[Uma Musume Pretty Derby] Nakayama Racecourse·Paddock Chiba Prefecture

【Uma Musume Pretty Derby】Nakayama Racecourse Paddock Complete Guide|From Sacred Site Pilgrimage to Actual Race Viewing – Complete Explanation

Nakayama Racecourse in Funabashi, Chiba Prefecture is an important setting that appears frequently in the anime and games of “Uma Musume Pretty Derby.” In particular, the paddock area is where the Uma Musume make impressive appearances before races, and has become a popular spot for sacred site pilgrimages. This article provides a thorough explanation of information useful to both Uma Musume fans and racing fans, centering on the paddock at Nakayama Racecourse, including filming locations of anime scenes, how to access the venue, and how to enjoy actual horse racing viewing.

Nakayama Racecourse Explained|Chiba’s Sacred Site for Horse Racing

Nakayama Racecourse is located in Kosaku, Funabashi, Chiba Prefecture, and is operated by the Japan Racing Association (JRA). The current grandstand completed in 1990 is a seven-story building and boasts an area of approximately 165,000 square meters. As a central facility of Japanese racing alongside Tokyo Racecourse and Kyoto Racecourse, numerous grade races are held throughout the year.

History and Characteristics of Nakayama Racecourse

Nakayama Racecourse was opened in 1907 (Meiji 40) and has over 100 years of history. After World War II, it came under the jurisdiction of the Japan Racing Association in 1949 and continues to the present day. The course features one of Japan’s steepest gradients among all racecourses, and the uphill slope in the final straight is a major trial for racehorses. This unique course shape has created numerous dramatic moments.

Races are held mainly three times per year (January-March, September, December), and Grade 1 races such as the Arima Kinen, Sprinters Stakes, and Asahi Cup Futurity Stakes are held here. In particular, the Arima Kinen in December is known affectionately as the “Grand Prix,” and draws attention as a major event to determine the strongest horse of the year.

Relationship with Uma Musume

In “Uma Musume Pretty Derby,” Nakayama Racecourse is portrayed as a highly important setting. In Anime Season 1, it appears in scenes of Special Week’s debut race and important race moments, while in Season 3, there are many impressive scenes such as Kitasan Black running from Ibaraki.

In the game, many races held at Nakayama Racecourse are implemented, and it is known as a high-difficulty racecourse that reflects the steep course characteristics. Long-distance races that require high stamina are common, and it is positioned as a racecourse that tests training skills.

Paddock Basic Information and Highlights

The paddock is an important area where racehorses appear before races and spectators can observe the horses’ condition. The paddock at Nakayama Racecourse is positioned close to the grandstand and has a design that is easy to access.

Paddock Structure and Layout

The paddock at Nakayama Racecourse has an oval loop course with a green grass area in the center. Around the loop course are spaces where spectators can stand and watch, and many fans gather before races. There are also covered viewing areas around the paddock, allowing comfortable viewing even on bad weather days.

There are multiple entrances to the paddock, with passages providing direct access from the grandstand. In the anime, scenes of Uma Musume entering the paddock through these passages are depicted, and many fans search for these locations during sacred site pilgrimages.

Hiseikou Statue and Its Significance

Near the paddock at Nakayama Racecourse stands a statue of the legendary racehorse Hiseikou. Hiseikou was an active racehorse in the 1970s who became a social phenomenon as a “national idol horse.” The statue, erected in 2000, has become a popular spot visited by many fans.

For Uma Musume fans, this statue is also an important photo spot. While not directly appearing in the anime, it is worth visiting during sacred site pilgrimages as a place where one can feel the history of horse racing.

Winners Lady and Uma Musume Collaboration

Nakayama Racecourse has a unique “Winners Lady” concept for winner presentation ceremonies. Since 2022, collaborations with “Uma Musume Pretty Derby” have been implemented, with voice actors appearing as Winners Ladies during December events.

From September 2023, a new project began where cast members hold race number placards in the paddock during special races and grade races, becoming an unmissable event for Uma Musume fans. On September 28, 2025, for the Sprinters Stakes, three cast members playing Uma Musume modeled after horses with prior winning experience will appear in the winner’s circle, with collaborative events regularly being held.

Anime Appearance Scenes and Filming Location Guide

Various locations at Nakayama Racecourse appear in the “Uma Musume Pretty Derby” anime. Here, the main appearance scenes and their filming locations are explained in detail.

Anime Season 1 Appearance Scenes

In Anime Season 1, a scene where Special Week sees other Uma Musume for the first time in the paddock is depicted. This scene is filmed from a specific angle of the paddock, and by using the actual paddock view as a reference, you can identify the location that served as the model.

In Episode 11, there is a scene where the grown Special Week is training in the paddock. Compared with the scene from Episode 1, the change in expression conveys impressive character development. This scene is depicted from a specific position along the paddock’s loop course.

