【Uma Musume Pretty Derby】Hanshin Racecourse Paddock 3rd Floor Complete Guide|Holy Land Pilgrimage Must-See Spots and Photography Points
Introduction: The Relationship Between Uma Musume Pretty Derby and Hanshin Racecourse
“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a work that depicts the story of beautiful girl characters who are personifications of actual racehorses, striving for victory in races alongside their trainers. In the anime version, actual racecourses are faithfully recreated, and in particular, Hanshin Racecourse, which appears in Episode 2 “Sudden Debut Race,” becomes an important setting as the stage for protagonist Special Week’s debut race.
Located in Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture, Hanshin Racecourse is one of the important holy land pilgrimage spots for Uma Musume fans. Among these, the 3rd floor of the paddock is visited by many fans as the location where numerous impressive scenes depicted in the anime were filmed.
Hanshin Racecourse Paddock 3rd Floor Explained
Basic Information About the Paddock
The paddock at Hanshin Racecourse plays a central role in the racecourse’s design. The entire stand is arranged to surround the paddock, making it possible to observe the competing horses from any angle. Thanks to this design philosophy, the 3rd floor of the paddock offers an excellent view and allows observers to watch the horses before the race with great realism and excitement.
The paddock is the place where horses scheduled to race are paraded before entering the main track, displayed to spectators. In actual horse racing, it functions as an important area for checking the horse’s condition, and this atmosphere is faithfully recreated in the anime as well.
Features of the 3rd Floor Paddock
The 3rd floor paddock is an excellent viewing point from which the entire paddock can be surveyed. Due to its height, it’s easy to grasp the overall appearance of the Uma Musume circulating within the paddock, allowing visitors to experience the bird’s-eye perspective depicted in the anime.
In actual anime Episode 2, there are scenes where the trainer and team members of Team Spica watch Special Week from around the 2nd and 3rd floors of the paddock. The background depictions are extremely detailed, matching the actual structure of Hanshin Racecourse down to the finest details, providing many points where holy land pilgrims can feel a sense of “This is it!”
Detailed Explanation of Scenes Depicted in Anime Episode 2
Special Week’s Debut Race
Episode 2 of the anime “Uma Musume Pretty Derby,” titled “Sudden Debut Race,” is an important episode where protagonist Special Week races for the first time. The Hanshin Racecourse depicted in this episode brilliantly recreates the atmosphere of an actual racecourse and has received high praise from horse racing fans as well.
In the tense scene of a debut race, Special Week’s first encounter with other Uma Musume is depicted from around the 3rd floor paddock. Her expression, mixing anxiety and anticipation, along with the appearance of the other Uma Musume around her, is effectively expressed through the paddock setting.
Key Points for Recreating the 3rd Floor Paddock View
To recreate the 3rd floor paddock view depicted in the anime, there are several important points.
The Place Where Team Spica Watched
The location where the trainer and members of Team Spica watched over Special Week was in the area spanning from the 2nd to 3rd floors of the paddock. From this position at an actual racecourse, the entire paddock is visible, and the condition of the competing horses can be observed in detail.
In the anime, the image of the trainer leaning against the railing while watching Special Week with concern is depicted impressively. The shape of this railing and the background structures exactly match the actual Hanshin Racecourse, allowing visitors standing in the same position to feel as if they’ve entered the world of the work.
How to View the Paddock and Landmarks
At actual racecourses, instructions on “how to view the paddock” are posted. In the anime as well, these signs and guidance displays are depicted in the background, making it possible to identify the location that served as the model by using them as landmarks.
By cross-referencing the positional relationships of specific pillars and railings on the 3rd floor paddock, the background structure of the stands visible from there, and other details, it becomes possible to film the same angle as an anime scene.
Scenes Near the Central Entrance
The area near Hanshin Racecourse’s central entrance also serves as the setting for important scenes in the anime. In the scene where Special Week arrives at the racecourse and experiences the full atmosphere of a formal racecourse for the first time, the spacious space of the central entrance and the impressive presence of the visible stands are depicted strikingly.
