Japanese Grand Prix Travel Guide
Plan
Your
Japanese
Grand Prix
Home to the Japanese Grand Prix, Suzuka is a legendary racetrack and the scene of many of F1’s most historic moments. The Prost and Senna rivalry reached a climax here in 1989 and 1990, Hill took the title for Williams in 1996, and Schumacher won his first of many championships for Ferrari in 2000.
Built as a Honda test track it provides an interesting mix of corners. Many of them, such as the revered 130-R have earned their place in F1 folklore. Seeing F1 cars take on this circuit which is mostly unchanged for decades, is reason enough for most F1 spectators to make an often long pilgrimage.
Of the many reasons to visit Suzuka, though, what really makes the place unique is the Japanese F1 fans. They are enthusiastic, supremely knowledgeable, and famously a little quirky in expressing their love for F1. Rear wing hats with working DRS and Bernie Ecclestone glove puppets are just some of the wonderful ‘only in Japan’ highlights we’ve seen over the years.
Wherever you’re from, you’ll enjoy mixing with the locals, joining in the craziness and having a Grand Prix experience unlike any other in the world.
Japanese Grand Prix F1 Spectator Tips
- The iconic ferris wheel at Suzuka is one of F1’s most recognizable landmarks. On Friday or Saturday the lines won’t be that long and you’ll get a great view over the circuit.
- Not much English is spoken in Japan and although the people are extremely helpful, it’s a good idea to learn a few words to help you get by.
- BYO bento! You might notice Japan can be a bit crowded in places and Suzuka is no exception. The queue for food stalls get pretty long so either bring your own or try to time your hunger cravings for off-peak dining.
Manga Kissa wa do ko des ka?
Stuck for accommodation? Campsites near the circuit sell out and hotels in Nagoya are expensive. As a last resort, or simply to experience a unique facet of a trip to Japan, 24 hour internet cafes, or ‘manga kissa’ are a worth a try. These temples of teenage gamers and salary men who missed the last bus home are used to being used as a place to crash for the night and many offer facilities such as showers, hairdryers, blankets and ready meal vending machines.
Your sleepover space is a basic but roomy cubicle with a reclining chair and enough floor space to stretch out on and will cost about ‎¥2500 for an 8 hour stay. From the gates of the circuit in Suzuka, you can find one such place within about a 25 minute walk and another few are located close to Shiroko train station.
Essentials
Japanese
Yen ¥ (JPY)
UTC+9
100V, 50 or 60Hz (US plug)
Weather & Climate
Suzuka WeatherWhether you’re watching at the track or out enjoying the Sakura you can expect it to be mild and pleasant at this time of year. You might get caught out by some spring showers but skies over Suzuka are usually bright and blue. Average temperatures see highs of 17°C (63°F) to lows of 8°C (46°F).
About Me
I’m Danny, an incurable Formula 1 fan for over 35 years and founder of The F1 Spectator. My aim is to inform and inspire, arming you with helpful tips and advice for your next F1 trip.
