Top Tips & Travel Itinerary for the Japanese Grand Prix Experience

The 2025 Formula One season has started with double-header racing events, the Australian Grand Prix and the Chinese Grand Prix. The third venue is Suzuka in beautiful Japan, where a three-day event will occur from April 4 to 6. The Japanese Grand Prix has always been the talk of the town, given its exciting racing history. It has been the venue for many title-deciding races, including the 1976 race at Fuji Speedway, where James Hunt was crowned the victor. The Suzuka Circuit’s unique figure-of-eight layout makes it a favorite among drivers. Japanese fans are known for their passionate and respectful behavior. If you have decided to experience the thrilling F1 atmosphere in Japan, we have got you covered. Here, we present the Top Tips and a Travel Itinerary for the Japanese Grand Prix Experience, ensuring you have a great weekend getaway.

Also Read:

• Best Go-Kart Tour in Japan
• Top Things To Buy In Japan
• Everything You Need to Know About Hakone, Japan

The Japanese Grand Prix Schedule

The 2025 Japanese Grand Prix will be over 53 laps of the 5.807-km Suzuka Circuit. The three-day event begins with a practice session on April 4. A qualifying session will occur the next day before the ultimate race on April 6. The weekend track schedule also includes support races, press conferences, and special events, which you can access here.

We will list the racing schedule for the final race day on April 6, 2025, below:

Time	Racing Course
9:45 AM – 10:20 AM	Ferrari Challenge Japan Second Race (30 minutes + 1 lap)
11 AM – 11:35 AM	Porsche Carrera Cup Japan Second Race (10 laps or 30 minutes)
12 PM – 12:30 PM	Formula 1 Drivers’ Parade
2 PM – 4 PM	Formula 1 Grand Prix (53 laps or 120 minutes)

Suzuka Circuit will host F1 Fanzones in GP Square and the West area. The former is open from 8 AM to 6 PM on Friday (April 4) and from 8 AM to 7 PM on the remaining two days. The West Fanzone is open from 8 AM to 6 PM all three days.

Travel Tips for The Japanese Grand Prix Experience

Preparing for the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix is less challenging than you think. First, you must buy F1 tickets via the Formula One official website or F1 race promoters. The best places to sit at the Japanese Grand Prix are the Grandstand V1, priced at ¥90,000 ($601), and V2 ¥100,000 ($668). Other notable grandstands to watch an F1 race are A2, ¥80,000 ($534), B1 ¥60,000 ($401), B2 ¥71,000 ($474), C ¥40,000 ($267), D ¥30,000 ($200), I ¥40,000 ($267), and G ¥25,000 ($167). If you have no qualms about spending, book the Formula 1 Paddock Club ticket for ¥1,100,000 ($7355).

After purchasing tickets, prepare an itinerary that includes how to reach the Suzuka Circuit, where to stay, what to eat, and what to do. While we will discuss these in detail later, let’s first discuss the typical things you must consider for the Japanese Grand Prix experience.

• Language: Not every Japanese person, including local business owners, speaks English fluently. So, learn a few common Japanese phrases to help you communicate with locals.
• Weather: Prepare for any unpredictable weather changes. Although Japan has four seasons, climate change has caused irregular weather patterns.
• Carry Cash: While cards are widely used, you still need to carry cash in Japan for public transportation and to make small purchases.
• Bring food: The Suzuka Circuit welcomes millions of F1 fans for a single racing event. Hence, you must queue up in a long line for everything, including food stands. To avoid crowds, bring your snacks or a bento lunch box.
• Dress appropriately: Check the weather forecast and bring warm clothing and rain gear. Wear comfortable and waterproof shoes as you will be walking around the circuit.

How to Get to Suzuka?

Your travel itinerary for the Japanese Grand Prix Experience begins upon your arrival. Since Suzuka city doesn’t have an airport, you must fly to the nearest Chūbu Centrair (NGO) airport in Nagoya. Alternatively, you can fly to Tokyo before taking a domestic flight to Chūbu Centrair or Osaka‘s Kansai Airport (KIX).

If flying is too expensive, opt for public transportation, such as trains and buses. However, buses are more costly and time-consuming than trains. You can also contact a tour operator to transport you to the Suzuka Circuit from Nagoya, although it may be expensive.

