【Umamusume Pretty Derby】Complete Guide to Nakayama Racecourse and Funabashi Hotatsuta Station Exit | Holy Site Pilgrimage Access and Highlights
Introduction: Nakayama Racecourse, a Sacred Site for Umamusume Fans
Nakayama Racecourse holds special significance as a holy site for fans of “Umamusume Pretty Derby.” Located spanning Funabashi City and Ichikawa City in Chiba Prefecture, this racecourse is known not only for its appearances in games and anime, but also as a place where collaboration events with Umamusume are regularly held.
In particular, the access route from Funabashi Hotatsuta Station is an important location featured in the work, including the scene in anime season 3 where Kitasan Black runs in from Ibaraki and enters the venue. This article provides a thorough explanation from a holy site pilgrimage perspective of information that Umamusume fans should know when visiting Nakayama Racecourse.
The Deep Connection Between Nakayama Racecourse and Umamusume
Basic Information about Nakayama Racecourse
Nakayama Racecourse is one of Japan’s four major racecourses and serves as an important venue for central horse racing. Located at 1-1-1 Kosaku, Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture, part of it also extends into Ichikawa City. It is the venue for numerous big races including the “Japan Cup,” known as a year-end fixture, and the “2000 Guineas,” the first classic of spring.
The racecourse has a long history, and in 1990 underwent a complete renovation to transform into a modern facility. It boasts a capacity of approximately 165,000 people, drawing many racing enthusiasts on event days.
Connection with the Umamusume Project
“Umamusume Pretty Derby” is a breeding simulation game featuring personified versions of real racehorses that was released in 2021 and quickly became a popular franchise. In the game, Nakayama Racecourse appears as an important race venue where players can race their trained Umamusume.
The racecourse also appears frequently in the anime series. Particularly in season 3, “ROAD TO THE TOP,” the scene of Kitasan Black heading toward the racecourse from the Funabashi Hotatsuta Station area is depicted impressively, serving as a catalyst for many fans to visit for holy site pilgrimage.
JRA Collaboration Track Record
Since 2022, Nakayama Racecourse has regularly implemented collaborations with Umamusume, centered around December events. Events where voice actresses appear as winners’ ladies, taking commemorative photos with victorious racehorses and jockeys, have gained popularity among both racing fans and Umamusume fans.
Large-scale winners’ lady collaborations were implemented on December 21, 22, and 28, 2024, with special collaboration plans also scheduled for the 2000 Guineas on April 19, 2026, establishing an ongoing relationship.
Complete Access Guide from Funabashi Hotatsuta Station to Nakayama Racecourse
Basic Information about Funabashi Hotatsuta Station
Funabashi Hotatsuta Station is a JR East Musashino Line station known as the nearest station to Nakayama Racecourse. While the station itself is relatively small-scale, temporary ticket gates are set up on racing event days to accommodate large numbers of visitors.
The station normally has one ticket gate, but temporary gates are opened from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM on race days. These temporary gates connect directly to an underground passage dedicated to the racecourse, enabling smooth access.
Details of Memorial Walk (Dedicated Underground Passage)
The most convenient access method from Funabashi Hotatsuta Station to Nakayama Racecourse is to use the “Memorial Walk,” a visitor-exclusive underground passage with direct access to the venue. This underground passage was developed to provide convenient access to the racecourse and offers the major advantage of allowing travel unaffected by weather conditions.
Characteristics of Memorial Walk:
- Approximately 600 meters of underground passage
- Comfortable travel unaffected by weather
- Displays conveying the history of horse racing on walls
- Accessible hours: from opening until 5:20 PM
- Travel time: approximately 10 minutes on foot
The underground passage is kept bright and clean, with displays of photographs of racecourse history and famous horses. For Umamusume fans, it becomes a valuable space to view materials on real horses that appear in the work.
Ground Route Guidance (Chiba Prefecture Route 59 Kinoshita Highway)
In addition to the Memorial Walk, there is a route to Nakayama Racecourse’s main gate via outdoor public roads. This route using Chiba Prefecture Route 59 (Kinoshita Highway) takes approximately 15 minutes on foot but allows you to enjoy the surrounding streets.
This ground route is the setting for the scene in anime season 3 where Kitasan Black enters the racecourse around the point where the racecourse becomes visible. For fans who want to enjoy the same scenery as a holy site pilgrimage, this route is recommended.
