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These days, people want to go to places that are close to the city center, where they can create fun memories. In that case, we recommend the Chofu and Fuchu areas, which offer plenty of natural beauty as well as temples, sports, horseracing, and great food. The model Mariko Kaya and two of her friends went on some of the best-loved sightseeing routes. There they discovered wonders of Tokyo they had never known existed. Let's see what they found!
Next, they traveled to Fuchu, a city that’s known for both the convenience of big shopping centers and the natural beauty of its zelkova trees and the Tama River.
One of
the best spots to visit in Fuchu is the Tokyo Racecourse, the stage for the Japanese Derby (GI). Fuchu city has grown alongside the racetrack since its opening in1933.
The view from the stands is amazing! You can never forget the thrill and excitement of seeing the racehorses running with all their might. Those not sure how to buy a ticket or what
“odds” means can attend a free“Beginner’s Seminar” where you can learn the basics of horseracing in just 20 minutes.(Note that this seminar may only be available in Japanese.)
The
racecourse has lots of special features especially for women. One is the Umajo Spots, two relaxing areas in the stands reserved for women only. They offer free drinks, as well as
sales of original seasonal horse-themed sweets and lots of other services for women. "This is my first time at a racecourse, and it's so nice!" they said. "It's fun
even for beginners."
There's lots more to do here than just watch the races! There are facilities and events for children as well, including a petting area for horses and ponies, playgrounds, and JRA
Racing Museum.
You can also spend time in the rose garden, Japanese garden, and lots of other nature-themed spots. It’s a great place to enjoy a picnic. Light meals are
also available in the café area and fast food court on race days. The Tokyo Racecourse is a place for everyone to kick back and have a great time.
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Tokyo Racecourse
Address: 1-1 Hiyoshicho, Fuchu, Tokyo
http://japanracing.jp/en/
See the
website for details
Access: About a 2-minute walk from Fuchūkeiba-seimonmae Station on the Keio Line
After the race, the three came to Ōkunitama Shrine, a five-minute walk from the Tokyo Racecourse. It is one of the five major shrines in Tokyo and has a history of about 1,900 years. It enshrines Ōkunitama no Ōkami, the guardian deities of the old Musashi Province, which is now Tokyo and its neighboring prefectures. Despite its urban location, it is surrounded by lots of trees. The natural environment will put your mind at ease when you visit the grounds and feel the clear air. In fact, Ōkunitama Shrine has earned a reputation as a power spot.
They get a red stamp to commemorate their visit to Ōkunitama Shrine, which protects the Fuchu area. The stamps not only have unique designs for each shrine or temple, but they also include the date of the visit, making them ideal souvenirs of your trip.
The approach leading to the main shrine has greenery all around. On the large grounds, the sacred zelkova trees near the main gateway and the large gingko trees near the inner
sanctuary are known as power spots. The highlight is the large zelkova tree near the main gate at the shrine's entrance, which is 900 years old.
Kaya is amazed at the mystical
atmosphere. "I can't believe I'm in the city!" she says. "It's so refreshing, it's like being in a forest."
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Ōkunitama Shrine
Address: 3-1 Miyamachi, Fuchu, Tokyo
Tel: 042-362-2130
Note: Red stamps can be received at the office on Saturdays, Sundays and
holidays.
Access: About a 5-minute walk from Fuchu Station on the Keio Line
