Beginner's Guide to Watching Motorsports

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■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!

■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 highest-level domestic championship
• Sprint races (around 15 laps, varies by class)
• Individual competition: 1 rider, 1 machine
• Speed-focused: racing for speed from the first lap

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 not only from domestic manufacturers such as Honda (CBR1000RR-R), Kawasaki (ZX-10R), SUZUKI (GSX-R1000R), and YAMAHA (YZF-R1), but also 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 required 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 equipped 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, we briefly introduce the schedule and flow for 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.

Final

Machines are lined up on the starting grid determined by the qualifying times, and the race starts all at once.
On Saturday, October 25, Race 1 will be 14 laps, and on Sunday, October 26, Race 2 will be 16 laps, with two final races 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 afford to miss a single moment, is the true appeal of the MFJ GRAND PRIX!

■TICKET "Which ticket should I buy?"

For now, are you someone who wants to "enjoy your first race viewing experience!"?

No doubt about the general admission ticket!

If this is your first time watching a race and you don’t know where to watch from... we recommend the "General Admission Ticket".

With the 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 the General Admission Ticket! Find your favorite viewing spot!

Clicking will take you to the details page

　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　　

Are you 16 to 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 at SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK
Race viewing ticket ※ Access to "General Admission" seats
All of these are included in this super valuable ticket for "free."

Of course, the main purpose is the race, but even if you come for the attractions, these are "Special Days" guaranteed to be an incredibly great deal 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!

From March 2025, a newly established box-type spectator seat "S-BOX" will open near the final corner!

Recommended not only for families but also for groups such as 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 could even 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.

Exciting Area

Admission to the Exciting Area Where You Can Take the Most "Instagrammable" Photos!

You can experience the speed of the machines and the powerful engine sounds 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 detailshere

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

When It's a Little Warm (Guideline: Temperature 15°C or Higher)

• (1) Hat

  Even in autumn, there are days when the sunlight 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 higher side, short sleeves are fine, but be sure to bring a long-sleeve shirt to throw on just in case. A backpack that leaves your hands free is recommended. It’s also convenient to have a smartphone shoulder bag or waist pouch for easy access to your phone.

• (3) Bottoms

  Comfortable pants for walking are standard. A long skirt is also fine if the temperature is expected to rise.

• (4) Shoes

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

When chilly (guideline: temperature below 15°C)

• (1) Hat

  Prioritize warmth! Since the sun can get strong during the day, hats with brims are recommended.

• (2) Jacket and Bag

  If it is still chilly, we recommend innerwear made of moisture-absorbing and heat-generating materials. A thick jacket is also good. If it unexpectedly gets warm during the day, you can simply take one layer off. The neck area is also important. Be sure to prepare a scarf, stole, or neck warmer.
  Backpacks that leave both hands free are recommended. Also, smartphone shoulder bags or waist pouches that allow easy access to your phone are convenient to have.
   
   

• (3) Gloves

  Gloves that allow you to operate your smartphone while wearing them are recommended.

• (4) Bottoms

  Comfortable and warm pants are essential.

• (5) Shoes

  Shoes that are well broken-in and comfortable to walk in. If there is a chance of rain, waterproof ones will be more comfortable.

Recommended Items to Bring

• (1) Mobile Battery

  During long hours of watching, battery life can become a concern, so be sure to prepare a fully charged spare battery.

• (2) Long-sleeved jacket

  Since autumn mornings and evenings can be chilly, it is recommended to have something to throw on just in case.

• (3) Lap blanket

  Since you will be sitting outdoors for long periods, it is convenient to have one that can be folded and easily fit into your bag.

• (4) Binoculars / Opera Glasses

  You can clearly see the distant circuit vision, leader tower, and pit work.

• (5) Raincoat / Poncho

  As rain gear, raincoats and ponchos are recommended because they take up less space than umbrellas and leave your hands free. Even if rain doesn't seem likely, it's best to prepare them just in case of sudden weather changes.

• (6) Plastic Bags

  They are useful for storing towels and clothes that have gotten wet from sweat or rain. It's also handy to have some around for other purposes, so it's best to bring several that are as large and durable as possible.

• (7) Seat Cushion

  Since long periods of sitting are expected, let's bring a portable folding chair.

• (8) Towel

  An item especially useful on rainy days. Larger towels with hoods also help with sun protection and keeping warm.

• (9) Sunscreen

  Even in autumn, there can be strong sunlight, so be thorough with sunscreen! Bring some to reapply on-site as well.

• (10) Disposable Warmers / Portable Heaters

  Both disposable and battery-operated types are fine. We recommend ones that last as long as possible.

• (11) Cash

  Cashless payments are progressing at the venue, but unexpected purchases or payments that do not accept your digital payment methods may occur, so having cash on hand is reassuring.

■FOOD "Recommended Foods?"

From Suzuka

Sichuan Dandan Noodles

Suzuka Tonteki Honpo

Ise Udon

Fast Food Store Map

■ACCESS "How do I get there?"

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 Inou Station. The walking route from Inou Station is about 2 km, but there is no worry about getting caught in traffic here, making it easier to calculate the 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

Front parking lot map of SUZUKA CIRCUIT during the MFJ GRAND PRIX period

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 sell out early for the MFJ GRAND PRIX. Please be aware that the parking lots on the day often become full 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

■PLAN "What is the recommended plan for a day?"