Ground Route Points:
- Departure from Funabashi Hotatsuta Station north exit
- Proceed straight on Kinoshita Highway
- The view where the racecourse building becomes visible matches the anime
- Pleasant and open-air on fine days
- Travel time: approximately 15 minutes on foot
Precautions and Mixed Congestion by Time Period During Access
There are several precautions to note when visiting Nakayama Racecourse. The situation differs greatly between event days and non-event days, making prior confirmation important.
Access on Event Days:
- Congestion begins 30 minutes before opening time (usually around 9 AM)
- Maximum congestion around main race times (approximately 2:00-3:00 PM)
- Congestion is eased by using temporary ticket gates
- Early departure recommended for the return route as crowds concentrate after the final race
Non-Event Days:
- Memorial Walk is unavailable
- Racecourse is basically closed
- Only exterior photography is possible
Comparison with Other Access Methods
In addition to Funabashi Hotatsuta Station, there are multiple access methods to Nakayama Racecourse. Understand the characteristics of each and select according to your purpose.
From JR Sobu Line Funabashi Station by Bus:
- Approximately 20 minutes by Keisei Bus
- Get off at “Nakayama Racecourse” stop
- Many buses available but crowded on event days
Keisei Line Funabashi Racecourse Station:
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot
- Midpoint between Funabashi Racecourse
- Relatively uncrowded
By Car:
- Approximately 10 minutes from Keiyo Road “Haragi IC”
- Parking is paid (possible to be full from early morning on event days)
From the perspective of Umamusume holy site pilgrimage, the route from Funabashi Hotatsuta Station featured in the anime is most recommended for experiencing the atmosphere.
Umamusume Holy Site Pilgrimage: Highlights Within Nakayama Racecourse
Identifying Specific Locations Featured in Anime and Games
There are numerous locations within Nakayama Racecourse that appear in Umamusume anime and games. Through holy site pilgrimage, you can visit these places and experience the world of the work firsthand.
Paddock:
The paddock where Umamusume appear before races is depicted as an important scene in the anime multiple times. The actual paddock at Nakayama Racecourse is located in the plaza in front of the Turf Vision, a popular spot where spectators can see horses up close.
Winners Circle:
The place where commemorative photos are taken after race victories. During Umamusume collaboration events, voice actresses appear as winners’ ladies. It is an important location that also appears in victory celebration sequences within the game.
Racetrack Entrance Gate:
The gate through which horses enter the track from the paddock is often depicted in anime as a tense scene. Visiting in person allows you to feel the solemn atmosphere.
Grandstand:
The grandstand at Nakayama Racecourse is faithfully recreated as the background of race scenes within the game. Particularly, the view from the grandstand near the finish line overlaps significantly with the game’s camera angle, making it an emotionally impactful experience for fans.
Photography Spots Around the Main Gate
The main gate, which is the first sight when accessed on foot from Funabashi Hotatsuta Station, is a symbolic landmark of Nakayama Racecourse. It appears in the background of the scene in anime season 3 where Kitasan Black enters the racecourse, becoming a popular spot for commemorative photography among many fans.
The plaza in front of the main gate is open and allows photographing the entire building as background in clear weather. The lighting is particularly good in the morning, allowing photos close to the anime’s atmosphere.
Course Characteristics and In-Game Recreation Accuracy
Nakayama Racecourse’s course has a unique shape: a right-handed turn with 1,667 meters (turf) and 1,493 meters (dirt) per lap. In the game “Umamusume Pretty Derby,” these characteristics are faithfully recreated, and visiting the actual racecourse deepens understanding of game course strategy.
Characteristics of Nakayama Racecourse Course:
- Small turns with significant elevation changes
- Short straight (310 meters), requiring explosive power
- The final hill is the deciding factor
- In the game, “corner” skills are set as highly important
Fans playing the game will deepen their understanding of “why this skill is effective” by viewing the actual course, applying this knowledge to breeding strategy.
