Suzuka Circuit, officially opened in 1962, was built by Honda as a test track and quickly became a centerpiece of global motorsports. Located in Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture (near Nagoya), it is one of the world's most challenging and respected circuits.

The complex is divided into two main areas.

The International Racing Circuit: Home to world-class events like the F1 Japanese Grand Prix and the Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race.

Motopia: A fantastic vehicle-themed amusement park with over 30 attractions designed to be enjoyed by all ages, from toddlers to adults.

The circuit’s most defining feature is its rare figure-eight layout—the only one of its kind in F1—complete with an exciting overpass and underpass section.

Major annual events include the F1 Japanese Grand Prix, a huge multi-day spectacle typically held in late September or early October (book hotels and transportation well in advance), the summer-season Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race, one of the world’s most prestigious motorcycle competitions, and several S-GT (Super GT) races that bring high-energy action to the track throughout the year.

The park is open year-round, though hours and admission fees vary by season and race schedule, so it’s best to check the official website before visiting.

Ticket options include the Motopia Passport (around 4,800 yen for adults and 3,300 yen for children), which grants entry plus unlimited rides and is the most convenient choice for tourists. An Admission Only ticket (about 1,700 yen for adults and 800 yen for children) provides park entry and access to viewing areas, with rides available for an additional fee.

There are also special Circuit Experience programs, offered on select dates, where visitors can enjoy unique activities such as driving their own car on the track.

Motopia is a family-friendly zone where children can enjoy the fun of driving and riding through a variety of hands-on, vehicle-themed attractions.

Kids can steer boats, drive mini-cars, and even try a small “circuit” coaster, while themed areas like Putti Town for younger visitors and the Circuit Challenger electric-cart track offer playful, age-appropriate experiences.

Seasonal highlights such as the Circuit Wheel Ferris wheel, summer pools, and occasional illumination events add extra excitement throughout the year.

Transportation at Suzuka changes dramatically during major events, and the biggest mistake travelers make is relying on the small, unmanned Suzuka Circuit Ino Station, which is built for only ~90 daily passengers.

During F1 weekends, which see more than 260,000 attendees over three days, Suzuka Circuit Ino Station becomes dangerously overcrowded, so always avoid it and use official buses or travel via Shiroko Station instead.

Reserved direct buses are the safest and most efficient option, offering guaranteed seating and avoiding long lines and transfers. Reservations are required and should be made as soon as they open; check the Suzuka Circuit website well ahead of your trip.

For visitors coming from Nagoya or traveling onward from Tokyo, the most reliable option on major race weekends is a reserved direct bus, which offers a guaranteed seat, no transfers, and smooth access straight to the circuit entrance.

In 2026, buses depart from major hubs such as Nagoya Station, Tsu Station, Gifu Station, Gifu-Hashima Station, Toyotashi Station, and Higashi-Okazaki Station.

On non-race days, a standard rail route via the Kintetsu Nagoya Line to Shiroko Station, followed by a 15-minute taxi or bus, works well.

Travelers from western Japan, especially Osaka and Kyoto, also benefit from using reserved direct buses on race weekends, with convenient departures from Kyoto Station, Shin-Osaka Station, JR Namba Station, and Kintetsu Nara Station.

These buses bypass the congestion and transfer bottlenecks common on race days, ensuring a smoother and far more comfortable trip to the circuit.

Rail access from Osaka/Kyoto via Shiroko Station is possible, but it should only be considered on regular (non-event) days due to heavy crowding and limited capacity during major races.

The most convenient place to stay is the Suzuka Circuit Hotel, located right next to the park and circuit for easy access on busy event days.

Travelers looking for more budget-friendly options can find reliable business hotels around Shiroko Station in Suzuka City.

If you plan to explore more of the region, staying in Nagoya is also a smart choice: it offers excellent dining, shopping, and major transport connections such as the Shinkansen and the airport, while still being only about an hour from the circuit.