• From Nagoya to Suzuka Circuit: The JR Tokaido Shinkansen line connects Tokyo and Nagoya. If you are in Tokyo, take a bullet train to Nagoya, which usually takes 1.5 hours. Then, catch a Kintetsu Limited Express train to Shiroko Station. You can take a taxi or a Mie Kotsu bus from there to the circuit.
• From Osaka to Suzuka Circuit: Kintetsu Limited Express trains operate directly from Osaka’s Namba Station to Shiroko Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, after which you can take a bus or taxi to he circuit.

During the F1 Japanese Grand Prix, temporary shuttle buses operate from Kintetsu Shirako Station to Suzuka Circuit.

Things To Do In Suzuka

The beautiful city of Suzuka is in northern Mie Prefecture in Japan. This small city is primarily known for its motorsports heritage, featuring the world-famous Suzuka Circuit. It is also renowned for its natural beauty, shrines, and cultural institutions. Alongside watching the F1 race, check out these top things to do in Suzuka.

Take Your Kids To Suzuka Circuit Park

• Address: 7992 Inoucho, Suzuka, Mie 510-0201, Japan; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Did you know the Suzuka Circuit has a theme park? The Suzuka Circuit Park or Suzuka Circuit Motopia is an amusement park with family-friendly facilities. It features go-kart tracks where kids and parents can try karting for the first time. The park has multiple themed areas, including Pucci Town, Chirala’s Hello Garden, Puto’s Mobi Park, Pipira’s Motofield, Bat’s Adventure Village, GP Field, Circuit Challenger, and Aqua Adventure. The Circuit Wheel is the must-try attraction here, offering panoramic views of the Suzuka Circuit from the sky.

See What The Fuss Is All About Suzuka Sports Garden

• Address: 1669 Misonocho, Suzuka, Mie 510-0261, Japan; Google Map
• Social Media: Official Website

Although Suzuka is primarily renowned for its motorsports heritage, it hosts other sporting events, too. The Suzuka Sports Garden is a multi-purpose stadium with an indoor swimming pool, multiple rugby and soccer fields, and several gyms. It is the home for the Japanese Rugby team, the Honda Heat, and the Suzuka Point Getters football team. It hosts rugby, football, swimming, and tennis matches. The stadium’s climbing wall is a significant attraction at 12 m in height and 4 m in width. Visitors can catch live sporting events at the site on their trip to attend the Japanese Grand Prix.

Pray At Tsubaki Grand Shrine

• Address: 1871 Yamamotocho, Suzuka, Mie 519-0315, Japan; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 5 AM – 7 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Instagram

Experience peace at the serene Tsubaki Grand Shrine at the central foot of the Suzuka Mountains in Ise Province. Set amid tall cedar trees, this ancient Shinto temple enshrines a local deity, Sarutahiko-no-Okami, and his grandsons, Tsubakihata-Chihime-no-Mikoto and Ninigi-no-Mikoto. In the secondary shrines, Konohanasakuya-hime-no-Mikoto and Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto are also enshrined. Sarutahiko Okami is the ‘Guiding Deity’ who wards off bad luck and brings peace, fortune, and happiness. You can also wish for luck, prosperity, safe travels, and protection at the shrine. The temple ground features an archery range, a tea house, and an assembly hall.

Shop Till You Drop At AEON Mall Suzuka

• Address: 4 Chome-1-2 Shonohayama, Suzuka, Mie 513-0834, Japan; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 9 PM
• Social Media: Official Website

Elevate your Japanese Grand Prix experience with a quick shopping trip. The AEON Mall Suzuka is only a 20-minute drive from the Suzuka Circuit and is a must-visit spot for shopaholics. The shopping mall features approximately 180 specialty stores, selling everything from fashion to household goods, gourmet food, electronics, and accessories. It also houses cafes and restaurants offering mouthwatering cuisine and refreshing beverages. There is also an indoor playground for little kids.

Travel To Nagoya

• Address: Aichi, Japan; Google Map
• Distance from Suzuka: 127.1 km
• Top Destinations: Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, SCMaglev and Railway Park, Museum Meiji Mura, Nagoya Castle

The vibrant Nagoya is the closest city to Suzuka. It is the capital of Japan’s Aichi Prefecture and is known for its manufacturing industries, such as aerospace, robotics, and automotive. The Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology is an excellent destination to learn about the city’s industrial heritage. This museum showcases the history of Japan’s industrial development and the Japanese brand Toyota. Likewise, the SCMaglev and Railway Park is ideal for those interested in railway vehicles and bus exhibits. Other must-visit destinations include the Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, and Museum Meiji Mura.

