It has already proven to be a spectacular year for professional sports worldwide. The curtain lifted on a monumental term with the Australian Open tennis Grand Slam in Melbourne, Australia, back in January. Other favorites closely followed, including the Super Bowl in the United States and the FA Cup final in England. Fans also watched the NBA Finals, Oleksandr Usyk became the first unified world heavyweight boxing champion in 25 years, and the Grand National at Aintree dazzled horse racing fanatics.
If you enjoy watching sports live on television or the best live-streaming apps on your smartphone, you would’ve likely enjoyed the excitement of Euro 2024 in Germany. The host nation started as one of the betting favorites with firms listed at sportsbettingsites.com but was eliminated by rivals Spain in the quarter-finals. Spain progressed by the tightest of margins to join England, the Netherlands, and France in the last four. We’re fast approaching the final of Euro 2024, but there’s still plenty of drama to come.
You may follow a global celebration of sports and ask yourself, what do fans in Japan have to look forward to? There are more eye-catching fixtures than you might think, but one stands head and shoulders above the pack. The 2024 Japan Cup is run annually at Tokyo Racecourse in November and attracts thousands of spectators. Will you be present in the stands to enjoy this year’s hotly anticipated renewal? Tickets are selling fast, and time is running out to secure your seat.
Thankfully, our team of content writers brings readers up to speed on the Japan Cup, what to expect, and preparation, which is vital when planning a trip to see one of sport’s most celebrated fixtures.
Japan Cup overview
The 2024 Japan Cup will run on Sunday, November 24, 2024, with nominations closing on Tuesday, October 8. That’s when fans will learn the potential runners and riders for this year’s renewal and when online gambling traders will release their antepost betting odds.
The Japan Cup is open to entrants three years old and above, and the race is decided over 2,400m on the turf of Tokyo Racecourse. Although you can follow all the build-up, race, and expert analysis on TV, nothing compares to getting up close and personal with the action. Take your place in the crowd, rub shoulders with fellow horse racing lovers, and see the thoroughbred animals and fearless jockeys bid for a place in the history books.
If you want to make 2024 the year you finally enjoy the majesty of the Japan Cup, this article will set you on the right path. Keep reading as we list the best way to book, attend, and enjoy this year’s renewal.
Tickets
General Admission offers access to general seating areas, ideal for those who want to enjoy the race in a more casual setting. Reserved seats provide a guaranteed seat in a specific section, offering better views and more comfort. VIP packages include premium seating, exclusive access areas, catering services, and other perks
The official Japan Racing Association (JRA) website offers tickets for sale. International buyers can purchase tickets through authorized ticketing partners or travel agencies. Tickets can also be bought directly at Tokyo Racecourse, though availability may be limited closer to the event. Some travel agencies offer comprehensive packages that include tickets, accommodation, and travel arrangements.
The Japan Cup is extremely popular, and tickets, especially reserved and VIP seats, sell out quickly. Occasionally, the JRA and travel agencies offer promotional deals or discounts, so keep an eye out for these.
Accommodation
Tokyo offers a wide range of hotels, from luxury to budget options. Popular areas to stay include Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ginza, all of which provide easy access to Tokyo Racecourse. Traditional Japanese inns offer a unique cultural experience. These can be found throughout Tokyo but are less common than hotels. Airbnb provides various options, including apartments and houses, for a more home-like experience.
The Peninsula Tokyo, Park Hyatt Tokyo, and The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo offer top-notch amenities and service. Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu, and Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Station provide comfort and convenience. APA Hotel, Hotel Mystays, and capsule hotels like Nine Hours offer affordable stays without compromising on essentials.
Ensure your accommodation is near a train station for easy access to Tokyo Racecourse. Given the event’s popularity, it is advisable to book several months in advance. Choose accommodations with flexible cancellation policies in case your plans change.
Travel
Tokyo is served by two major airports, Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). Both airports have numerous international flights and are well-connected to the city center. Airport transfer options include trains (Narita Express or Tokyo Monorail), airport buses, taxis, and private car services.
If you’re traveling from other parts of Japan, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is a fast and convenient option. Numerous domestic flights connect Tokyo with other major cities in Japan.
The Keio Line runs directly to Fuchu-keiba-seimon-mae Station, adjacent to Tokyo Racecourse. Alternatively, you can take the JR Musashino Line to Fuchu-Hommachi Station, a short walk from the racecourse. Taxis are readily available throughout Tokyo and can be a convenient option if you prefer direct transportation. Local buses also service the racecourse area, but trains are generally faster and more convenient.
Watching
Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere, explore the racecourse, and secure good spots, especially if you have general admission tickets. Follow signage to the appropriate entrances based on your ticket type (general admission, reserved seats, VIP).
Tokyo Racecourse offers a variety of food and beverage options, including Japanese cuisine, international dishes, and snacks. If you wish to place bets, there are numerous betting counters and machines throughout the racecourse. Souvenir shops offer a range of Japan Cup memorabilia, including clothing, accessories, and collectibles.
It offers the best views of the track and finish line. Reserved seats provide a comfortable and unobstructed view. It gives a different perspective of the race and often has large screens for viewing. It is great for watching the horses up close before they head to the starting gates.
The racecourse typically opens in the morning, with preliminary races and events leading up to the Japan Cup. The Japan Cup usually takes place in the afternoon, so plan your day accordingly to ensure you attend the main race.