In the scene where Blowaye enters, she is shown passing through a corridor and then descending stairs toward the paddock. This corridor is actually the route from the grandstand to the paddock, and during sacred site pilgrimages, you can follow the same route.

Anime Season 3 Appearance Scenes

In Anime Season 3, the scene where Kitasan Black runs from Ibaraki and enters Nakayama Racecourse is impressive. This scene is depicted along the route from Funabashi Houten Station through normal entrances to the main gate, filmed from around where the racecourse becomes visible.

The scene where Kitasan Black enters through the main gate and heads toward the goal by circling the grandstand is also an important moment in Season 3. Along the way, winning wreaths are displayed, and if you visit in the morning on days with grade races, you can see the actual wreaths.

In the opening video, there is a scene where Satono Croun stands on a sidewalk near the central gate. All exterior shots are filmed from the sidewalk on the central gate side, and during sacred site pilgrimages, photographing the racecourse from this location allows you to capture the same angle as the anime.

Photography Tips and Precautions

When photographing during sacred site pilgrimages, there are several precautions to keep in mind. First, photography is generally permitted at the racecourse, but consideration for other visitors is necessary. Especially on race days when it is crowded, securing a photography location requires arriving early.

Photography in the paddock area is most atmospheric during pre-race time, but this time period also has many spectators, so a spirit of cooperation is important. Tripod use may be restricted in some areas, so it is recommended to confirm in advance.

Weather significantly affects how buildings appear, so choosing a day with weather similar to the anime scenes results in more atmospheric photos. Sunny mornings in particular have good lighting and allow for beautiful photographs.

Access Methods and Routes from the Nearest Stations

Access to Nakayama Racecourse is mainly by train and bus. Here, the most common access methods are explained in detail.

Access from Funabashi Houten Station

Funabashi Houten Station on the JR Musashino Line is the nearest station to Nakayama Racecourse. The distance from the station to the racecourse is approximately 15 minutes on foot, allowing you to follow the route Kitasan Black ran in Anime Season 3.

From the station’s north exit, directional signs are posted indicating the way to the racecourse. Following the path, the Nakayama Racecourse building eventually comes into view. This “point where the racecourse becomes visible” is the location where Anime Season 3 depicts Kitasan Black’s entry.

Along the way to the main gate, the central gate comes into view on the left. The sidewalk on the central gate side is known as the filming location used in anime opening videos and is a must-visit spot during sacred site pilgrimages.

Access from Shimosa Nakayama Station

Shimosa Nakayama Station on the JR Sobu Line is another nearest station to Nakayama Racecourse. The distance from the station to the racecourse is approximately 20 minutes on foot, slightly farther than Funabashi Houten Station, but the route passes through a pleasant shopping street.

From Shimosa Nakayama Station’s north exit, head toward the Route 14 national road area. Along the way, there are restaurants and convenience stores where you can have a meal or shop before heading to the racecourse.

Free Shuttle Bus Service

A free shuttle bus to Colton runs from in front of the Cozy Corner on the north side of Motoyawata Station on race days. This bus frequently operates on race days and is a convenient way to access the racecourse comfortably.

The shuttle bus schedule varies by race day, so it is recommended to check the official JRA website in advance. Especially on grade race days when congestion is expected, using the bus at an earlier time is advisable.

Automobile Access and Parking

If visiting by car, the venue is approximately 10 minutes from the Haraki Interchange on the Keiyo Expressway. A large parking lot is provided at the racecourse, and many vehicles can park on race days.

However, parking lots may fill up on major event days such as Grade 1 races, so public transportation is recommended. Parking fees vary by race day but typically cost around 1,000 yen.

Nakayama Racecourse Course Characteristics and In-Game Recreation

The course at Nakayama Racecourse is faithfully recreated in the “Uma Musume Pretty Derby” game, and understanding its characteristics is key to training strategy success.

Actual Course Characteristics

The course at Nakayama Racecourse has a lap distance of 1,667 meters (turf course) with a straight length of 310 meters. Its greatest feature is a top-class steep gradient among all Japanese racecourses, with approximately 2.8 meters of elevation gain particularly in the final straight’s uphill slope.

This steep gradient makes it a difficult course requiring both stamina and speed. In actual racing, horses that dominate at Tokyo Racecourse often struggle at Nakayama Racecourse, highlighting the importance of course suitability.

There are four corners, with particularly tight curves from the third to fourth corner, and positioning through this section significantly affects race results. Inside position is generally considered advantageous, but depending on track conditions and distance, outside positions may occasionally be advantageous.

In-Game Recreation Accuracy

In the “Uma Musume Pretty Derby” game, the steep gradient of Nakayama Racecourse is faithfully reproduced, requiring high stamina statistics. Particularly in long-distance races, speed loss due to insufficient stamina easily occurs, making status distribution during training crucial.

