Suzuka – Japan – Updated for 2024
Regarded as a season highlight by both drivers and fans alike, the Japanese Grand Prix has been held at the Suzuka Circuit since 1987.
Hailed as being one of the fastest and most challenging tracks of the Formula 1 calendar, it has been the location of countless nail-biting world championship deciders due to it typically being held late into the season.
Suzuka sits 400km from Tokyo on the southern coast of Japan, and so is particularly prone to extreme and unpredictable conditions. Be prepared for adverse weather, as the Grand Prix is frequently accompanied by lots of rain.
“Suzuka is built for drivers as it ticks all the boxes. It’s such an amazing track behind the wheel – especially in a modern Formula 1 car – and it’s certainly one of the best circuits out there”
Nico Hulkenberg – Former F1 Driver
The track is situated within the grounds of a theme park, ‘Suzuka Circuit Land’, providing a pleasing backdrop and some extra entertainment for the quieter track days. Transportation around this area of Japan is great, and many attendees travel from Nagoya, Japan’s third-largest city, located just 50km away.
The circuit is jam-packed with every type of turn imaginable – it was originally built for the Honda Motor Company as a test track, so by design must push vehicles to their very limit. With 18 corners and only 2 of those being taken at less than 100kpH, the venue is perfect for witnessing up close the immense power an F1 car holds.
The noticeably short run-off areas at the circuit have resulted in a number of massive accidents, including the fatal Jules Bianchi crash in 2014. The fast and furious 130R corner has also been the site of multiple high-speed crashes throughout the years, such as that of Alan McNish during qualifying in 2002.
Suzuka has a reputation for its technical difficulty, allowing the truly talented race drivers to excel here. The track’s combination of challenging yet speedy corners, constant fluctuations in elevation, and the aggressive first section make the Japanese Grand Prix a must-see spectacle for any avid fans of the sport.
It’s a fantastic place to enjoy on-track action thanks to a large number of overtaking spots, a fact highlighted by drivers such as Michael Schumacher when he tore through the field from the back of the grid in 1998.
Tickets are nearly sold out for this event.
Grandstands V
The massive main grandstand at the Suzuka Circuit is known as Grandstand V, and is divided into 2 main sections – the upper part, known as V2, and the lower part, known as V1. It overlooks the main straight and is located across from the pits, allowing for an excellent vantage point right in the thick of the action.
From here, you should also be able to see all of your favourite teams’ antics, with a view of the pit stops, the starting grid and even the podium.
In addition to being situated in perhaps the liveliest area of the track, Grandstand V is directly in front of the F1 fanzone, so even during the weekend’s quieter moments you are never too far away from some terrific entertainment.
The F1 Stage in this part is where a number of your favourite drivers will be interviewed over the course of the weekend, so be sure to check this out.
Racing simulators, exhibitions and merchandise stalls populate this area, not to mention the tasty and authentic local cuisine on offer.
V1 is slightly cheaper than V2, but at quite a significant compromise. V1 makes up the lower section of the grandstand, so it’s much more difficult to see into the pits due to the safety fencing and other obstacles in your line of sight. This issue is particularly evident in the lower seats of V1, notably Zones 1 and 2. Don’t sit in this area if a view into the pits is a priority for you.
You also aren’t able to see some of the distant corners beyond the main straight, as you are in the more expensive counterpart V2.
V1 does have some benefits though. The fact it is so close to the track provides a unique and exhilarating experience as the drivers screech past at unbelievable speeds – you will be blown away by the power of these vehicles, as the drivers push them to the very end of their tether.
V2 is a little bit more expensive than V1, but for the small price increase, the added benefits you will reap are definitely worth it. V2 offers the best panoramic views at the Suzuka Circuit, thanks to its location in the upper part of Grandstand V.
The higher seats of the stand are the best to really make the most of this, namely Zones 10-12.
This enables you to catch a glimpse of some of the distant corners including the final one, in addition to the main straight and grid. It is probably the best option for first-timers at the Japanese Grand Prix who aren’t on a budget, as it lets you see a little bit of everything. The seats are also extremely comfortable.
V2 is split into an array of smaller zones. To the left side are zones 1, 4, 7 and 10, sitting closest to turn one.
These zones have the best view of the front of the starting grid, and also of the bigger team garages such as Mercedes and Ferrari. Zones 2, 5, 8 and 11 are in the middle section which is probably the least exciting part of the V2 stand. Y
You can’t really see any of the corners from here, and you are also opposite the lower team garages and the back of the grid. The other zones are situated in the right hand section of the stand, which gives a brilliant view of the finish line and turn 18, but a limited view of the pits and grid.