For Special Week, coming from the countryside, Hanshin Racecourse as a major venue held an overwhelming presence. The anime effectively expresses this tension of “first time on a major stage” through the building’s structure and the expansiveness of the space.
Detailed Guide for Holy Land Pilgrimage
Access Methods
Access by Train
Access to Hanshin Racecourse is primarily via the Hankyu Railway. The nearest station is Nikawa Station on the Hankyu Imazu Line, just a 2-minute walk from the racecourse.
- From Osaka/Umeda area: Take the Hankyu Kobe Line to Nishinomiya-Kitaguchi Station, transfer to the Imazu Line, and get off at Nikawa Station
- From Kobe area: Similarly, transfer to the Imazu Line at Nishinomiya-Kitaguchi Station
On race days, many horse racing fans and Uma Musume fans head in the same direction from the station to the racecourse, so you’re unlikely to get lost.
Access by Car
By automobile, it takes approximately 15 minutes from either the “Nishinomiya IC” on the Meishin Expressway or the “Takarazuka IC” on the Chugoku Expressway. The racecourse has large parking facilities, but on race days, especially when major races are held, it gets crowded, so early arrival is recommended.
Admission Methods and Fees
Admission to Hanshin Racecourse is typically 200 yen on regular race days (free for those under 15). Admission fees may change on days when special races are held, so it’s recommended to check the JRA (Japan Racing Association) official website beforehand.
There are multiple entry gates, but entering through the central entrance depicted in the anime allows you to feel the work’s worldview more strongly.
How to Get to the 3rd Floor Paddock
Once inside the racecourse, head toward the paddock area. Since Hanshin Racecourse is designed around the paddock, you can reach it without getting lost by following the guide signs.
Access to the 3rd floor paddock is via escalators or stairs within the stands. Elevators are also available, reflecting consideration for accessibility.
Best Positions for Photography
Points for Anime Recreation Photography
Here are photography points for recreating anime scenes at the 3rd floor paddock.
- Team Spica’s Perspective: Near the railings from the 2nd to 3rd floors of the paddock. The angle of surveying the entire paddock from here matches the viewpoint from which the trainers watched over Special Week.
- Bird’s-Eye View of the Paddock: From the center or slightly left of the 3rd floor, looking down at the entire paddock. This angle is ideal for recreating the scene where Special Week first sees other Uma Musume.
- Background Matching Points: By finding locations where pillars, railings, and background stand structures match, more accurate anime recreation becomes possible. The instruction board showing how to view the paddock also serves as a landmark.
Photography Precautions
There are certain etiquette and rules for photography at the racecourse.
- Be considerate to avoid inconveniencing other visitors
- Be careful not to interfere with horses or jockeys during races or when horses are circulating
- Refrain from using tripods during crowded times
- Don’t occupy the same location for extended periods
- Always follow staff instructions
Race Days and Recommended Visiting Times
Hanshin Racecourse hosts races throughout the year, though race days are limited. It’s recommended to check the race schedule on the JRA official website and visit on a race day.
Recommended Visiting Times
- Spring racing (March-June): Coincides with cherry blossom season, with beautiful scenery around the racecourse
- Fall racing (September-December): Pleasant weather with many major races
- G1 Race Days: Days when major races held at Hanshin Racecourse, such as the Takarazuka Kinen (June), have a special atmosphere
Racecourse tour visits may be available on non-race days, so checking JRA event information is worthwhile.
Other Highlights at Hanshin Racecourse
Around the Winner’s Circle
The anime also depicts scenes at the Winner’s Circle after the race. This is where victorious Uma Musume receive awards, and Special Week’s moving moment of victory was expressed here.
The Winner’s Circle is located adjacent to the paddock and is where winning horses, jockeys, and related personnel gather after the race in actual horse racing. The view of the stands from here is also faithfully recreated in the anime.
