Jra Racecourses ((full)) Jun 2026

The Japan Racing Association (JRA) operates a prestigious network of 10 racecourses across Japan, which serve as the primary venues for "Central Horse Racing". These tracks are world-renowned for their high-quality turf and dirt surfaces, hosting some of the wealthiest and most competitive races in the global Thoroughbred circuit. The "Big Four" and Major Tracks Among the 10 venues, four are considered the premier "Big Four" tracks where the majority of Grade I (GI) races are held. Along with Chukyo , these five courses are the crown jewels of Japanese racing: JRA Tokyo Racecourse Racecourse ClosedFuchu, Tokyo, Japan Known as the "Racecourse of Racecourses," it features a massive grandstand and hosts the prestigious Japan Cup and the Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) . It is one of only three JRA tracks that runs counterclockwise . Nakayama Racecourse Racecourse OpenFunabashi, Chiba, Japan Famous for its steep uphill climb in the final straight, it hosts the year-end Arima Kinen , one of the world's most heavily bet-upon races. JRA Kyoto Racecourse Racecourse ClosedKyoto, Japan Recognized for its unique "swan" pond and the "Yodo Hill," it is a staple for classic races like the Kikuka-sho (Japanese St. Leger) . Hanshin Racecourse Racecourse ClosedTakarazuka, Hyogo, Japan Features both an inner and outer loop, providing a testing ground for events like the Takarazuka Kinen . JRA Chukyo Racecourse Racecourse ClosedToyoake, Aichi, Japan The fifth GI venue and one of the few tracks to run counterclockwise . Regional Racecourses The remaining five tracks provide a diverse racing experience across the Japanese archipelago, often featuring unique local atmospheres: Racecourse Notable Features Sapporo Famous for its cool summer climate and unique all-turf "green" aesthetic. Hakodate The oldest racecourse in Japan, offering a seaside atmosphere. Niigata Home to Japan's only 1,000m straight turf course and runs counterclockwise . Fukushima Known for its tight turns and exciting, fast-paced summer meetings. Kokura A major hub for racing in Kyushu, known for its frequent use during the summer. Track Characteristics and Surface Types Unlike many international circuits, JRA racing is split almost evenly between turf (51.5%) and dirt (48.5%) . Turf Courses : These are primary for elite GI flat races and are meticulously maintained to ensure "firm" conditions. Dirt Courses : JRA dirt is distinct from American tracks; it consists of a firm mountain sand base covered with approximately 9 cm of loose sand to absorb impact. Direction : Eight tracks run clockwise , while Tokyo , Niigata , and Chukyo run counterclockwise . The Racecourse Experience JRA venues are designed as multi-purpose entertainment parks, making them popular for families and casual tourists as well as bettors. Family Amenities : Many courses feature extensive playgrounds , pony riding experiences, and gourmet food festivals. Event Days : Major races typically occur on weekends , while the separate National Association of Racing (NAR) handles local races on weekdays. Hospitality : Modern grandstands offer everything from casual standing areas to luxury reserved seating and diverse dining options. For those looking to visit, the Official JRA Website provides detailed access maps and event schedules for all 10 locations. Racecourses (JRA )｜Enjoy Racing

Here are two of Japan's most famous and accessible tracks for travelers, plus a truly unique experience. * Tokyo Racecourse (JRA) ... Japan Travel by NAVITIME Racecourses (JRA )｜Enjoy Racing Tokyo, Nakayama, Kyoto and Hanshin are known as the "big four" of the 10 racecourses of JRA, and, along with Chukyo, all GI races ... Horse Racing in Japan Guide to Going Racing｜Beginner's Guide (JRA) Payoff. After the race, the placing order (first to fifth) will be lightened up next to the large screen. Once the placings are fi... Horse Racing in Japan Beginner's Guide (JRA)｜Enjoy Racing First off ... * *JRA racing is mainly conducted on Saturdays and Sundays (with the exception of several days on national holidays) Horse Racing in Japan Average food, but good experience - Review of Tokyo Racecourse, ... It is an easy walk to the mounting yard and the beautiful stand with a view of Mt Fuji. The complex is vast. The racing museum vis... Tripadvisor FAQ｜Beginner's Guide (JRA) - Horse Racing in Japan Some jockeys have the same color caps and some have caps with two different colors. What do the colors signify? When running in a ... Horse Racing in Japan Guide to Racecourses / OTB facilities - Horse Racing in Japan Off-Track Betting Facilities (WINS) * Hokkaido / Tohoku area. WINS Sapporo. WINS Kushiro. WINS Tsugaru. WINS Yokote. WINS Shin-Shi... Horse Racing in Japan A thrilling and novel spot in the city｜JRA Many attractions for children! The Tokyo Racecourse has many attractions for children including the adventure playground and an in... Horse Racing in Japan English - INTRODUCTION to JRA RACING Feb 10, 2012 —

Report: Overview of JRA Racecourses Prepared For: Industry Analysis / Racing Enthusiasts Date: [Current Date] Subject: Comprehensive review of the 10 JRA-operated racecourses in Japan. 1. Executive Summary The Japan Racing Association (JRA) operates ten world-class racecourses across Japan. These venues are renowned for their immaculate maintenance, massive spectator capacities, advanced technology (including the world-famous large-format video screens), and unique track configurations. Unlike many Western countries, JRA tracks are primarily left-handed (counter-clockwise) and feature a mix of turf, dirt, and steeplechase courses. This report details the key characteristics, signature races, and unique features of each facility. 2. Track Commonalities (All JRA Tracks) Before examining individual venues, note these standard features:

Surface: All tracks offer both Turf (grass) and Dirt (sand/clay) courses. Direction: Most are left-handed (counter-clockwise), with the notable exception of Kyoto (right-handed). Rails: Movable running rails (inner and outer) to change race distances and protect the turf. Technology: Equipped with "Turf Vision" giant screens (some of the largest in the world) and GPS-based timing systems. jra racecourses

3. Detailed Profiles of the 10 JRA Racecourses 3.1. Tokyo Racecourse (Fuchu, Tokyo)

Capacity: 223,000 (Largest in the world) Direction: Left-handed Signature Races:

Japan Cup (G1 – Turf – November) – World’s richest turf race at one time. Yasuda Kinen (G1 – Turf – June) February Stakes (G1 – Dirt – February) The Japan Racing Association (JRA) operates a prestigious

Unique Features:

The "Fuchu Straight": 525.9m home straight – the longest in the JRA, allowing horses to sustain a run. Eurobahn slope: A famous uphill section 400m from the finish that tests stamina. Oval Dirt Course: 2,100m circumference.

3.2. Nakayama Racecourse (Funabashi, Chiba) Along with Chukyo , these five courses are

Capacity: 165,676 Direction: Left-handed (but with a unique, sharp configuration) Signature Races:

Arima Kinen (G1 – Turf – December) – "The Grand Prix of Japan" (fan-voted field). Satsuki Sho (Japanese 2000 Guineas – G1 – April) Nakayama Grand Jump (G1 – Steeplechase – April)