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!
SUPER GT is a series of 8 races held at 7 circuits in Japan and abroad, featuring vehicles built specifically for racing. At Suzuka, up to 43 cars compete over 300 km, with 2 or 3 drivers per team taking turns driving, racing to see which team is the fastest.
It’s an exciting and thrilling race that offers a unique sense of excitement and an extraordinary atmosphere different from other sports, making it highly recommended even for race beginners!
- What kind of machines race?
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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
■GT300
【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?
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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 22 (Sat) to 23 (Sun)!■ Practice Session (Official Practice)
It takes place on the morning of August 22 (Sat). Adjustments and checks of vehicle conditions are made in preparation for qualifying and the final race.
■ Qualifying (Official Qualifying)
It takes place on the afternoon of August 22 (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.
2025 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Round5 SUZUKA GT 300km 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!
2025 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Round5 SUZUKA GT 300km RACE GT500 Class Award Ceremony Scene
■TICKET "Which ticket should I buy?"
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's introduce recommended tickets for those watching SUPER GT for the first time and beginners.
- Are you watching SUPER GT for the first time?
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No doubt about the general admission ticket!
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".
Near D Seats
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 22 (Sat) and 23 (Sun), so you can also enjoy attractions and the pool during race breaks.
>> For details about the general admission tickets, Click here for detailsViewing Area Map
- Are you between 16 and 23 years old?
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■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 22 (Sat) and 23 (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".
>> For details about the 16-23 Zero Yen Pass, Click here for details
- Are you looking to have fun with your family?
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■"S Seat Family Seat Viewing Ticket" is Recommended!
For those planning to watch SUPER GT with their family, the "S-Seat Family Seat Ticket" is recommended!
Image
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 Kids Walk event!
>> Click here for details about the S-Seat Family Seat Ticket here
- Are you someone who wants to enjoy with a group?
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■Box-type Viewing Seats "S-BOX" Recommended!
The newly established box-type viewing seats "S-BOX" near the final corner allow multiple people to enjoy comfortably!
S-BOX XL
S-BOX L
S-BOX M
S-BOX M Wide
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?
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■ The choice is the "V1 Seat Fan Seat Ticket"!
View from V1 Seat (Image)If you have a favorite team or driver, we recommend the "V1 Seat Fan Seat Ticket"!
Locations of Each Fan Seat
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.- Honda Fan Seat
- NISMO Fan Seat
- SUBARU Fan Seat
- TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Fan Seat
- Want to experience more of the excitement and intensity of racing?
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■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?"
We have prepared recommended clothing and items, so please use them as a reference!
- (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?"
Introducing recommended events all at once.
>>Event list is here
- Heat countermeasures are here!
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Cool Down Splash
A soaking wet event to enjoy the summer appears at GP Square.
With music from the DJ, we’ll soak everyone with water guns!
Also, the “Cool Down Pit Stop,” where you can receive ice-cold water, will appear near the S seats!Watch the Race from the Pool!
You can watch the race while cooling off with a large monitor set up in the pool!
- Recommended for families visiting
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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
Packed with family-only events for those with children, such as the "Announcer Experience," where you can try out race-related jobs, and "Grid Kids," which lets you enter the course just before the start to see the drivers and machines up close before the race.
- Recommended for those who want to support their favorites!
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GT500 card giveaway when the following conditions are met!
① When registering for the 16-23 ZERO yen pass
② Customers who purchase 1,500 yen or more at designated stores within the park (1 card per 1,500 yen)
③ When using designated park attractions
Designated attractions: Putti Grand Prix, Duel GP, Dream R
④ Show a post screen on Instagram with the hashtag "#SuzukaGT"
* 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?"
Either way, make sure to check the access methods in advance so you won't be rushed on the day of the event.
Access from Outside the Prefecture [Public Transportation]
From Kintetsu Line Shiroko Station by Mie Kotsu Bus or Taxi
- Kintetsu Nagoya Station
- Kintetsu Nagoya Line Approx. 50 minutes
- Shiroko Station
Mie Kotsu Bus Approx. 20 minutes
Taxi Approx. 20 minutes
- SUZUKA CIRCUIT
Taxi from Kintetsu Line Hiratacho Station
- Kintetsu Nagoya Station
- Kintetsu Nagoya Line
Approx. 45 minutes - Ise-Wakamatsu Station
- Kintetsu Suzuka Line
About 10 minutes - Hiratacho Station
Taxi About 15 minutes
- SUZUKA CIRCUIT
Access from Outside the Prefecture [Car/Bike]
- From Tokyo and Nagoya
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It takes about 25 minutes via the Higashi-Meihan Expressway → Suzuka Interchange → Prefectural Route 27.
On days of large-scale races and events, surrounding roads may become congested, significantly increasing travel time.
Recommended Route from Mie Kawagoe Interchange
Isewangan Expressway → Mie Kawagoe Interchange → via National Route 23, approximately 45 minutes to arrive.
On days of large-scale races or events, surrounding roads may be congested, significantly increasing travel time.
