Kasagatsu Racecourse and Uma Musume Cinderella Grey: Their Connection
Kasagatsu Racecourse, located in Kasagatsu Town, Hashima District, Gifu Prefecture, has attracted attention from Uma Musume fans across the nation as a major setting for the anime “Uma Musume: Cinderella Grey,” which began airing in April 2025. This work tells the story of the legendary racehorse Oguri Cap as the protagonist, and Kasagatsu Racecourse appears in the series as “Casematsu Race Track,” serving as an important stage depicting Oguri Cap’s growth and achievements.
The real Oguri Cap was a legendary racehorse active from 1987 to 1990. It debuted at Kasagatsu Racecourse and later transferred to central racing, leaving behind numerous legends. The anime portrays a growth story of Oguri Cap personified as an Uma Musume, based on this true story.
The original work is a manga by Taiyou Kusumi, with original concepts by Masashi Sugiura and Shunosuke Ito, and production involvement from Shueisha and Cygames. With the anime adaptation, the entire Kasagatsu Town has been enveloped in the Uma Musume worldview, transforming into a new mecca for sacred site pilgrimages.
History of Kasagatsu Racecourse and the Oguri Cap Legend
The Origins of Kasagatsu Racecourse
Kasagatsu Racecourse is a regional racing facility with a long history, representing Gifu Prefecture. Located on the banks of the clear Kiso River, it has nurtured a racing culture rooted in the community. Characterized by the homey atmosphere unique to regional racing and its closeness to spectators, it is beloved not only by racing fans but also as a place of relaxation for local residents.
The Path of Oguri Cap
In 1987, Oguri Cap began its racing career at Kasagatsu Racecourse, displaying overwhelming strength from its debut. After leaving a remarkable record of 22 wins in 22 races at regional racing, it transferred to central racing. It won numerous G1 races, including the Arima Kinen, and earned its place in racing history as the “Gray Monster.”
Kasagatsu Racecourse became nationally known for producing Oguri Cap, and even today, displays and monuments commemorating its achievements are installed within the venue. In Uma Musume Cinderella Grey, this true story is portrayed as an even more moving growth narrative.
Anime “Uma Musume: Cinderella Grey” Overview
The Appeal of the Story
The anime “Uma Musume: Cinderella Grey” is a growth story of Oguri Cap starting from a regional racing track. It depicts Oguri Cap, who debuted at Casematsu Race Track (Kasagatsu Racecourse), overcoming various hardships and striving to become a top Uma Musume.
A major characteristic of the work is its careful portrayal of the appeal of regional racing. Unlike the glamorous central racing, the human drama unique to regional racing and the racing culture rooted in the community are depicted in fine detail. In the anime, the streets of Kasagatsu Town and the facilities of Kasagatsu Racecourse are faithfully recreated, making the content deeper in emotion when visiting the actual location.
Characters and Voice Actors
Centered on Oguri Cap, numerous Uma Musume characters associated with Kasagatsu Racecourse appear. Each character is modeled after actual racehorses, offering nostalgic charm for racing fans and fresh appeal for newcomers through its character designs.
Kasagatsu Town × Uma Musume Cinderella Grey Collaboration Details
Collaboration Phase 1 (From April 26, 2025)
Starting April 26, 2025, Kasagatsu Town implemented a collaboration project with the anime “Uma Musume: Cinderella Grey” in cooperation with Shueisha Inc. and Cygames Inc. Launched in conjunction with the anime broadcast start, this first phase of the project saw the entire town colored with the Uma Musume worldview.
Distribution of “Uma Musume: Cinderella Grey” Casematsu Chapter Sacred Site Pilgrimage Map
A special map was distributed for fans to enjoy sacred site pilgrimages by visiting actual locations featured in the anime. This map contains detailed information about various facilities within Kasagatsu Racecourse and anime-featured spots scattered throughout Kasagatsu Town, allowing fans to efficiently enjoy sacred site pilgrimages.
Maps were distributed free of charge at Kasagatsu Racecourse’s information office, Kasagatsu Town Hall, and Meitetsu Kasagatsu Station, where many fans picked them up.
