Beginner's Guide to Watching "SUPER GT"

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■RACE "What kind of event is SUPER GT?"

A car race boasting one of the largest spectator attendances in domestic racing!

What kind of machines race?

In SUPER GT, vehicles from two groups, "GT500" and "GT300," race simultaneously.

GT500 features race-only vehicles developed by TOYOTA, Honda, and Nissan within the specified regulations.
GT300 includes a diverse range of vehicles, mainly based on production cars from domestic and international automakers, including race-only cars modified by each manufacturer (FIA-GT3) and race-only cars independently developed by teams (GT300).

 

■GT500

TOYOTA GR Supra (2024 Season au TOM'S GR Supra TGR TEAM au TOM'S)

Honda Civic Type R (2024 Season ARTA MUGEN CIVIC TYPE R-GT #16 ARTA)

Nissan Fairlady Z NISMO (2024 Season MARELLI IMPUL Z TEAM IMPUL)

■GT300

Mercedes-AMG GT3 (2024 Season GOODSMILE Hatsune Miku AMG GOODSMILE RACING & TeamUKYO)

Ferrari 296 GT3 (2024 Season UNI-ROBO BLUEGRASS FERRARI Team LeMans)

BMW M4 GT3 (2024 Season Studie BMW M4 BMW M Team Studie x CRS)

TOYOTA GR Supra (2024 Season Green Brave GR Supra GT Saitama Green Brave)

TOYOTA GR86 (2024 Season apr GR86 GT apr)

SUBARU BRZ (2024 Season SUBARU BRZ R&D SPORT R&D SPORT)

Lexus RC F GT3 (2024 Season K-tunes RC F GT3 K-tunes Racing)

【Trivia】How to Tell the Machines Apart

At first glance, they both look the same…
But actually, it’s easy to tell them apart! Pay attention to the color of the machine’s headlight covers, the number plate color, and the windshield sticker!

GT500: Headlight covers, number plate base, and upper windshield sticker are white / GT300: Headlight covers, number plate base, and upper windshield sticker are yellow 

What is the SUPER GT schedule?

When watching SUPER GT, it is important to understand the schedule for the race weekend.
Here, we briefly introduce the schedule and flow for August 23 (Sat) to 24 (Sun)!

■ Practice Session (Official Practice)

Held on the morning of August 23 (Sat). Vehicle condition adjustments and checks are performed in preparation for qualifying and the race.
 

■ Qualifying (Official Qualifying)

Held on the afternoon of August 23 (Sat). Unlike other sports where "qualifying" mainly determines eligibility for the final, in motorsports, "qualifying" decides the starting positions (starting grid) for the final race.
The qualifying is divided into Q1 (first qualifying) and Q2 (second qualifying).

GT300: In the first qualifying, the cars are split into two groups, and the top 9 cars in each group by time (a total of 18 cars) advance to the second qualifying, where they compete for the starting positions 1 through 18 in the final race.
For each group in the first qualifying round, positions 10 and below will have their starting positions for the final race determined from 19th place onward based on their times.

GT500: Unlike GT300, the first qualifying round is run in a single group, with the top 10 advancing to the second qualifying round, where they compete for the final race starting positions from 1st to 10th place.
For those ranked 11th and below in the first qualifying round, their starting positions from 11th place onward in the final race are determined based on their qualifying times.
 

■Final Race Start Method (Rolling Start)

In track and field events, all competitors start from a stationary position at the starting line and begin simultaneously at the start signal. However, in SUPER GT, the race starts while the cars are already moving. When the final race start time arrives, the pace car positioned ahead of the starting grid begins to move, and each car follows behind it. The pace car completes a lap around the course, then leaves the track, and when the green start signal lights up, the race officially begins.

2024 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Round3 SUZUKA GT 3 Hours RACE Final Start Scene

■Final

After the start, the race runs mixed with two groups, GT500 and GT300, over a distance of 300 km. During the race, there is a rule that requires at least one driver change, so the cars will make a pit stop. During the pit stop, driver changes, tire changes, and refueling are performed.
The timing of this pit stop and how quickly it can be completed can change the race standings, so pay close attention not only to the drivers but also to the movements of the team and mechanics!

2024 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Round3 SUZUKA GT 3 Hours RACE GT500 Class Award Ceremony Scene

■TICKET "Which ticket should I buy?"

Are you watching SUPER GT for the first time?

No doubt about the general admission ticket!

Near D Seats

If it’s your first time watching SUPER GT and you don’t know where to watch the race from… we recommend the "General Admission Ticket".

With the General Admission Ticket, you can watch from A, C, D, E seats, and the West Course area. Find your favorite viewing spot!
By the way, the D seats, where you can watch the technical driving at the famous "S-curve" and "reverse bank" of SUZUKA CIRCUIT, are recommended!

