“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is an indispensable important area in Fuchu City, Tokyo, for sacred site pilgrimages. In Fuchu City, which is set as the location of Tracen Academy, numerous spots that appear in anime and games actually exist. This article explains in detail the sacred site pilgrimage information around Fuchu Station in particular.
The Relationship Between “Uma Musume Pretty Derby” and Fuchu
“Uma Musume Pretty Derby” is a story in which “Uma Musume,” personifications of actual racehorses, aim for victory in the “Twinkle Series” together with their trainers. Tracen Academy, which appears in the work, is set to be located in Fuchu City, Tokyo, and many actual landscapes from within Fuchu City appear in the series.
The reason Fuchu City was chosen as the setting is clear. This area is home to the Tokyo Racecourse, the center of Japanese horse racing, where numerous Grade 1 races including the Japan Derby are held. The setting in which the stage the Uma Musume aspire to and the place where their daily lives unfold are in the same area gives the story deep realism.
Basic Information and Access to Fuchu Station
Overview of Fuchu Station
Fuchu Station is located at 1-chome Miyamachi, Fuchu City, Tokyo, and is a major station of the Keio Electric Railway. It is an express stop on the Keio Line and functions as the central station of Fuchu City. Commercial facilities and restaurants line the area around the station, fulfilling its role as the gateway to Fuchu City.
Access Methods
Access by Train
- Approximately 20 minutes from Shinjuku Station by Keio Line express
- Approximately 30 minutes from Shibuya Station via Keio Inokashira Line → transfer at Meidai-mae → Keio Line
- Approximately 40 minutes from Tokyo Station via JR Chuo Line → transfer at Shinjuku → Keio Line
Travel Time from Major Stations
- Shinjuku Station: approximately 20 minutes (when using express)
- Chofu Station: approximately 8 minutes
- Kichijoji Station: approximately 25 minutes (via Chuo Line → Shinjuku)
- Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station: 1 station on the Keio Line (approximately 2 minutes)
Difference Between Fuchu Station and Higashi-Fuchu Station
What is often confused in sacred site pilgrimages is the difference between Fuchu Station and Higashi-Fuchu Station. These two stations are in different locations and play different roles in the anime.
Fuchu Station
- A major station on the Keio Line
- Located in the center of Fuchu City
- Appears as the nearest station to Tracen Academy in the game version
- The station area has access to commercial facilities and to Okunitama Shrine
Higashi-Fuchu Station
- A station on the Keio Line (next to Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station)
- The station where Special Week first arrives in Episode 1 of the anime
- The setting for the impressive scene where she bumps into a gate at the ticket gate
- Also possible to access the Tokyo Racecourse on foot
Anime and Game Appearances at Fuchu Station
Appearances in the Game Version
In the game “Uma Musume Pretty Derby,” Fuchu Station is set as the nearest station to Tracen Academy. The station’s exterior and the landscape in front of the station are faithfully recreated, and among fans, the recognition that “Tracen Academy is located around Fuchu Station” has become established.
In particular, the landscape of Fuchu Station’s South Exit frequently appears in in-game event scenes and story sequences. The station plaza’s roundabout, the road leading to the keyaki-lined avenue, and other characteristic landscapes around the actual Fuchu Station have been incorporated into the work.
Appearances in Each Anime Season
Anime Seasons 1 and 2
In Anime Season 1, Higashi-Fuchu Station appears mainly, but landscapes around Fuchu Station are also visible in various places. Particularly in scenes where Uma Musume walk through the town, actual scenery from within Fuchu City is used as background.
Anime Season 3 (Road to the Top)
In Anime Season 3, Fuchu Station appears more clearly. There is a scene depicting the area just to the left of Fuchu Station’s South Ticket Gate, making it an unmissable point for sacred site pilgrims. The keyaki-lined avenue also appears, and the streetscape of Fuchu is deeply woven into the narrative.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots Around Fuchu Station
Fuchu Station South Exit Area
South Ticket Gate
The area just to the left of the Fuchu Station South ticket gate is an important spot that appeared in Anime Season 3. Since the landscape immediately after exiting the ticket gate matches what appears in the work, many fans take commemorative photos here.
