🏇 Ōi Racecourse and Twinkle Race – Tokyo’s Glittering Trackside Escape
Ōi Racecourse (大井競馬場), also known as Tokyo City Keiba (TCK), is one of Tokyo’s most unexpected nightlife destinations. It’s not just about betting—it’s a spectacle of neon lights, racing excitement, and food-festival energy under the stars.
✨ Twinkle Races – Night Racing, Tokyo Style
TCK is the pioneer of night racing in Japan, launching the iconic Twinkle Races in 1986. Held from spring through winter on weekday evenings, these races turn the entire venue into a glowing arena with light shows, food stalls, and energetic performances. Lights flicker across the infield, and music pulses between races—a true after-dark adventure for couples, families, and curious tourists alike.
🎡 Food, Illumination, and Fanfares
The atmosphere is festival-like. There are live performances by the Tokyo Twinkle Fanfare band before key races, dramatic lighting synced to music, and a sea of gourmet booths offering ramen, yakitori, curry, beer, and sweet treats. Special themed events like Santa Anita Week and seasonal food fairs keep the vibe fresh all year long.
🐴 Easy Betting for Beginners
New to horse racing? No problem. The Beginners’ Counter in the L-WING grandstand has free English support and a betting concierge to help you place your first wager with confidence. Just enjoy the thrill—whether you win or not!
🖼 A Photogenic, Unexpected Night Out
Where else in Tokyo can you stand beside cheering locals, gaze at illuminated racehorses thundering past, eat a piping-hot taiyaki, and take photos in front of glowing installations? Ōi Racecourse is not just for gamblers—it’s for anyone who wants to experience a different, dazzling Tokyo.
📍 Visitor Information
Event: Twinkle Races at Tokyo City Keiba (Ōi Racecourse)
Season: April through December (weekday nights)
Opening Hours: Gates open around 13:50, first race 14:30, last race by 20:50
Admission: ¥100 (general admission)
Official Info: https://www.tokyocitykeiba.com/en/
Tip: Arrive after sunset to see the full Twinkle lighting effect. It’s magical.
Where is it?
| what3words | ///scary.bunny.motels |
| latitude longitude | 35.59356, 139.74159 |
| Nearest station(s) | Oi Keibajō-mae Station (Tokyo Monorail) Tachiaigawa Station (Keikyū Line) |
| Nearest public conveniences | On-site throughout the venue |
Show me a sign.
I couldn’t find a sign anywhere near the entrances. But I’ve not been inside yet. But when I go I`ll put ￥10,000 on the horse that looks happiest. That’s all the signs that I need.
Withervee says…
Come for the ponies, stay for the lights. You don’t have to place a bet to enjoy it here — the people-watching is free. And, if you abhor gambling and see its participants as base, weak creatures driven by excitement and greed, you can remain silently judgmental and bask in the smug glow of your own moral and intellectual superiority. Also, the food stalls are surprisingly excellent. A date-night hit if you can deal with the shouting.
Tinkle time? Loos are everywhere. Bring coins if you’re trying out the betting machines. Best visited after dusk.
Site Character
- Lifestyle 生活 (Seikatsu): ✔️
- Historical Significance 歴史 (Rekishi): ❌
- Atmosphere/Natural Features 風土 (Fūdo): ✔️
Who in their right mind would vote for this?
- Gamblers
- Urban photographers
- Date night enthusiasts
- After-work drinkers
- Nightlife explorers
Further reading
Japan Travel – Tokyo City Keiba
While you’re there…
Wander north toward Ōi Suijin Park or venture further to the Shinagawa Aquarium for a splash of marine life.
