Japan Derby Memorial Day (Nihon Dābī Kinenbi)

What Is Japan Derby Memorial Day?

April 24 each year is "Japan Derby Memorial Day," commemorating April 24, 1932 (Showa 7), when Japan's first derby, the "Tokyo Yushun Dai Kyoso" founded by Isaemon Yasuda, was held. Today the Japan Derby (Tokyo Yushun) is one of the most prestigious and historic races organized by the Japan Racing Association (JRA).

The Historical Background of the Japan Derby

The Japan Derby was created in the model of England's "Epsom Derby." Records show that the first race was held not at Tokyo Racecourse but at Meguro Racecourse.

• First held: 1932 (Showa 7)
• First winner: Wakataka
• Original name: Tokyo Yushun Dai Kyousou

Nineteen horses ran in the first race, and the favorite, Wakataka, won. Meguro Racecourse later closed, and the race has been held at Tokyo Racecourse since the third running in 1934.

Key Facts About the Japan Derby

Not every racehorse can compete in the Japan Derby.

• Eligibility: 3-year-old Thoroughbred colts and fillies (4-year-olds under the old age system)
• Field size: Up to 18 horses
• Distance: 2,400 meters on turf
• Venue: Tokyo Racecourse

To run, a horse must earn a priority place through races such as the Satsuki Sho (top 5) or the Aoba Sho (top 2), or rank high in prize money earned—meaning only a select few horses of each generation get the chance.

Why It's Called the "Festival of Horse Racing"

The Japan Derby is often called the "Festival of Horse Racing" because it draws enormous attention not just from racing insiders but from a wide audience and media coverage.

• It's a once-in-a-lifetime race for any horse
• It's considered the ultimate goal for trainers, jockeys, and breeders
• It's one of the most closely watched central races of the year

Facts About Japan Derby Memorial Day

• The memorial date is based on the "first race day," April 24
• The Japan Derby itself is now held on a Sunday between late May and early June
• Its official name is the "Tokyo Yushun (Japan Derby)"
• It is organized by the Japan Racing Association (JRA)

Ideas for Japan Derby Memorial Day

• Look back through a timeline of past Japan Derby winners to trace the evolution of Japanese horse racing
• Learn about the layout of the racecourse and why the 2,400-meter turf distance is considered so challenging
• Watch footage from different eras of the Derby and compare how race tactics and riding styles have changed over time
• Learn about how racehorses are raised and trained leading up to the big race
• Compare Japan's Derby with derbies held in other countries to learn about different racing cultures

The Japan Derby as a Symbol of Japanese Horse Racing

April 24's "Japan Derby Memorial Day" looks back at the birth of a race that stands at the very origin of Japanese horse racing. The Japan Derby is more than just a competition—it represents the culture and growth of the horse racing industry as a whole. This day is a good opportunity to reflect on the history of Japanese horse racing and everything that has been built on it over time.