lap 1689m with sharp corners, making it favorable for leading horses. This characteristic is also reproduced in Uma Musume’s game, where skills such as “Hanshin Racecourse ◯” exist.
Major Facilities and Area Composition
Hanshin Racecourse is divided into multiple areas, each with its own character.
1. Central Entrance Area
The main entrance features a large clock tower that serves as the symbol of Hanshin Racecourse. This clock tower occasionally appears as a background in Uma Musume works.
2. Paddock Area
The paddock where horses can be viewed before racing features a three-story structure, allowing observation from different angles on each floor. Anime scenes of Uma Musume before races often depict the paddock with visible tension.
3. Stand Area
From the main stand, one can overlook the entire course and experience the thrill of racing. In Uma Musume works, stand scenes appear when fans cheer from the spectator seats.
4. Winners Circle Area
The Winners Circle, the subject of this article, is a special area where racing victory horses are honored. Here, the joy of victory is shared, and commemorative photographs are taken.
Detailed Explanation of the Winners Circle Vicinity
What is the Winners Circle?
The Winners Circle is a place at a racecourse where the winning horse from a race and its related parties gather, and the awards ceremony is held. Written in English as “Winner’s Circle,” it literally translates to “the ring of winners.”
The Winners Circle at Hanshin Racecourse is positioned between the stand and paddock, where the awards ceremony is held before many spectators. Interviews with winning jockeys and commemorative photographs take place, making it one of the most glamorous locations on the racecourse.
Scenes of Appearance in Uma Musume Works
In the anime series of Uma Musume Pretty Derby, the Winners Circle holds important significance as a symbol of victory. Scenes where Uma Musume who win races share joy with their trainers and companions, scenes where they receive flower bouquets at awards ceremonies, scenes where they are interviewed about their victories—all these touching moments take place in the Winners Circle.
Particularly in anime season 1, the scene in the Winners Circle when Special Week wins her first Grade I race is impressive. In season 2, the awards ceremony scene when Tokaiteio achieves her comeback moved many fans to tears.
In the game version as well, when a race is won, an awards ceremony cut scene is inserted, depicting the Winners Circle. Described based on the actual landscape of Hanshin Racecourse, when visitors undertake sacred ground pilgrimage and visit, they can realize “that’s the scene from here!” which is a major attraction.
Structure and Points of Interest Around the Winners Circle
The Winners Circle vicinity at Hanshin Racecourse has the following structure.
Awards Area
A circular awards platform in the center is surrounded by a fence structure. Shortly after the race, the winning horse is led here, and related parties such as the owner, trainer, and jockey gather.
Viewing Area
Around the Winners Circle, there is space for spectators to view, allowing them to see the awards ceremony up close. However, immediately after the race it becomes crowded, so early positioning is necessary for a good viewing spot.
Photography Spots
From the perspective of sacred ground pilgrimage, positions where the Winners Circle can be photographed frontally are popular. It is possible to photograph in the same composition as depicted in anime or game screenshots.
Surrounding Facilities
Near the Winners Circle are the paddock, return race track, horse entrance, and others that also appear in Uma Musume works. Comprehensive pilgrimage of these locations leads to deeper understanding of the work.
Sacred Ground Pilgrimage: Visiting Guide to Hanshin Racecourse Winners Circle
Access Methods
By Train (Recommended)
- From Alkaline Tamagawa Line “Nigawa Station”: Approximately 2 minutes walk (nearest station)
- From Osaka Umeda: About 15 minutes on Hankyu Kobe Line to Nishi-Nomiya Kita Station, transfer to Imazu Line and take about 5 minutes to Nigawa Station
- From Kobe Sannomiya: About 10 minutes on Hankyu Kobe Line to Nishi-Nomiya Kita Station, transfer to Imazu Line and take about 5 minutes to Nigawa Station
- From JR Takarazuka Station: Transfer to Hankyu Takarazuka Line via Nishi-Nomiya Kita Station to Nigawa Station
Nigawa Station is right in front of Hanshin Racecourse, and the racecourse building comes into view immediately upon exiting the station. On race days, many racing fans walk from the station to the racecourse, and following the flow ensures you won’t get lost.
By Car
- From “Nishi-Nomiya IC” on Hanshin Expressway: Approximately 10 minutes
- From “Nishi-Nomiya IC” on Meishin Expressway: Approximately 15 minutes
The parking lot accommodates approximately 2,000 vehicles, but fills up on Grade I race days and other busy occasions. Use of public transportation is strongly recommended on race days.
