It’s that time of year once again for one of the great horse races in Japan, the Group 1 Japanese Derby — or Tokyo Yushun to give its Japanese name — which will be held on May 26 at Fuchu Racecourse, just a short distance from the center of Tokyo.
This will be the 91st edition of the Derby, which was first run in 1932. Except for its first two years, when it was held at the former Meguro Racecourse, its home has always been the Tokyo track, which has become one of the most iconic racecourses in the world. Other famous races held at the Tokyo track include the Japanese Oaks, the Yasuda Kinen and, arguably the best on the Japan Racing Association’s yearly calendar, the Japan Cup.
To spend a day at Fuchu Racecourse on a big day is certainly something everyone should experience once, even if they’re not a fan of the sport. The grandstands are packed to the rafters and the atmosphere is electric.