Distribution of Collaboration Trading Cards
Limited-design collaboration trading cards were distributed at designated facilities within Kasagatsu Town. These special cards featured Uma Musume characters, including Oguri Cap, with Kasagatsu landmarks as backgrounds, and proved highly popular as collector’s items.
The cards were distributed in limited quantities, available through purchases and facility usage. With multiple designs offered, many fans worked toward completing their collections.
Collaboration Life-Size Panel Photo Spots
Life-size panels of Uma Musume characters were installed at major spots within Kasagatsu Racecourse and throughout Kasagatsu Town. Fans could enjoy commemorative photos with these panels, and numerous photos were posted on social media with hashtags such as “#UmaMusumeHolyLand” and “#KasagatsuRacecourse.”
The panels were placed in important locations that served as backdrops for significant scenes in the anime, such as the paddock, Winner’s Circle, and Meitetsu Kasagatsu Station, creating an experience where fans could immerse themselves more deeply in the work’s worldview.
Uma Musume: Cinderella Grey Decorations Throughout Kasagatsu Town
Flags and posters of Uma Musume Cinderella Grey were displayed in shopping streets and public facilities throughout Kasagatsu Town, enveloping the entire town in the anime’s worldview. Banners with character designs adorned streetlights, creating a special space where simply walking allowed visitors to immerse themselves in the Uma Musume world.
Local businesses actively participated in the collaboration, with shops offering Uma Musume-related merchandise and special menu items, contributing to the revitalization of the local economy.
Meitetsu Kasagatsu Station Interior Collaboration Signage
Large-scale collaboration signs were installed inside Meitetsu Chikushi Line’s Kasagatsu Station, the gateway for sacred site pilgrimages. This presentation greeted visitors with the Uma Musume world the moment they stepped off the train, and became a popular photo spot for many fans.
The station interior also featured panel displays recreating iconic scenes from the work, serving as a place where fans could re-experience their emotions after watching the anime.
Collaboration Phase 2 (February 13, 2026 – August 31, 2026)
Starting February 13, 2026, a further powered-up second phase of the collaboration project launched. Building on the success of Phase 1, it offered even more enriched content.
Town Departure! Stamp Rally
A digital stamp rally was implemented, allowing participants to earn limited merchandise and special bonuses by visiting designated spots throughout Kasagatsu Town. Using a smartphone app, this stamp rally featured routes that went beyond just Kasagatsu Racecourse, including town tourist attractions and shopping streets, allowing visitors to discover the charm of Kasagatsu Town as a whole.
Participants who collected all stamps received limited trading cards and commemorative items as prizes, attracting numerous participants.
Collaboration Goods Sales
Collaboration goods with Uma Musume Cinderella Grey were sold at shops within Kasagatsu Racecourse and special shops set up throughout Kasagatsu Town. A diverse range of items was offered, including T-shirts, towels, keychains, and acrylic stands, with exclusive items available only at Kasagatsu Racecourse.
Particularly popular were original merchandise designs featuring Oguri Cap and Kasagatsu Racecourse, with many products selling out immediately upon release.
Wrapped Bus Operations
Meitetsu Bus operated wrapped buses decorated with Uma Musume Cinderella Grey characters. These buses running throughout Kasagatsu Town served as mobile advertisements, helping to promote the charm of Uma Musume to local residents.
Bus schedules and routes were published on the official website, allowing fans to enjoy riding the wrapped buses as part of their sacred site pilgrimage.
Precautions Regarding Collaboration Events
Please note the following points when enjoying collaboration events:
- Be considerate of jockeys and horses during races and avoid obstructing them during photography
- Please do not touch life-size panels or displays
- Never enter private property or areas marked as no entry
- Be mindful of noise and parking to avoid disturbing nearby residents
- Always take trash with you and maintain good manners while enjoying sacred site pilgrimages
- Please refrain from bulk purchasing of limited merchandise or trading cards for resale purposes
Complete Guide to Kasagatsu Racecourse Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots
Major Spots Within the Venue
Paddock
The paddock, depicted in the anime as a scene where Oguri Cap appears before racing, is a popular spot at the actual Kasagatsu Racecourse where spectators can see horses up close. The closeness typical of regional racing allows visitors to feel the vitality of the horses.
