Kanazawa Racecourse ((free)) -

When most people think of Japanese horse racing, their minds immediately jump to the glitz and glamour of the Japan Cup at Tokyo Racecourse or the historic staying power of the Tenno Sho at Kyoto. However, beneath the surface of the elite JRA (Japan Racing Association) lies a vast, passionate, and character-filled world of NAR (National Association of Racing) .

From Kanazawa Station's East Exit, take the Hokutetsu Bus (#30, #31, #32, #40) toward "Mitsuyamachi" or "Nakano." Get off at "Keiba Jo Iriguchi" (Racecourse Entrance). Fare is about 220 yen. kanazawa racecourse

If you love horse racing for the sport rather than the spectacle, visit Kanazawa. You will stand ten feet from the rail as 1,000-pound thoroughbreds whip around a tight left-handed turn. You will taste local sake while holding a paper ticket worth $2. And you will witness a version of Japanese horse racing that is rapidly disappearing. When most people think of Japanese horse racing,

100 yen (Yes, roughly 70 cents USD). This is the cheapest live sport in Japan. Fare is about 220 yen

The JRA was tightening its grip on national betting, and local ownership was waning. In 2002, Kanazawa hit rock bottom—racing was suspended, and the track faced permanent closure.