Moreover, each ticket includes admission to SUZUKA CIRCUIT, race viewing, unlimited rides on park attractions, and pool access for both days, August 23 (Sat) and 24 (Sun), so you can also enjoy attractions and the pool during breaks in the race.

>> For details about the general admission tickets, Click here for details

Viewing Area Map

Are you between 16 and 23 years old?

■For those aged 16 to 23, the "16-23 ZERO Yen Pass" is recommended, offering free access to races, attractions, and the pool!

For those aged 16 to 23, valid tickets for August 23 (Sat) and 24 (Sun) include…

• SUZUKA CIRCUIT Admission
• Unlimited Rides at SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK Attractions
• Pool use
• Race Viewing Ticket *Admission to "General Seating" is allowed

All of these are "free" super advantageous tickets.

Of course, the main purpose is the race, but even if you come for the attractions or pool, a super advantageous two days are guaranteed as "Special Days".

Applications start from July 6 (Sun).
>> For details about the 16-23 Zero Yen Pass, Click here for details

Are you looking to have fun with your family?

■"S Seat Family Seat Viewing Ticket" is Recommended!

Image

For those planning to watch SUPER GT with their family, the "S-Seat Family Seat Ticket" is recommended!
This is because the S-Seat Family Seat is a dedicated seating area for families with children, and you can also participate in the exclusive Straight Walk event!

>> Click here for details about the S-Seat Family Seat Ticket here

Are you someone who wants to enjoy with a group?

■The newly established box-type viewing seats "S-BOX" are recommended!

S-BOX Image

S-BOX Image

S-BOX XL

S-BOX L

S-BOX M

S-BOX M Wide

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.

>> For details about S-BOX, Click here for details

Do you want to support your favorite team or driver?

■ The choice is the "V1 Seat Fan Seat Ticket"!

View from V1 Seat (Image)

Locations of Each Fan Seat

If you have a favorite team or driver, we recommend the "V1 Seat Fan Seat Ticket"!

Let's cheer with all your might together with your fellow fan seat members!


When you purchase a fan seat, you will receive support goods from the manufacturer or team you purchased as a bonus.

• ARTA Fan Seat
• Honda Fan Seat
• NISMO Fan Seat
• SUBARU Fan Seat
• TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Fan Seat

>> Click here for details about V1 Seat Fan Seat Viewing Tickets here

Want to experience more of the excitement and intensity of racing?

■Purchase Paddock Passes!

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 team members, drivers, and race vehicles!
If you're lucky, you might have the opportunity to talk directly with drivers and team members. You might even be able to take photos and get autographs!?

Pit Walk

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

■You can enter the admission area where you can take the best "photogenic" photos!

Exciting Area

You can experience the speed of the machines and the powerful engine sounds right next to the course.
Additionally, because it is very close to the shooting course, you can take powerful photos. In particular, the inside of Turn 2 and the final corner are places where you can easily capture the movement of the machines!

>> For more information about Paddock Passes, click here

■ITEMS "What kind of clothing and items are good?"

• (1) Hat

  Since the sunlight becomes quite strong, a hat is a must. A wide-brimmed hat is recommended!

• (2) Sunglasses

  It is recommended to prepare sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare and UV rays, so you can comfortably watch the race!
   

• (3) Bag

  A backpack is recommended because it can hold many items such as heat countermeasure goods and souvenirs, and keeps your hands free!
  Also, smartphone shoulder bags or waist pouches that make it easy to take out your phone are convenient to have.

• (4) Tops

  Even if the temperature is high, choose tops that block sunlight to protect against UV rays and sunburn!
  Short sleeves plus arm covers are recommended.

• (5) Bottoms

  Just like with tops, bottoms that are not exposed to direct sunlight are recommended!
  Choose according to your preference, such as shorts with leg covers!

• (6) Shoes

  For race viewing, shoes that you are used to wearing and are comfortable for walking are recommended. Even if it’s hot, sandals are not recommended. If you plan to use the pool, it’s okay to bring sandals separately from comfortable walking shoes.

Items to Enjoy Watching Comfortably

• (1) Sunscreen

  Apply sunscreen thoroughly before going out in summer. Bring some with you for reapplication on site.

• (2) Parasol

  Recommended to block direct sunlight. However, there are restrictions on the admission area where it can be used, so be sure to check the permitted areas! →About the Admission Area

• (3) Heat Countermeasure Items

  Be fully prepared for the heat and enjoy watching the midsummer race to the fullest!
  Handheld fans, sweat-absorbing sheets, and cooling towels are recommended!

