Beginner's Guide

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STEP1 "What kind of event is MFJGP?"

The fastest decision battle of motorcycle racing! The "All Japan Road Race" Final Round is the MFJ GRAND PRIX!


The "MFJ-GP" is held as the Final Round of the All Japan Road Race. The official name is '2024 MFJ All Japan Road Race Championship Series Round 8 56th MFJ GRAND PRIX Superbike Race in Suzuka'.

In four categories with different engine displacements and regulations (rules), riders from each category will compete for the title of the best in Japan, engaging in a fierce battle for the final season of 2024.
As the Final Round is usually filled with dramatic developments, expectations are high for this year's race as well!
 
What kind of event is the MFJ Grand Prix?
A road racing competition where the best in Japan compete in four categories.
The events will be held at circuits across Japan, including Suzuka Circuit (Mie Prefecture), which will be the stage for the MFJ Grand Prix this year, as well as Sportsland SUGO (Miyagi Prefecture), Mobility Resort Motegi (Tochigi Prefecture), Tsukuba Circuit (Ibaraki Prefecture), Okayama International Circuit (Okayama Prefecture), and Autopolis (Oita Prefecture).

  • J-GP3...250cc machine dedicated to racing
  • ST600... A machine based on a 600cc model of a commercial vehicle
  • ST1000... A machine based on the 1000cc model of a production car
  • JSB1000... has a wider range of modifications than ST1000, the highest class in the country

Among them, the JSB1000 class features machines from domestic manufacturers such as Honda (CBR1000RR-R), Kawasaki (ZX-10RR), SUZUKI (GSX-R1000R), and YAMAHA (YZF-R1), as well as entries from Italy's DUCATI (Panigale V4R), Aprilia (RSV4 Factory1100), and Germany's BMW (M1000RR), allowing you to enjoy not only the visual differences but also the variations in sound.
 
What is different about racing machines?
Racing machines are optimized for speed by removing safety components such as headlights, turn signals, mirrors, and license plates, which are necessary for public road driving. Therefore, machines based on production cars like ST600, ST1000, and JSB1000 have safety components removed and are equipped with parts that comply with the regulations of each class. One of the joys of racing is to observe what kind of muffler is installed for speed and what other parts are being used.

 
What kind of players are there?
In JSB1000, young Riders are competing fiercely against the "absolute champion" Katsuyuki Nakasuga of the YAMAHA FACTORY RACING TEAM until the Final Round.
All classes have numbers on the front and back of the machines. The number on a red background with white letters indicates the ranking from 1st place to 10th place from the previous year, with the number showing the ranking. If you want to know who the fast riders are, please pay attention to the numbers.
 

STEP2 "Which ticket should I buy?"

To watch a race event, you need to purchase a "ticket" for that event.
However, there are various types of tickets, so many people may say, "I don't really know which one to buy even after looking at the ticket list..."
So, let me introduce the recommended tickets for beginners of MFJGP!

■ Ages 16 to 23 can enjoy all "races," "attractions," and "Paddock Passes" for free!

"16-23 Zero Yen Pass" is "super advantageous"

For those aged 16 to 23, tickets valid from October 26 (Sat) to October 27 (Sun) are available...
  • SUZUKA CIRCUIT Admission
  • Unlimited rides at SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK attractions
  • MFJ GP Race Viewing Ticket *Admission to "General Seating" is allowed
  • Paddock Passes → Click here for details here
All of these are "free" super advantageous tickets.

While the purpose is certainly racing, even those visiting for attractions are guaranteed an incredibly valuable two days known as "Special Day".

General Admission Ticket

  Advance Tickets
Adult (24 years and older) 4,500yen
U23 (High school student ~ 23 years old) 3,800yen → Free
Elementary and Middle School Students 3,200yen
3 years old to preschoolers 2,100yen
 

Paddock Passes

Adults (high school students and older) 7,000yen → Free
Children (3 years old ~ junior high school students) 3,000yen

Incredible, you can enjoy up to "free" worth 10,800yen!
Pre-registration is required by October 14 (Mon), so don't miss out.
Click here for details on pre-registration


Due to popular demand, we will be accepting additional applications! 
Application Deadline: October 15 (Tue) - October 27 (Sun) 15:30
For details on pre-registration, please see
here

I spent the whole day at SUZUKA CIRCUIT with the 16-23 ZERO yen pass.

