Introduction
For fans of “Uma Musume Pretty Derby,” Fuchu City in Tokyo is a special place. The Fuchu area, which is said to be the model for Tracen Academy, is dotted with numerous sacred sites from the anime and game. Among them, “Fuchu no Mori Park” has become a sacred pilgrimage spot visited by many fans as an important location used in impressive scenes within the work.
This article provides a thorough explanation of how Fuchu no Mori Park appears in Uma Musume works, key points for actual pilgrimage, access methods, and information about nearby sacred sites.
Uma Musume Pretty Derby Overview
“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a breeding simulation game and media mix work that transforms real racehorses into beautiful girl characters. The first season of the anime aired in 2018, followed by the second season “Season 2” in 2021, and the third season “Season 3” in 2023.
The stage of the work is “Training Center Academy” (commonly called Tracen Academy), where racehorses in human form called “Uma Musume” attend school. This academy is set in Fuchu City, Tokyo, and many actual landscapes of the Fuchu area are depicted in the work. The game version was released in 2021 and became a major hit. In both the anime and game, real locations including Fuchu are faithfully recreated, and pilgrimages to sacred sites by fans are actively conducted.
Basic Information about Fuchu no Mori Park
Park Overview
Fuchu no Mori Park is a metropolitan park located in Sengen-cho, Fuchu City, Tokyo. With a vast area of approximately 14 hectares, it offers various recreational activities in a verdant environment.
The park features baseball fields, tennis courts, soccer fields, and other sports facilities, as well as playgrounds for children, grassy areas, and water play areas. In particular, the distinctive play equipment area with two slide chutes side by side is a familiar landscape for Uma Musume fans.
Basic Data
- Location: 1-3-1 Sengen-cho, Fuchu City, Tokyo
- Hours: Open 24 hours (some facilities have time restrictions)
- Admission: Free
- Parking: Available (paid)
- Nearest Station: Approximately 10-minute walk from “Higashi-Fuchu Station” on the Keio Line
- Management: Tokyo Metropolitan Park Association
Appearances of Fuchu no Mori Park in Uma Musume Works
Appearance in Anime Season 2
Fuchu no Mori Park most impressively appeared in the anime second season “Uma Musume Pretty Derby Season 2.” The scene where Chairman Symbolir Rudolph rows a swan boat at astonishing speed remains vivid in the memories of many fans.
The pond depicted in this scene is believed to be modeled after the scenic pond within Fuchu no Mori Park. While the actual park has no swan boats, the shape of the pond and the arrangement of surrounding trees match the anime background with high precision.
Additionally, scenes where Tokai Teio and Mejiro Mcqueen take walks also feature the spacious grassy areas and walking paths of Fuchu no Mori Park as backgrounds. The beautiful nature of each season is depicted, and visitors can experience the world of the work firsthand.
Appearances in Game Version
In the game version of “Uma Musume Pretty Derby,” locations modeled after Fuchu no Mori Park also appear. In particular, within various Uma Musume story events, training scenes and daily scenes at park-like locations are depicted.
For multiple Uma Musume such as Mr. C.B., the distinctive two-slide play equipment park is used as a background, which is presumed to be modeled after the play equipment area of Fuchu no Mori Park.
However, the background illustrations in the game version are sometimes intentionally drawn slightly differently from actual locations, so they don’t always match exactly. Nevertheless, the overall atmosphere and distinctive elements are faithfully recreated.
Appearances in Other Media
The location modeled after Fuchu no Mori Park also frequently appears in comic adaptations, official illustrations, and promotional videos. In particular, works depicting the daily lives of Uma Musume often feature relaxation scenes in parks.
Pilgrimage Points
Must-See Spot: Scenic Pond Area
Among the areas in Fuchu no Mori Park, the scenic pond area deserves the most attention. This is believed to be the model for the pond where Chairman Rudolph rows the swan boat in anime season 2, and many fans take commemorative photos here.
Walking paths surround the pond, allowing photography from various angles. To recreate the angle depicted in the anime, it’s recommended to shoot from the north side of the pond facing south.
