The Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix is set to take place between Thursday 21st, and Sunday 24th of September 2023, at the famous Suzuka Circuit. Whether you’re a fan of F1 or you want to enjoy something different while in Japan, this is an event not to miss. Read on to discover everything you need to know about it.
Quick facts about Suzuka International Racing Course
Suzuka is one of the most famous racing tracks in F1. It held its first grand prix in 1987. Since then, there have been a number of incredible races here.
Let’s take a look at some quick facts about the Suzuka Circuit:
Number of laps – 53
Lap record – 1:30.983, set by Lewis Hamilton in 2019
Circuit length – 5.807 km
Race distance – 307.471 km
The track was constructed in 1962 when Soichiro Honda decided he wanted to create his own test track. This was part of his plan to turn Honda into an automotive powerhouse.
Dutchman John Hugenholtz was tasked with designing the track. He is the mastermind behind the iconic crossover Suzuka Circuit that we know and love today. But did you know that the original drawings actually saw the track pass over and under itself a total of three times? That would have been pretty neat, right?
The first Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka
Suzuka did not make its debut on the F1 calendar until 1987. It was a race with big consequences as well. Nigel Mansell was involved in a crash during qualifying, which ruled him out of the race altogether. This meant that the championship ended up going to Nelson Piquet, Nigel’s bitter rival.
What to expect from the circuit at Suzuka
If you are ever lucky enough to speak to an F1 driver and you ask them their thoughts on Suzuka, we guarantee you they’ll have positive things to say. Japan’s F1 track remains one of the ultimate driving challenges. It is a high-speed track with two commitment-rewarding Degners and snaking ‘S’ curves. There’s never a boring race here!
The best grandstands at Suzuka for a great view of the race
You’re spoilt for choice when deciding where to sit at Suzuka. You can take your pick from a wide range of amazing viewing spots. Both Grandstand E and D look over the ‘S’ curves, which give you an incredible opportunity to watch the commitment and downforce working in perfect union while the drivers deal with the sinuous turns.
If you want plenty of overtakes and a view of the Hairpin that often attracts incidents at this track, Grandstand I is recommended. The left flank of Grandstand G will position you inside 130R, which is another great place to watch the race.
It’s important to recognize that staying close to the track is not easy for a lot of fans coming to the Japanese Grand Prix. You’ll definitely need to book way in advance. As most of the hotels close to the circuit are booked by the F1 teams, you really cannot afford to wait.
If you do want to stay in the area around the circuit, known as Suzuka Mie, two of the best options include Hotel Trend and Suzuka Royal Hotel. Both are mid-range, reasonably priced hotels, which are close to the race track.
Why the Japanese Grand Prix is a must-visit
When you compare Suzuka with other F1 tracks, it’s fair to say that it has had a lot of dramatic moments and incredible races. ‘Dull’ is not a word you’d ever associated with this F1 track. If that wasn’t enough, there are some incredible racing drivers on the grid this year, including Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, George Russel, and the seven-time World Champion, Lewis Hamilton. Plus, the organizers certainly know how to put on a great event, with amazing food, a Ferris wheel, fan zones, and much more!
Who’ll pass the checkered flag first at the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix?
Will Max Verstappen win the Japanese Grand Prix again? Or, will we see a different winner in 2023? Could Mercedes get themselves back into the mix this year? We’re certainly in for an exciting season, and the race at Suzuka often has a big bearing on the championship. Who’s joining us?
![20 Best Japanese Directors [And Their Most Famous Movies]](https://justaboutjapan.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/20-Best-Japanese-Directors-And-Their-Most-Famous-Movies-150x150.jpg "20 Best Japanese Directors [And Their Most Famous Movies]")