Viewing Area Map

With the "16-23 Zero Yen Pass," you can watch V1, Q1, Q2, A, I, B1, B2, C, D, E, R, S, and the free seating area in the West Course.
As you can see, you can watch from various places even in the free seating area. Find your favorite viewing spot!

STEP 3: What kind of clothing and items are good?

Of course, it's basic to watch freely in your favorite style, but if you're unsure, try using this as a reference!

Attire

  • (1) Hat
    Even in autumn, there are days when the sun is strong, so it's better to wear a hat. A wide-brimmed hat is recommended.
  • (2) Jacket and Bag
    If the temperature is on the warmer side, short sleeves are also an option, but in that case, make sure to bring a long-sleeve shirt that you can throw on if needed. A backpack that leaves your hands free is recommended. Additionally, having a smartphone shoulder bag or a waist pouch can be convenient for easy access to your phone.
  • (3) Bottoms
    Comfortable pants are a staple. If the temperature is expected to rise, a long skirt is also an option.
  • (4) Shoes
    Anyway, wear comfortable shoes that you are used to. Sandals are not recommended even if the temperature is high. If there is a chance of rain, waterproof shoes will be more comfortable.

Belongings

  • (1) Mobile Battery
    During long hours of watching, you may worry about the battery, so make sure to prepare a fully charged spare battery.
  • (2) Long-sleeved jacket
    In autumn, it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, so it's recommended to have something ready to wear just in case.
  • (3) Binoculars / Opera Glasses
    You can clearly see the distant circuit vision, leader tower, and pit work.
  • (4) Kappa Poncho
    As a rain measure, a raincoat or poncho is recommended because it takes up less space than an umbrella and keeps both hands free. Even if it seems like there won't be much rain, it's a good idea to have one ready just in case the weather changes suddenly.
  • (5) Plastic Bag
    Useful for storing towels and clothes that have become wet from sweat or rain. It can also be helpful in other situations, so let's bring a few that are as large and durable as possible.
  • (6) Seat Cushion
    Since long periods of sitting are expected, let's bring a portable folding chair.
  • (7) Towel
    An essential item for wiping sweat on hot days and rainwater on rainy days. A larger one with a hood is also useful for sun protection and warmth.
  • (8) Sunscreen
    Even in autumn, there are days when the sun is strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen thoroughly before going out. Don't forget to bring some for reapplication on-site.
  • (9) Cash
    Although cashless transactions are progressing within the venue, there may be instances where shopping or payments do not support the digital payment methods you have on hand in unexpected places.

STEP 4: How should I get there?

During the MFJGP event period, traffic congestion is expected on the roads around SUZUKA CIRCUIT, so it is recommended to use public transportation such as trains or buses if possible.
Either way, make sure to check the access methods in advance so you won't be rushed on the day.

Access from Outside the Prefecture [Public Transportation]

Route using Kintetsu Nagoya Line - Shirako Station. Take the Mie Kotsu bus from Kintetsu Shirako Station to head to SUZUKA CIRCUIT.
Route using Ise Railway - SUZUKA CIRCUIT Ino Station. It is about a 2km walking route from Ino Station, but there is no worry about getting caught in traffic here, making it easier to calculate time.

Access from Outside the Prefecture [Car/Bike]

Recommended Routes from Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe

Recommended Routes from Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe

Recommended Route from Osaka and Nara

Recommended Route from Osaka and Nara

Recommended Route from Tokyo and Nagoya

Recommended Route from Tokyo and Nagoya

Travel time from major urban areas in Mie Prefecture

・About 40 minutes from Yokkaichi city center
・Approximately 30 minutes from Tsu City
・About 60 minutes from Iga city center
・About 55 minutes from Matsusaka city
・1 hour and 10 minutes from Ise City

*This is the time during regular periods without traffic congestion.