You can enjoy the beauty of each season—spring cherry blossoms, summer greenery, autumn foliage, and winter’s tranquility. Visiting during the same season as the anime scenes allows you to feel the work’s world more deeply.
Play Equipment Area
The play equipment area with two distinctive side-by-side slides that appeared in the game story is also a must-see. This equipment is located on the north side of the park, adjacent to the grassy area.
Weekday mornings and evenings are relatively quiet, making them convenient times for photography. However, when children are playing, be considerate of safety and avoid getting in the way.
Trees are arranged around the equipment, allowing photography in compositions very similar to those depicted in anime and games.
Grassy Area
The spacious grassy area is the model for scenes where Uma Musume take walks and train. It’s an open space where you can spend time leisurely.
Many fans spread picnic sheets to rest or read works. On nice days, you can spend relaxed time immersed in the world of the work.
Best Timing for Photography
Photography at Fuchu no Mori Park changes greatly in atmosphere depending on time and season.
Recommendations by Time of Day
- Early Morning (6:00-8:00): Few people are around, allowing for quiet photography. Morning sunlight is beautiful.
- Daytime (9:00-11:00): Light conditions are favorable for photography. Especially quiet on weekdays.
- Late Afternoon (16:00-18:00): Sunset light creates dramatic photos. Ideal for recreating evening scenes from the anime.
Recommendations by Season
- Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms and new greenery are beautiful, perfect for recreating spring scenes from the anime.
- Summer (June-August): Lush greenery provides vibrant, full-of-life scenery.
- Autumn (September-November): Beautiful autumn foliage creates calm, atmospheric photos.
- Winter (December-February): Clear air provides serene, tranquil scenery.
Manners During Pilgrimage
Fuchu no Mori Park is not just a gathering place for Uma Musume fans but also a place of rest for local residents. When conducting pilgrimage, observe these manners:
- Be mindful of noise: Keep conversations and photography quiet
- Take your trash with you: Help maintain the park’s cleanliness
- Consideration for other users: Especially when children are playing, be safety-conscious
- Confirm photography-restricted areas: Some facilities may have photography restrictions
- Do not trespass on private property: Stay off private land outside the park
- Avoid prolonged occupation: Use the spirit of sharing at popular spots
Access Methods
Access by Train
Train access to Fuchu no Mori Park is most convenient.
Using the Keio Line
- Approximately 10-minute walk from “Higashi-Fuchu Station”
- From the station, head toward the north exit and go north on Fuchu Street
- Turn left at a signal about 800 meters ahead, and the park entrance comes into view
Using JR
- Approximately 15-minute walk from “Kita-Fuchu Station”
- From the station, head south and reach Fuchu Street
- Go south on Fuchu Street about 1.2 kilometers to reach the park
Access by Bus
Keio Bus and Fuchu City Community Bus “Chu-Bus” are also available.
- From “Fuchu Station” on the Keio Line, take Keio Bus to “Sengen-cho 1-chome” stop, 3-minute walk
- “Chu-Bus” is available from “Higashi-Fuchu Station” on the Keio Line
Access by Car
If visiting by car, it’s about 10 minutes from “Kokuritsu-Fuchu IC” on the Chuo Expressway. There is paid parking within the park, but it gets crowded on holidays, so public transportation is recommended.
Parking Information
- Capacity: Approximately 100 spaces
- Fee: 300 yen for 1 hour (100 yen for each subsequent 30 minutes)
- Hours: 8:30-19:00 (varies by season)
Other Sacred Sites in the Fuchu Area
After visiting Fuchu no Mori Park, explore other Uma Musume sacred sites in the surrounding area. Multiple sacred sites are scattered within walking distance in the Fuchu area.
Tokyo Racecourse
Distance: Approximately 20-minute walk from Fuchu no Mori Park, or one station by Keio Line
This is the central location in Uma Musume works, with numerous race scenes depicted in anime and games. Visiting on actual race days allows you to experience the work’s excitement even more deeply.