Views from the Stands
Hanshin Racecourse’s stands are designed around the paddock, making the paddock easily visible from any seat. Additionally, since the stands are positioned to overlook the entire course, you can fully experience the excitement of the race.
The anime also depicts race scenes as seen from the stands in an impressive manner, allowing visitors to experience the work’s world realistically by actually sitting in the same position and watching a race.
Facilities and Amenities
Hanshin Racecourse is equipped with facilities that allow families to enjoy themselves.
- Restaurants and Cafes: Multiple dining establishments within the racecourse allow you to eat while enjoying the races
- Kids Room: Facilities where families with children can spend time comfortably
- Horse Museum: Exhibition space to learn about horse racing history and culture
- Shop: Where racing goods and Uma Musume related merchandise are sold
The World of Uma Musume Pretty Derby and Hanshin Racecourse
The Meaning of the Racecourse in the Work
In “Uma Musume Pretty Derby,” the racecourse is not merely background scenery but an important narrative device. As a place where Uma Musume grow, pursue their dreams, and compete with rivals, the racecourse holds special significance.
For Special Week, her debut race at Hanshin Racecourse represented her first major stage after coming from the countryside to the city. The complex emotions of her tension and anticipation, fear and hope, depicted on the stage of Hanshin Racecourse, an actual place, make the story more realistic and relatable.
Connection to Actual Horse Racing
The Uma Musume appearing in the anime are modeled after actual racehorses. Special Week, too, is based on a famous horse that was active in the 1990s and actually debuted at Hanshin Racecourse.
While faithfully recreating this historical fact, the anime weaves a story within its unique Uma Musume world. For both actual horse racing fans and Uma Musume fans, Hanshin Racecourse is a special place where both worlds intersect.
Tips for Enjoying Holy Land Pilgrimage More
Prior Preparation
To make your holy land pilgrimage more fulfilling, the following preparations are recommended.
- Rewatch the relevant anime scenes: Particularly Episode 2, reviewing scenes where Hanshin Racecourse appears will increase your emotional impact at the actual location.
- Prepare screenshots: Save screenshots of the relevant anime scenes to your smartphone for comparison photography, which is convenient.
- Confirm the racing schedule: Check the JRA official website for race days and, if possible, visit on an actual race day.
- Check the weather: Since it’s an outdoor facility, weather significantly affects the atmosphere. Sunny days are recommended.
Combining with Other Holy Sites
Uma Musume’s holy sites are not limited to Hanshin Racecourse. Other holy sites exist throughout the Kansai region.
Kyoto Racecourse
Kyoto Racecourse in Kyoto City is also an important setting depicted in the anime. Located approximately 1 hour by train from Hanshin Racecourse, it’s possible to visit both on the same day.
Other Kansai Area Holy Sites
Other locations appearing in the work are scattered throughout the Kansai area. Planning your pilgrimage with an efficient route to visit multiple locations allows for a more fulfilling experience.
Enjoying Horse Racing as Well
Since you’re visiting a racecourse, it’s recommended to enjoy actual horse racing as well. This deepens your understanding of the Uma Musume worldview and allows you to discover the appeal of horse racing itself.
Various guides and services are available for beginners to enjoy, and you can purchase betting tickets for small amounts, allowing you to experience the pleasure of cheering for races casually.
The Joy of Paddock Observation
How to Observe Horses at an Actual Paddock
Just as scenes in the anime show Uma Musume circulating through the paddock, actual horse racing also has horses parade through the paddock before the race. This time is an important opportunity to observe a horse’s condition.
Observation Points
- Gait: Is the horse walking rhythmically?
- Coat: An indicator of health status
- Mood: Does the horse show eagerness or calm?
- Physique: Muscle development and body type
By observing these aspects, expectations for the race heighten, allowing for a deeper enjoyment of horse racing.
Advantages of Observation from the 3rd Floor Paddock
Observing from the elevated 3rd floor position makes it easier to grasp the overall movement and balance of horses. You can also observe how jockeys mount and the relationship between horse and jockey.