In the anime, Oguri Cap’s paddock parade is portrayed with intense tension, and visiting in person allows fans to experience that sense of excitement.
Winner’s Circle
The Winner’s Circle, where victorious Uma Musume are honored, is also an important location appearing in the anime. It served as the backdrop for touching scenes, including Oguri Cap’s first victory, and has become a popular photo spot for many fans.
On actual race days, visitors can observe the victory ceremony for winning horses and jockeys held here, experiencing the moment where anime and reality overlap.
Stable Area
The stable area where Oguri Cap conducts daily training is also depicted in detail throughout the work. General viewing is possible during certain hours, allowing visitors to catch glimpses of the daily lives of actual racehorses.
However, the stable area has entry restrictions in place for the safety and health management of the horses, so please follow staff instructions during viewing.
Stands
From the spectator seating area known as the stands, the entire Kasagatsu Racecourse track can be seen. Oguri Cap’s race scenes are depicted dynamically in the anime, and watching races from the stands in person allows fans to feel that intensity.
Particularly in the straight stretch before the finish line, horses run at full speed nearby, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of racing.
Sacred Sites Within Kasagatsu Town
Meitetsu Kasagatsu Station
Kasagatsu Station, which appears in Episode 1 of the anime as the scene where Oguri Cap arrives in Kasagatsu, is the starting point for sacred site pilgrimages. The station building and surrounding scenery have been faithfully recreated in the anime, making it a place of profound emotion for fans.
The distance from the station to Kasagatsu Racecourse is about 5-6 minutes on foot, with various anime-featured spots scattered along the way.
Streets of Kasagatsu Town
The shopping streets and residential areas depicted in scenes where Oguri Cap walks through Kasagatsu Town recreate actual landscapes of the real town. Views of the clear Kiso River and long-standing townscapes are important elements shaping the work’s worldview.
Local residents warmly welcome pilgrims, but in residential areas, please act with consideration for noise and privacy.
Oguri Cap Memorial Monument
Near Kasagatsu Racecourse, a memorial monument honoring the real Oguri Cap has been installed. This monument is an important landmark that passes on to future generations the history of Oguri Cap’s launch from Kasagatsu Racecourse, attracting not only Uma Musume fans but also racing fans.
How to Access Kasagatsu Racecourse
Access by Train
From Nagoya Area
- Board the Meitetsu Chikushi Line from Meitetsu Nagoya Station
- Get off at Kasagatsu Station, approximately 5-6 minutes on foot
- Travel time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
From Gifu Area
- Board the Meitetsu Chikushi Line from JR Gifu Station or Meitetsu Gifu Station
- Get off at Kasagatsu Station, approximately 5-6 minutes on foot
- Travel time: Approximately 20 minutes
Kasagatsu Station is an unmanned station, but collaboration signage for Uma Musume Cinderella Grey is installed inside, allowing visitors to begin enjoying the sacred site pilgrimage atmosphere from the moment they disembark.
Access by Car
From Nagoya Area
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Ichinomiya East IC” on the Nagoya Expressway
- Or approximately 20 minutes from “Gifu Kakamigahara IC” on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway
From Osaka/Kyoto Area
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Gifu Hashima IC” on the Meishin Expressway
Kasagatsu Racecourse is equipped with a free parking lot capable of accommodating approximately 1,000 vehicles. However, congestion is expected on collaboration event days or special race days, so public transportation is recommended.
Access by Bus
Bus routes from JR Gifu Station and Meitetsu Gifu Station are also available. Getting off at the “Kasagatsu Racecourse” bus stop brings you right to the entrance of the racecourse.
During collaboration periods, wrapped buses featuring Uma Musume Cinderella Grey may also operate, making the bus itself part of the sacred site pilgrimage experience.
Kasagatsu Racecourse Operating Schedule and Admission
Racing Schedule
Kasagatsu Racecourse normally holds races on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. However, as the schedule varies by month, it is recommended to check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
Special races and events may be held on weekends, and special projects in collaboration with Uma Musume sometimes take place on these days.
