In the story of “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray,” Kasaoka Minato Park, where Oguri Cap and trainer Kitahara meet and numerous training scenes are depicted, is located in Kasamatsu Town, Hashima District, Gifu Prefecture. This park has become an essential pilgrimage spot for anime fans. This time, we will thoroughly explain the attractions of Kasaoka Minato Park and provide information to help you enjoy your pilgrimage to the fullest.
What is Kasaoka Minato Park? Its Importance in “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray”
Kasaoka Minato Park is a nature-rich park located on the floodplain of the Kiso River. It sits just next to Kasaoka Racecourse, separated by the Meitetsu Takehana Line tracks, and the vast grounds are equipped with play areas, cycling roads, a small stream waterway, and a shallow wading pool.
In the story of “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray,” this park appears multiple times as an important training ground for Oguri Cap. Particularly impressive is the scene where Oguri Cap and trainer Kitahara first meet. The straight path extending through the park is depicted as a place where Oguri Cap trained daily, and it has become a symbolic location that also appears in the anime’s opening sequence.
Comparison of Anime Scenes and Actual Locations
The Place Where Oguri Cap and Kitahara Meet
The fateful meeting scene depicted in Episode 1 was filmed in the Kiso River area within Kasaoka Minato Park. The Meitetsu railway bridge visible from the park is impressively used in the opening sequence and is a must-see photo spot for pilgrims. When you actually visit, the scenery depicted in the anime unfolds before your eyes, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world of the story.
The Stage for Training Scenes
Within the park, there are stone steps where Oguri Cap performed rabbit hops and running exercises. Located at the bottom of the hill from the cycling road, these steps appeared multiple times as the place where members of Team Kitahara underwent intense training.
Moving further west, there is an area where the paved section becomes slightly wider. This is the stage where scenes of training as “Team Kitahara” took place and has become a popular spot where anime fans gather. When you actually visit the location, you can reproduce the angles and compositions depicted in the anime, so many pilgrims enjoy taking photos from the same viewpoint.
Continuity with Kasamatsu Town Cycling Road
Kasaoka Minato Park connects directly with Kasamatsu Town’s cycling road. The cycling road that appeared in the scene where trainer Kitahara and others were walking in Episode 1 continues along the Kiso River embankment from the park and was depicted as Oguri Cap’s daily training course. When you actually walk it, you can experience the sense of openness and natural beauty expressed in the anime.
Facility Information and Highlights of Kasaoka Minato Park
Basic Information
- Address: 4 Minato-cho, Kasamatsu Town, Hashima District, Gifu Prefecture
- Phone: 058-388-1111 (Kasamatsu Town Hall)
- Hours: Open all day
- Admission: Free
- Parking: Available (free)
Main Facilities in the Park
Kasaoka Minato Park has excellent facilities to enjoy beyond pilgrimage. The spacious play area is popular with families, and during summer, children can be seen playing in the shallow wading pool. Walking paths are developed along the small stream waterway, allowing you to enjoy nature in each season at a leisurely pace.
The park also has historical highlights. Historic structures such as stone paving and river lighthouses remain, and photo spots like heart-shaped trees are scattered throughout. These offer opportunities to experience the history and culture of Kasamatsu Town separate from the world of “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray.”
Minato Park Clock Tower
During collaboration event periods, Kasaoka Minato Park’s clock tower becomes an important stamp rally point. Special displays may be set up around the clock tower, serving as a gathering place for fans. From the clock tower, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Kiso River and take in a panoramic view of the scenery that appeared in the anime, making it an excellent viewpoint.
“Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray” Collaboration Event Information
Collaboration Project with Kasamatsu Town
Kasamatsu Town actively promotes collaboration with “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray.” After the anime began broadcasting in April 2025, many pilgrims visited the area around Kasaoka Racecourse, with reports indicating the numbers exceeded 10,000.
In the second collaboration phase, a stamp rally was held at four locations, including Kasaoka Minato Park’s clock tower. Clear files were presented to the first 10,000 people who collected all stamps, with many fans participating. Such events contribute not only to anime fans but also significantly to regional revitalization.
