Guida
Obihiro Racecourse, located in Obihiro City, Hokkaido, is the sacred ground for 'Ban'ei horse racing,' a type of racing found nowhere else in the world. In this unique format, massive horses pull heavy sleds across a course, aiming to overcome two distinct obstacles before reaching the finish line. The thunderous sound of hooves and the sheer power displayed during the race are truly overwhelming. Beyond the racing, the facility offers a multi-faceted experience: enjoy local agricultural products and sweets at the 'Tokachi-mura' commercial complex, interact with animals at the 'Fureai Zoo,' or delve into history at the 'Horse Museum.'
This area is known as the birthplace of 'Do-ei' (prefectural) racing. Its history began with the visit of Crown Prince Kari (the future Emperor Taisho) in 1911. Originally rooted in the development of the local wetlands, the racing site was moved to its current location in 1932. While both traditional Hokkaido racing and Ban'ei racing were once held here, the venue now specializes exclusively in the Ban'ei style. It remains a symbol of regional identity, deeply intertwined with the livestock culture of the Tokachi region for many years.
The biggest highlight is undoubtedly the Ban'ei race itself. Spectators focus on how the horses tackle the 1.0m first obstacle and the 1.6m second obstacle along the 200m straight course. Another iconic sight is the statue of the great stallion 'Irene' located in front of the main gate. For a more relaxed experience, you can visit the 'Fureai Zoo' near the former paddock area to interact with ponies. Additionally, the 'Horse Museum' provides an educational look at traditional horse-plowing tools and the long history of horse racing.
Ban'ei racing is well-equipped with road heating systems, ensuring that spectators can enjoy the races even during the winter without worrying about snow or ice. In the summer, as dust may rise from the track, it is recommended to watch from the well-ventilated stands. On major race days, such as the 'Ban'ei Kinen' heavy stakes race, the atmosphere becomes even more special with live performances by the Ground Self-Defense Force band.
There are various ways to enjoy your visit beyond just watching the races. The stands include beginner-friendly areas and kid-friendly spaces, making it a great destination for families. At the 'Tokachi-mura' facility, you can purchase fresh agricultural products and famous local sweets nurtured by the rich land of Tokachi. For a more luxurious experience, the 'Premium Lounge' on the 3rd floor of the stands offers sofa seating and terrace views, allowing you to watch the races in a relaxed, high-end environment.
Obihiro Racecourse is a convenient hub for exploring the Tokachi region. The surrounding area is dotted with gourmet spots, including restaurants serving the famous Obihiro 'Butadon' (pork bowls) and various food stalls. Nearby, you can also visit the Obihiro Zoo, the historical Obihiro Centennial Museum, or the Rokka no Mori (Rokkatei) to deepen your understanding of Tokachi's food and culture. Combining a race visit with a tour of these areas will allow you to fully experience the charm of Tokachi.
Clothing is crucial depending on the season. If visiting during the winter, thorough cold-weather gear is essential. The stands are non-smoking except in designated areas. Since the facility includes commercial shops, it is convenient to have both cash and credit cards ready. While photography is generally allowed, please be considerate not to disrupt the race proceedings. Please check the payment methods for individual shops within the facility in advance.