1. Introduction
Welcome! Nakayama Racecourse, operated by the Japan Racing Association (JRA), is located in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture. As a popular destination for horse racing fans and visitors alike, knowing how to get there smoothly by car is key. This guide provides detailed information on the main access routes, parking availability, and important points to consider, ensuring you have a seamless spectating experience.
2. Nakayama Racecourse: Basic Information
Let’s start with the essentials for Nakayama Racecourse:
- Address: 1-1-1 Kosaku, Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan
- Phone: 047-334-2222 (Main Line)
- Gate Opening Times: Typically, gates open 2 hours before the first race. Note: Times can vary, especially on major race days. Always check the official JRA website for the most current schedule.
Nakayama Racecourse is conveniently located approximately 30km (about a 1-hour drive, traffic permitting) from central Tokyo, making it a favorite among many racing enthusiasts.
3. Main Driving Routes & Estimated Times
Here are the primary routes for reaching Nakayama Racecourse by car. Please remember that travel times can fluctuate significantly based on traffic conditions, so it’s always wise to allow extra time.
a) From the Tokyo Area:
- Route: Shuto Expressway → Keiyo Road → National Route 14
- Estimated Time: Approx. 1 hour
- Distance: Approx. 30 km
- Details:
- Take the Shuto Expressway towards the Keiyo Road.
- Follow the Keiyo Road towards Funabashi.
- Exit at the Funabashi Interchange (IC).
- Follow National Route 14 to Nakayama Racecourse.
b) From the Yokohama Area:
- Route: Shuto Expressway (Bayshore Route) → Keiyo Road → National Route 14
- Estimated Time: Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes
- Distance: Approx. 40 km
- Details:
- Take the Shuto Expressway Bayshore Route (Wangan Line) towards Chiba.
- Merge onto the Keiyo Road towards Funabashi.
- Exit at the Funabashi IC.
- Follow National Route 14 to Nakayama Racecourse.
c) From the Chiba Area:
- Route: Keiyo Road → National Route 14
- Estimated Time: Approx. 30 minutes
- Distance: Approx. 20 km
- Details:
- Take the Keiyo Road towards Funabashi.
- Exit at the Funabashi IC.
- Follow National Route 14 to Nakayama Racecourse.
d) From the Saitama Area:
- Route: Tokyo Gaikan Expressway → Keiyo Road → National Route 14
- Estimated Time: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
- Distance: Approx. 50 km
- Details:
- Take the Tokyo Gaikan Expressway towards Chiba.
- Merge onto the Keiyo Road towards Funabashi.
- Exit at the Funabashi IC.
- Follow National Route 14 to Nakayama Racecourse.
4. Parking Information
Nakayama Racecourse offers several official parking areas with a total capacity of roughly 5,000 vehicles. However, these can fill up quickly, especially on days with major events or graded stakes races. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Main Official JRA Parking Lots:
- P1 Parking (Main Stand Side)
- Capacity: Approx. 2,000 vehicles
- Fee: ¥1,000 (on regular race days – fees may differ on G1 days, check official site)
- Features: Closest to the main grandstand, very popular.
- P2 Parking (Wing Side)
- Capacity: Approx. 1,500 vehicles
- Fee: ¥1,000 (on regular race days – fees may differ on G1 days, check official site)
- Features: Convenient for the Wing building, may have more availability.
- P3 Parking (Behind the Stand)
- Capacity: Approx. 1,000 vehicles
- Fee: ¥1,000 (on regular race days – fees may differ on G1 days, check official site)
- Features: Located behind the stands, relatively quick exit access.
- Temporary Parking
- Capacity: Approx. 500 vehicles
- Fee: ¥1,000 (on regular race days – fees may differ on G1 days, check official site)
- Features: Opened only during large-scale events when needed.
Additional Nearby Parking Options (Reservable):
Several privately operated parking spots near Nakayama Racecourse can often be reserved in advance through parking reservation websites like TokuP (search for “特P 中山競馬場” online). Here are a few examples noted previously (availability and prices subject to change):
- Kosaku 4-3-1 Parking:
- Fee Example: ¥700 / 11 hours
- Walk to Racecourse: Approx. 8 minutes
- Type: Outdoor, flat lot
- Kosaku 3-2-32 Parking:
- Fee Example: ¥430 / 24 hours
- Walk to Racecourse: Approx. 5 minutes
- Type: Outdoor, flat lot
- Fujiwara no Sato Mansion Parking:
- Fee Example: ¥500 / 24 hours
- Walk to Racecourse: Approx. 8-12 minutes
- Type: Outdoor, flat lot
- Recommendation: For detailed information and booking for these types of spots, please search parking reservation websites like TokuP directly using terms related to “Nakayama Racecourse.”
5. Local Traffic Information & Important Notes
Traffic volume around Nakayama Racecourse increases significantly on race days. Keep these points in mind for a smoother journey:
- Check Traffic Reports: Review traffic conditions before you leave home. Use real-time traffic features on car navigation systems or smartphone apps. Check the official JRA website or social media channels for updates on congestion around the racecourse.
- Peak Congestion Times: Expect the heaviest traffic immediately after the gates open and right after the final race concludes. If possible, try to arrive and depart outside these peak windows.
- Surrounding Road Conditions: National Route 14 is particularly prone to congestion. Researching alternative back roads or smaller routes beforehand might be beneficial.
- Weather Impact: Roads tend to be more congested during rainy weather. Exercise extra caution if there’s snow or ice.
- Major Event Impact: Expect significantly heavier traffic and parking pressure during G1 race days and other major events. On such days, strongly consider using public transportation instead.
6. Alternative Transportation Methods
If driving seems difficult or you prefer to avoid potential traffic jams, consider these alternatives:
- Train & Free Shuttle Bus:
- Take the JR Sobu Line to Funabashi Station OR the Keisei Main Line to Keisei-Funabashi Station.
- Use the free shuttle bus service operating between these stations and the racecourse.
- Bus Ride Time: Approx. 20 minutes.
- Taxi:
- From JR Funabashi Station: Approx. 15-minute ride.
- Estimated Fare: Around ¥2,000 (can vary with traffic).
- Rental Bicycle:
- Rent a bicycle from shops near JR Funabashi Station.
- Cycling Time: Approx. 30 minutes.
Knowing these options provides flexibility depending on the day’s conditions.
7. Dining Options Near the Racecourse
If you’re planning a long day, you might want to explore dining options outside the racecourse itself. Here are a few suggestions:
- Eateries Near the Main Gate: Several small restaurants and food stalls are located right in front of Nakayama Racecourse’s main entrance, offering a classic race day atmosphere.
- LaLaport TOKYO-BAY: A large shopping mall with numerous restaurants and a food court, located about a 5-minute drive from the racecourse.
- Restaurants near Funabashi Station: A wide variety of dining options are available in the area around Funabashi Station, approximately a 15-minute drive away.
Having dining options in mind can help make your race day even more enjoyable.
8. Conclusion
Driving to Nakayama Racecourse can be a convenient and comfortable option with the right planning and information. Understanding the main routes, checking parking availability in advance, and being aware of potential traffic conditions are crucial steps. Knowing alternative transport methods and nearby amenities adds flexibility to your plans.
We hope this guide helps you enjoy a fantastic day at the races. Please follow all traffic rules and drive safely on your way to Nakayama Racecourse. May you have a wonderful and exciting race viewing experience!
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