Free Shuttle Bus
Free shuttle buses operate from JR Takarazuka Station and Hankyu Takarazuka Station (race days only). Waiting times can be long during peak congestion, requiring a schedule with extra time.
Admission Fees and Race Schedule
Admission Fees (as of 2024)
- General Admission: 200 yen
- Reserved Seating: 1,000 yen~ (varies by seat type)
- Special Viewing Seats: 5,000 yen~
For pilgrimage purposes, general admission is sufficient. If you wish to take your time with photography and observation, weekday races with lighter crowds are recommended.
Race Schedule
Hanshin Racecourse hosts multiple racing periods throughout the year. Main racing periods are:
- Spring Season: Approximately March to June
- Autumn Season: Approximately September to December
Detailed race schedules can be confirmed on the JRA official website. General admission is not possible on non-race days, making advance confirmation essential.
Visiting Precautions and Etiquette
Photography-Related Notes
- Personal documentary photography is permitted, but commercial use and bringing in large-scale photography equipment are prohibited
- Tripod use is generally prohibited. Hand-held photography should be the basic approach
- Avoid photography that inconveniences other guests: Do not block pathways or monopolize the same location for extended periods
- Photography during races: Flash photography is strictly forbidden as it may startle the horses
- Restricted entry areas during awards ceremony: The Winners Circle becomes off-limits to non-related parties during the post-race awards ceremony
Clothing and Belongings
- Comfortable walking shoes: Sneakers or similarly comfortable footwear is recommended as the racecourse is expansive
- Seasonally appropriate clothing: With many outdoor areas, summer requires sun protection, and winter requires thermal clothing
- Camera/Smartphone: For recording pilgrimage memories
- Racing newspaper or racing program: Essential if also enjoying racing itself
- Beverages: Essential particularly in summer for heat stroke prevention
Etiquette at the Racecourse
- Dispose of trash properly or in designated locations: The racecourse is maintained cleanly
- Respect no-smoking areas: Smoking outside designated smoking areas is prohibited
- Keep voice levels down during races: Be considerate of other spectators’ viewing experience
- Show respect for horses and jockeys: Remember this is an actual horse racing venue
Other Uma Musume Pilgrimage Spots at Hanshin Racecourse Beyond the Winners Circle
Paddock Area
The paddock is an area where horses before racing can be viewed, appearing frequently in Uma Musume works with tense pre-race scenes.
Paddock Level 3
From this position overlooking the entire horse, many anime depictions show this angle. One can imagine the scene where Uma Musume gather before racing.
Paddock Level 1
From this position, horses can be seen up close, allowing experience of the real power of actual horses. In the Uma Musume world, this is where trainers and Uma Musume conduct final confirmations.
Stand Area
From the main stand, the entire course can be overlooked, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of racing.
Topmost Floor of Stand
Commanding a full view of the course, the distinctive right-handed shape of Hanshin Racecourse’s formation becomes clear. Comparing with in-game overhead course maps will astound with the high reproduction accuracy.
Stand Before Goal
A premium viewing seat allowing near-viewing of race goal scenes. One can imagine Uma Musume dashing past the goal line.
Near Central Entrance
The main entrance of Hanshin Racecourse features a large clock tower serving as a meeting spot and popular commemorative photography location. Appearing as background in anime and games, it is a standard sacred ground pilgrimage spot.
Entrance Plaza
Crowded with many fans on race days, the atmosphere of the racecourse can be felt. Fans wearing Uma Musume merchandise are frequently seen, creating opportunities to encounter people with shared interests.
Race Track and Course
The actual racing track is the stage where Uma Musume run. The contrast between green grass and brown dirt is beautiful, and on race days, visitors can see a perfectly maintained beautiful track.
Course Characteristics
Hanshin Racecourse is right-handed with inner and outer loop courses. In-game courses such as “Hanshin・Grass 1600m (outer)” and “Hanshin・Grass 2000m (inner)” recreate actual course settings.
Major Races Held at Hanshin Racecourse and Their Uma Musume Connections
Grade I Races
Multiple Grade I races are held at Hanshin Racecourse annually, and these races are also implemented in Uma Musume’s game.
Takarazuka Memorial (June)
Known as the spring grand prix, the Takarazuka Memorial is one of the most prestigious Grade I races held at Hanshin Racecourse. In-game, it is positioned as an important race, with many Uma Musume aiming for it.
Hanshin Juvenile Fillies (December)
A Grade I race determining the top of 2-year-old fillies, attracting future star candidates. In Uma Musume breeding, it is set as an important target race during the 2-year-old period.