Special Displays and Decorations During Umamusume Collaboration
When collaboration events with Umamusume are held, various special displays and decorations are installed throughout the racecourse. In December events from 2022 onward, the following projects were implemented:
Past Collaboration Event Examples:
- Life-size character panels (popular Umamusume characters)
- Photo spot installations
- Collaboration merchandise sales booths
- Voice actress winners’ lady appearances
- Limited commemorative merchandise distribution
- Character voice use in venue announcements
These special projects are time-limited, making it important to check official websites and SNS for event information in advance.
Enjoyment Guides by Event Day and Non-Event Day
Visitation Guide for Racing Event Days
When visiting Nakayama Racecourse on a racing event day, you have a perfect opportunity to enjoy both race viewing and Umamusume holy site pilgrimage.
Event Day Flow:
- 9:00 AM: Opening, Memorial Walk becomes available
- 9:30-10:00 AM: Previewing paddock areas, securing photography spots
- 10:00 AM: Start of first race and venue exploration
- 11:00 AM-3:00 PM: Parallel race viewing and holy site pilgrimage
- 3:30-4:00 PM: Main races (G1 event days, etc.)
- 4:30-5:00 PM: Enjoying the atmosphere after the final race
Entry fees are required on event days (200 yen, additional charges for reserved seats). Even for Umamusume fans, actually viewing real racing deepens understanding of the game and anime.
Holy Site Pilgrimage Plan for Non-Event Days
While entry to the interior of the racecourse is not possible on non-event days, photographing the exterior and exploring surrounding areas are possible. For fans who want to photograph carefully in a quiet environment, non-event days are actually preferable.
Ways to Enjoy Non-Event Days:
- Commemorative photography at the main gate (without crowds)
- Photographing the grandstand from the perimeter
- Recreating the approach from Funabashi Hotatsuta Station
- Exploring the surrounding Kinoshita Highway area
- Holy site pilgrimage in a calm atmosphere
While the Memorial Walk cannot be used, you can experience the anime scenes by walking the ground route.
Annual Major Race Schedule and Umamusume Featured Races
Numerous important races are held throughout the year at Nakayama Racecourse. Understanding the schedule of major races featured in Umamusume makes trip planning easier.
Spring Season (March-May):
- Yayoi Sho (March): Classic preliminary
- 2000 Guineas (April): First classic crown, Umamusume collaboration planned
- NHK Mile Cup (May): Mile championship
Fall Season (September-December):
- Sprinters Stakes (September-October): Short distance G1
- Asahi Hai Futurity Stakes (December): 2-year-old champion determination
- Japan Cup (December): Grand Prix, numerous Umamusume collaborations
These big race event days are crowded but also have high potential for Umamusume collaboration events, providing special experiences.
Precautions by Weather and Season
As Nakayama Racecourse is an outdoor facility, comfort varies significantly with weather and season.
Spring (March-May):
- Weather: Relatively stable, comfortable
- Attire: Light jacket convenient
- Caution: 2000 Guineas time is crowded
Summer (June-August):
- Nakayama Racecourse has many summer closures
- Heat stroke prevention essential if visiting
Fall (September-November):
- Weather: High clear rates, optimal for photography
- Attire: Warm during daytime but cool mornings/evenings
- Best season
Winter (December-February):
- Weather: Frequent clear days but cold
- Attire: Cold weather protection essential
- Caution: Japan Cup period is very crowded, numerous Umamusume collaborations
Umamusume Collaboration Event Information
Past Collaboration Event Track Record
Umamusume collaborations at Nakayama Racecourse began in earnest in 2022, with the scale expanding year over year.
December 2022:
- Initial large-scale winners’ lady collaboration
- Multiple voice actresses appeared
- Special merchandise sales
December 2023:
- Expanded collaboration scale
- Additional photo spots
- Enhanced visitor benefits
December 21, 22, 28, 2024:
- Three-day large-scale collaboration
- Popular voice actresses’ winners’ lady appearances
- Limited merchandise selling out immediately
These events serve as a bridge between racing fans and Umamusume fans, playing an important role in energizing both communities.
Practical Holy Site Pilgrimage Advice
Photography Manners and Precautions
Photography during holy site pilgrimage is an enjoyable experience, but observing proper manners is important.
Basic Photography Manners:
- Photograph in locations that don’t inconvenience other visitors
- Refrain from loud voices or excessive movement during races
- Check surroundings before using tripods
- Follow instructions from racecourse staff
- Photograph horses and jockeys from designated areas
Prohibited Matters:
- Photography in restricted areas
- Commercial photography (without permission)
- Drone use
- Photographing other visitors without permission
Practice photography that respects proper manners to create an enjoyable holy site pilgrimage for everyone.