Best Food Experiences In Suzuka

Our blog on the Top Tips and travel Itinerary for the Japanese Grand Prix Experience will be incomplete without addressing the region’s impressive culinary scene. Japanese cuisine is globally recognized for its delicate flavors, fresh ingredients, and beautiful presentation. While sushi, sashimi, and ramen dominate people’s preferences, Suzuka’s regional specialties are slowly gaining more popularity. Local eateries cater to walk-ins and reservations. Still, to be safe, see these seat reservations in the city’s top restaurants.

Suzuka/Kameyama, Mie Prefecture | Izakaya Tokubee（徳兵衛 平田新町店）| Seat Reservation Only

• Reservation Fee: $2.92
• Average Lunch Price:￥999 ($6.68)
• Average Dinner Price:￥3,000~￥3,999 ($20-$26)
• Ratings:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Free Cancellation

Treat yourself to a seafood feast at Izakaya Tokubee with this food experience. The Tokubei Hirata Sinmachi Branch is a 5-minute walk from Hiratacho Station along Prefectural Route 643. This restaurant is ideal for family meals, solo dinners, and casual lunches with friends. It serves the freshest seasonal and rare sashimi. The establishment has 100 drinks, including wine, sake, and cocktails, to complement your meal.

Suzuka/Kameyama, Mie Prefecture | Izakaya Zauo（ざうお 鈴鹿店）| Seat Reservation Only

• Reservation Fee: $2.92
• Average Lunch Price:￥1,000~￥1,999 ($6.69-$13.37)
• Average Dinner Price: ￥3,000~￥3,999 ($20-$26)
• Ratings:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Free Cancellation

Reserve your seat at the city’s famous Izakaya Zauo. This KKday offer covers the reservation prices in the hottest seafood restaurant, ideal for visitors of all ages. This restaurant lets customers fish in their fish tank and enjoy fresh catch. The fish can be cooked to your liking, whether simmered or grilled. The spiny lobster is the best-selling item that you can only get at Zauo. Enjoy your meal with a beverage or a sweet dessert.

Suzuka/Kameyama, Mie Prefecture | Izakaya Shabu Shabu On Yasai (Suzuka Chuodori Branch) | Seat Reservation Only

• Reservation Fee: $2.92
• Average Dinner Price:￥3,000~￥3,999 ($20-$26)
• Ratings:⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Free Cancellation

Enjoy a lovely dinner with this seat reservation-only offer at Izakaya Shabu Shabu on Yasai. It offers an all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu course for ￥3,498. This buffet meal features carefully selected meat and in-season vegetables. The set menus are available from ￥1,848. You can choose fourteen types of meat, including Iberian pork, Japanese Black Beef, and Sakurahime Chicken. Unfortunately, vegetables can not be selected as the restaurant serves the season’s freshest produce.

Suzuka/Kameyama, Mie Prefecture | Kushiage Bincho Oogiya (Suzuka branch) | Seat Reservation Only

• Reservation Fee: $2.92
• Average Dinner Price:￥2,000~￥2,999 ($13-$20)
• Not rated yet
• Free Cancellation

With this seat reservation offer, you can savor dishes prepared by a highly skilled chef. Visitors can dine at the renowned Kushiage Bincho Oogiya’s Suzuka branch. This restaurant is known for its delicious yakitori and izakaya cuisine. The chef grills yakitori perfectly and serves it with a specially selected sauce and salt. The establishment offers complimentary refills of the edamame soybeans with the meal. It also serves a la carte dishes like yakitori donburi and quick meals like classic macaroni salad and salted cabbage.

Suzuka/Kameyama, Mie Prefecture | Izakaya Naniwa De Omasu（浪花でおます）| Seat Reservation Only

• Reservation Fee: $2.91
• Average Lunch Price:￥1,000~￥1,999 ($6.69-$13.37)
• Average Dinner Price:￥1,000~￥1,999 ($6.69-$13.37)
• Ratings:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Free Cancellation

Finally, our last seat reservation is at the renowned Izakaya Naniwa De Omasu. This is the most affordable restaurant on our list, and it serves the best okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake dish. Diners can add bases, toppings, and ingredients of their choice. The restaurant provides diverse seating options, from counter seating to spacious tatami rooms. It also offers dolls and chairs for families with little children.