Station Plaza Roundabout
The roundabout in front of Fuchu Station serves as the model for landscapes that appear in the game version. The atmosphere of a modern station plaza with a bus terminal and taxi stand expresses the urban atmosphere around Tracen Academy.
Keyaki-Lined Avenue
The keyaki-lined avenue that continues from Fuchu Station to Okunitama Shrine is a landscape representative of Fuchu City and appears in Uma Musume. The tree-lined path, extending for approximately 1 kilometer, shows different faces throughout the four seasons: fresh greenery in spring, deep green in summer, crimson leaves in autumn, and bare branches in winter.
In Anime Season 3, there is a scene of walking along this keyaki-lined avenue, with Fuchu’s beautiful streetscape depicted. During sacred site pilgrimages, we recommend actually walking along it. There are also cafes and restaurants along the avenue, making it possible to rest while on pilgrimage.
Okunitama Shrine
Located a 5-minute walk from Fuchu Station, Okunitama Shrine is a venerable shrine with a history of over 1,900 years. It appears in Uma Musume and has become an important sacred site pilgrimage spot.
Pilgrimage Points
- The landscape of the approach appears in the anime
- The atmosphere of the grounds matches that in the work
- You can actually visit and pray for victory
- You can also receive a stamp (goshuin)
Okunitama Shrine is known as the general shrine of Musashi Province and is said to provide benefits for matchmaking and warding off evil. It is cherished not only by Uma Musume fans but also by local residents.
Access from Fuchu Station to Tokyo Racecourse
Access by Train
Access from Fuchu Station to Tokyo Racecourse is easy via the Keio Line.
Normal Times (Non-Race Days)
- Fuchu Station → Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station: 1 station on the Keio Line (approximately 2 minutes)
- Fare: 140 yen
- Approximately 2 minutes walk from Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station to Tokyo Racecourse’s main gate
Race Days
On race days, extra trains are operated between Fuchu Station and Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station. Additionally, direct buses from Fuchu Station to Tokyo Racecourse may operate.
Access on Foot
From Fuchu Station to Tokyo Racecourse is approximately 20 minutes on foot. You can enjoy Fuchu’s streetscape along the way, so if you have time, walking is also recommended.
Walking Route
- Exit Fuchu Station’s South Exit
- Head east on Koshu Kaido
- Toward the Fuchu City Museum
- Arrive at Tokyo Racecourse’s main gate
Other Sacred Sites Around Fuchu Station
Fuchu no Mori Park
Fuchu no Mori Park, which is adjacent to Tokyo Racecourse, is a metropolitan park with extensive grounds. In Uma Musume, it sometimes appears as the background in scenes where Uma Musume train.
Park Features
- Spacious lawn plaza
- Jogging course
- Forest area
- Adjacent to Fuchu City Museum
It’s also recommended to spend a relaxing time in the park between pilgrimages. On nice days, the park is bustling with many families and people enjoying sports.
Fuchu City Museum
Located within Fuchu no Mori Park, Fuchu City Museum is also worth visiting as a nearby spot. In addition to permanent exhibits, special exhibitions are held regularly, allowing for cultural experiences.
Commercial Facilities Around Fuchu Station
Isetan Fuchu
A department store directly connected to Fuchu Station where you can shop and dine. It’s also convenient as a rest spot during sacred site pilgrimages.
Foulis
A commercial facility at Fuchu Station’s South Exit with a movie theater, restaurants, bookstores, and more. If you’re looking for Uma Musume-related goods, check out the bookstore and anime shops.