Packing Checklist
Here is a list of useful items to bring for Umamusume holy site pilgrimage to Nakayama Racecourse.
Essential Items:
- Smartphone (photography, information checking)
- Mobile battery
- Cash (some facilities don’t accept cashless payment)
- Entry fee (200 yen)
Recommended Items:
- Camera (high-quality photography)
- Binoculars (race viewing)
- Leisure sheet (for grass areas)
- Sunscreen, hat (in clear weather)
- Cold weather protection (winter)
- Rain gear (when weather is uncertain)
- Beverages, light snacks
- Game app (for playing on-site)
- Favorite Umamusume merchandise (for photography)
- Holy site pilgrimage notebook
Recommended Stay Duration and Efficient Pilgrimage Route
Required time for Umamusume holy site pilgrimage at Nakayama Racecourse varies depending on objectives.
Pattern 1: Exterior Photography Only (Non-Event Day)
- Required time: 1-2 hours
- Route: Funabashi Hotatsuta Station → Main Gate → Perimeter → Station
Pattern 2: Interior Viewing (Event Day, no race viewing)
- Required time: 2-3 hours
- Route: Station → Memorial Walk → Main Gate → Paddock → Grandstand → Winners Circle → Station
Pattern 3: Race Viewing + Holy Site Pilgrimage (Event Day)
- Required time: 4-6 hours
- Route: Early entry → Interior photography → Race viewing → Main race → Atmosphere appreciation → Exit
Pattern 4: Full Umamusume Collaboration Day Course
- Required time: All day
- Route: Pre-opening wait → Merchandise purchase → Interior photography → Race viewing → Collaboration event participation → Final race attendance
For efficient touring, create a list of places you want to visit in advance and cross-reference with the race schedule to create a plan.
SNS Posting Hashtag Utilization Strategy
When sharing holy site pilgrimage memories on SNS, using appropriate hashtags connects you with like-minded people.
Recommended Hashtags:
- #ウマ娘
- #ウマ娘プリティーダービー
- #ウマ娘聖地巡礼
- #中山競馬場
- #船橋法典駅
- #競馬場巡り
- #ウマ娘好きと繋がりたい
- #JRA
Limited-time During Collaboration:
- #ウマ娘コラボ
- #ウィナーズレディ
- #(Specific Race Name, e.g., #有馬記念)
Using hashtags makes it easier to find other fans’ posts and gain reference information for holy site pilgrimage.
Guide for Racing Beginners/Umamusume Fans
Basic Knowledge of Buying Tickets
Among Umamusume fans, there are many who play the game but have no experience with actual racing. Since you’re visiting Nakayama Racecourse, even making small wagers to enjoy races is recommended.
Ticket Basics:
- Minimum purchase amount: 100 yen
- Purchase locations: Mark card-style automated ticket machines, windows
- Main ticket types: Win, Place, Exacta, Quinella, Exacta Box, Trifecta, Superfecta
Recommended Betting Methods for Beginners:
- Place: Odds if horse finishes in top 3 (high win rate)
- Quinella: Select 2 horses, win if top 3 (moderate odds)
- Win: Picking first place (simple)
Applying in-game knowledge to support offspring of favorite horses or horses with the same names is another enjoyable approach.
Ways to Enjoy Race Viewing
Actual race viewing offers impact and emotion different from games and anime.
Viewing Points:
- Paddock Viewing:
- Check horse condition before race
- Observe physique, gait, and demeanor
- Real-life version of the in-game “paddock” screen
- Racetrack Entry:
- Moment of tension as horses enter the course
- Fanfare sounds
- Recreating anime’s memorable scenes
- During Race:
- Follow developments through narration and turf vision
- Experience the raw power of horse groups
- Cheering at the finish
- After Race:
- Award ceremony at winners circle
- Winning jockey interview
- Winners’ lady appearance during Umamusume collaboration
Ways to Enjoy Using Game Knowledge
Knowledge cultivated through Umamusume games can also be applied to actual race viewing.
Game Knowledge Applications:
- Course Shape Understanding: Confirm Nakayama Racecourse characteristics learned in-game (small turns, hill, etc.)