Special Exhibition Information
Special exhibitions are sometimes held at Kasaoka Minato Park. In the past, exhibitions were held from February 13 to March 1, 2026, from 9 AM to 5 PM. The exhibition included anime panels, original artwork, and character goods, providing fans with a valuable experience.
The latest collaboration information is regularly updated on the Kasamatsu Town official website and “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray” official SNS, so we recommend checking before your visit.
Relationship with Kasaoka Racecourse and Recommendations for Integrated Pilgrimage
Kasaoka Racecourse: The Central Stage of the Story
If you visit Kasaoka Minato Park, you must also visit the adjacent Kasaoka Racecourse. Kasaoka Racecourse is the central stage of “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray” and the place where Oguri Cap built legends. It’s easily accessible, being about 5-6 minutes on foot from Meitetsu Takehana Line Kasaoka Station, and can be reached on foot from Minato Park.
At the racecourse, you can watch actual races and view the stable areas and training scenes. Around 7 AM, you can observe horses and people engaged in training from the embankment road, allowing you to realistically experience the racing world depicted in the anime.
Half-Day Model Course
You can efficiently visit the main pilgrimage spots in Kasamatsu Town within half a day. Please refer to the following model course.
Morning Plan
- 9:00 Arrive at Meitetsu Kasaoka Station
- 9:10 Kasaoka Racecourse visit (exterior photography before opening, interior visit after opening)
- 10:30 Kasamatsu Town Cycling Road walk
- 11:00 Arrive at Kasaoka Minato Park
Afternoon Plan
- 11:00 Tour holy spots in Minato Park (stone steps, training grounds, clock tower, etc.)
- 12:00 Enjoy views from the Kiso River embankment
- 12:30 Visit Kasamatsu Town History and Future Hall (if time allows)
- 13:30 Purchase collaboration merchandise around Kasamatsu Town Hall
- 14:00 Head to Meitetsu Kasaoka Station
With this course, you can visit the main pilgrimage spots without strain, with sufficient time for photography and viewing exhibitions.
Access Methods and Transportation
Access by Train
The most convenient way to reach Kasaoka Minato Park is by using the Meitetsu Takehana Line.
From Nagoya Area
- Limited express from Meitetsu Nagoya Station to Meitetsu Gifu Station: approximately 30 minutes
- Transfer to Takehana Line at Meitetsu Gifu Station, to Kasaoka Station: approximately 10 minutes
- Walk from Kasaoka Station: approximately 10-15 minutes
From Gifu City
- From Meitetsu Gifu Station to Kasaoka Station on Takehana Line: approximately 10 minutes
- Walk from Kasaoka Station: approximately 10-15 minutes
Kasaoka Station is a small station, but during pilgrimage periods, directional signage is well-equipped, and first-time visitors can reach their destination without getting lost.
Access by Car
For those visiting by car, the following routes are convenient.
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Gifu Kakamigahara IC” on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Gifu Hashima IC” on the Meishin Expressway
- Accessible from National Route 21
Kasaoka Minato Park has a well-equipped free parking lot with ample space for regular vehicles. However, on event days or holidays, congestion is possible, so arriving early is recommended.
Parking Information
- Fee: Free
- Capacity: Approximately 50 vehicles (estimated)
- Hours: 24 hours
From the parking lot to the main park area is a walk of just a few minutes. Kasaoka Racecourse’s parking lot can also be used, but it gets congested on racing days, so using Minato Park’s parking lot is more reliable.
How to Enjoy Pilgrimage and Etiquette
Photo Shooting Tips
Photography at Kasaoka Minato Park allows you to deepen your appreciation of the story’s world by recreating the same angles as the anime. The recommended photo spots are as follows:
- Kiso River area along the Meitetsu railway bridge: You can recreate impressive scenes from the opening sequence
- Stone steps: The stage of the rabbit hop scene
- Straight section of the cycling road: Open scenery reminiscent of Oguri Cap’s running training scenes
- Minato Park clock tower: A landmark of the park and the center of collaboration events
When photographing, be considerate not to disturb other visitors, and show a spirit of sharing during congestion.
