History of Baji Park
Do you know about Baji Park in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo? When you think of Baji Park, what comes to mind? A large sports stadium? Or perhaps the Olympic venue where events were held? Baji Park is a hub for the promotion of horse riding operated by the Japan Racing Association (JRA). So, when did its history begin, and how has it evolved over time?
It was established in September-October 1940, aiming to develop Japanese equestrian athletes for the Tokyo Olympics planned for 1940. However, due to the Second Sino-Japanese War and other reasons, Japan forfeited the Olympics in July 1940, and the plan was shelved. In 1948, a ‘Horsemen Training Center’ was revived, and in 1950, the first long-term jockey training course began. In 1964, Baji Park hosted the equestrian events for the Tokyo Olympics, the first in Asia. The facility opened a horse riding school in 1982, transferring all jockey training operations there. Baji Park was temporarily closed on December 31, 2016, for renovation work ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which was later postponed to 2021. The venue is now located in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, and scheduled to reopen in fall 2022 after renovation works, which include improvements for the Olympics.
Roles and Notable Jockeys from Baji Park
Established as a hub for equestrian promotion, Baji Park played various roles before its temporary closure. Let’s take a closer look at its functions and some of the jockeys who came from this site.
Role of Baji Park
Since JRA operates the facility, Baji Park is closely linked to horses. Its vast grounds served roles beyond horse training, including being a community space for residents in Setagaya Ward—featuring lush landscapes, picnic spots, and a scenic flower garden. It also functioned as an emergency evacuation area during disasters.
As a Place for Horses
The park was opened as a training ground for horse handling, equestrian competitions, and jockey development. It featured various horses, including riding horses, retired racehorses, ponies, and performing horses—each serving different purposes such as riding training, pony racing, show performances, and community events. Its role in promoting horse riding was vital, including hosting the equestrian events of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
For the Community
Despite being operated by JRA, Baji Park was a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s home to natural landscapes, a large pond, and flower fields, making it a perfect retreat for relaxation. It also served as a wide-area evacuation site in emergencies, emphasizing its importance to the local community. The reopening of the park is highly anticipated for both horse enthusiasts and the general public.
Notable Jockeys from Baji Park
To become a JRA jockey today, one must undergo three years of training at the JRA Horse Racing School, an affiliated educational institution. Before 1982, jockeys trained at the Baji Park branch and jockey training center. Over the years, many talented jockeys graduated from these facilities, including legendary figures. For example, the 15th generation, known as the ‘Flower Generation,’ produced renowned jockeys like Yuji Oka, Masato Shibata, and Masanori Ito, who won the Japan Derby. Others, like Yoichi Fukunaga and Masato Shibata, made significant contributions to Japanese horse racing. Sadly, some, like Masao Ishii and Masao Sato, lost their lives in riding accidents, and others retired due to injuries.
Famous Jockeys from the 15th Generation
The 15th generation, joining in 1964, included 16 members, 14 of whom became jockeys. This group is famous not only for their glamour but also for tragedies—some, such as Yoichi Fukunaga, became commemorated figures after making major wins. The last of the graduating class, Takumi Kihata, who retired in 2018, was the last jockey from Baji Park. His sons also became jockeys and made history by racing in the same race at Nakayama Racecourse in April 2017—the first time in JRA history that four family members competed in the same race. Other graduates, like Katsumi Sakamoto, became trainers after retirement. They have taken diverse careers, reflecting different paths taken after their days at Baji Park.
Recent Olympics at Baji Park
In 1964, Baji Park served as the venue for the Tokyo Olympics’ equestrian events. It was also selected as one of the venues for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, held in 2021 after postponement. The Olympic events feature mixed-gender competitions under the same conditions. There are three disciplines: show jumping, dressage, and eventing, each with individual and team categories. The Paralympics only include para-equestrian dressage, without show jumping or eventing.
Upcoming Plans
Currently, Baji Park in Setagaya is undergoing renovation and is closed. Its current facility is located in Utsunomiya city, Tochigi Prefecture, with plans to reopen after renovations. Originally scheduled for fall 2022, the reopening might be delayed due to the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics. The park included a competition venue, scenic walking paths, flower gardens, and areas for horse lovers and the general public to enjoy. After the Olympics, the park will undergo phase two of renovation, focusing on landscaping and green spaces, including dismantling temporary Olympic structures. The surrounding area is also being developed to include a space commemorating the Olympic legacy, making the entire site more attractive post-renovation.