Special Uma Musume collaboration events are sometimes held at Tokyo Racecourse, featuring limited merchandise sales and panel exhibitions. The “Museum of the Horse” inside the racecourse allows you to learn the history of actual racehorses and deepen your knowledge about the horses that became models for Uma Musume.
Ōkunitama Shrine
Distance: Approximately 25-minute walk from Fuchu no Mori Park, or 5-minute walk from “Fuchu Station” on the Keio Line
This historic shrine appeared in anime seasons 2 and 3. New Year’s visit scenes and scenes where Uma Musume pay their respects are depicted.
The spacious grounds with main hall and torii gate allow for fun exploration of locations depicted in the anime. In particular, the avenue atmosphere closely resembles the anime depiction, with many fans taking commemorative photos.
Around Fuchu Station
Distance: Approximately 5 minutes by Keio Line from Fuchu no Mori Park
The “Higashi-Fuchu Station” where Special Week alighted in anime season 1 and “Fuchu Station” which appeared in season 3 and their surroundings are also pilgrimage spots.
You can enjoy the everyday scenery depicted in the work—the shopping street in front of the station and the beautiful zelkova tree-lined avenue. With many restaurants around Fuchu Station, it’s ideal for taking a break from pilgrimage.
Tamagawa Riverside
Distance: Approximately 30-minute walk from Fuchu no Mori Park
The riverbank frequently appears in training scenes. Many scenes of Uma Musume running are depicted in this spacious area.
Visiting actually allows you to experience the openness depicted in the work. With cycling roads and jogging courses established, trying to run like Uma Musume might be fun.
Efficient Pilgrimage Routes
We introduce recommended routes for efficiently visiting Fuchu area sacred sites in one day.
Half-Day Course (approximately 4-5 hours)
- Higashi-Fuchu Station (9:00) – The station where Special Week alights
- Fuchu no Mori Park (9:15-11:00) – Explore the scenic pond, play equipment area, and grassy area
- Tokyo Racecourse (11:30-13:30) – Tour the racecourse and have lunch
- Fuchu Station (14:00) – Browse around the station
Full-Day Course (approximately 8-9 hours)
- Higashi-Fuchu Station (9:00) – Photograph around the station
- Fuchu no Mori Park (9:30-11:30) – Thoroughly visit each spot
- Tokyo Racecourse (12:00-15:00) – Detailed tour of the racecourse and lunch
- Ōkunitama Shrine (15:30-16:30) – Pay respects and tour the grounds
- Around Fuchu Station (17:00-18:00) – Explore the shopping street and have dinner
- Tamagawa Riverside (18:30-19:00) – Explore the riverside at dusk
Two-Day Course
After exploring the Fuchu area on day one, visiting other Tokyo sacred sites like Kichijoji, Harajuku, and Omotesando on day two is also recommended.
Nearby Dining and Rest Spots
Inside Fuchu no Mori Park
Vending machines are installed in the park, but there are no restaurants. Bring a boxed lunch or use nearby dining establishments.
Around Higashi-Fuchu Station
- Cafes: Chain cafes near the station are convenient for breaks
- Convenience stores: Multiple convenience stores around the station
- Family restaurants: Several options within walking distance
Around Fuchu Station
The area in front of Fuchu Station has many dining options—Japanese, Western, Chinese, and more. Fuchu Isetan department store also has a restaurant floor with diverse choices.
Accommodation Information
For those visiting from distant areas or wanting to enjoy pilgrimage thoroughly, consider staying in the Fuchu area.
Hotels in Fuchu City
- Business hotels: Multiple business hotels around Fuchu Station
- City hotels: Hotels near Tokyo Racecourse
Hotels in Surrounding Areas
- Chofu: About 10 minutes by Keio Line, with abundant hotel options
- Tachikawa: About 15 minutes by JR Chuo Line, with many large hotels
- Shinjuku: About 20 minutes by Keio Line limited express, convenient for staying in central Tokyo
Convenient Items for Pilgrimage
The following items are useful for comfortably enjoying pilgrimage at Fuchu no Mori Park and other sacred sites.
