This November, HAPPY VALLEY RACECOURSE transforms into a slice of Japan as the much-loved JAPANESE FESTIVAL returns with all its flair, flavours, and festive spirit. Across November 2nd, 5th, 12th, and 19th, the racecourse will dazzle with a stunning blend of cultural immersion and racing thrill, featuring the JAPAN RACING ASSOCIATION TROPHY and an exciting lineup of themed attractions. From authentic Japanese bites to photo-worthy setups under glowing lanterns and maple leaves, this festival is set to be a crowd magnet once again—promising a night where tradition meets the adrenaline of the turf.
Festival Highlights: Where Japan Meets the Turf Magic
- Lucky Draw Extravaganza – Spend HK$100 or more at designated food trucks and stand a chance to win a Japan Travel Voucher worth HK$8,000 or a Free Beer Voucher. Follow @HKJCEntertainment, post your festival photo, and enter on-site for your chance to win.
- Groove with Natalia D – Feel the beat as international pop sensation Natalia D from Japan takes the stage with electrifying live performances.
- Beer Garden Vibes – Immerse yourself in the rhythm of the Beer Garden beats, sip, sway, and soak in the festival air.
- Insta-perfect Moments – Capture your glow against a breathtaking Japanese backdrop of torii gates, lanterns, and maple leaves—every corner is a photo waiting to happen.
- Yukata Experience – Try on a traditional Japanese Yukata at the themed booth—limited slots available, so go early!
- Wheel of Games & Fun Challenges – Spin, play, and win exclusive prizes while indulging in the festival’s lively spirit.
Race Night at Happy Valley – The Thrill Awaits
As the lanterns glow and the maple leaves shimmer, the turf at HAPPY VALLEY RACECOURSE (Course A) comes alive for a spectacular night of racing on November 12th. With nine gripping contests for 3yo+ runners from 18:40 to 22:50, the stage is set for an exhilarating mid-November Wednesday — where the FESTIVAL’S THIRD NIGHT promises not just Japanese charm but also heart-racing competition, cheering crowds, and an atmosphere charged with excitement. From fresh hopefuls in CLASS 5 to the elite contenders of the CLASS 2 finale, every race promises moments of drama, determination, and delight. Whether you’re there for the culture, the cuisine, or the competition—HAPPY WEDNESDAY’S JAPANESE FESTIVAL is where Hong Kong celebrates the spirit of Japan and the pulse of world-class racing, all in one unforgettable night.
Race 1: BEDFORD HANDICAP (18:40, 1650 meters)
The curtain rises with a Class 5 handicap that sparks the first roar from the stands. ATOMIC BEAUTY, HANDSOME BLOND and LUCKY BLESSING will be looking to seize the early momentum, setting the tone with a strong front-running display, while DRAGON SUNRISE, FOREMOST TEDDY and PERFECTO MOMENTS could be the danger if they find a late burst down the straight. These lower-tier warriors often bring unpredictable drama, and this opener is primed to ignite the evening’s racing rhythm with energy and flair. Prize Money: $875,000
Race 2: CHEONG WAN HANDICAP (19:10, 1200 meters)
The second event, another Class 5 handicap, carries the air of redemption for several looking to climb the ladder. MAJESTIC DELIGHT, CHILL MASTER and TALENTS SUPREMO might press forward early, determined to dictate pace and pressure, while RIDING HIGH, DOUBLE BINGO and BEAUTY FORMULA could emerge late with a well-timed challenge. This contest should keep the fans alert — a tactical clash where stamina meets surprise, and the form book might just get rewritten. Prize Money: $875,000
Race 3: CHEUNG SHUN HANDICAP (19:40, 1650 meters)
A step up in grade brings a sharper edge to this Class 4 handicap, where a field of improving contenders take to the Course A track in search of consistency. COLOURFUL KNIGHT, AEROINVINCIBLE and GOOD LUCK WIN look capable of controlling tempo from an inside draw, but CALIFORNIA BANNER, DR GOLDEN GENERAL and REWARDING TWINKLE have the turn of foot to threaten when it counts. This race signals the night’s progression — stronger horses, smarter rides, and an undeniable shift in intensity. Prize Money: $1,170,000