Advance Parking Ticket

This image is a map of the front parking lot at Suzuka Circuit during the MFJGP period. The red area is for advance tickets, and the blue area is for same-day tickets.
Advance parking tickets for MFJGP sell out quickly. Be aware that the parking lot often fills up by the afternoon on the day of the event.
Those arriving by motorcycle can park for free in P1, P2, and P3, which are close to the Main Gate.

STEP 5: What should I do at the entrance gate?

The morning entrance gate gets crowded with many people. To ensure a smooth entry, log in to MobilityStation on your smartphone in advance so that the QR code can be displayed immediately. It is advisable to complete ticket distribution and other arrangements the day before.

You can check the detailed entry methods for each ticket on the page linked below.

 

STEP 6 What is the recommended way to spend a day?

If you're going to watch for the first time and wondering how to enjoy it, we have some recommended plans for you!

This time, we will introduce the viewing of the highest domestic class, the "JSB1000 class".
The "JSB1000 Class Qualifying and Race 1" will be held on October 26 (Sat), and the "JSB1000 Class Race 2" will be held on October 27 (Sun).
Events that you can participate in on the day, and since you can enjoy unlimited play at SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK for two days, here is a recommended plan for two days.

October 26 (Sat)

  • 09:00
    Arrival at Main Gate
  • 09:35 - 10:15
    Watch the JSB1000 Class Qualifying
  • 10:20 AM - 12:00 PM
    Enjoy at SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK
  • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    Lunch
  • 13:30~
    JSB1000 Final Race 1 (14 laps)
    *Start time: 13:05~
  • 15:30~17:00
    Twilight Cruise (Event for those arriving by motorcycle only)
  • 17:15~
    Return home (or to accommodation)

09:00 "Arrival at Main Gate"

At MFJGP, multiple entry gates at SUZUKA CIRCUIT will be open, but if it's your first time, let's aim for the 'Main Gate' for now.

After presenting the QR code of your ticket at the gate, enjoy the scenery of SUZUKA CIRCUIT as you head to your designated seating area for viewing with your ticket.

09:35 AM - 10:15 AM "JSB1000 Qualifying Viewing"

Let's watch the important battle 'Qualifying' to determine the starting positions for the final, by taking our seats by around 09:30.

10:20 AM - 12:00 PM "Enjoy at SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK"

GP RACERS

GP RACERS

MOTO Fighter

MOTO Fighter

The MFJGP viewing ticket includes a "Park Passport" for both days of the weekend, so you shouldn't miss out on this. This time, we will introduce two recommended attractions located in an area close to the Racing Course.

Recommended Attraction ① ' GP RACERS '
GP Racers allows you to experience the thrill of top riders competing in races. It's a motorcycle-themed coaster where you can experience the speed, gravity, and cornering of real racing bikes. GP Racers offers a technical course with tight corners, providing a cornering experience at angles that real riders would take, making it 'fast' and 'sharp'!

Recommended Attraction ➁ ' MOTO Fighter '
A racing bike that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike, where you can seriously enjoy time attacks.
A course that incorporates the features of the Suzuka Circuit Racing Course, which hosts events like the F1 Japan GP and Suzuka 8 Hours, including S-curves and hairpin turns. I hope you can experience the feeling of riding at Suzuka!

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM "Lunch"

After playing in the park, it's lunchtime.
It's a dilemma whether to choose the temporary "race food" stalls set up around the racing course or to use the restaurants in the park that have permanent chairs and tables.
During the MFJGP period, various gourmet shops and food trucks will line the course area. There are a variety of options including rice dishes, noodles, skewers, and sweets, all available for takeout.

We hope you will use the food map to choose a restaurant! 【Food Map

1:30 PM - "JSB1000 Final Race 1 (14 laps)"

13:30, finally the main event of the day, JSB1000 Final Race 1 starts.
Basically, the victory goes to the Rider who completes 14 laps of the Suzuka Circuit Full Course 5.821km in the fastest time.

3:30 PM - 5:00 PM "Twilight Cruise (Event for Motorcycle Visitors Only)"

Those arriving by motorcycle can participate in the "Twilight Cruise" where they can ride their beloved bikes on the Racing Course.
Tandem driving is also possible if the vehicle is legally permitted.