The two who came up with this recommended plan are also active members of the Motorcycle Girls Club!

Madoka Umemoto
When you arrive at the circuit, first take a walk all around the course perimeter. Because of this, I am very familiar with how the course looks, the locations of the monitors, and the restrooms, and I change my viewing spots for each session. When watching races, I am definitely a "general admission" supporter.

Natsumi Hirashima
She is a big road race fan who frequently posts comments during the All Japan Road Race YouTube broadcasts. On her own YouTube channel, "Hashire! Nacchan Channel [Natsumi Hirashima]," she also shares touring videos with riders.

Saturday, October 25 - Madoka Umemoto's Recommended Plan!

8:00 a.m. Arrival

Tickets will be checked at the entrance gate, so we recommend confirming the entry procedures in advance for a smooth admission!

Click here for details on entry and exit procedures

8:15 a.m. - Move to the spectator seats

Clicking will take you to the details page

　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　　

While glancing at the JP250 qualifying, I move to my desired spectator seat.
First, I head to Seat B!

8:50 a.m. - Watching the J-GP3 Qualifying

Watching the J-GP3 Qualifying from Seat B!
Around 9:10 a.m., we move to the D-seat side to prepare for the next JSB1000 qualifying.

9:35 a.m. - Watching the JSB1000 Qualifying

Watching the JSB1000 Qualifying from Seat D
Seat D is recommended because you can see from Turn 2 to the Snake!

10:30 a.m. - Watching the ST600 Qualifying

Watching the qualifying from Seat D while moving to the meeting place to participate in the Pit Walk starting at 11:15!

11:15 a.m. - Participate in the Pit Walk

Participate in the Pit Walk!
You can see your favorite rider’s or team’s machine up close and take photos!

12:20 p.m. - Watch the ST1000 Qualifying

Watch from the Gekikan Area (Inside of Turn 2)!
You can see the powerful machines up close and might even take some great photos!
*Entry to the Gekikan Area requires Paddock Passes.

Gekikan Area MAP

Lunch

Of course, there are restaurants inside the park, and many food and drink vendors are also set up around the spectator seats!
I want to watch the JSB1000 final race (Race 1) starting at 1:05 p.m. from the V1 Stand, so I will choose a shop from behind the Grandstand!

1:05 p.m. - Watch the JSB1000 Final Race (Race 1)

Watching from the V1 seats!
The Grandstand seating has a large screen, making it easy to follow the race situation!

2:35 p.m. - Watching the JP250 Final Race

I also recommend exploring seating areas you don't usually visit to watch the race!
I'll try watching from the Q1 seats near the Astemo Chicane~

After the finals - Enjoy attractions and buy souvenirs

The MFJ GRAND PRIX ticket not only allows you to watch the races for two days, but also gives you unlimited rides on attractions! Take this opportunity to try out the attractions you've been curious about!
At this time, you can calmly browse the souvenirs!

Return Home

If you plan to watch on Sunday the 26th as well, head home early to prepare for tomorrow!

Natsumi Hirashima's Recommended Plan for Sunday, October 26!

7:30 a.m. Arrival

On Sunday, October 26, the South Gate, which is closer to the Racing Course side, will also be open.
Try using different entrance gates depending on the viewing seats you want to go to!

8:00 a.m. - Check the views from each viewing seat while walking around

While watching the warm-up runs of J-GP3 and ST1000, I’m thinking about where to watch the JSB1000 final race (Race 2) from.
Would the S seats or R seats be better, where I can see the battle at the Astemo chicane and also the moment of the finish?

8:40 a.m. - Watch JSB1000 and ST600 Warm-up

Watching the warm-up laps from the Gekikan Area!
For JSB1000, I'll watch from the inside of Turn 2, and for ST600, from the inside of the final corner!

9:35 a.m. - Moving to Seat D while enjoying the paddock atmosphere

Enjoying the atmosphere of the paddock while moving to Seat D.
From the paddock, you can easily move by using the S-shaped tunnel that passes directly under the racing course!
*A paddock pass is required to enter the paddock and use the S-shaped tunnel.

10:00 a.m. - Watching the J-GP3 Final Race

Watch the J-GP3 final race from Seat D!

10:55 a.m. - Participate in the Pit Walk

I want to take a photo with my favorite rider and get their autograph!
I want to get the merchandise in advance and use this chance to show my support!

Lunch

A wide lineup ranging from light snacks like fried chicken to hearty meals like tantanmen!
Try to find your favorite race meal!

12:20 p.m. - Watch the ST1000 Final Race

To digest lunch... I moved to the D seats for some exercise and watched the ST1000 final race!

1:40 p.m. - Watch JSB1000 Race 2

D seats are a bit far, but...
I moved to the R seats to watch the JSB1000 final race (Race 2)!
Looking forward to the battle at the Astemo chicane!

3:05 p.m. - Watching the ST600 Final Race

To participate in the 'Home Straight Walk' after the ST600 final race, watch the ST600 final race from the V1 seats!

After the Final - Participate in the Home Straight Walk

You can see the ST600 machines right after the final race on the home straight!
Let's take photos of the machines that fought fiercely!

Return Home

"Watching the race isn't over until you safely get home," so cherish your souvenirs and memories, and drive safely on your way back!