Where to Stay in Suzuka?

Since the Japanese Grand Prix is a significant racing event, fans usually book hotels in advance at the Suzuka Circuit and surrounding areas. So, check out these handpicked properties in the region and book your stay quickly.

APA Hotel Suzuka-Chuou

We begin our list with the budget-friendly APA Hotel Suzuka-Chuou. It is only 2.6 km for the Suzuka Circuit, allowing F1 fans plenty of time to travel back and forth between the hotel and the circuit. This property features 106 guest rooms with modern amenities. Each unit has an APA Original mattress and pillows, high-quality toiletries, air conditioning, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Guests start their morning with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. The breakfast buffet is from 6 AM to 9 AM and costs ￥1,100. Moreover, APA Hotel Suzuka-Chou features a spa, which is complimentary for all guests. It also has a sauna. Other amenities include an on-site restaurant, luggage storage, a vending machine, and complimentary bikes.

Comfort Hotel Suzuka

Book a stay at the famous Comfort Hotel Suzuka. It is conveniently located a fifteen-minute drive from the Suzuka Circuit. The property is also near the Shiroko Train Station, Central Japan International Airport, and Kansai International Airport. Guests can catch a flight back home from Nagoya Airport, which is only 69 km from the hotel. They can also access many local eateries and izakayas.

This 3-star hotel features comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Each room has air conditioning, a private bathroom, a work desk, and a TV. A buffet breakfast is prepared each morning, featuring a variety of options. The property also offers a child-friendly buffet with meals for kids. Other amenities include complimentary bicycles, a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, housekeeping, and full-day security.

Shiroko Storia Hotel

Next, Shiroko Storia Hotel is known for its impressive amenities and ambiance. It is in the city’s best location, within a minute’s walk from the Kintetsu Shiroko Station and AEON Mall Suzuka. The Suzuka Circuit, host of the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix, is only 6 km from the premises. Local parks, restaurants, and museums are a few distance away.

This hotel features spacious and conveniently designed rooms with a modern atmosphere. Depending on their group size, guests can choose from a single, deluxe single, ladies’, semi-twin, twin, or barrier-free room. The hotel offers a complimentary buffet-style breakfast every morning. Guests can access the coin-operated laundry, rental bicycles, parking, and a spacious communal bath.

すずかのおやど Suzuka Inn

Experience a traditional Japanese stay at すずかのおやど Suzuka Inn. The place has an authentic vibe, including its traditional exterior and interior details. It is conveniently near the Suzuka Circuit (14 km) and Nagashima Spa Land (25 km). This property is located on a quiet street and offers a peaceful setting. It features a garden, complimentary parking, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant stay.

The inn features four bedrooms and two bathrooms, complemented by a spacious living room. It also offers a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave and dishwasher. Each room has air conditioning, double/bunk/futon beds, and Wi-Fi. Guests can also access the dining area, streaming services, and a washing machine. This property is more like a luxury villa for large groups and families. Former guests have highly rated its cleanliness, spacious accommodations, and excellent facilities.

Suzuka Midorinomori

Finally, Suzuka Midorinomori offers a perfect ryokan stay. It is nestled in a small forest in the beautiful Suzuka near renowned attractions, including the Suzuka Circuit, Suzuka Sports Garden, and AEON Mall Suzuka. This picturesque inn offers tranquility to your already exciting Japanese Grid experience. Its impeccable service and hospitable staff are also its vouching points.

This property features elegant, Japanese-style, well-appointed rooms. Each non-smoking unit has complimentary Wi-Fi and futons. Suzuka Midorinomori’s child policy allows kids to stay free of charge. However, extra charges may apply to ensure a comfortable stay. While the hotel doesn’t offer dining service, many waterfront restaurants are within walking distance. Guests can also buy snacks and beverages from the on-site vending machine.

Our blog on Top Tips & Travel Itinerary for Japanese Grand Prix Experience has ended. We have listed everything you need to consider and prepare for an epic F1 experience at the Suzuka Circuit. In addition to watching matches, check out fun activities at the Circuit, including riding the gigantic Ferris Wheel. You can also buy merchandise, meet your favorite F1 driver, and take many pictures. The only downfall is crowds, but it’s far better than other countries. Japanese crowds are very respectful, with no pushing or shoving; hence, you should maintain the same behavior.