Grandstand V provides some all-round respectable views of the track, in a vibrant area of the Suzuka Circuit packed with some of the most impassioned fans in the raving scene. This makes it a great choice for both newcomers and returning visitors.
Giant video walls ensure you won’t miss any of the action from other parts of the race, and the upper part of V2 is also one of the only grandstands at the circuit that has a covered roof, which could definitely be worth the premium price due to unpredictability of the elements in Suzuka.
Be aware that you won’t see a lot of wheel-to-wheel action from Grandstand V, and so if watching overtaking and extremely close proximity racing is your preference, you should sit elsewhere.
Grandstands A
The A1 and A2 Grandstands are positioned at the end of the main straight, enabling a perfect view of the drivers entering Turn 1.
It follows a DRS section, so expect to see your favourite racers tussling for position as they approach the braking zone of the medium speed corner.
This spot marks a key overtaking section, and the drivers will fight hard to set themselves up nicely for the rest of the race.
Its location means it remains close to all the amenities and the F1 Fanzone, similarly to Grandstand V, and so you are never out of reach of all the magnificent food and entertainment the circuit has to offer. Toilets are close by, and state of the art big screens come as standard ensuring you won’t miss any key moments. Additionally, there is accessible seating available.
A1 is perched at the edge of the track at a lower elevation, so you will literally feel the cosmic presence of these racing machines as they fly past. A2 is higher up, providing a slightly better aerial view into the distance.
The A Grandstands do not provide the best views at Suzuka, but they are perfect for those on a mid range budget who want to really soak up the atmosphere of the Japanese Grand Prix and have a thoroughly enjoyable day of Formula 1 racing, in close proximity to the main fan entertainment zones.
Grandstands B
Quite possibly some of the best seating at the Suzuka Circuit, the B Grandstands look over one of the best overtaking areas of the track. The double right-hander compiling turns 1 and 2 begins while the drivers are still travelling at maximum velocity.
This poses the first real technical challenge of the race, as the drivers are forced to manoeuvre the corners while simultaneously reducing their speed. It was also the site of the Verstappen-Leclerc collision in 2019.
A ticket in this Grandstand is great for viewing the start of the race, allowing you to watch on as the drivers brake unthinkingly late after scrambling down the main straight and fighting for position through the entry and exit of the turns. L
ots of on-track action occurs here, with drivers frequently passing each other, partly in thanks to the DRS zone incorporated in the build up to the approach.
B1 is lower down and closer to the action, but the view is partially obscured by the safety fencing. B2 sits above it and provides much clearer views. Being just off of the main straight, you are never too far from all the amenities, and toilets and food and beverage stalls are nearby.
The main F1 Fanzone is also within walking distance. A big screen positioned on the infield means you can keep up constantly as the race unfolds. Accessible seating is also available in this grandstand. There is however no roof, so be prepared for all possible weather conditions.
The B2 Grandstand is one of the most popular ticket options for the Japanese Grand Prix and for good reason. T
he slightly higher cost in comparison to B1 is worth the better line of sight. It’s the best place to watch the exhilarating first lap unwind, with an unobstructed view of the race and a dynamic atmosphere filled with some of the most energetic fans in F1.
B1 is still good value, and overlooks the same section of track, but the safety fence blocking some of the view is a real drawback.
Regardless, the B Grandstands are great value and suit those on a mid-range budget. The sight of the cars vanishing into the ‘S Shaped’ Turns 3 and 4 is a major selling point too.
Grandstands C
Lying on the exit of the opening corner, Grandstand C is an extremely popular and affordable seating option. It tends to sell out very quickly, so be prepared to book well in advance if you are looking to spectate from here.
It is divided into lower, middle and upper sections, with the uppermost rows providing the best all-round views. With regards to amenities, there are toilets nearby, but you are a little further away from the main F1 Fanzone.
The C Grandstands do offer accessible seating. 2 Large video walls are also available to follow the drivers beyond the section of the track that you can see. Be aware there is no roof cover so you will be exposed to the elements.
The affordability of Grandstand C is by no means a reflection of the quality of seating. It offers a brilliant view of the race start, and you are in the prime location to see the drivers enter and negotiate some of the toughest turning sequences on the F1 calendar.
After catapulting out of the second corner, the drivers are faced with the ‘S curves’, where the exit of one bend is the entry to the next one. A small mistake here can have a catastrophic impact on the driver’s final position.
The C Grandstand is fantastic value, and offers remarkable views for even those on a tight budget. Be sure to purchase your ticket well before the race to ensure you don’t miss out on everything it has to offer.
