Destination Suzuka: An F1 fan’s guide

Suzuka, although known best as the home of the iconic motorsport circuit, has plenty to offer fans who visit the city for the Grand Prix – whether it be spending time in nature and taking in the spring blossom or exploring the architecture.

With Japan’s efficient rail network, it's also easy to explore some of the exciting cities nearby such as Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka. If you choose to stay in Japan for longer, either before or after race weekend, they are well worth the visit.

Introduction to Suzuka

Population: 200,000 (approx.)

Time Zone: UTC +9

Language: Japanese

Currency: ¥ (Japanese Yen)

Power socket: Type A and B. If you’re travelling from overseas don’t forget to bring your adapters

Weather: Breezy

With the 2026 event taking place in late March, Japan will be transitioning from winter to spring. Whilst temperatures can increase up to 14°C during the day, the wind can often bring a chill – making it necessary to pack layers and a warm jacket. There's still the potential for light spring showers too.

Attractions

Suzuka is a relatively small and charming city with fantastic transport links to nearby hubs of activity – which means more opportunities to explore the best that the Kansai region of Japan has to offer.

Stroll among the blooms at Suzuka Forest Garden

Set just outside the city, Suzuka Forest Garden is best known for its seasonal blossoms, with plum and cherry trees putting on a colourful show in spring. It’s the kind of place you can slow the pace down, wander along quiet paths, and enjoy a side of Suzuka that feels far removed from the noise and excitement of race weekend.

Step back in time when exploring Iga Ueno Castle

Iga Ueno Castle was first built over 400 years ago as the seat of local lords, and today’s structure is a careful reconstruction using many of its original materials. From the imposing western wall, you can stand 30 metres above the moat and take in views across the countryside. Nearby, the historic district reveals preserved samurai homes and shops selling local pottery and traditional kumihimo braided cords – perfect for an authentic souvenir.

Soak up the views at Kiyomizudera Temple

Kiyomizudera Temple sits high on Kyoto’s eastern hills and is one of Japan’s most recognisable sights. The walk up is steep in places but it’s part of the charm, with narrow streets lined by traditional shops. At the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views, the chance to visit Jishu Shrine for a little luck in love, and even to sip from the pure streams of the Otowa Waterfall.

Experience Osaka after dark in Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi

Shinsaibashi and neighbouring Dotonbori are where Osaka is most animated. By day, you’ll find everything from high-end fashion to traditional crafts, set around a historic canal and its ever-popular bridge. After dark the neon lights glow, giant mechanical signs loom overhead and the streets fill.

Food and drink

Japanese cuisine has made a huge impact worldwide, with people enjoying its carefully crafted flavours. However, as good as that food may be elsewhere, nothing quite compares to experiencing it in Japan itself – making it a unique and unforgettable highlight for visitors.

Embrace local delicacies

Exploring Suzuka and the surrounding cities whilst indulging in local specialities will only enhance your experience. Suzuka is particularly known for its exceptional freshwater eel dishes, so if you’re a fan of udon or donburi, you’re in for a treat.

For meat lovers visiting Japan, trying Matsuzaka beef is a must. Hailing from Mie Prefecture near Suzuka, this wagyu is famed for its rich, tender texture, and buttery flavour. While you’ll have no problem finding it in high-end restaurants around Suzuka, the wider Kansai region also has excellent spots to sample it.

Enjoy the nightlife

Beyond the food, Suzuka offers an exciting nightlife, perfect for those who enjoy bar-hopping and soaking in the different atmospheres each venue has to offer.

Travelling around Suzuka

One of the most convenient ways to reach Suzuka Circuit from nearby major cities, including Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, and Shiga, is by train. Shiroko Station, though not the closest to the circuit, is well-connected and offers frequent shuttle bus services during Grand Prix weekends. Demand can be high during peak hours, so it's advisable to plan to arrive earlier to account for potential queues.

The closest station to the circuit is the Suzuka Circuit Ino Station, just 1.5km away from the main entrances. However, journey time to get to this station is longer due to transfers.

There are a limited number of official parking options near the circuit, and tickets must be purchased in advance. More information on how to purchase these can be found HERE.

For those taking a taxi to the circuit, there are drop-off and pick up points located close by. Additionally, there are free bicycle parking spaces located next to each of the gates.