• (4) Towels

  An essential item for wiping sweat on hot days and rainwater on rainy days. Larger ones with hoods are also useful for sun protection.

• (5) Raincoat / Poncho

  For rain protection, a raincoat or poncho is recommended as 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.

• (6) Plastic Bags

  Useful for storing towels and clothes that have become wet from sweat or rain. It is also helpful in other situations, so let's bring several that are as large and durable as possible.

• (7) Seat Cushion

  Since you may be sitting for a long time on chairs exposed to the sun or wet chairs, bring a portable folding type that is easy to carry.

Items to Enjoy Watching Even More

• (1) Water Bottle

  Of course, you can bring drinks from home, but it is also recommended to buy from vending machines inside the SUZUKA CIRCUIT facilities and bring plenty of ice so you can always stay hydrated with cold drinks! Make sure to hydrate frequently.

• (2) Change of Clothes

  It's a good idea to bring them along for when you sweat or since you can use the pool at Suzuka Circuit in the summer!

• (3) Swimsuit

  At Suzuka Circuit in the summer, you can use the pool to cool down while watching the race!
  Watching from the pool is a recommended viewing spot you can't experience anywhere else.

• (4) Mobile Battery

  You will likely use your smartphone a lot for food information, event details, and more.
  Having one mobile battery gives you peace of mind!

• (5) Earphones

  Of course, you can use them during short waiting times, but if they have noise-canceling features, they can also serve as earplugs!

■EVENTS "What are the recommended events?"

Event exclusive to groups (2 or more people) attending

Recommended for families visiting

SUPER GT Working Vehicles Gathering & Straight Walk

Various vehicles such as safety cars and ambulances will gather on the home straight
Step onto the home straight and get up close to the working vehicles at the race site!

 

Featured Vehicles

From the left: CIVIC Type R, NSX

Sweeper

Oil Sweeper

• Ambulance (Vehicle for transporting injured persons) *Ride experience available
• Sweeper (Road surface cleaning vehicle)
• Oil Sweeper (Road surface cleaning vehicle)
• NSX (Safety Car)
• CIVIC Type R (Race Control Car)
• Crane-equipped Truck (Vehicle Recovery Truck)

You might be able to take some great photos!?

Home Straight Walk

Home Straight open as a group attendance benefit!
Take lots of "Instagram-worthy" photos at the grid and signal bridge!

Regular Events

Enjoy a special space after the race!

SUPER GT CHILL OUT Party ～Fireworks Night～

After SUPER GT Rd.5, the home straight transforms into a party venue!
Enjoy the BAR and DJ music on the straight where parc fermé takes place! The finale features a spectacular fireworks display.

Let's enjoy a special night together, soaking in the lingering excitement after the race!

Recommended for families visiting

Kids Walk

Held exclusively for families after the Saturday driving session. It's a chance to see the GT machines that have completed qualifying up close and at a leisurely pace.

Kids Experience

There are plenty of family-only events for those with children, such as the "Announcer Experience" where you can try out race-related jobs, the "Course Entry" where you can enter the course just before the start to see the drivers and machines up close before the race, and "Grid Kids"!

Recommended for those who want to support their favorites!

At the SUZUKA CIRCUIT official shop, receive one card when you make a purchase of 3,000yen (tax included) or more in a single transaction, or when you spend 1,500yen or more in a single transaction at designated restaurants!
Additionally, group visitors will receive one card at "Group Wristband Distribution", and those who come with the 16-23 ZERO Yen Pass will also receive one card at "16-23 ZERO Yen Pass Reception"!
* Cards will be distributed randomly. Please understand that you cannot specify or exchange them.
* Distribution will end once the limited number of cards has been reached.

SUPER GT Poster Card Giveaway!

Those who have the winning GT500 team card can participate in a lottery to win luxurious prizes!

■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
・About 1 hour and 10 minutes from Ise city center

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

NEW!! Temporary Bus Service Between Shiroko Station West Exit and SUZUKA CIRCUIT

On August 23 (Sat) and 24 (Sun), 2025, a temporary bus service will operate between Shiroko Station West Exit and SUZUKA CIRCUIT. Please make use of this service.


Operating Hours

	Departing from Shirako Station West Exit	SUZUKA CIRCUIT Departure
August 23 (Sat)	Between 7:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.	Between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
August 24 (Sun)	Between 7:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.	Between 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

* Please note that the departure times of the shuttle buses may be delayed due to road conditions, event progress, etc.
Thank you for your understanding.

Fare (One Way)
Adult 500yen Child 250yen

» Information on Route Buses for the SUZUKA CIRCUIT "SUPER GT" Event (August 23 (Sat) and 24 (Sun))

Parking Ticket

Map of the main parking lots at SUZUKA CIRCUIT during the SUPER GT event

Red Area: Advance Sale Parking Lot <Sold Out as of August 18>
*There is a risk that advance parking tickets will sell out early. Also, be aware that parking lots on the day often fill up by the morning.