Pilgrimage Etiquette
Kasaoka Minato Park is also a place of rest for local residents. When enjoying pilgrimage, please follow the following rules:
- Be mindful of noise: Refrain from loud conversations or playing music
- Take trash with you: Keep the park clean
- Do not enter private property: Do not enter private land outside the park
- Show consideration for other visitors: Prioritize children’s play in the playground area
- Avoid occupying spaces for long periods: Share popular photo spots
By following this etiquette, you can maintain good relationships with the community and continue to enjoy pilgrimage in the future.
Nearby Tourist Spots and Food Information
Kasamatsu Town History and Future Hall
Within walking distance from Kasaoka Minato Park is the Kasamatsu Town History and Future Hall, where you can learn about the history and culture of Kasamatsu Town. Depending on the period, special exhibitions related to “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray” may be held, making it worthwhile to visit alongside your pilgrimage.
Local Cuisine and Lunch Spots
Various restaurants using local ingredients are scattered around Kasamatsu Town. Near Kasaoka Station, there are set meal restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy lunch at reasonable prices. If you venture into Gifu City, there are also many restaurants serving Gifu’s famous sweetfish and Hida beef.
Savoring local cuisine during your pilgrimage will make your trip even more fulfilling.
Precautions and Best Season for Visiting
Climate and Clothing
Kasaoka Minato Park is located along the Kiso River, so there can be strong winds on certain days. Especially in winter, make sure to take proper cold-weather precautions. In summer, the sun is strong, so prepare a hat and sunscreen.
The park has both paved and unpaved areas, so sneakers and other comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Recommended Visiting Periods
Kasaoka Minato Park has different charms throughout the year.
- Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery are beautiful, and the weather is mild, making it ideal for pilgrimage
- Summer (June-August): The wading pool opens, attracting families
- Autumn (September-November): Autumn leaves are beautiful, making it the ideal season for photography
- Winter (December-February): Fewer people, allowing for quiet pilgrimage enjoyment
Collaboration events are held irregularly, so check official information before planning your visit.
Congestion
Crowding is expected right after anime broadcasts begin, during major holidays, and during collaboration event periods. If you wish to enjoy pilgrimage at a leisurely pace, weekday mornings are recommended. Arriving early allows you to enjoy viewing training scenes and spend a fulfilling time.
Why Kasamatsu Town is Captivated by “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray”
Oguri Cap Legend and Kasamatsu’s Bond
Kasaoka Racecourse is the place where the real famous horse Oguri Cap made its debut, and it is the beginning of a legend that rose from regional racing to central racing. “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray” depicts this story of Oguri Cap through anthropomorphic characters and has an inseparable relationship with Kasamatsu Town.
For Kasamatsu Town, Oguri Cap is a source of pride and a symbolic presence. Through anime, the charm of Oguri Cap is conveyed to new generations, and increased interest in Kasamatsu Town holds great significance for the region.
Regional Revitalization Efforts
Kasamatsu Town is actively working on regional revitalization through collaboration with “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray.” Stamp rallies, special exhibitions, and collaboration merchandise sales play an important role in connecting fans and the community.
In July 2025, a special exhibition was also held at the Gifu Prefectural Government Gallery, with support systems set up throughout the prefecture. The increase in pilgrims brings economic effects to local shopping streets and restaurants, contributing to revitalization of Kasamatsu Town as a whole.
Conclusion: Experiencing the World of “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray” at Kasaoka Minato Park
Kasaoka Minato Park is a valuable pilgrimage site where you can experience the world of “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray.” The place where Oguri Cap and trainer Kitahara meet, the stone steps where intense training was conducted, the straight-extending cycling road—the scenes depicted in the anime unfold before your eyes as actual landscapes.
Visiting together with Kasaoka Racecourse allows you to reexperience the beginning of the Oguri Cap legend and deepen your understanding of the story. Since it’s free and open all day, you can enjoy pilgrimage at a leisurely pace without worrying about time.
Check collaboration event information and enjoy your pilgrimage while respecting etiquette. Immerse yourself in the world of “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray” at Kasaoka Minato Park. It’s recommended not only for anime fans but also for horse racing enthusiasts and history lovers. By all means, visit Kasamatsu Town, Gifu Prefecture, and see for yourself the scenery where Oguri Cap galloped.