Admission
Kasagatsu Racecourse admission is as follows:
- General admission: 100 yen
- Special viewing seats: Additional charge
With this very reasonable pricing, visitors can easily visit the racecourse. The appeal of Kasagatsu Racecourse is that you can enjoy actual racing in addition to sacred site pilgrimages.
Viewing on Non-Race Days
Some areas may be open to viewing on non-race days. However, certain areas such as the stable zone have entry restrictions, so advance inquiry is recommended.
During collaboration events, special viewing areas may be set up even on non-race days.
Tourist Attractions Around Kasagatsu Racecourse
Kiso River Riverbank
The clear Kiso River flowing right beside Kasagatsu Racecourse is a scenic spot where beautiful natural landscapes can be enjoyed. Walking paths are maintained along the riverside, allowing for strolling and cycling.
The Kiso River’s scenery is beautifully portrayed in the anime, and the location has become popular as a place to refresh during sacred site pilgrimages.
Kasagatsu Town History and Folklore Museum
A museum where visitors can learn about Kasagatsu Town’s history and culture, with exhibitions related to Oguri Cap. Visitors can also learn about racing history and the changes at Kasagatsu Racecourse, allowing for deeper understanding of the Uma Musume Cinderella Grey worldview.
The Charm of Creative Culture City Kasagatsu Town
Kasagatsu Town, as a “Creative Culture City,” focuses efforts on cultural promotion. Historic buildings and cultural facilities are scattered throughout the town, allowing visitors to experience the region’s culture alongside Uma Musume sacred site pilgrimages.
Local cuisine and specialty products are also abundant, enriching the memories of sacred site pilgrimages.
Model Courses for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Half-Day Course (Approximately 4 hours)
Morning
- Arrive at Meitetsu Kasagatsu Station (10:00)
- Commemorative photo at station interior collaboration signage
- Walk to Kasagatsu Racecourse (10:10)
- Tour sacred sites within the racecourse (10:15-12:00)
- Paddock
- Winner’s Circle
- Stands
- Life-size panel photo shoot
- Lunch at the venue (12:00-13:00)
Afternoon
- Tour sacred sites in Kasagatsu Town (13:00-14:00)
- Shopping streets
- Oguri Cap Memorial Monument
- Stamp rally
- Purchase souvenirs (14:00-14:30)
- Travel to Kasagatsu Station for departure (14:30)
Full-Day Experience Course (Approximately 8 hours)
Morning
- Arrive at Meitetsu Kasagatsu Station (9:00)
- Tour sacred sites around the station (9:00-10:00)
- Arrive at Kasagatsu Racecourse (10:00)
- Watch races if being held (10:00-12:00)
- Lunch at the venue (12:00-13:00)
Afternoon
- Detailed sacred site pilgrimage within the racecourse (13:00-15:00)
- Visit Kasagatsu Town History and Folklore Museum (15:00-16:00)
- Stroll along the Kiso River (16:00-17:00)
- Purchase collaboration merchandise (17:00-17:30)
- Travel to Kasagatsu Station for departure (17:30)
This course allows you to fully enjoy racing viewing along with Kasagatsu’s attractions.
How to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimages and Proper Etiquette
Photography Tips
When taking photos that recreate scenes from the anime, keeping the following points in mind will help achieve photos closer to the work’s worldview:
- Use the anime’s camera angles as reference for similar compositions
- Matching the time of day and weather to the work enhances the atmosphere
- When photographing with life-size panels, respect the order of visitors
- Be considerate of other tourists and racecourse visitors
Recommended Clothing and Items
Clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes (for walking around the racecourse and town)
- Weather-appropriate clothing (sun protection in summer, warmth in winter)
- Hat or sunglasses (strong sunlight in the outdoor stands)
Items
- Smartphone (for stamp rallies and photography)
- Mobile battery (essential for all-day pilgrimages)
- Sacred site pilgrimage map (available at distribution points)
- Beverages (especially important for heat stroke prevention in summer)
- Lawn chair (if planning to watch races from the stands)
Consideration for the Community
Kasagatsu Racecourse and Kasagatsu Town are places where local residents live. When enjoying sacred site pilgrimages, please note the following:
- Avoid loud conversations or noise in residential areas
- Never enter private property without permission
- Always take trash with you or dispose of it in designated bins
- Avoid illegal parking and other actions that impede traffic
- Use good manners when patronizing local shops
- Prioritize race and horse safety when acting in the racecourse
By following these courtesies, the environment allowing many fans to visit the sacred site in the future can be maintained.