Grandstands D
The four D Grandstands (1, 2, 4 and 5) are distributed along the world-renowned ‘S shaped’ curves, Turns 3 through to 6. The ultimate test for an F1 car, these corners require the vehicles to possess an immense amount of downforce to maintain both speed and friction, and so the engineering is really tested here.
The drivers regularly describe this section as enjoyable and embrace the challenge, demonstrating their technical prowess to the thousands of cheering fans. Don’t be fooled though – there is little margin for error, and this segment demands respect. The Grandstands are the best place to see this part of the race.
The seating here is old and wooden, similar to the benches found in most schools, so don’t expect to be comfortable for the duration of the race.
There is also no roof, so plan for the worst possible weather outcome just in case. An important thing to note, which is quite a significant drawback for many, is that Zones 1 and 2 of the D Grandstand do not have a great view of any of the large TV screens.
This means that you may miss out on some important race moments. Don’t select this zone if that is a big problem for you. Additionally, the view is not as wide-spanning here as in some of the neighbouring stands. Despite this, Zones 1 and 2 are much bigger than their counterparts 4 and 5, and the atmosphere here is always booming.
Zones 4 and 5 of Grandstand D are the better seating options for this part of the track, but are smaller and more expensive. With one of the higher seats in either of these zones, you will have an unmatched panoramic view from the start of the S Curve, all the way through it and down to the next corner.
You get to witness the sport’s finest drivers from head on as they weave through this tricky stretch of tarmac at speed. Zones 4 and 5 also have a good view of some of the big screens, so you don’t need to worry about missing any of the action.
The D Grandstands are a bit of a distance from the main F1 Fanzone, but just a short walk from one of the smaller food and beverage areas filled with various flavoursome dishes. Toilets are also provided here, along with a shelter from the rain just in case the conditions take a turn for the worse. There is no accessible seating here.
For a respectable price, the D Grandstands allow for an unrivalled vantage point of the iconic S curve. Zones 4 and 5 have better views and are worth the extra bit of cash, especially if access to a video wall is important to you.
Grandstands E
Situated slightly further on from the D Grandstands, the E1 and E2 Grandstands allow for superb views of the drivers at the climax of the notorious S curves, as they propel out of the final one and accelerate downwards towards the latter part of the circuit.
E1 is further to the left than E2, but the overall view is pretty similar. Amenities are a slight distance from the grandstand, and so reaching the toilets and food and drink areas between track sessions may require a bit of a leg stretch.
As one of the cheaper options at Suzuka, it isn’t one of the most exciting places to sit and you are unlikely to see lots overtaking or close proximity action. There is no roof cover either, so expect to get wet if it rains.
There are 2 big screens located here, so you won’t miss a beat and its cheaper price makes it a decent option for those trying to save some money. It also has accessible seating available. While there are better places to sit, the view is still decent and you will no doubt have a fun-filled weekend at the circuit regardless.
Grandstands I & J
Located just outside the track immediately after the hairpin, Grandstand I is positioned on a low-speed corner which is full of overtaking action.
Drivers slam on the brakes on the approach before launching out of the corner. This slow part of the circuit results in hair-raisingly close contact as the drivers brush past each other, which is particularly thrilling on the first lap when they are all bunched up together.
Thanks to its great vantage point of one of the most compelling parts of the race, this grandstand sells out fast year on year, so book your ticket early. It is accompanied by access to a big screen to keep you up to track as the race unfolds.
There is no roof though so be wary of the weather, and it isn’t the cheapest option at the circuit.
It is also a 30 minute walk to the main entrance meaning you are a bit of a distance from the main fan zone. There are however other smaller amenities and toilets nearby.
It is the largest grandstand at Suzuka, so undoubtedly full of character. For photography enthusiasts, Grandstand I is probably the best location thanks to the low speeds, so don’t forget your camera. Professional cameras are allowed at the track, but ensure the lens doesn’t exceed 26cm in length.
Grandstand J is in a similar location to I, but is much smaller and positioned on the inside of the track following Turn 12. It provides a view of the cars at higher speeds as they exit the bend, but there are much better seating options at Suzuka.
Grandstands Q & R
One of the popular and recommended Grandstands at the Suzuka Circuit, Q offers sublime views of the famous Casio Triangle Chicane, the site of the Senna – Prost collision in 1989 as 2 of the sports greatest ever drivers fought for the world championship title. For the Formula 1 purists, tickets for this grandstand will go down a treat.
This slow and tight corner is one of the main overtaking spots with drama always unfolding here, and you can anticipate countless gripping moments occurring over the course of the weekend.
Q2 is higher up, and offers phenomenal panoramic views of the track coupled with a bouncing atmosphere. There are big screens to follow along with the race too. The left side, known as Block 1, has better views of the final corner and the pit lane entrance. The right sight is known as Block 3 and has views extending much further into the distance, with the 130R bend visible.