Race 4: THE CHINESE GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 125TH ANNIVERSARY CUP (HANDICAP) (20:10, 1650 meters)
The midway point of the card adds fresh intrigue with another Class 4 handicap, blending tactical patience with flashes of raw speed. QUANTUM PATCH, CHARMING STEED and CAN’T GO WONG could attempt to steal it from the front if allowed breathing room, though TURIN WARRIOR, GAMEPLAYER ELITE and DASHING DRAGON might lurk perfectly poised to strike inside the final furlong. Expect this race to test judgment and timing — a classic Happy Valley contest where fortunes can flip in seconds. Prize Money: $1,170,000
Race 5: FAT TSEUNG HANDICAP (20:40, 1200 meters)
By the fifth race, the action finds its stride. This Class 4 handicap is full of runners chasing breakthroughs and redemption. ALABAMA SONG, ROBOT LUCKY STAR and CIRCUIT GOGO bring honest form and consistency, but SILVER SPURS, KING GLORIOSO and TEAM TEAM FOLKS might relish the distance and surprise late. The battle here lies between staying power and sprinting finesse, promising a thrilling finish as the night deepens. Prize Money: $1,170,000
Race 6: FAT TSEUNG HANDICAP (21:10, 1200 meters)
The lights shimmer brighter for the sixth, another Class 4 handicap, where the atmosphere hits its stride alongside the racing. NEW POWER, CALIFORNIA BAY and LOOKS OUTSTANDING could make their move early to dominate from the front, yet LEATHER GOODS, SUPER UNIVERSAL and GLORIOUS KINGDOM might thrive on the late tempo if the pace turns hot. It’s the kind of contest that captures the crowd — tight margins, roaring energy, and the intoxicating blend of turf and festival under the lantern-lit sky. Prize Money: $1,170,000
Race 7: FIFE HANDICAP (21:45, 1200 meters)
As the evening builds toward its peak, the seventh event — a Class 3 handicap — introduces a higher calibre of competitor. POWER KOEPP, YOUNG EMPEROR and ORIGIN OF FORM arrive with proven class and tactical speed, while MIGHTY COMMANDER, FIND MY LOVE and SUPERB BOY could test them with a well-measured stalking run. With more at stake and pressure mounting, this race is expected to deliver a thrilling demonstration of experience versus ambition. Prize Money: $1,860,000
Race 8: HING YIP HANDICAP (22:15, 1800 meters)
Another Class 3 handicap continues the high-level drama, drawing together a field of contenders hungry for victory. AWESOME FLUKE, EXCELLENCE VALUE and WROTE A NEW PAGE might command attention with their pace and aggression, but A AMERIC TE SPECSO, LIVEANDLETLIVE and ROMANTIC LAOS could swoop in late if the leaders overcommit early. The penultimate race promises tension and spectacle — the kind that keeps hearts racing right up to the grand finale. Prize Money: $2,050,000
Race 9: SHING YIP HANDICAP (22:50, 1650 meters)
The night reaches its crescendo with the Class 2 handicap, the richest and most anticipated event of the Japanese Festival card. SPEED DRAGON, TAJ DRAGON and SOLEIL FIGHTER are out to make a statement, boasting the form and class to rule the track, yet MR ASCENDENCY, TELECOM FIGHTERS and HUGE WAVE stand ready to upset the odds with a tactical masterstroke. This is where racing meets theatre — high stakes, top speed, and a fitting finish to an unforgettable night beneath the glowing Course A lights. Prize Money: $3,120,000
As the final cheers echo through Happy Valley, the Japanese Festival Night stands as a celebration of everything racing embodies — thrill, elegance, and community. From yukatas and lanterns to photo booths and pulsating beats, the cultural glow merges seamlessly with the roar of the turf. With nine captivating races wrapping up the night, it’s not just another Wednesday — it’s a festival of speed, spirit, and unforgettable memories under the rising sun.
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