Check out the breathtaking illuminations at the Oi Racecourse grounds. The illuminations are held during evenings on both weekdays and weekends when there are no horse racings from October to March.
It's the biggest illumination event in Tokyo and themed around "the past, present, and future," asking visitors to not only observe the lights but to experience the sense of time travel. At the illuminations get your photo taken with an adorable miniature pony, travel back in time and enjoy light displays modeled on the Edo, Meiji, Taisho and Showa periods in Japanese history, enjoy a delicious matcha green tea flavored tiramisu and watch an amazing projection mapping display.
Oi Racecourse / Tokyo City Keiba
Tokyo City Keiba also hold horse races on weekdays during different periods each month, rotating with other racecourses in the region. Head over first to see the horses march on the small field so that you can pick out a winner. There are multiple options for viewing the race. The L-Wing offers spectacular views of the racecourse as well as a variety of affordable dining options.
For someone looking for a night of luxury, the Diamond Turn is highly recommended. Offering a delicious all you can eat buffet, you can relax in comfy seating (or even in private booth) and enjoy betting and dining in style. For those who want to catch a bite to eat between races, Umakatta Square offers outdoor dining (there is even a store which sells craft beer).
Getting there
Tokyo Mega Illumination / Tokyo City Keiba is just a 2-minute walk from Oi Kebajo Mae Station on the Tokyo Monorail, or 12-minute walk from Tachiaigawa Station on the Keikyu Line. Free courtesy buses from Shinagawa Station also operate on weekends and public holidays.
More info
Find out more about Tokyo City Keiba.
Liz Watson @elizabeth.watson
A long term Australian exchange student completing her studies at a Japanese university.