Essential Items
- Smartphone: Essential for maps and photography
- Mobile battery: Photography and map checks drain batteries
- Beverages: Especially important in summer for heat stroke prevention
- Hat and sunscreen: Some park areas have little shade
Convenient Items to Have
- Work image materials: Having anime screenshots makes recreating compositions easier
- Camera: For higher-quality photos than smartphones
- Picnic sheet: Convenient for resting on the grassy area
- Binoculars: Useful for confirming distant scenery
- Rain gear: Bring a folding umbrella if weather is uncertain
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is Fuchu no Mori Park open 24 hours?
A1: The park itself is open 24 hours, but nighttime has limited lighting, so daytime visits are recommended for safety. Sports facilities also have set business hours.
Q2: Is permission required to photograph at Fuchu no Mori Park?
A2: No special permission is needed for personal commemorative photography. However, if conducting professional photography with tripods or commercial photography, you may need to confirm with the management office beforehand.
Q3: Can pilgrimage be enjoyed on rainy days?
A3: Since Fuchu no Mori Park is an outdoor facility, photography is difficult in rain. On rainy days, it’s recommended to focus on indoor facilities like Tokyo Racecourse (on race days) or nearby commercial establishments.
Q4: What is the best season for pilgrimage in the Fuchu area?
A4: Spring (late March-May) and autumn (October-November) are most comfortable. Weather is mild, and cherry blossoms and autumn foliage can be enjoyed. However, if recreating specific anime scenes, visiting during that scene’s season is ideal.
Q5: Are there opportunities to interact with other Uma Musume fans?
A5: Many fans visit on weekends and holidays, creating natural interactions. Also, many fans gather during collaboration events at Tokyo Racecourse. However, remember that the park is public space, so consideration for other users is essential.
Q6: What are other recommended sacred sites in the Fuchu area besides Fuchu no Mori Park?
A6: Tokyo Racecourse, Ōkunitama Shrine, around Fuchu Station, and Tamagawa Riverside are available. These are within walking or train distance, allowing multiple sites to be visited in one day.
Q7: Is pilgrimage possible with children?
A7: Fuchu no Mori Park has play equipment and grassy areas, making it enjoyable with children. However, when long-distance walking is required, plan with consideration for children’s stamina.
Q8: Can merchandise be purchased?
A8: There is no merchandise shop in Fuchu no Mori Park. Uma Musume merchandise can be purchased at Tokyo Racecourse shops or anime merchandise shops in Akihabara.
Other Tokyo Sacred Sites
Beyond the Fuchu area, Uma Musume sacred sites are scattered throughout Tokyo.
Kichijoji Area
Inokashira Park appears in anime and games. Inokashira Pond and the park’s walking paths are depicted in Uma Musume daily scenes, offering a leisurely atmosphere.
Harajuku and Omotesando Area
These appear as backgrounds for urban scenes. Takeshita Street and Omotesando’s zelkova tree-lined avenue and many other real locations are depicted.
Shibuya and Shinjuku Area
Iconic Tokyo locations like Shibuya Scramble Crossing and around Shinjuku Station appear in the work. Daily scenes amid urban hustle are impressive.
Conclusion
Fuchu no Mori Park is a must-visit sacred site for Uma Musume fans. Seeing the beautiful scenery depicted in anime and games in person deepens your appreciation for the work.
Visiting locations from the work that made impressions—the scenic pond swan boat scene, distinctive play equipment, and spacious grassy area—allows you to feel Uma Musume’s daily lives more personally.
The Fuchu area has many sacred sites within walking distance besides Fuchu no Mori Park: Tokyo Racecourse, Ōkunitama Shrine, and Tamagawa Riverside. Taking a full day to thoroughly visit allows deep immersion in the work’s world.
When conducting pilgrimage, observe manners and don’t forget consideration for other users and local residents. While being aware of the space’s public nature, fully enjoy the Uma Musume world.
We hope pilgrimage to Fuchu no Mori Park enriches your Uma Musume life. Now, trainers, let’s run to Fuchu no Mori Park!
