Japan Cup
A Pinnacle of Global Racing Tradition and Turf Excellence
The Japan Cup is one of the world’s most prestigious and eagerly anticipated thoroughbred horse races — a spectacular celebration of elite competition, international challenge, and equestrian brilliance at Tokyo Racecourse each November. First run in 1981 to bring the very best horses from around the world together, this Group 1 invitational now stands alongside the greatest races on the global calendar, drawing top‑class stayers aged three and up to contest 2,400 metres (about 1½ miles) on turf in front of tens of thousands of passionate spectators.
Official Tickets & Hospitality
We only provide official tickets & hospitality to Tokyo Racecourse and The Japan Cup
Exclusive Events
From Stallion Farm visits to exclusive private tours of some of Tokyo’s best attractions
Bespoke Experiences
Let our team of racing & travel experts build you your perfect itinerary with your choice of hotel, hospitality and more.
On-site Team
You’ll be joined by our team of racing & travel experts who will be on hand to assist you 24/7 to ensure you have the best trip.
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The Japan Cup with Racing Breaks
Japan Cup Experiences
Mercure Sapporo / Hilton Hotel Shinjuku
from £4,495 per person
Trip Dates: 23rd – 30th November 2026
- 3 Nights Accommodation at Mercure Sapporo Hotel
- 4 Nights Accommodation at Hilton Hotel Shinjuku
- Breakfast each morning
- Welcome Dinner & Drinks
- Half-day Sapporo tour including Mt Moiwa, Odori Park, Sapporo Beer Museum and lunch at Sapporo Beer Garden
- Visit Northern Farm pre-training facility, the best stable in Japan
- Stallion Parade at Shadai Stallion Farm where all Japan’s best stallions stand
- Lunch and tour of Northern Horse Park & Museum
- Internal flight from Sapporo to Toyko
- Tsukiji Fish Market Tour
- Japan Cup Day Premium Hospitality
- Services of an experience tour leader
Exclusive Inclusions
Our trip to the Japan Cup is more than just the racing at Tokyo Racecourse.
You’ll also get to experience some unique excursions alongside some free time to explore both Sapporo and Tokyo. If you have any other excursions in mind get in touch and we’d be happy to assist in adding these to your quote!
Sapporo Tour
included in experience
You’ll then head to the popular Sapporo Beer Museum before enjoying lunch in their iconic beer garden. You’ll try a freshly brewed Sapporo beer and a “Genghis Khan”, a local Hokkaido speciality dish of lamb and mutton.
Stud & Stable Tours
included in experience
You will also visit the the Shadai Stallion farm, home to Japan's best stallions and you'll see them parade - a quite wonderful sight! You'll also enjoy lunch and a tour at the Northern Horse Park & Museum.
Tokyo Tour
included in experience
You’ll start with fantastic views over Tokyo from the observation deck, see Mt Fuji if the weather is clear, then visit Meiji Jingu Shrine & Harajuku shopping precinct, the world-famous Shibuya crossing before a visit to the old Yanaka Ginza district for some old-world charm and a local feed of Ramen.
The Japan Cup is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world, held annually at Tokyo Racecourse in late November. Established in 1981, it attracts top thoroughbreds from Japan and around the globe, offering one of the richest purses in international racing. The race is run over 2,400 meters on turf, combining world-class competition with a festive atmosphere, and has become a showcase of Japan’s vibrant racing culture and top-notch equine talent.
The event draws a truly international field, with leading horses, trainers, and jockeys competing for glory. Beyond the main race, the Japan Cup race day features a full program of top-class domestic contests, making it a highlight of the racing calendar and a major spectacle for fans, combining elite sport with excitement and tradition in one of the world’s most celebrated racing events.
The Japan Cup at Tokyo Racecourse is a highlight of the international racing calendar, centred on the 2,400-meter Japan Cup, a Group 1 turf race that draws the world’s best horses, jockeys, and trainers. Alongside the main event, the card features a series of top-class supporting races, including graded stakes for both domestic and international contenders, showcasing a mix of sprint, middle-distance, and staying talent. The day combines thrilling on-track action with a festive atmosphere, attracting racing fans from across Japan and around the globe to witness elite competition at one of the sport’s most iconic venues.
If required, we can include flights to Japan within our experiences.
There are are a couple of direct flight options from selected UK airports to Tokyo. An onward flight to Sapporo is then required, with a return from Sapporo to Tokyo during the trip itinerary (included as standard)
Extended stopovers are possible for those looking to spend a few nights whilst connecting in other locations.
Flight upgrades are available to Premium Economy, Business & First Class.
If booking your own flights you need to fly to Tokyo then onwards to Sapporo to arrive on Monday 24th November 2025. Your flight from Sapporo back to Tokyo is included in your experience meaning your return flight is simply Tokyo to the UK no Monday 1st December.
For more information on flight options please enquire.