Practical Guide to Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Recommended Pilgrimage Routes
Half-Day Course (approximately 4 hours)
- Arrive at Fuchu Station (photograph at the South ticket gate)
- Stroll along the keyaki-lined avenue
- Visit Okunitama Shrine
- Return to Fuchu Station
- Take the Keio Line to Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station
- View Tokyo Racecourse
- Explore Fuchu no Mori Park
Full-Day Course (approximately 8 hours)
- Start at Higashi-Fuchu Station (tracing Special Week’s footsteps)
- Walk to Tokyo Racecourse
- Detailed tour of the racecourse
- Travel from Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station to Fuchu Station
- Lunch around Fuchu Station
- Sacred site pilgrimage at the keyaki-lined avenue and Okunitama Shrine
- Spend relaxing time in Fuchu no Mori Park
- View Fuchu City Museum (if time permits)
Photography Tips
Photography at Fuchu Station
- The area just to the left of the South ticket gate
- Full view of the station plaza roundabout
- Entrance to the keyaki-lined avenue
Cautions
- Be considerate of other users
- Avoid using tripods during busy times
- Follow staff instructions when photographing inside the station
- Photography may require permission inside commercial facilities
Checklist of Items to Bring on Pilgrimage
- Smartphone/Camera
- Mobile battery
- Transit IC card (Suica/PASMO)
- Beverages
- Rain gear (depending on weather)
- Map/pilgrimage guide
- Notepad (for collecting scenes)
- Uma Musume app (to confirm event scenes on-site)
Other Sacred Sites in the Fuchu Area
Higashi-Fuchu Station
In Anime Season 1, Episode 1, this is the station where Special Week first arrives after coming to Tokyo from Hokkaido. It became famous for the impressive scene where she bumps into a ticket gate and a station attendant tells her “The nearest station to Tracen is the next one.”
Points of Interest
- Ticket gate (the gate Special Week bumped into)
- Station exterior
- Landscape in front of the station
Higashi-Fuchu Station is the station next to Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station and is also within walking distance to Tokyo Racecourse. It’s recommended to visit it along with Fuchu Station.
Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station
Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station, which can be called the dedicated station for Tokyo Racecourse, is an important spot that appears in the anime. The station is directly connected to the racecourse’s main gate via a roofed passage, allowing travel without getting wet on rainy days.
Features
- The landscape just above the escalators (appears in Anime Season 3)
- Atmosphere of the main gate passage
- Bustling on race days
On race days, extra trains operate, and the area is bustling with many racing fans. Many Uma Musume fans also visit, so you might meet people who share your hobby.
Tokyo Racecourse
Tokyo Racecourse is the most important spot in Uma Musume sacred site pilgrimages. In the anime, numerous racing scenes are depicted with this racecourse as the setting.
Main Points of Interest
- Paddock (where to view Uma Musume before racing)
- Winner’s Circle (commemorative photography spot after winning)
- Honmaба (the course where actual races take place)
- Stands (spectator seating)
- Fuji View Stand (viewpoint where Mount Fuji can be seen)
Even on non-race days, some areas within the racecourse can be visited (confirmation required). On race days, you can experience the world of Uma Musume while watching actual races.
How to Enjoy Pilgrimages by Season
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons in Fuchu. The fresh greenery of the keyaki-lined avenue is beautiful, and cherry blossoms can be enjoyed at Okunitama Shrine.
Spring Events
- Kuraiyami Festival (May): Annual Festival of Okunitama Shrine
- Grade 1 races such as the Japan Derby (May) and Victoria Mile (May) are held at Tokyo Racecourse
Summer (June to August)
Summer is when the greenery becomes deep and the exploration of Fuchu no Mori Park feels wonderful. However, heat precautions are essential.
Summer Precautions
- Heat stroke prevention (hydration, hats, sunscreen)
- Pilgrimages during cool early morning or evening hours are recommended
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is the best season for Fuchu pilgrimages. The autumn foliage of the keyaki-lined avenue is beautiful, and the comfortable weather makes long pilgrimages pleasant.
Autumn Events
- Autumn Grade 1 Season at Tokyo Racecourse (Tenno Sho Autumn, Japan Cup, Japan Cup Dirt, etc.)
- Autumn foliage of the keyaki-lined avenue (mid-November to early December)
Winter (December to February)
Winter is a season when there are fewer tourists, allowing for pilgrimages in a more relaxed atmosphere. You can visit sacred sites quietly in the crisp winter air.
Winter Events
- Arima Kinen (December): The major race that closes out the year
- New Year’s visits (Okunitama Shrine)
Dining and Rest Spots Around Fuchu Station
Restaurants Around the Station
Japanese Cuisine
There are various Japanese restaurants around Fuchu Station, from long-established restaurants to casual dining. Enjoying authentic Japanese cuisine during a pilgrimage break is also recommended.
