September 17, 2025

Beginner's Guide to Watching Motorsports

Experience Your First Motorsports Viewing at Suzuka!

Tap on the topic that interests you!

■RACE "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!

There are various motorcycle races held at Suzuka Circuit, but the major races include the "Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Road Race" (hereafter, Suzuka 8 Hours) and the current "All Japan Road Race." The Suzuka 8 Hours is an international event and one round of the FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC). This year, following France and Germany, the third round was held in Japan. It is an "endurance race" where 2 to 3 riders take turns riding a single machine, aiming to complete the race and reach the finish line after 8 hours.

On the other hand, the All Japan Road Race this time is a domestic championship. Depending on the class, the race typically ends after about 15 laps, making it a so-called "sprint race." One rider rides one machine, and the highlight is the intense head-to-head battle from the very first lap toward the goal.

In brief...

■Suzuka 8 Hours

International event (one round of the FIM Endurance World Championship)
Endurance race (8 hours)
Team competition: 2 to 3 riders alternate on one machine
Strategy-focused: pit work (refueling and tire changes), fuel management, rider stamina distribution

■All Japan Road Race

The top-level domestic championship
Sprint races (around 15 laps, varies by class)
Individual competition: 1 rider, 1 machine
Focus on speed: racing from the first lap

And this time at Suzuka, as the final round of the All Japan Road Race series, the "2025 7th Round of the MFJ All Japan Road Race Championship Series, 57th MFJ GRAND PRIX Superbike Race in Suzuka" will be held.

What kind of event is the MFJ Grand Prix?

This year's All Japan Road Race consists of 7 rounds held at circuits across Japan, with Suzuka Circuit hosting the final round as the MFJ GRAND PRIX.

<2025 MFJ All Japan Road Race Championship Series Annual Schedule>

Event Name	Venue	Event Date	Event Class
Motegi 2&4 Race	Mobility Resort Motegi (Tochigi)	April 19 (Sat) ～ April 20 (Sun)	JSB1000
Superbike Race in SUGO	Sportsland SUGO (Miyagi)	May 24 (Sat) ～ May 25 (Sun)	JSB1000,ST1000,ST600,J-GP3,JP250
Tsukuba Round	Tsukuba Circuit (Ibaraki)	June 21 (Sat) ～ June 22 (Sun)	J-GP3,JP250
Superbike Race in Motegi	Mobility Resort Motegi (Tochigi)	August 23 (Sat) ～ August 24 (Sun)	JSB1000,ST1000,ST600,J-GP3,JP250
Superbike Race in Kyushu	Autopolis (Oita)	September 13 (Sat) ～ September 14 (Sun)	JSB1000,ST1000,ST600,J-GP3,JP250
Superbike Race in Okayama	Okayama International Circuit (Okayama)	October 4 (Sat) ～ October 5 (Sun)	JSB1000,ST1000,ST600,J-GP3,JP250
57th MFJ GRAND PRIX Superbike Race in Suzuka	Suzuka Circuit (Mie)	October 25 (Sat) – October 26 (Sun)	JSB1000,ST1000,ST600,J-GP3,JP250

What kind of bikes race?: At the MFJ Grand Prix, races are held in four classes that differ in machine size and engine displacement.

Differences in Classes
J-GP3・・・Race-only 250cc machines
ST600・・・Machines based on 600cc production models
ST1000・・・Machines based on 1000cc production models
JSB1000・・・A class with a wider range of modifications than ST1000, the top class in the domestic series

Among them, the JSB1000 class features machines from domestic manufacturers such as Honda (CBR1000RR-R), Kawasaki (ZX-10R), 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). This allows you to enjoy battles between domestic and overseas manufacturers, as well as differences not only in appearance but also in sound!

J-GP3

ST600

ST1000

JSB1000

[Trivia] What’s the Difference Between Production Models and Racing Machines?
Racing machines are optimized for speed by removing safety equipment necessary for public road use, such as turn signals, mirrors, and license plates. Therefore, machines in the ST600, ST1000, and JSB1000 classes, which are based on production models, have their safety equipment removed and are fitted with parts that comply with the rules of each class.
One way to enjoy the race is to pay attention to the machines, such as what kind of exhaust they are equipped with to run faster and what other parts they use.

Honda (CBR1000RR-R) Production Model

Honda (CBR1000RR-R) Race Vehicle

What is the schedule for the MFJ Grand Prix?: When watching the MFJ Grand Prix, it is important to understand the schedule for the race weekend.
Here is a brief introduction to the schedule and flow of the JSB1000 class on Saturday, October 25 to Sunday, October 26!

Qualifying (Official Qualifying)
It will be held on Saturday, October 25, from 9:35 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. for 40 minutes. In other sports, "qualifying" mainly determines eligibility to participate in the final, but in motorsports, "qualifying" determines the starting positions (starting grid) for the final race.
During this 40-minute session, each Rider aims to set a time even 0.01 seconds faster than the others.

The starting positions for the final race (Race 1) on Saturday, October 25, are determined by each Rider’s fastest qualifying time, while the starting positions (starting grid) for the final race (Race 2) on Sunday, October 26, are determined by each Rider’s second fastest qualifying time.

Finals
Machines are lined up on the starting grid determined by the qualifying times, and the race starts all at once.
On Saturday, October 25, there will be Race 1 with 14 laps, and on Sunday, October 26, Race 2 with 16 laps, so two final races will be held over the weekend.