Races held at Nakayama Racecourse in-game include the Satsuki Sho (Classic Grade April Early), Spring Stakes (Classic Grade March Late), and Yayoi Sho (Classic Grade February Late). These races serve as important milestones in training scenarios, and winning requires proper skill acquisition and status training.

Strategy Points

To successfully complete races at Nakayama Racecourse, ensuring sufficient stamina is the top priority. The recommended level is C+ or higher for short distances and A or higher for long distances.

The next important factor is acquiring skills suited to the uphill slope. Skills like “Uphill ◯” and “Corner Recovery ◯” are particularly effective at Nakayama Racecourse. Additionally, acceleration skills like “Straight Dash” are useful for climbing the final hill.

Regarding racing strategy, “running in front” or “leading” is often more advantageous than “chasing” or “late charge.” This is because being positioned ahead before stamina is depleted on the final slope reduces the risk of fading.

Actual Horse Racing Viewing Enjoyment

When Uma Musume fans visit Nakayama Racecourse, enjoying actual horse racing provides a deeper experience. Here are tips for enjoying horse racing viewing even for beginners.

Entry and Betting Basics

The entrance fee for Nakayama Racecourse at general seating is just 200 yen, which is extremely affordable. Entrance tickets can be purchased at the main gate or central gate. Upon entering the facility, various amenities become available.

Betting tickets can be purchased at automatic machines or marked card windows inside. For beginners, “win” bets to pick the winning horse or “exacta” bets to pick first and second place in any order are recommended. The minimum purchase amount is 100 yen, allowing for casual enjoyment.

Horse Inspection at the Paddock

It is recommended to always observe the horses in the paddock before races. As depicted in Uma Musume anime and games, the paddock is an important place to assess racehorse condition.

Check points include the horse’s gait, coat condition, and eagerness to race. Horses that walk calmly and composed are considered to be in good condition, while horses that are nervous and agitated may be overly excited.

In the paddock, the moment the jockey mounts the horse can also be observed. This moment is a photo opportunity, with many fans holding cameras ready.

Best Viewing Spots for Races

The best spot for watching races at Nakayama Racecourse varies depending on your preference. For experiencing the thrill, the front row near the finish line is recommended. The power of horses racing past before your eyes is the true appeal of horse racing viewing.

For observing the entire course, the upper levels of the grandstand are recommended. This allows for a complete view of the course, making race development easier to follow and enabling more strategic viewing. A perspective similar to Uma Musume anime’s overhead view is possible.

The flow from paddock to winner’s circle, moving as depicted in the anime, allows you to relive the Uma Musume world. The winner’s presentation ceremony is particularly not to be missed, as it is also an event where the Winners Lady appears, making it essential viewing for Uma Musume fans.

Gourmet and Rest Areas

Nakayama Racecourse has various restaurants and concessions. Popular racecourse gourmet options include curry rice, ramen, and skewered grilled foods. Special menus may be offered on grade race days.

Enjoying lunch on outdoor benches is also possible, and on sunny days provides pleasant relaxation. However, securing seating on busy days is difficult, so arriving early is recommended.

The facility has ample rest areas where you can relax between races. Spaces specifically for families are also available, making it safe to visit with children.

Grade Races and Event Information

Throughout the year, numerous grade races and events are held at Nakayama Racecourse. Races and events of particular note for Uma Musume fans are introduced.

Major Grade 1 Races

The Sprinters Stakes (September) determines the short-distance champion with a Grade 1 race. For the September 28, 2025 event, Uma Musume Winners Lady collaboration will be implemented, with three cast members confirmed to appear.

The Asahi Cup Futurity Stakes (December) decides the champion among 2-year-old colts in a Grade 1 race. This important race, which hints at the upcoming classic season, draws considerable attention.

The Arima Kinen (December) is known affectionately as the “Grand Prix” and is a major year-end event. Horses selected by fan voting compete, determining the year’s strongest horse. This race is portrayed as significant in Uma Musume and is implemented in-game.

Uma Musume Collaboration Events

Nakayama Racecourse regularly hosts collaboration events with “Uma Musume Pretty Derby.” The Winners Lady collaboration beginning in 2022 features voice actors appearing in December events to enliven the winner’s presentation ceremony.

From September 2023, a project began where Winners Ladies hold race number placards in the paddock during special and grade races. This project has increased photo opportunities in the paddock, becoming a welcome service for fans.

Collaboration event information is regularly announced on the JRA official website and Uma Musume official portal site, so checking periodically is recommended.

Race Schedule and Congestion Levels

Nakayama Racecourse hosts races mainly three times yearly (January-March, September, December). Each event period lasts approximately one month, with races held primarily on weekends.