Information on advance reserved parking tickets is here

Parking information for the day is here

■PLAN "What is the recommended way to spend a day?"

August 23 (Sat)

• Until 9:30 a.m.

  Arrival at Main Gate

• 10:10 a.m.

  Let's watch the SUPER GT official practice!

• 12:00 p.m.

  Lunch

• 1:00 PM

  Enjoy attractions and the pool!

• 3:15 p.m.

  Watch the SUPER GT official qualifying!

• 4:50 p.m.

  Kids Walk
  *For Family Visitors Only

• 5:30 p.m.

  Return Home

9:30 a.m. Arrival at Main Gate

Multiple entry gates at SUZUKA CIRCUIT for SUPER GT Round. 5 will open, but if it’s your first time, 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 with your admission ticket.
>> For detailed entry and exit procedures, click here

10:10 a.m. Let's watch the SUPER GT official practice!

Find your seat by 10:10 a.m. and watch the SUPER GT official practice!
Here, adjustments and checks of vehicle conditions are made in preparation for the afternoon qualifying and tomorrow's race.
Also serving as a rehearsal for watching the qualifying and final races, be sure to check it out!

12:00 p.m. Lunch

If you want to avoid the crowds, an earlier lunch time is also an option. You can choose between the temporary "race food" stalls set up around the Racing Course or the restaurants within the park that have permanent chairs and tables. There are various gourmet shops and food trucks around the course. You can find a wide variety of options, including rice dishes, noodles, skewers, and sweets, all available for takeout.

1:00 p.m. Enjoy Attractions and the Pool!

The official SUPER GT qualifying starts at 3:15 p.m., so refresh yourself after lunch by enjoying the attractions and the pool!

3:15 p.m. Watch the SUPER GT Official Qualifying!

The qualifying session is an important battle that determines the starting grid (starting positions) for tomorrow's race!
Since the rankings are decided by lap times, one of the highlights of qualifying is the aggressive driving in pursuit of speed!

4:50 p.m. Kids Walk ※For family attendees only

After the qualifying on August 23 (Sat), there is a chance for families only to take a close look at the machines!
If you have time, we definitely want you to participate!
>>Click here for detailshere

August 24 (Sun)

• By 10:00 a.m.

  Arrive at the gate

• 10:30

  Let's explore GP Square!

• 11:30

  Straight Walk *Group Visitors Only

• 12:30

  Lunch

• 3:30 p.m.

  SUPER GT Rd.5 Final Race (300km)

• After the final race

  Award Ceremony & SUPER GT CHILL OUT Party ～Fireworks Night～

• Return Home

10:00 a.m. Arrive at the Gate

In addition to the Main Gate, the 1st Corner Gate, Pool Gate, and West Motorsports Gate are open. Choose the gate to enter based on your seat and purpose!

10:30 a.m. Let's Explore GP Square!

At GP Square, there are booths unique to the SUPER GT period, including PR booths from automobile manufacturers and parts makers, as well as team and driver fan goods shops.
Especially the goods shops often have items that are hard to purchase normally, so be sure to check them out! After the final race, it tends to get crowded and many items may be sold out, so if there’s something you’re aiming for, it’s recommended to visit at this time if possible.

11:30 a.m. Pit Walk ※Group Visitors Only

A special benefit for group visitors: a chance to enter the home straight!
Take some "Instagram-worthy" photos at the grid and signal bridge!
>>Click here for detailshere

12:30 p.m. Lunch

To prepare for the afternoon final, we recommend using the shops near your seat!
For shops near your seat, please refer to the food map below!

Food Map

3:30 p.m. SUPER GT Rd.5 Final Race (300km)

The final race of SUPER GT Round. 5 is finally starting!
The 300km distance is run with mixed groups of GT500 and GT300, and one of the attractions of SUPER GT is the many thrilling overtaking scenes!
Let's cheer wholeheartedly for your favorite team and driver!

After the Final Race: Award Ceremony & SUPER GT CHILL OUT Party ～Fireworks Night～

After the final race, there will be an award ceremony. Then, enjoy the "SUPER GT CHILL OUT Party ～Fireworks Night～" on the course with a bar and DJ music. The finale features a spectacular fireworks display, allowing you to savor a special night immersed in the lingering excitement after the race!

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, it’s completely dark outside... This is a common experience among race spectators. Especially when you need to drive home after having a great time, you need to be particularly careful. The phrase "The race experience isn't over until you safely get home" is often exchanged among fans. Let's cherish our souvenirs and memories, and head home safely.