- Running Style Observation: Observe tactics like early lead, stalking, mid-pack, late charge in actual races
- Skill Activation Timing: Consider which race moments correspond to in-game skills
- Bloodline Knowledge: Learn that real racing also heavily emphasizes parent-child relationships seen in games
Connecting game and actual racing multiplies the enjoyment of both.
Basic Racing Terminology
Understanding horse racing terminology that appears in Umamusume games enhances enjoyment.
Basic Terms:
- Horse Number: Number assigned to horse (bib)
- Gate Number: Number divided into 8 gates (identified by color)
- Odds: Predicted payout multipliers
- Popularity: Ranked by odds (1st favorite is most supported)
- Win: Picking first place
- Place: Picking top 3 finishers
- Exacta: Picking 1st and 2nd places (any order)
- Exacta Box: Picking 1st and 2nd in exact order
- Trifecta: Picking 1st, 2nd, 3rd places (any order)
- Superfecta: Picking 1st, 2nd, 3rd in exact order
Race Terms:
- Furlong: Distance unit (1 furlong = 200 meters)
- Final Time: Last 600 meters of time
- Early Lead: Running lead strategy
- Late Charge: Charging from behind strategy
These terms are used in-game too, deepening understanding by confirming them in actual racing.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Entry Fees and Parking Charges
Q: How much is the entry fee for Nakayama Racecourse?
A: Standard entry is 200 yen. Those 15 and under enter free. Additional charges apply for reserved seating, ranging from 500 yen to several thousand yen depending on seat type.
Q: Is there parking? How much?
A: Nakayama Racecourse has paid parking. Approximately 1,000 yen for regular vehicles, but parking usually fills from early morning on event days, making public transportation recommended.
Memorial Walk Hours of Operation
Q: Can I use the Memorial Walk (underground passage) anytime?
A: Memorial Walk is available only on race days, open from venue opening until 5:20 PM. It is closed on non-race days, requiring use of the ground route.
Non-Event Day Viewing Possibility
Q: Can I visit the racecourse on days without racing?
A: Entry to the racecourse interior is not possible on non-race days, but exterior photography from the main gate and perimeter is possible. Non-race days are actually preferable for photographing in a quiet environment.
Collaboration Event Participation Method
Q: Do I need special tickets to participate in Umamusume collaboration events?
A: Generally, only standard entry fee (200 yen) is required. However, some special projects and limited merchandise may be first-come, first-served or lottery-based. Check official announcements for details.
Photography Restrictions
Q: Can I freely photograph within the racecourse?
A: Personal commemorative photography is basically free, but note the following:
- Photography in restricted areas prohibited
- Consideration for other visitors’ comfort
- Commercial photography requires prior approval
- Refrain from excessive movement during races
- Photograph horses and staff from designated areas
Rainy Day Response
Q: Can I enjoy holy site pilgrimage on rainy days?
A: Racing normally proceeds on rainy days with entry available. Memorial Walk has a roof so rain-free access is possible. However, outdoor photography becomes difficult, making fair-weather days preferable. Grandstands are roofed, allowing race viewing even in rain.
Conclusion: Maximizing Your Umamusume Holy Site Pilgrimage Experience
Nakayama Racecourse holds special significance for Umamusume fans. The route from Funabashi Hotatsuta Station through Memorial Walk to the main gate offers a valuable opportunity to experience anime scenes firsthand.
Key points to maximize holy site pilgrimage enjoyment:
- Preparation is Important: Check event schedules, collaboration information, weather forecasts
- Access via Funabashi Hotatsuta Station: Experience anime atmosphere through Memorial Walk
- Different Enjoyment by Event/Non-Event Days: Choose according to your purpose
- Photography with Proper Manners: Remember consideration for other visitors
- Also Enjoy Actual Racing: Apply game knowledge to viewing
- Check Official Sources for Collaboration Information: Don’t miss limited experiences
Through Umamusume content, touching actual racing’s charm deepens understanding of both games and anime. Holy site pilgrimage at Nakayama Racecourse will become an unforgettable memory for Umamusume fans.
Please use this guide as reference when planning your holy site pilgrimage to Nakayama Racecourse and Funabashi Hotatsuta Station. We wish all trainers wonderful holy site pilgrimage experiences!
