Horse Racing in Japan
Japan is one of the world's premier horse racing nations — boasting the Japan Cup, the Arima Kinen, and some of the largest grandstands and prize money on earth.
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JRA Racecourses
Japan's World-Class Racing Programme
The Japan Racing Association (JRA) operates ten racecourses across the Kanto and Kansai regions, producing an extraordinary racing programme with prize money that rivals anywhere on the planet. Tokyo Racecourse hosts the Japan Cup — one of the world's richest races — attracting the best horses from Europe, Australia, and North America each November.
The Arima Kinen, a fan-voted year-end championship at Nakayama, is Japan's most beloved race. Locally bred horses like Deep Impact, Orfevre, and Almond Eye have achieved legendary status, while the success of Japanese horses at Arc de Triomphe and Breeders' Cup has elevated the country's international profile dramatically in recent years.
Japanese racecourses feature immense grandstands, meticulous turf maintenance, and advanced betting infrastructure — making them among the most spectacular venues in the world.
JRA Racecourses
Tokyo
The world's largest grandstand and Japan's most celebrated track, Tokyo Racecourse hosts the Japan Cup — one of the richest races on earth — and the Japanese Derby.
Chiba
Chiba's iconic Nakayama Racecourse hosts the Grand Prix — the Arima Kinen — Japan's fan-voted year-end championship race, beloved as a national institution.
Kyoto
Reopened in 2023 after a major renovation, Kyoto Racecourse is Japan's oldest Grade 1 venue and home to the Tenno Sho (Spring) and the Mile Championship.
Hyogo
Hyogo's prestigious Hanshin Racecourse hosts the Takarazuka Kinen and Oka Sho Classics, serving as the Kansai region's premier thoroughbred venue.