Cherry Blossom Award (April)
※Held at Hanshin Racecourse in some years
The first crown of the 3-year-old filly classic, serving as the first step to the filly triple crown. Anime depicts the drama of Uma Musume aiming for this race.
Other Important Races
Grade II and Grade III Races
Hanshin Racecourse hosts numerous important races including the Hanshin Taisho, Tulip Award, and Mainichi Cup. These are also recreated in-game as important steps in breeding.
Open Special and Condition Races
Open specials and condition races are important stepping stones in Uma Musume breeding. Following stages of step-up similar to actual horse racing is enjoyable.
How to Enjoy Hanshin Racecourse for Uma Musume Fans
Combining Race Viewing with Sacred Ground Pilgrimage
When visiting Hanshin Racecourse, we recommend not only engaging in sacred ground pilgrimage but also enjoying actual horse racing. Many fans have come to be interested in horse racing through Uma Musume, and watching actual races deepens work understanding.
Beginner’s Guide to Horse Racing Enjoyment
- Purchase a racing program: Contains detailed information about participating horses (100 yen)
- View horses in the paddock: Can confirm actual horse condition
- Purchase tickets starting from small amounts: Possible from 100 yen. Purchasing for a horse you support makes races more enjoyable
- Watch the race: View races from stands or on turf vision
- Receive payouts: If your bet wins, collect your winnings
Tour Photography Spots
The essence of sacred ground pilgrimage is photographing from the same composition as anime or game scenes. Preparing anime scenes or game screenshots beforehand and finding matching angles is recommended.
Recommended Photography Times
- Early morning (right after opening): Few people allow leisurely photography
- Between races: Paddock and Winners Circle vicinity are relatively open
- Weekday races: Less crowded than weekends
Gourmet Food and Shopping
Multiple restaurants and vendors are located within Hanshin Racecourse, allowing enjoyment of racecourse cuisine.
Recommended Foods
- Racecourse Curry: Standard racecourse menu
- Turfy Yaki: Baked confectionery featuring “Turfy,” the mascot character of Hanshin Racecourse
- Various Bento Boxes: Can be eaten while viewing races
Goods Shops
JRA official merchandise and horse racing-related goods are available for purchase. Uma Musume collaboration goods may be sold during visits, so check them out.
Sacred Ground Pilgrimage Plans Combined with Surrounding Tourist Spots
Takarazuka Area
Hanshin Racecourse is located in Takarazuka City, with numerous tourist attractions in the surrounding area.
Takarazuka Grand Theater
The headquarters of Takarazuka Revue, within walking distance from Hankyu Takarazuka Station. Plans combining sacred ground pilgrimage with Takarazuka Revue viewing are popular.
Osamu Tezuka Commemoration Museum
A museum dedicated to the god of manga, Osamu Tezuka. Takarazuka is Tezuka’s birthplace.
Nishi-Nomiya Area
Nishi-Nomiya Shrine
Known as “Ebisu-no-Miya Sohonsha,” this shrine is famous for its January “Toka Ebisu” festival.
Nishi-Nomiya Gardens
A large shopping mall. Convenient for shopping on the way back from the racecourse.
One-Day Pilgrimage Model Plan
Morning
- 9:00 Depart Hankyu Umeda Station
- 9:30 Arrive at Nigawa Station, proceed to Hanshin Racecourse
- 10:00 Opening ceremony, commemorative photograph at central entrance
- 10:30 Tour paddock, stands, Winners Circle and other locations
Afternoon
- 12:00 Lunch within racecourse
- 13:00 Begin race viewing
- 15:00 Main race viewing, observe awards ceremony at Winners Circle
- 16:30 Final race viewing
- 17:00 Depart racecourse
- 17:30 Dinner or sightseeing in Takarazuka/Nishi-Nomiya area
This plan allows enjoyment of both sacred ground pilgrimage and horse racing viewing.
Uma Musume and Actual Horse Racing: Feeling the Work’s Charm at Hanshin Racecourse
Sacred Ground Pilgrimage That Deepens Work Understanding
Uma Musume Pretty Derby, based on real racehorses and racecourses, significantly deepens understanding of the work upon actually visiting a racecourse.
Where exactly the touching awards ceremony scenes in the Winners Circle take place. What shape the Hanshin Racecourse course actually has, which is run countless times in the game. Confirming these matters with one’s own eyes deepens affection for the work even further.
Discovering the Appeal of Horse Racing
For those who came to be interested in horse racing through Uma Musume, a first visit to an actual racecourse opens doors to a new world.
