Kyoto Racecourse: If you're a horse racing enthusiast, you absolutely cannot miss Kyoto Racecourse in Japan. It's one of the main racecourses of the Japan Racing Association (JRA) and hosts many important races, such as the Kikuka Sho, Akika Sho, and Queen's Cup. Beyond its high-level races, Kyoto Racecourse offers many other attractive features, ensuring a fun and surprising horse racing experience.
Facilities and features of Kyoto Racecourse
Kyoto Racecourse, located in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City, covers approximately 1.6 million square meters and is one of the largest racecourses in Japan. It has two grass tracks and one dirt track, allowing for races of varying distances and directions to be held simultaneously. The most distinctive feature is the third bend, "Yotonosaka," an uphill section that presents a significant challenge to both horses and jockeys, often proving crucial in determining the outcome of a race.
Kyoto Racecourse offers more than just exciting races; it boasts a wealth of facilities and activities to ensure you have a great time beyond just watching the races. You can enjoy live race broadcasts on a large screen in the video hall, or admire records and memorabilia of famous horses in the display corners. You can also purchase a variety of adorable horse racing merchandise at the Train Shop, or play with your children at the Kids' Club. If you'd like to get closer to the horses, you can participate in interactive activities such as pony riding and watching guide horse performances. You can also admire the statues of 14 Triple Crown horses along the Triple Crown Memorial Route, or pay tribute to the legendary horse that won three G1 victories at Kyoto Racecourse at the Rise of the Champion Monument.
How to get to Kyoto Racecourse
If you want to go Kyoto Racecourse You can choose from the following modes of transportation:
- Take the JR Nara Line and get off at Kashima Station. It's about a 15-minute walk from there.
- Take the Kintetsu Kyoto Line and get off at Fushimi-Momoyama Station. It's about a 20-minute walk from there.
- Take the Keihan Main Line, get off at Yodo Station, transfer to a bus, and get off at the "Kyoto Racecourse" stop.
- If you are driving, take the Meishin Expressway to the "Oyamazaki" exit and drive along National Route 171 for about 15 minutes.
The racetrack is not just for watching races; it's a microcosm of authentic Kyoto life.
The most captivating aspect of Kyoto Racecourse lies in its rhythm of "being in sync with the locals." Watching race fans enjoying salt-grilled mackerel rice balls or shrimp tempura by the trackside—that vibrant, down-to-earth atmosphere is the most vivid slice of your Kyoto trip. But if you only see it as a checklist, you're missing out. The real Kyoto is hidden in countless corners inaccessible by train. The joy of in-depth travel lies in our ability to take you beyond the tourist "formulaic routes." Whether it's stepping into a century-old sake brewery run by artisans, exploring a secluded teahouse known only to locals, or wandering through private studios in Kyoto's alleyways, Travel Mama's small group tours filter out all the noisy tourist crowds, allowing you to touch the very soul of this ancient capital in the most relaxed and comfortable way.
Why choose Travel Mama's in-depth small group tour to Japan?
While Kyoto Racecourse is fascinating, it's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the charm of the Kansai region. When you're tired of the formulaic tourist attractions, our personalized experiences are the perfect next stop. We don't just show you the way; we're your travel planners—whether it's arranging private transportation to avoid the hassle of crowded streets or planning more detailed routes to hidden gems in Kansai, we've got you covered.