Just as Team Spica members watched over Special Week, trainers, horse owners, and other related personnel actually observe horses from this position. It’s a place where you can experience a touch of the professional perspective.
Enjoyment Methods as Uma Musume Fans
Cosplay Events
The racecourse occasionally hosts Uma Musume-related events, including cosplay gatherings and Uma Musume collaboration events, providing special opportunities for fans.
Such event information is announced on the JRA official website, SNS, and the Uma Musume official account, so regular checking is recommended.
Sharing on SNS
Holy land pilgrimage experiences become more enjoyable when shared on SNS. By exchanging information with other fans who love the same work and teaching each other photography tips, you gain a sense of fulfillment as a community member.
Using hashtags like “#UmaMusumeHolyLandPilgrimage” and “#HanshinRacecourse” in your posts allows you to connect with many fans.
Goods Collection
Horse racing goods and Uma Musume collaboration merchandise are sold at the racecourse and surrounding shops. Goods collecting serves as both a memento of your visit and a tangible expression of your love for the work, making it one of the pleasures of holy land pilgrimage.
Hanshin Racecourse’s History and Characteristics
History as a Racecourse
Hanshin Racecourse was opened in 1907 (Meiji 40), making it a historic racecourse. With over 100 years of history, it has greatly contributed to the development of Japanese horse racing culture.
The current facilities underwent a major renovation in 2006 and were reborn as a modern, comfortable racecourse. The design philosophy centered on the paddock was realized through this renovation.
Major Races
Throughout the year, many important races are held at Hanshin Racecourse.
- Takarazuka Kinen (June): Positioned as the final G1 race of spring
- Sakura Blossom Prize (April): The first classic race for mares
- Hanshin Juvenile Fillies (December): The race to determine the champion among 2-year-old fillies
On these big race days, many horse racing fans visit, creating a special atmosphere.
Course Characteristics
Hanshin Racecourse has an inner loop and outer loop, accommodating various race distances. With relatively tight corners, horses skilled at cornering are considered to have an advantage.
The anime depicts race developments that take into account these course characteristics, earning praise from horse racing fans as being “well-researched.”
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Points of Interest in Takarazuka City
Takarazuka City, where Hanshin Racecourse is located, is a cultural city famous for the Takarazuka Revue. You can enjoy sightseeing in the city before or after your pilgrimage.
- Takarazuka Grand Theater: The home of the Takarazuka Revue
- Tezuka Osamu Museum: A museum dedicated to the “God of Manga,” Tezuka Osamu
- Takarazuka Hot Spring: A historic hot spring area
Gourmet Spots
There are numerous excellent gourmet spots in and around Takarazuka City. Enjoying local cuisine during your holy land pilgrimage is recommended.
Restaurants within the racecourse offer race-specific menus that can be enjoyed alongside race viewing.
Conclusion: Experiencing the Uma Musume World at Hanshin Racecourse Paddock 3rd Floor
The 3rd floor paddock at Hanshin Racecourse holds special significance for Uma Musume Pretty Derby fans. It’s a holy site as the setting of Special Week’s debut race, a crucial turning point in the story, and as an actual location faithfully recreated in the anime, visited by many fans.
The view of the paddock from the 3rd floor is exactly as depicted in the anime. Standing in the perspective from which Team Spica members watched over Special Week allows for the special experience of entering the work’s world.
As a living facility that is an actual racecourse, visiting on a race day allows you to observe real racehorses parading through the paddock. This is a unique charm of the racecourse as a holy site—experiencing the moment when the anime world and reality intersect.
When planning your pilgrimage, it’s recommended to check the race schedule, select a day with good weather. By reviewing anime scenes beforehand and understanding the photography points, you can have a more fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
Feel the air of the place at Hanshin Racecourse 3rd Floor Paddock where the dreams and passion of Uma Musume intersect. A precious opportunity awaits you to reexperience the tension and excitement Special Week felt when stepping on the major stage for the first time, in that very location.
