Iconic Suzuka, passionate fans, legendary corners... Your Japanese GP companion is here
Suzuka isn't just another race on the calendar—it's an iconic circuit revered by drivers and fans alike, celebrated worldwide for its electric atmosphere, technical challenges, and the only figure-of-eight layout in Formula 1
Why the Japanese Grand Prix should be on your F1 bucket listFamed for being the only Formula 1 track that crosses over itself, Suzuka is revered throughout the world as one of motorsport's finest permanent circuits. Drivers barely have time to breathe through the lap as they walk a tightrope while pushing their machines to the limit.
The first sector is dominated by the Esses, a sequence of narrow, sweeping medium- and high-speed corners that rise and plummet, while corners such as Spoon and 130R require total commitment. The venue has hosted many title showdowns over the years, including Damon Hill's championship triumph over Jacques Villeneuve in the all-Williams 1996 battle. In 2000, Michael Schumacher won the race to clinch his first title in red, repeating the feat in Japan in 2003. It doesn't stop there; Ayrton Senna, Mika Häkkinen, and Sebastian Vettel have all been crowned World Champion at Suzuka. 
Michael Schumacher on the Suzuka podium in 2000
What makes Suzuka truly special isn't just the beautiful figure-of-eight track but also the atmosphere around the circuit. The grandstands are packed with passionate local fans, both young and old, who love to dress up in race suits, often wearing the most bizarre F1 themed homemade headwear.
As Lando Norris puts it, "It's one of my favourite tracks, and it's always fun to see all the fans—they're always so passionate." 
F1 themed headwear is a staple at Suzuka
Where's the circuit?The Suzuka circuit is located in Inou, Mie Prefecture, about 30 miles (50 km) south of Nagoya on Honshu's eastern coast. While not situated in a major metropolis itself, Suzuka is conveniently positioned between the cities of Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka.
Traveling to Japan & Suzuka: What you need to knowMost intercontinental flights land at Tokyo's Narita Airport (NRT) or Osaka's Kansai Airport (KIX). Taking a direct Shinkansen (high-speed train) from either Tokyo or Osaka to Nagoya is straightforward, and a great way to experience Japan’s impressive rail system. Alternatively, there are domestic flights to Nagoya's Chubu Airport (NGO), and the Finnish airline Finnair also flies direct to Nagoya from Helsinki, with connections from cities across Europe.
While many race goers can visit Japan without a visa, the exact duration and requirements can vary, so it's advisable to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip. To reach Suzuka from Nagoya, the best option is to book a reserved-seat bus directly from Nagoya Station to Suzuka Circuit, which takes roughly two hours each way. If you choose to take the train to Suzuka Circuit Inou Station, you will need to change trains. Alternatively, you can take a direct train to Shiroko and then a connecting shuttle bus from the train station to the circuit. However, be prepared for shuttle bus queues that can last up to two hours at peak times. How many days should you spend at the Japanese Grand Prix?We recommend spending three full days, from Friday to Sunday, at the Japanese Grand Prix to experience everything the event has to offer. Between F1 sessions, you'll also get to enjoy a full schedule of support races including Ferrari Challenge Japan and Porsche Carrera Cup Japan, making it a weekend packed with non-stop action.
Japanese Grand Prix weekend schedule at a glanceHere's a quick overview of what to expect each day at the Japanese Grand Prix:
Friday is action-packed with Formula 1 practice sessions, along with practice and qualifying sessions for the support series, including Ferrari Challenge Japan and Porsche Carrera Cup Japan. Saturday begins with Porsche Carrera Cup Japan qualifying, followed by Formula 1 practice, support series races, and culminating with the Formula 1 qualifying session. Sunday features support series races, the drivers' parade, and the highlight of the weekend—the Japanese Grand Prix. 
Drivers' parade
Best places to stay for the Japanese Grand PrixWe recommend staying in Nagoya, the nearest large city to the rather isolated Suzuka circuit.
Recommended hotels include:
Best grandstands for key moments at the Japanese Grand Prix
The start-finish straight (Grandstand V1 lower and V2 upper) is the place to soak up pre race build-up and the chequered flag. Before the race you’ll seen engineers making final preparations to the cars and the drivers coming and going on the grid.
Start-finish straight (Grandstand V)
Grandstands B, C and D border one of the most challenging sections of the circuit, the 'S' curves—sweeping medium and high-speed corners that rise and plummet, running from Turns 3 to 7. Bordered by grass and gravel traps, this rather narrow part of the circuit is where the changes of direction begin to come into full force as cars snake through a series of left and right-handed corners. 
The 'S' curves (Grandstands B, C and D)
Grandstand I - This is the largest grandstand at Suzuka and lines the outside of the exit of the hairpin. This is the slowest section of the circuit where the cars rotate 180°, making it a prime overtaking spot. The hairpin at Turn 11 often sees drivers pull an overtaking move, diving down the inside of the car ahead. 
Hairpin (​Grandstand I )
Grandstand P sits along the outside of the legendary high-speed 130R corner where cars reach maximum velocity before slowing for the final chicane. The final chicane (Grandstands Q, R & S) has been the site of dramatic moments throughout F1 history, including Senna and Prost's legendary, title-deciding crash in 1989. This stand is also at the entry to the pit lane, so you can keep an eye on who pulls the strategy trigger first. 
Final chicane (Grandstands Q, R & S)
Where next?Hiroshima (1-2 days) Just a short journey from Osaka by train. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum to reflect on history and the city's message of peace. Don't miss Miyajima Island where deer roam freely around the island's temples and streets.
Kyoto (2-3 days) Explore Japan's ancient capital with its 1,600+ Buddhist temples and 400+ Shinto shrines. Tokyo (3+ days) Japan's vibrant capital offers endless experiences: Shibuya Crossing, the world's busiest pedestrian intersection; traditional gardens like Shinjuku Gyoen; the historic Asakusa district with Senso-ji Temple; Akihabara for electronics and anime culture; Tokyo Skytree for breathtaking city views; and Tsukiji Outer Market for the freshest sushi breakfast. Contact us and start planning your trip |
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Rob is an experienced independent travel consultant and travel content creator.
His love for Formula One started in the 1990s, watching the greats like Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, and Mika Hakkinen. He traveled to his first Grand Prix in 1999. It was the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona. Since then, Rob has traveled to over 2/3 of Grand Prix' on the current Formula One calendar. Fast forward to today, and Rob has turned his passion into a career, dedicating his time to helping others plan their dream Formula One trips. His favourite Grand Prix destinations are Austria and Austin, and when he's not attending a Formula One Grand Prix, you'll find him closer to home, walking or cycling in the Peak District National Park. |