Congestion levels vary greatly depending on the grade of races being held. Grade 1 race days are extremely crowded, with the Arima Kinen day being the year’s busiest. Conversely, weekdays and weekends without major races are relatively quiet, allowing for leisurely viewing.

For pilgrims seeking sacred sites, weekdays or weekends without major races are recommended to avoid crowds. However, Uma Musume collaboration events typically occur on grade race days, so compromising on congestion is necessary if participating in events is the priority.

Combining Nearby Tourist Attractions with Your Plan

Various tourist attractions and leisure facilities are scattered around Nakayama Racecourse. Spots that can be enjoyed alongside sacred site pilgrimages are introduced.

Tourist Spots Around Funabashi

Funabashi has large commercial facilities such as LaLaport TOKYO-BAY and IKEA Tokyo-Bay. While slightly distant from the racecourse, they are accessible by bus or taxi, allowing for shopping and dining experiences that can make a day more fulfilling.

Funabashi Andersen Park is a comprehensive park with extensive grounds, popular with families. As a place to enjoy nature and refresh, visiting before or after the racecourse is also recommended.

Relaxing at Bath Facilities

After horse racing viewing or sacred site pilgrimages, visiting hot spring facilities for relaxation is also recommended. Areas around Funabashi have super bathhouses like “Yuraku-no-Sato” where you can leisurely ease fatigue in spacious facilities.

These facilities are within reasonable distance from the racecourse via bus or taxi and are ideal as the day’s conclusion. Restaurants are also included, allowing you to enjoy dinner as well.

Multi-Racecourse Tour Plan

For serious Uma Musume sacred site pilgrims, visiting multiple racecourses like Tokyo Racecourse and Kyoto Racecourse is also recommended. Tokyo Racecourse is located in Fuchu and is approximately 1.5 hours from Nakayama Racecourse by train. As Japan’s largest racecourse and setting for many Uma Musume scenes, it is worth visiting.

Kyoto Racecourse is in the Kansai region, making it combinable as an overnight trip plan. Combining with Kyoto sightseeing creates an enriching travel experience.

Precautions and Etiquette for Visiting

When visiting Nakayama Racecourse, it is important to observe several precautions and etiquette rules.

Racecourse Rules and Etiquette

A racecourse is a public facility used by many people. Refrain from loud conversations and running around to avoid disturbing other visitors. Particularly during races, quiet viewing is proper etiquette.

Photography is generally permitted, but care must be taken not to include other visitors. Tripod use is restricted during crowded times, so follow staff instructions.

Always dispose of trash in designated areas to maintain facility cleanliness. While bringing food is permitted, excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided and modest behavior maintained.

Weather and Clothing Considerations

Since Nakayama Racecourse is primarily outdoors, weather greatly affects comfort. On sunny days, sun protection like hats and sunscreen are recommended. Conversely, rain requires umbrellas or raincoats.

Choosing easy-to-walk shoes is important for clothing. The venue is large, requiring movement between the paddock, grandstand, and betting areas, so high heels should be avoided.

Temperature varies significantly by season, so layered clothing is especially recommended in spring and fall. During winter events, thorough cold weather preparation is necessary.

Packing Checklist

A packing checklist for visiting Nakayama Racecourse is provided below.

• Entrance fee (200 yen) and cash for betting
• Camera or smartphone (charger also recommended)
• Race program or horse racing prediction app
• Beverages (purchasable on-site as well)
• Hat or sunscreen (sunny days)
• Umbrella or raincoat (rainy days)
• Binoculars (for race viewing)
• Notepad and pen (for prediction records)
• Uma Musume merchandise (during collaboration events)

Preparing these items allows for a comfortable experience at the racecourse.

Conclusion|Nakayama Racecourse Enjoyable for Both Uma Musume Fans and Racing Fans

Nakayama Racecourse is a place with significant charm both as an important setting in “Uma Musume Pretty Derby” and as a sacred site of actual horse racing. From sacred site pilgrimages centered on the paddock to actual race viewing to nearby tourism, various ways to enjoy the experience are possible.

Visiting locations depicted in the anime deepens understanding of the work and allows for greater enjoyment of the Uma Musume world. Additionally, observing actual horse racing provides firsthand experience of the excitement that forms the basis for in-game races.

The location’s proximity to Funabashi Houten Station is also an attractive feature. Given Chiba’s location, it is easily accessible from Tokyo and ideal for a day trip.

Uma Musume collaboration events are regularly held, providing special experiences for fans. Visiting during grade race days allows you to enjoy both the excitement of racing and the Uma Musume worldview simultaneously.

Would you not like to visit Nakayama Racecourse’s paddock and see the same scenery as the Uma Musume? The emotion gained from actually visiting is something that cannot be experienced through a screen alone. On the next race day, please visit Nakayama Racecourse and experience the Uma Musume world.