【Uma Musume Pretty Derby】Complete Guide to Narita Airport Terminal 2 Sacred Ground Pilgrimage
Uma Musume Pretty Derby and Narita Airport Terminal 2
“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a media mix content produced by Cygames that features personified racehorses. With expansions across anime, games, comics, and more, it has become popular as a work that fosters familiarity with the world of horse racing, captivating many fans.
Narita Airport Terminal 2 is an important sacred ground pilgrimage spot that appears in EXTRA R (Episode 13) of Anime Season 1, “Ring Out, Fanfare!” It became the stage for the emotional scene where Team Spica members, including Special Week, welcome Silence Suzuka upon her return from overseas competition.
Basic Information about Narita Airport Terminal 2
Location and Access Information
Address: 〒282-0004 Chiba Prefecture, Narita City, Komikomi 1-1
There are multiple ways to access Narita Airport Terminal 2, allowing you to choose based on your pilgrimage travel plans.
Access by Train:
- JR Narita Line “Airport Terminal 2 Building Station” directly connected (approximately 2 minutes walk)
- Keisei Main Line “Airport Terminal 2 Building Station” directly connected (approximately 2 minutes walk)
- Approximately 1 hour from Tokyo Station, approximately 50 minutes from Keisei Ueno Station
Access by Bus:
- Limousine buses (operating from major stations such as Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, and Yokohama Station)
- Travel time varies depending on departure location, but approximately 70-90 minutes from Tokyo Station
Access by Car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Narita IC” on the Higashi-Kanto Expressway
- Multiple parking lots available; P2-P5 are closest to Terminal 2
Facility Overview
Narita Airport Terminal 2 is an international airport terminal that opened in 1992. The choice of Narita Airport for the overseas return scene reflects the time period (2018 at the time of broadcast), when Haneda Airport had not yet become as internationalized as it is now.
Many international flights still operate today, with the facility bustling with many travelers on a daily basis. When leaving records of sacred ground pilgrimage, consideration must be given so as not to inconvenience airport users.
Detailed Explanation of Anime Appearance Scenes
Appearance in EXTRA R “Ring Out, Fanfare!”
In EXTRA R (Episode 13) of Anime Season 1, Team Spica members, including Special Week, welcome Silence Suzuka upon her return from overseas competition at Narita Airport Terminal 2.
This scene is deeply etched in fans’ hearts as an important moment where Suzuka returns after gaining experience overseas and achieving further growth. The symbolic meaning of the airport as a place of “meetings and partings” and “new beginnings” adds depth to the story.
Filming Locations
The main filming locations that appear in the work are as follows:
Parking Lot Rooftop:
One of the most impressive cuts in the anime is the scene filmed from the parking lot rooftop. From here, you can get a panoramic view of the Terminal 2 building and see planes taking off and landing. For sacred ground pilgrimage, photography from this location has become standard.
Arrival Lobby Vicinity:
The arrival lobby area inside the terminal is depicted in the scene where Suzuka arrives. The actual airport atmosphere has been faithfully reproduced, making it instantly recognizable to anime fans as “that scene.”
Sacred Ground Pilgrimage and Photography Spot Guide
Recommended Photography Spots
1. P2 Parking Lot Rooftop (Most Important Spot)
The rooftop of parking lot P2 is where the scene of Special Week and others waiting for Suzuka was filmed. From here, you can get a panoramic view of the entire Terminal 2 building, allowing you to take photos from the same angle as in the anime.
- Access: Approximately 5 minutes walk from Terminal 2
- Photography Precautions: Be careful not to obstruct parking lot users
- Best Time: Morning to afternoon when lighting conditions are optimal
2. Arrival Lobby (1st Floor)
The arrival lobby, the stage of Suzuka’s arrival scene, is a place where many actual airport users come and go. When photographing, always follow the instructions of airport staff and be considerate so as not to inconvenience other users.
- Photography Hours: Generally 24 hours
- Precautions: Tripod use is prohibited; hand-held photography only
- Etiquette: Take photos quickly from locations that don’t obstruct traffic
3. Observation Deck (Rooftop)
From Terminal 2’s observation deck, you can get a close view of runways and planes taking off and landing. While not directly featured in the anime, it’s an excellent spot to experience the atmosphere of the airport.
