Horse Racing In Japan

Horse Racing in Japan

Horse racing in Japan is a popular sport, with both flat racing and jump racing taking place throughout the year. It is one of the few legal forms of gambling in the country and generates billions of dollars every year.

Win Tips from Japan Racing 30 Apr 2024

Funabashi Race 1 HARMONY JOEY

Funabashi Race 2 ESPERANZA KAZU

Funabashi Race 3 GRAND MARSHAL

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Several high profile races occur across Japan each year, with one of the most prestigious being the Japan Cup, a turf race held annually in November at the Tokyo Racecourse. Other iconic races include the Arima Kinen, the Tenno Sho, the Japanese Derby, and the NHK Mile Cup.

Japan Cup:

Venue: Tokyo Racecourse
Date: Annually in November
Description: The Japan Cup is one of the most prestigious horse races in Japan and is widely regarded as one of the most important races in Asia.

It is an international Grade 1 turf race that attracts top-class horses from around the world. The race was first held in 1981, and since then, it has become a symbol of excellence in Japanese horse racing.

Arima Kinen:

Venue: Nakayama Racecourse
Date: Annually in late December
Description: Also known as the Grand Prix, the Arima Kinen is a major race that typically takes place in late December. What makes this race unique is that the participants are determined by fan voting. Fans get to choose their favorite horses to compete in this prestigious event, adding an interactive element to the race.

Tenno Sho (Spring and Autumn):

Venue: Kyoto Racecourse (Spring), Tokyo Racecourse (Autumn)
Date: Spring and Autumn editions annually
Description: The Tenno Sho, also known as the Emperor's Cup, is a series of prestigious races held in both spring and autumn. These races are open to older horses and are run over various distances. The Tenno Sho attracts top-quality fields and is a showcase for some of the best middle-distance and staying horses in Japan.

Japanese Derby:

Venue: Tokyo Racecourse
Date: Annually in late May or early June
Description: The Japanese Derby, also known as the Tokyo Yushun, is a classic race for three-year-old thoroughbreds. It is one of the most prestigious races in Japan and is run over a challenging distance of 2,400 meters. The race often serves as a defining moment for the best three-year-old colts in Japan.

NHK Mile Cup:

Venue: Tokyo Racecourse
Date: Annually in late May
Description: The NHK Mile Cup is a significant race for three-year-old horses, run over a distance of 1,600 meters. It is a Grade 1 race that showcases the speed and stamina of young thoroughbreds. The race often attracts emerging talent and serves as a stepping stone for horses aiming to compete in longer and more prestigious events in the future.

These races collectively contribute to the rich tapestry of Japanese horse racing, attracting top talent, enthusiastic crowds, and international attention. The events not only showcase the prowess of the horses but also celebrate the deep-rooted horse racing culture in Japan.

Horse Racing In Japan- photo by NAR

Horse Racing In Japan

The Japan Racing Association (JRA) runs most of these events, making it the largest and most influential horse racing organization in Japan. The association operates ten racecourses in the country along with numerous off-track betting facilities.

Here's a brief overview of these racecourses:

Tokyo Racecourse:

Location: Fuchu, Tokyo
Description: One of the most prominent and iconic racecourses in Japan, Tokyo Racecourse hosts major events like the Japan Cup. It boasts a large capacity and is known for its state-of-the-art facilities.

Nakayama Racecourse:

Location: Funabashi, Chiba
Description: Nakayama Racecourse is known for hosting the Arima Kinen, or Grand Prix, and features both turf and dirt tracks. It has a unique uphill stretch, adding an extra challenge for the competing horses.

Kyoto Racecourse:

Location: Kyoto
Description: Set against the backdrop of historical Kyoto, this racecourse is known for hosting the prestigious Tenno Sho (Spring). It is surrounded by cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque setting.

Hanshin Racecourse

Hanshin Racecourse:

Location: Takarazuka, Hyogo
Description: Hanshin Racecourse is famous for its role in hosting the Takarazuka Kinen, a race that often attracts a mix of top-class Japanese and international horses.

Chukyo Racecourse:

Location: Toyoake, Aichi
Description: Chukyo Racecourse is well-known for its unique figure-eight layout, offering an interesting and challenging track for both horses and jockeys.

Sapporo Racecourse:

Location: Sapporo, Hokkaido
Description: Sapporo Racecourse is the northernmost racecourse in Japan, and it hosts racing during the summer months. Its scenic surroundings and cooler temperatures provide a distinctive racing experience.

Hakodate Racecourse:

Location: Hakodate, Hokkaido
Description: Another racecourse in Hokkaido, Hakodate Racecourse is known for its seaside location. It offers a unique atmosphere and hosts racing during the summer season.

Fukushima Racecourse:

Location: Fukushima
Description: Fukushima Racecourse is situated in the Tohoku region and features both turf and dirt tracks. It plays a significant role in the racing calendar for that part of Japan.

Niigata Racecourse:

Location: Niigata
Description: Niigata Racecourse is known for its beautiful scenery and is a popular venue for racing enthusiasts in the Chubu region.

Kochi Racecourse:

Location: Kochi
Description: Located in Shikoku, Kochi Racecourse is one of the smaller racecourses in Japan. It serves the local community and contributes to the diversity of racing venues in the country.

Japan Mountains photo by Zuzana Dolinova

These racecourses collectively contribute to the dynamic and varied landscape of horse racing in Japan, providing diverse racing experiences for both participants and spectators.

The Japan Racing Association ensures that each venue meets high standards in terms of facilities, track conditions, and overall race-day experience.

Additionally, another organization named National Association of Racing (NAR) conducts racing events at local public racetracks, such as Kawasaki racecourse.

While thoroughbreds are the most commonly raced breed in Japan, the country is also known for its unique native breeds. These include the Dosanko from Hokkaido and the Tsushima from Nagasaki.

Japanese horses and jockeys have gained international acclaim. Some well-known names include jockey Yutaka Take and horses like Deep Impact, Orfevre, and Kitasan Black.

Additionally, the Japan Cup is considered one of the richest turf races in the world, drawing participants from all over the globe.

Japanese horse racing incorporates both pari-mutuel and bookmaker betting, though the former is more prevalent. The types of bets available range from simple win/place/show bets to more complex forecast and trifecta wagers.

With its combination of high-stakes action, world-renowned horses and riders, and exciting betting options, horse racing in Japan offers a dynamic and thrilling experience for fans of the sport.