The Appeal of Kasagatsu Racecourse as Told by Uma Musume Fans
The Warmth Unique to Regional Racing
Uma Musume fans who have visited Kasagatsu Racecourse often comment, “The homey atmosphere unique to regional racing is wonderful.” Unlike large-scale central racing venues, the closeness to jockeys and horses, and the ability to directly feel the thrill of racing, are highly valued.
Unity with the Anime’s Worldview
“The emotion of seeing scenes from the anime spread out before your eyes” is the ultimate appeal of sacred site pilgrimages. Kasagatsu Racecourse is special because the places depicted in the anime actually exist and continue to function as an active racecourse.
When visiting on race days, races occur just as in the anime, and victory ceremonies can be observed at the Winner’s Circle. This appeal as a “living sacred site” attracts many fans.
The Richness of Collaboration Events
The richness of collaboration events implemented by Kasagatsu Town is also highly appreciated by fans. Rather than mere displays, the multi-faceted approach including stamp rallies, trading card distributions, and life-size panel installations offers diverse enjoyment.
The attitudes of the entire community working to promote Uma Musume create reasons to return, packed with elements that make fans want to visit again.
Future Prospects for Kasagatsu Racecourse
With the anime adaptation of Uma Musume Cinderella Grey, Kasagatsu Racecourse and Kasagatsu Town have attracted many fans from across the nation. Utilizing this opportunity, efforts to broadly disseminate the appeal of regional racing while connecting to community revitalization are underway.
Continuous collaboration event planning is expected in the future, with new merchandise and event details anticipated. Additionally, if anime continuations or new seasons are produced, even greater enthusiasm is expected.
Kasagatsu Racecourse will continue to be loved by many people in the future, not only as an Uma Musume sacred site but as a place conveying the appeal of regional racing.
Contact Information
Kasagatsu Town Hall
- Address: 1 Tsukasamachi, Kasagatsu Town, Hashima District, Gifu Prefecture
- Phone: 058-388-1111 (Main)
- Official Website: Kasagatsu Town Official Website
Kasagatsu Racecourse
- Address: 12 Wakabamachi, Kasagatsu Town, Hashima District, Gifu Prefecture
- Phone: 058-387-3181
- Official Website: Kasagatsu Racecourse Official Website
Inquiries Regarding Collaboration Events
For the latest information and details about collaboration events, please check the Kasagatsu Town official website or Kasagatsu Racecourse official website. Information is regularly updated on official social media accounts.
Conclusion
Kasagatsu Racecourse, a sacred site for the anime “Uma Musume: Cinderella Grey,” is a historic regional racing facility that produced Oguri Cap, a legendary racehorse. The entire Kasagatsu Town has been enveloped in the Uma Musume worldview, with enriched collaboration events unfolding throughout.
The excellent accessibility just 5-6 minutes on foot from Meitetsu Kasagatsu Station, the reasonable admission fee of just 100 yen, and the warm atmosphere unique to regional racing make sacred site pilgrimages a special experience. Multiple enjoyment options are available, including sacred site maps, stamp rallies, limited trading cards, and life-size panels, with new discoveries on each visit.
Visiting on race days allows actual experience of the racing scenes depicted in the anime, allowing deeper immersion in the Uma Musume world. The beautiful streetscapes of Kasagatsu Town and the scenery of the clear Kiso River further enrich sacred site pilgrimages.
Maintaining good manners and showing consideration for the community, please enjoy this special time at the sacred site of Uma Musume Cinderella Grey—Kasagatsu Racecourse. You, too, can become part of the legendary tale that unfolded on the stage where Oguri Cap galloped.