- Hours: 6:30 AM–9:00 PM (varies by season)
- Admission: Free
- Recommended Point: Can take commemorative photos with planes
Photography Precautions and Etiquette
As Narita Airport is an international airport facility, security is strictly enforced. When visiting for sacred ground pilgrimage, please pay attention to the following points:
Photography-Related Precautions:
- Tripod and selfie stick use is generally prohibited
- Be considerate so other users don’t appear in photos
- Photography within security areas is strictly forbidden
- If staff gives instructions, comply promptly
Behavioral Etiquette:
- Refrain from loud conversations or shouting
- Avoid long-term occupation with groups
- Don’t obstruct airport user traffic
- If visiting in cosplay, confirm in advance with the airport
Security-Related:
- Avoid suspicious behavior
- Keep belongings on your person at all times
- Never enter restricted areas
Nearby Sacred Ground Pilgrimage Spots
Uma Musume Sacred Locations in Chiba Prefecture
When visiting Narita Airport Terminal 2, there are Uma Musume-related spots in Chiba Prefecture worth visiting together.
Nakayama Racecourse:
Located in Funabashi, Chiba, Nakayama Racecourse is an important stage in the Uma Musume world. Visiting on an actual race day allows for a deeper experience of the work’s world view.
- Location: 1-1-1 Kosaku, Funabashi, Chiba Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes walk from “Funabashi Houtten Station” on the JR Sobu Line
- Admission: 200 yen (general) on race days
Major Sacred Locations in Tokyo
There are abundant sacred ground pilgrimage spots in Tokyo that can be visited on the return journey from Narita Airport.
Tokyo Racecourse (Fuchu Area):
One of the most important stages in Uma Musume. Where important races, including the Japan Derby, are held—a sacred site among sacred sites.
- Location: 1-1 Hiyoshi-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo
- Access: Directly connected to “Fuchu Racecourse Gate Station” on the Keio Line
Tachikawa Area / Kichijoji Area:
Various locations that served as stages for daily scenes in the anime are scattered throughout. Areas that served as models for the Tracen Academy vicinity are also included, making them must-visit locations for fans.
Efficient Sacred Ground Pilgrimage Planning
Day Trip Model Course
Morning: Narita Airport Terminal 2
- 9:00 AM Arrival at Airport Terminal 2 Building Station
- 9:15 AM–10:30 AM Photography at parking lot rooftop, arrival lobby, and observation deck
- 10:30 AM–11:30 AM Lunch and rest in terminal
Afternoon: Move toward Nakayama Racecourse
- 12:00 PM Departure from Narita Airport
- 1:30 PM Arrival at Nakayama Racecourse (if races are held)
- 3:00 PM–4:00 PM Racecourse exploration and photography
- 4:30 PM Move to Tokyo from Funabashi Houtten Station
Pilgrimage Plan with Accommodation
Day 1: Narita Airport to Chiba Prefecture
- Morning: Narita Airport Terminal 2 pilgrimage
- Afternoon: Nakayama Racecourse visit
- Evening: Stay in Chiba City or Funabashi City
Day 2: Sacred locations in Tokyo
- Morning: Fuchu area (Tokyo Racecourse)
- Afternoon: Tachikawa area and Kichijoji area
- Evening: Other sacred spots in Tokyo
Budget Estimate
Day Trip Plan:
- Transportation: 3,000–5,000 yen (round trip from Tokyo)
- Meals: 2,000–3,000 yen
- Miscellaneous: 1,000 yen
- Total: Approximately 6,000–9,000 yen
1 Night, 2 Day Plan:
- Transportation: 5,000–8,000 yen
- Accommodation: 6,000–10,000 yen
- Meals: 4,000–6,000 yen
- Miscellaneous: 2,000 yen
- Total: Approximately 17,000–26,000 yen
Highlights by Season
Spring (March–May)
Spring has mild weather and is the ideal season for sacred ground pilgrimage. During cherry blossom season, you can enjoy flower viewing in areas around the airport. However, Golden Week brings very crowded airports, making it unsuitable for photography.
Recommended Points:
- Comfortable weather for photography
- Coincides with spring racing season, enriching racecourse visits
- Beautiful fresh greenery from the observation deck
Summer (June–August)
While heat countermeasures are essential in summer, clear skies are common, allowing photography against a blue sky background. During summer vacation season, the airport becomes crowded; visiting on weekdays is recommended.
