What is takarazuka kinen?

Takarazuka Kinen is a Japanese horse racing competition held annually in late November at the Hanshin Racecourse in Hyogo, Japan. The race, which was inaugurated in 1961, was previously known as the All Japan Stakes, but it was renamed Takarazuka Kinen in 1999, after the city of Takarazuka. It is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in Japan, and it is also one of the few races in Japan that is open to foreign horses.

The Takarazuka Kinen is a 2,200-meter flat race for horses aged three and above, and it has a prize money of around 325 million yen (approximately $3 million). The race is run in a counterclockwise direction on a turf course, and it is known for its challenging uphill finish. The race draws in some of the best horses from Japan and around the world, and it attracts a large audience and betting turnover.

Over its history, the Takarazuka Kinen has seen some of Japan's most famous horses win, such as Deep Impact and Gentildonna. The event is also popular for its unique atmosphere, as fans dress up in traditional kimonos or wear hats and fascinators. Overall, Takarazuka Kinen is an exciting and prestigious event that celebrates both horse racing and Japanese culture.