The view of SUZUKA CIRCUIT from the bike can be referenced in the video below.
We hope you will drive your beloved car on the SUZUKA CIRCUIT and create unforgettable memories for a lifetime.
 

5:15 PM - "Return Home (or to Accommodation)"

After watching the final race and the award ceremony, head back home (or to your accommodation).
However, since other fans will also be leaving at this time, if you arrive by car, the surrounding roads will be congested. Therefore, as long as time permits, it is also a good idea to stroll around the venue and enjoy the atmosphere or look for souvenirs to avoid the traffic.

On October 26, 2024 (Sat), the sunset in Suzuka City will be at 17:07, and the Park Opening Hours will be until 17:30.

October 27 (Sun)

  • 08:30
    Gate Arrival (Main Gate, South Gate)
  • 09:10~09:25
    Watch JSB1000 Warm-Up Session
  • 10:00~11:00
    Strolling in GP Square
  • 11:00~12:00
    Web Motorcycle presents Paddock Talk (Note: A ticket that allows entry to the paddock is required for viewing)
  • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    Lunch
  • 13:35~
    JSB1000 Final Race 2 (16 laps)
  • After the ST600 class final race - around 16:45
    Participate in the Home Straight Walk
  • 17:00
    Return Home

08:30 "Arrival at the Gate"

Since I know the location of the viewing seats the day before, on the second day, let's check the "gates other than the Main Gate" and try them if they are easier to move through.

"South Gate" is located right next to GP Square, making it especially convenient for those coming from Ise Railway's "Suzuka Circuit Ino Station".
 

09:10 - 09:25 "Watch the JSB1000 Warm-Up Session"

Starting at 13:35, each Rider will conduct their final checks on the machine and themselves for Race 2.
Each car races through with great power during the warm-up.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM "Stroll in GP Square"

Let's go to GP Square (the plaza on the north side of the Grandstand).

During the MFJ GP period, GP Square features booths from motorcycle manufacturers, parts manufacturers, and other PR booths that are unique to this event.
After the final race, there may be more crowds and items may sell out, so it is recommended to visit by this time if possible.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM "Web Motorcycle Presents Paddock Talk Viewing"

16-23 ZERO Yen Pass and Hospitality LOUNGE pass holders are encouraged to attend "web motorcycle presents Paddock Talk". <10/21 Update: There was an error in the passes that allow entry, and we apologize for the correction.>

This is a chance to hear discussions that are usually not available and to learn about the inner thoughts of the Riders, making it an opportunity to find your favorite Rider.
Be sure to check the schedule for your favorite Rider's appearances! (The appearance schedule will be updated as soon as it is decided.)

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM "Lunch"

Lunch time to prepare for the final race viewing.

"Putti Town Kitchen" and "Bun Bun Pancake Shop" offer indoor dining, making them especially convenient on cold days or when visiting with children. This season, there is also a lineup of "autumn limited-time menu" items, so be sure to check it out.

» Park Restaurant Autumn Limited Time Menu

1:35 PM - "JSB1000 Final Race 2 (16 laps)"

13:35, the JSB1000 final race 2 is finally starting.
The race rules will change from 14 laps in Race 1 the day before to 16 laps. What kind of conclusion awaits us?

After the ST600 class final race ~ around 16:45 "Home Straight Walk"

* Home Straight Walk Image

* Home Straight Walk Image

2023 JSB1000 Series Championship Award Ceremony

2023 JSB1000 Series Championship Award Ceremony

You can enter the home straight where the intense battle took place after the race.
In addition to being able to watch the ST600 awards ceremony and the series champion awards ceremony from the straight, you can also see the race vehicles that participated in the MFJGP up close.

5:00 PM "Return Home"

Various events and talk shows will be held even after the final race, so it's easy to lose track of time, and before you know it, the sun has set... This is a common experience among race spectators. It's especially important to be cautious when you need to drive home after having a great time. Phrases like "The race experience isn't over until you safely get home" are often exchanged among fans. Let's cherish our souvenirs and memories, and head home safely.

※Content is subject to change without notice.
※The photos and illustrations used are for illustration purposes only.