Q1 is a much cheaper option than Q2, but it isn’t as elevated and the safety fencing can both obstruct your view and ruin your photographs. There is no roof, and the views aren’t as impressive either so don’t expect to see much going on in the distance.
However, You can see the entrance to the pit lanes. While some seats are close to the chicane, at the other end of the grandstand there are seats which may feel slightly excluded from the action. It also doesn’t have the benefit of a big screen directly in front of it.
There are amenities and toilets near the Q Grandstands, and the main F1 Fanzone is within reach too.
For witnessing the very start and closing parts of the race as the action unfolds, Grandstand R is a great option that is cheaper than the main V Grandstands. It is situated to the outside of the final corner, perfect for watching the drivers slingshot out onto the main straight and line up for an overtake. You will also be able to see the finish line with ease, and a huge video wall opposite the stand ensures you stay in the loop.
The main fan zone is very close, so you won’t be short of entertainment. There are also toilets nearby. No roof means no protection from the rain, so pack for windy and wet conditions just in case.
General Admission
The excellent general admission at the Suzuka Circuit is unique in the sense that every ticket sold is for a place in a seated grandstand. Though it doesn’t provide any particular seat, you are welcome to sit in any of the Grandstands G, L, M, N and O.
These zones are littered around the track, with many providing sublime views of the world-renowned 130R bend, and the Spoon Curve. The Friday at the Japanese Grand Prix incorporates the ‘Free Friday’ policy, meaning you can spectate from any of the grandstands you like (besides V1 and V2).
The General Admission areas provide great views down the back straight, and the tight hairpin immediately preceding it.
Big screens are also dotted around too. If you have a General Admission ticket, It is recommended to spend Friday and Saturday scouting out your favourite location to watch the race, before getting there early on Sunday to reserve your spot. General admission is brilliant for the price tag, and allows those on a strict budget to still have a great weekend of electrifying Formula 1 racing.
Formula 1 Paddock Club™ at Suzuka
Attending the Suzuka Grand Prix with Formula 1 Paddock Club™ tickets places you in a privileged viewing position, directly above the team pits on the 2nd floor of the Pit Building. This review aims to give you an unbiased look at what to expect from this premium offering, from viewing angles to hospitality services.
What’s included
Expect your ticket to arrive via courier, with a potential for day-of-event exchange based on specific conditions. The Formula 1 Paddock Club™ enriches your race experience with added benefits: gourmet catering, complimentary beverages, exclusive pit walks, and paddock tours, alongside an official event program. An option for private parking is available but limited.
Viewing Experience and Hospitality
Located above the pits, you’re offered a close-up view of both the intense pit stops and the high-speed action on the home straight. The hospitality suite, where the viewing room is situated, promises luxury and comfort.
The catering service provides a selection of exquisite dishes, prepared by top chefs, complemented by a range of free drinks throughout the event.
Behind-the-Scenes Access
The exclusive pit walk and paddock tour are significant highlights, granting you a closer look at the Formula 1 machines and the inner workings of the teams. This access not only brings you closer to the technology but also allows you to observe the dynamics between teams and drivers over the three-day event.
Parking and Additional Information
For those requiring parking, two options are offered: a lot at the Traffic Education Center with shuttle service to the Paddock Club™ entrance, and the main gate side front parking lot P3, which lacks shuttle service.
It’s important to remember that attendees under 18 must have an adult guardian, and children under 7 are not permitted. Be aware that prices and benefits are subject to change, potentially influenced by factors like exchange rate fluctuations.
Conclusion
The Japanese Grand Prix is certainly worth a trip. The electric and unique trackside atmosphere along with the intense passion of the fans is unmatched, and the circuit is undoubtedly one of the best on the calendar. It has hosted some of the most memorable moments in the history of Formula 1, and will without a doubt continue to host many more.
Best seats at the Suzuka Circuit?
The best seats are in grandstands A1 and A2. You can see the start of the race, the pit exit, turn 1 which is a key overtaking spot as well as parts of turns 2 and 3. You’re also close to all the entertainment! Perfect! Compare ticket prices and other grandstands with us!
How to get to Suzuka Circuit?
So now you know where you want to sit, we can also help you with how you’re going to get there.
We’ve reviewed all of the transportation options available to you. We’ve reviewed the nearest airports, international and domestic flight options, the famous Shinkansen “Bullet Train” and coach options as well as driving time if you plan to rent a car. We’ve also reviewed local hotels and Suzuka’s very own camping options too. Take a look at our in-depth article now.
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