Cafes
Along the keyaki-lined avenue, stylish cafes are scattered about. It’s enjoyable to rest during pilgrimage and reflect on the work while having coffee.
Fast Food and Chain Restaurants
Chain restaurants such as McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Saizeriya are readily available around Fuchu Station.
Racecourse Cuisine
There are diverse dining options within Tokyo Racecourse. On race days, special menus also appear, so be sure to check them out.
Accommodation Information
Since accommodations are limited around Fuchu Station, if you’re visiting from out of town, accommodation in the following areas is recommended.
Shinjuku Area
- Approximately 20 minutes by train to Fuchu Station
- Abundant accommodations
- Good access to other tourist attractions
Chofu Area
- Approximately 8 minutes by train to Fuchu Station
- Relatively quiet and calm environment
- More affordable accommodation than Shinjuku
Tachikawa Area
- Approximately 20 minutes by bus or train to Fuchu Station
- Can also visit other Uma Musume sacred sites (Tachikawa)
- Full commercial facilities
Combined Pilgrimages with Other Sacred Sites
Complete Fuchu Area Pilgrimage
A plan to visit all sacred sites in the Fuchu area over one day, starting from Fuchu Station.
- Higashi-Fuchu Station
- Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station
- Tokyo Racecourse
- Fuchu no Mori Park
- Fuchu Station
- Keyaki-Lined Avenue
- Okunitama Shrine
Combined with Tachikawa Area
Tachikawa is approximately 20 to 30 minutes from Fuchu by bus or train. Since there are Uma Musume-related spots in Tachikawa as well, it’s also recommended to visit them together.
Combined with Kichijoji Area
The Kichijoji area also has Uma Musume-related spots. From Fuchu to Kichijoji is approximately 30 minutes via Keio Line → transfer at Meidai-mae → Inokashira Line.
Manners and Rules for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Basic Manners
- Consideration for Local Residents
- Keep quiet in residential areas
- Do not trespass on private property
- Always take your trash with you
- Photography Cautions
- Be considerate to avoid including others in photos
- Photograph in locations that don’t obstruct traffic
- Obtain permission before photographing inside stores
- Use of Public Transportation
- Avoid large luggage during busy times
- Keep mobile phones on silent mode near priority seating
- Follow staff instructions
Manners at the Racecourse
- Cosplay is permitted only in designated areas
- There may be restrictions on photographing horses and jockeys
- Remain quiet during races
- Confirm how to purchase betting tickets in advance
Summary: The Charm of Fuchu Station Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Fuchu Station and its surroundings are the sacred sites where you can most deeply experience the world of Uma Musume Pretty Derby. Set as the nearest station to Tracen Academy, Fuchu Station appears frequently in the game version and has become a special place for fans.
Unlike Higashi-Fuchu Station and Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station, which appear in the anime, Fuchu Station is often depicted as the setting for everyday scenes, allowing you to feel the “ordinary lives” of the Uma Musume. Combined with the beautiful streetscape of Fuchu, including the keyaki-lined avenue and Okunitama Shrine, you can spend a fulfilling time not just as a sacred site pilgrimage but also as sightseeing.
The special environment where Tokyo Racecourse, the holy ground of Japanese horse racing, and the sacred sites of Uma Musume exist in the same area is a unique charm of Fuchu. The ability to immerse yourself in the world of Uma Musume while watching actual horse racing is an experience unique to this sacred site.
Starting from Fuchu Station, you can efficiently visit Higashi-Fuchu Station, Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae Station, Tokyo Racecourse, Fuchu no Mori Park, and Okunitama Shrine on foot and by train. Please take a half day to a full day to thoroughly visit the sacred sites.
For Uma Musume fans, Fuchu is a special place where there are always new discoveries no matter how many times you visit. When you actually see the landscapes you saw in anime and games, your love for the work will deepen further. Please use this article as reference and enjoy the sacred site pilgrimage around Fuchu Station.