Since Race 1 is 14 laps and Race 2 is 16 laps, the race covers the 5.821 km Suzuka Circuit Racing Course in about 30 minutes.
Because the race finishes in about 30 minutes, it’s an all-out battle from the very first lap. This sprint race, where you can’t miss a single moment, is the charm of the MFJ Grand Prix!

■TICKET "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, here are some recommended tickets for those new to the MFJ Grand Prix.

For now, are you someone who wants to "enjoy your first race viewing experience!"?: No doubt about it, it's a general admission ticket!
If it's your first time watching a race and you don't know where to watch from... we recommend the "General Admission Ticket."

With a General Admission Ticket, you can watch from seats V1, Q1, Q2, A, B, C, D, E, I, R, S, and the West Course area. You can watch from almost all areas with a General Admission Ticket! Find your favorite viewing spot!

Click to move to the details page

Are you between 16 and 23 years old?: ■We recommend the "16-23 ZERO Yen Pass" with free access to both races and attractions!

For those aged 16 to 23, a ticket valid on Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26 that includes…
Admission to Suzuka Circuit
Unlimited rides on attractions in SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK
Race viewing ticket *Access to "General Admission" seats
All of these are included in this incredibly valuable "free" ticket.

Of course, the main purpose is the race, but even if you come for the attractions, these are "Special Days" guaranteed to be super valuable for two days!

Applications are being accepted from Sunday, August 31
» Click here for details about the 16-23 ZERO Yen Passhere

Are you looking to have fun with your family?: ■The newly established box-type viewing seats "S-BOX" are recommended!

Starting March 2025, a new box-style viewing seat "S-BOX" will open near the final corner!

Recommended not only for families but also for watching in groups with friends.
You can relax in a spacious area while watching the machines race from the final corner to the home straight.

» Click here for details about S-BOXhere

Want to experience more of the excitement and intensity of racing?: ■Purchasing Paddock Passes is Recommended!

Paddock Area

In addition to the race viewing ticket, you can enter the paddock area by purchasing a separate Paddock Pass.
In the paddock area, you can experience the excitement and intensity of the race up close with Riders, team members, and race vehicles!
If you're lucky, you might have the chance to talk directly with Riders and team members. You might even be able to take photos or get autographs!?

Pit Walk

You can walk along the pit lane to see the machines and Riders up close, and participate in each team's fan service.

Thrill Zone

Admission to the Thrill Zone Where You Can Take the Most "Instagrammable" Photos!

You can experience the speed of the machines and the powerful roar of the engines right next to the course!
Additionally, since it is very close to the course for close-up photography, you can take impressive photos!

» Click here for details

■ITEM "What Kind of Clothing & Items Are Recommended?"

Of course, the basic idea is to watch freely in your favorite style, but if you’re unsure, please use this as a reference!

Attire

(1) Hat

Even in autumn, there are days when the sun is strong, so we recommend wearing a hat. A wide-brimmed hat is ideal.
(2) Jacket and Bag

If the temperature is on the higher side, short sleeves are fine, but even then, bring a long-sleeve shirt you can throw on just in case. A backpack that leaves your hands free is recommended. Also, having a smartphone shoulder bag or waist pouch that makes it easy to take out your phone is convenient!
(3) Bottoms

Comfortable pants are a staple. If the temperature is expected to rise, a long skirt is also an option.
(4) Shoes

Shoes that you are used to wearing and are comfortable for walking. Even if the temperature is high, sandals are not recommended. If there is a chance of rain, waterproof shoes will be more comfortable.

Belongings

(1) Mobile Battery

Checking access information and food details can drain your smartphone battery during race viewing, so it's reassuring to have a spare battery prepared!
(2) Long-sleeved jacket

In autumn, it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, so it is recommended to prepare something you can easily put on just in case.
(3) Binoculars / Opera Glasses

You can clearly see the distant circuit vision, leader tower, and pit work!
(4) Kappa Poncho

For rain protection, a kappa poncho is recommended because it takes up less space than an umbrella and leaves your hands free. Even if rain doesn't seem likely, it's best to prepare one just in case of sudden weather changes.
(5) Plastic Bag

They are useful for storing towels and clothes that have gotten wet from sweat or rain. It's also handy to have a few large, durable ones as they can be useful in various situations.
(6) Seat Cushion

Since you may be sitting for long periods, a foldable, easy-to-carry seat cushion is convenient!
(7) Towel

An essential item for wiping away sweat on hot days and rainwater on rainy days. Larger ones with hoods are also useful for sun protection and keeping warm.
(8) Sunscreen

Even in autumn, there can be strong sunlight, so be thorough with sunscreen! Bring some with you to reapply on site.
(9) Cash

Although cashless payments are progressing inside the venue, there may be unexpected purchases or payments where your digital payment methods are not accepted.
Cash payments are accepted at the merchandise shops and food stalls inside the venue. >> Click here for detailshere

■ACCESS "How do I get there?"

Traffic congestion around Suzuka Circuit is expected during the MFJ Grand Prix event period, so if possible, we recommend coming by public transportation such as trains or buses.
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 Route from Osaka and Nara

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.

Parking Lot: Map of the front parking lots at Suzuka Circuit during the MFJ Grand Prix

Red Area: Advance Reserved Parking Area
Blue Area: Same-day Parking Area
Orange Area: Bus, Bicycle, Motorcycle, and Considerate Parking Area

Advance reserved parking tickets for the MFJ Grand Prix sell out early. Please be aware that the parking lots on the day often fill up by the afternoon!
For those coming by motorcycle, free parking is available at P1, P2, and P3, which are close to the Main Gate.

Information on advance reserved parking tickets is here

Parking information for the day is here