Suzuka, Japan

Suzuka is the spiritual home of Formula 1 in Japan. The circuit — one of the few figure-eight layouts in world motorsport — has produced some of the most dramatic championship moments in F1 history. The surrounding region of Mie Prefecture is one of the least-visited parts of Japan by international travellers, which makes it one of the most rewarding. Ise Grand Shrine, the most sacred Shinto site in Japan, is 40 minutes from the circuit.

The Japanese Grand Prix has one of the most passionate and knowledgeable fan bases in the world — the precision, the quiet organisation and the sheer dedication of Japanese F1 fans is unlike any other race on the calendar.

F1 2026: 27–29 March. Late March in central Japan is cherry blossom season — one of the most celebrated natural events in Japan. The combination of F1 and sakura makes this race weekend uniquely spectacular. Temperatures are mild (12–18°C). Book accommodation many months ahead — the Japanese GP is enormously popular and the surrounding region has limited hotel capacity relative to demand.

Suzuka is 90 minutes by train from Nagoya (Kintetsu Nagoya Line to Shirako station, then bus to circuit). From Osaka, the journey is approximately 2 hours. From Tokyo, the Shinkansen to Nagoya takes 45 minutes. On race days, dedicated shuttle buses run from the nearest stations. Nagoya is the most practical base with the widest accommodation options.

Nagoya is the most practical base — 90 minutes from the circuit, with excellent hotels and its own attractions (Nagoya Castle, the Toyota Automobile Museum, outstanding miso cuisine). Tsu city (closest to the circuit) has limited but functional accommodation. Osaka (2 hours) offers the most dynamic food and nightlife scene and is Japan's most underrated major city.

Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingu) — the most sacred Shinto shrine in Japan, rebuilt every 20 years since the 7th century in a cycle of ritual renewal; the cedar forest approach and the quiet ceremonial atmosphere are extraordinary. Nagoya Castle — the original castle was destroyed in WWII; the reconstructed keep contains excellent exhibits on the Owari Tokugawa clan. The Toyota Automobile Museum near Nagoya — outstanding collection of automotive history with particular strength in pre-war European and Japanese vehicles. Okage Yokocho (the traditional shopping street near Ise Shrine) — one of the best-preserved Edo-period merchant streets in Japan. Mikimoto Pearl Island in Toba — where Kokichi Mikimoto developed cultured pearl production; the ama (female pearl diver) demonstrations are extraordinary.

Mie Prefecture and Nagoya have distinct and excellent food cultures. Ise Udon — thick, soft noodles in a dark sweet broth unique to this region. Tekone Zushi — marinated skipjack tuna on rice vinegared in the Ise tradition. In Nagoya: Miso Katsu (pork cutlet with Hatcho miso sauce), Hitsumabushi (grilled eel over rice, eaten three ways) and Nagoya Cochin chicken. Yoshinoya and the local izakaya around Nagoya Station serve excellent regional food at modest prices.

Suzuka circuit involves significant walking — the figure-eight layout means distances between grandstands are considerable. Comfortable shoes are essential. March temperatures are mild but evenings can be cool; a light jacket is recommended. Accessibility at the circuit is reasonable but the hillside grandstands require some stair climbing.

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world for visitors. The emergency number is 110 (police) or 119 (ambulance/fire). Travel insurance is recommended. English signage is limited outside major cities — download Google Translate with Japanese offline.

Attend the Friday practice session rather than qualifying or the race if you want to experience the circuit without the full crowds — the Japanese fans who attend practice are among the most knowledgeable in F1. Buy Ise Udon at the circuit — it is served at the food stalls and is one of the better circuit meals in all of motorsport. Visit Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks) on the Ise coastline at dawn — two sacred rocks connected by a shimenawa rope with Mount Fuji visible on clear mornings; one of the most quietly beautiful places in Japan.