Recommended Route from Suzuka PA Smart Interchange
Shin-Meishin Expressway → Suzuka PA Smart Interchange → About 30 minutes via Prefectural Route 27.
On days of large-scale races and events, surrounding roads may be congested, significantly increasing travel time.
- From Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto
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Recommended Route from Suzuka Interchange
It takes about 25 minutes via the Shin-Meishin Expressway → Higashi-Meihan Expressway → Suzuka Interchange → Prefectural Route 27.
On days of large-scale races and events, surrounding roads may be congested, significantly increasing travel time.
Recommended Route from Suzuka PA Smart Interchange
Shin-Meishin Expressway → Suzuka PA Smart Interchange → About 30 minutes via Prefectural Route 27.
On days of large-scale races and events, surrounding roads may be congested, significantly increasing travel time.
- From Nara (Osaka)
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Recommended Route from Seki Interchange
About 30 minutes via Meihan National Highway → Prefectural Route 144.
On days of large-scale races and events, surrounding roads may be congested, significantly increasing travel time.
Recommended Route from Kameyama Interchange
It takes about 30 minutes via the Meihan National Highway and Prefectural Route 786.
On days of large-scale races and events, surrounding roads may be congested, significantly increasing travel time.
Travel time from major urban areas in Mie Prefecture
- Travel time from major urban areas in Mie Prefecture
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・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.
- Temporary Bus from Shiroko Station West Exit to SUZUKA CIRCUIT
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About the Mie Transportation Temporary Bus Service
On August 22 (Sat) and 23 (Sun), 2026, a temporary bus will operate between Shirako Station West Exit and SUZUKA CIRCUIT, so please make use of it.Operating Hours
Departing from Shirako Station West Exit SUZUKA CIRCUIT Departure August 22 (Sat) Between 7:00 and 11:30 Between 15:30 and 18:30 August 23 (Sun) Between 7:00 and 11:30 Between 14:30 and 18:30 * 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 22 (Sat) and 23 (Sun))
Parking Ticket
- Same-Day Parking Map
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The front parking lot is available by advance sale only. *Sold out
Same-Day Parking Map at SUZUKA CIRCUIT During the SUPER GT Period
We will provide temporary parking on the day, but there is a limit to the number of vehicles that can be parked.
If the parking lot is full, you cannot use it, but there are private parking lots nearby.
*Please note that the private parking lot is not operated by us. We cannot take responsibility for the parking lot.
*Parking fees vary depending on the location. Please check on-site before using.
*We do not guarantee secure parking. Please understand if we are fully booked.
■PLAN "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!During the SUPER GT weekend, the "qualifying" that determines the starting order (position) for the final race is held on Saturday, and the actual "final" race takes place on Sunday. By purchasing one ticket, you can watch both days. Each day, Saturday and Sunday, has different highlights, so please enjoy both days at SUZUKA CIRCUIT.
- August 22 (Sat)
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- Until 9:00
- Arrival at Main Gate
- 10:00
- Let's watch the SUPER GT official practice!
- 12:00
- Lunch
- 13:00
- Enjoy attractions and the pool!
- 15:30
- Watch the SUPER GT official qualifying!
- 17:05
- Kids Walk
*For Family Visitors Only
- 18:00
- Return Home
9:30 Arrive 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 here10:00 Watch the SUPER GT Official Practice!
Find your seat by around 10:00 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 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.
13:00 Enjoy Attractions and the Pool!
The official SUPER GT qualifying starts at 15:30, so enjoy the attractions and pool as a refreshment after lunch!
15:30 Watch the Official SUPER GT 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!17:05 Kids Walk ※For Family Visitors Only
After the qualifying on August 22 (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 23 (Sun)
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- Until 09:00
- Arrive at the gate
- 10:00
- Let's explore GP Square!
- 10:45
- Pit Walk *Separate ticket required
- 12:00
- Lunch
- 1:30 PM
- SUPER GT Rd.5 Final Race (300km)
- After the final race
- Award Ceremony & Parc Fermé Walk
- 17:00~ Return home
10:00 Arrival at the Gate
In addition to the main gate, the 1st Corner Gate, Poolside Gate, and West Motorsports Gate are open. Choose the gate to enter according to your seat and purpose!
10:30 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 Pit Walk *Separate ticket required
The Pit Walk is a chance to see the machines and drivers up close!
>>Click here for detailshere12:30 Lunch
The final race starts earlier than the qualifying!
Be careful not to miss the timing!13:30 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!
The race usually lasts about two hours, so it's also recommended to enjoy the cooldown events during breaks!After the Final Race: Award Ceremony & Parc Fermé Walk
After the final race, there is the award ceremony followed by the Parc Fermé walk.
Step down onto the track still filled with post-race excitement and take a close look at the machines!Return Home
Because the race end time is earlier than last year, you can return home at your leisure after the race.
However, be careful when you need to drive after having a great time and feeling tired. Among fans, the phrase "Watching the race isn’t over until you safely get home" is often shared. Cherish your souvenirs and memories, and drive safely on your way home.





