The excitement of real racehorses, the skill of jockeys, the tension of racing. These aspects cannot be fully conveyed through video and can only be understood through on-site experience. Many visitors are moved by seeing horses in the paddock and realizing their beauty and power.
Uma Musume Fan Community
At Hanshin Racecourse, especially during Grade I race days, many Uma Musume fans gather. Exchanges between fans wearing Uma Musume merchandise create opportunities for new friendships and serve as meeting points for shared interests.
On social media, numerous pilgrimage reports are posted using hashtags like “#Uma Musume Pilgrimage” and “#Hanshin Racecourse,” serving as both pre-visit information sources and post-visit memory-sharing spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can anyone view the Winners Circle at Hanshin Racecourse?
Yes, on race days, anyone can view it by paying admission (200 yen). However, as it becomes crowded during races, weekdays or early morning visits are recommended for leisurely photography. Non-race days generally do not permit admission.
Q2: Are there restrictions on photography near the Winners Circle?
Individual documentary photography is permitted, but tripod use and photography that inconveniences other guests are prohibited. Additionally, a restricted entry area may be established during the post-race awards ceremony at the Winners Circle. Photography respecting these rules should be the priority.
Q3: What is the best season to visit Hanshin Racecourse for Uma Musume sacred ground pilgrimage?
Spring (March-June) and autumn (September-December) race periods are recommended. Particularly Grade I race days such as Takarazuka Memorial (June) and Hanshin Juvenile Fillies (December) allow experiencing the atmosphere of races appearing in works. However, as these become crowded, regular race days are better for photography purposes.
Q4: What is the best access method to Hanshin Racecourse?
Approximately 2 minutes walk from Hankyu Imazu Line “Nigawa Station” is the most convenient route. From Osaka Umeda, access is possible in about 30 minutes, and from Kobe Sannomiya in about 20 minutes. By car, it takes about 10 minutes from Hanshin Expressway “Nishi-Nomiya IC,” though parking lots become congested on race days, making public transportation use recommended.
Q5: Besides the Winners Circle, what other areas at Hanshin Racecourse can be visited for Uma Musume pilgrimage?
Yes, numerous spots including paddock, stands, and near the central entrance are available. Particularly the view from paddock level 3 and the full course view from the stands are popular spots for experiencing anime and game atmosphere. Touring each area provides deeper pilgrimage experience.
Q6: Can racing beginners enjoy it?
Absolutely. Many Uma Musume fans begin as racing beginners. Tickets can be purchased starting from 100 yen, and reading a racing program provides basic horse racing understanding. If uncertain about anything, racecourse staff will kindly explain.
Q7: Are Uma Musume-related events held?
Collaboration events with Uma Musume have been held in the past. Check the latest information on the JRA official website, Uma Musume official website, and official social media. Additionally, collaboration events may be held at local racecourses (such as Sonoda Racecourse).
Conclusion: Experiencing the Uma Musume World at Hanshin Racecourse
The Winners Circle vicinity at Hanshin Racecourse is a special place visited by many fans as a sacred ground for Uma Musume Pretty Derby. Actually visiting the stage of emotionally moving scenes seen in anime and games deepens understanding and affection for the work.
Using the information provided in this article, please plan a sacred ground pilgrimage to Hanshin Racecourse. Imagining the awards ceremony scenes at the Winners Circle while experiencing the actual atmosphere of the racecourse will make the Uma Musume world feel even closer.
By enjoying not only sacred ground pilgrimage but also actual horse racing viewing, the appeal of horse racing that Uma Musume takes as its subject can be discovered. The beauty of real racehorses, the exhilaration of racing, and the emotion of victory’s moment are special experiences available only to those visiting actual racecourses.
Respecting etiquette and considering other visitors, create wonderful memories of sacred ground pilgrimage. Experience the emotion of standing in the same place where Uma Musume raced at Hanshin Racecourse.
Important Points to Remember:
- Excellent access: 2 minutes walk from Hankyu Imazu Line “Nigawa Station”
- Admission 200 yen, admission possible only on race days
- Winners Circle is the awards ceremony stage with numerous important anime/game scenes
- Photography limited to personal documentary photography, tripod use prohibited
- Paddock, stands, and central entrance also serve as pilgrimage spots
- Spring and autumn races recommended, particularly exciting on Grade I race days
- Combining with actual horse racing viewing makes for more fulfilling experience
Experience the Uma Musume Pretty Derby world fully at Hanshin Racecourse. As a trainer and as a fan, standing on the stage where Uma Musume raced will surely become an unforgettable memory.