Precautions:
- Heatstroke prevention (hydration, hat wearing)
- Outdoor photography best in early morning or evening
- Take breaks in air-conditioned indoor areas as needed
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn, alongside spring, is an ideal season for sacred ground pilgrimage. Particularly from October to November, weather is stable, and you can enjoy travel in pleasant climate. It’s also autumn racing season, making it ideal for visiting racecourses together.
Recommended Points:
- Comfortable weather
- Clear autumn air allows for beautiful photos
- Can watch famous autumn races
Winter (December–February)
While winter requires cold-weather measures, the crisp air makes the observation deck views particularly beautiful. While year-end and New Year are crowded, mid-January through February are relatively quiet.
Precautions:
- Winter gear essential (rooftop is especially cold)
- Sunset is early, so allow time for photography
- Be cautious of transportation delays on snowy days
Airport Utilization Techniques for Uma Musume Fans
Enjoying Airport Cuisine
Narita Airport Terminal 2 features a wide variety of restaurants. Between sacred ground pilgrimage activities, you can enjoy local cuisine from throughout Japan and international dishes.
Recommended Restaurants:
- Japanese: Sushi, tempura, ramen, etc.
- Western: Hamburgers, pasta, steak, etc.
- Cafes: Starbucks, Tully’s Coffee, etc.
Purchasing Souvenirs and Goods
The airport contains numerous souvenir shops where you can purchase specialty products from Chiba Prefecture and throughout Japan. Official Uma Musume merchandise is not sold at the airport, but purchasing Chiba Prefecture specialties as a record of your trip is also recommended.
Airport Facility Use
Free Wi-Fi:
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, convenient for SNS posts and information gathering.
Rest Areas:
Seating is provided throughout for rest, allowing you to plan your next destination while relaxing.
Coin Lockers:
You can store large luggage and travel light for sacred ground pilgrimage.
Comparison with Other Airport-Related Sacred Locations
Narita Airport Terminal 1
Uma Musume Season 3 also features Narita Airport Terminal 1. Visiting it together with Terminal 2 allows for a more fulfilling sacred ground pilgrimage.
Terminal 1 Highlights:
- 4th floor bus platform
- 4th floor check-in counters
- Observation deck
Access: Approximately 10 minutes via free shuttle bus from Terminal 2
Differences from Haneda Airport
While Haneda Airport now offers abundant international flights, Narita Airport was the major international hub at the time of Anime Season 1 broadcast (2018). Understanding this historical context deepens comprehension of the work.
Methods of Recording Sacred Ground Pilgrimage
Photography Tips
Composition Techniques:
- Save anime scene screenshots in advance
- Find matching angles and photograph
- Wide-angle lens helps capture entire buildings
Lighting Conditions:
- Morning to midday provides good front lighting
- Evening often causes backlighting; be careful
- Overcast days allow for soft lighting
SNS Posting Tips
When posting sacred ground pilgrimage records on SNS, using the following hashtags helps you connect with fans with similar interests:
- #ウマ娘
- #ウマ娘聖地巡礼
- #成田空港
- #聖地巡礼
- #舞台探訪
Posting Precautions:
- Pixelate other people’s faces if visible
- Be cautious with location sharing
- Don’t post information related to airport security
Conclusion: The Appeal of Narita Airport Terminal 2 Sacred Ground Pilgrimage
Narita Airport Terminal 2 remains a sacred location cherished by many fans as the stage for the emotional scene in Uma Musume Season 1 EXTRA R. The scene where Team Spica members welcome Silence Suzuka upon her return from overseas competition is one of the most memorable moments in the work.
Because it is an actual international airport, photography is subject to various restrictions, but by visiting while respecting etiquette, it becomes a valuable opportunity to experience the anime’s world firsthand. The view from the parking lot rooftop is an ideal spot to truly recreate an anime scene.
There are numerous other Uma Musume-related sacred locations in the surrounding areas, including Nakayama Racecourse in Chiba Prefecture, Tokyo Racecourse in Tokyo, and the Tachikawa and Kichijoji areas. Through efficient planning, enjoy a fulfilling sacred ground pilgrimage trip.
Those who developed affection for the world of horse racing through anime may deepen their understanding of the work by also planning visits to actual racecourses. Uma Musume sacred ground pilgrimage offers a wonderful experience that simultaneously provides enjoyment as an anime fan and the pleasure of discovering the appeal of locations throughout Japan.
Why not visit Narita Airport Terminal 2 and experience the emotional scene firsthand, standing in the same location as Special Week and the others?
