What Is Fuji Speedway?
Want to see it for yourself?
Fuji Speedway is one of Japan's most iconic motorsport circuits, located at the base of Mount Fuji in Oyama, Shizuoka Prefecture. Since its opening in 1966, the circuit has hosted some of the most prestigious racing events in the world, including Formula One, the World Endurance Championship (WEC), and SUPER GT. With a dramatic backdrop of Japan's tallest peak and a rich history spanning nearly six decades, Fuji Speedway is a must-visit destination for motorsport enthusiasts and travelers alike.
The circuit is owned and operated by Toyota Motor Corporation, which acquired it in 2000 and invested heavily in modernizing the facilities. Today, Fuji Speedway stands as a world-class venue that seamlessly blends cutting-edge racing infrastructure with the natural beauty of the Fuji region.
History of Fuji Speedway
Fuji Speedway was originally conceived in the 1960s as a NASCAR-style oval circuit. However, the steep banking of the original oval proved dangerous, and the design was modified to include an infield section that created the road course layout still used in modified form today. The circuit's first major event was the Japanese Grand Prix in 1966, held on the original 6-kilometer layout.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Fuji Speedway became synonymous with endurance racing, hosting legendary events like the Fuji 1000km and various rounds of the World Sportscar Championship. The circuit also held Formula One races in 1976 and 1977 — the former famously being the rain-soaked season finale in which James Hunt clinched the championship from Niki Lauda.
After Toyota's acquisition, the circuit underwent a massive renovation completed in 2005. Renowned circuit designer Hermann Tilke redesigned the layout, shortening it to approximately 4.563 kilometers while retaining the famous 1.475-kilometer main straight — one of the longest in motorsport. Formula One returned to Fuji Speedway in 2007 and 2008 before the Japanese Grand Prix moved back to Suzuka.
Circuit Layout and Key Features
The Main Straight
The defining feature of Fuji Speedway is its extraordinarily long main straight, stretching approximately 1.475 kilometers. This straight allows cars to reach top speeds exceeding 300 km/h in major racing series, making it one of the most thrilling overtaking zones in world motorsport. The straight ends at a tight right-hand Turn 1, creating dramatic braking battles.
The Tilke Redesign
The 2005 redesign by Hermann Tilke introduced a modern, FIA Grade 1 layout featuring 16 turns. The technical infield section tests driver skill with a combination of medium-speed corners, tight hairpins, and flowing chicanes. The elevation changes throughout the circuit add complexity and challenge, particularly in the sector leading back to the main straight.
Facilities
Fuji Speedway boasts modern grandstands with a seating capacity of approximately 50,000, along with extensive grassy spectator areas that can accommodate over 100,000 fans during major events. The paddock, pit facilities, and media center all meet the highest international standards. The circuit also features a museum area, multiple restaurants, and a well-stocked merchandise shop.
Major Events at Fuji Speedway in 2026
Fuji Speedway hosts a packed calendar of racing events throughout the year. Here are the key events to watch for in 2026:
- SUPER GT: Japan's premier touring car championship typically visits Fuji Speedway multiple times per season. The series features heavily modified GT500 and GT300 class machines, and races at Fuji are consistently among the most attended motorsport events in Japan.
- FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) — 6 Hours of Fuji: The WEC's annual visit to Japan draws factory Hypercar entries from Toyota, Porsche, Ferrari, and other manufacturers. The 6 Hours of Fuji is a highlight of the international endurance racing calendar.
- Super Formula: Japan's top single-seater championship brings open-wheel racing to the circuit, with cars producing over 550 horsepower and lap times rivaling those of lower Formula One categories.
- Nismo Festival: Held annually (typically in December), this celebration of Nissan motorsport heritage features historic race cars, demonstrations, and exhibitions. It is a pilgrimage event for fans of JDM car culture.
- Track Days and Driving Experiences: Throughout the year, Fuji Speedway hosts various public track days and manufacturer-organized driving experiences, allowing enthusiasts to drive on the same tarmac as professional racers.
How to Get to Fuji Speedway from Tokyo
Fuji Speedway is located approximately 100 kilometers southwest of central Tokyo, making it accessible for day trips. There are several ways to reach the circuit:
By Car
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Fuji Speedway, particularly during race weekends when public transport options can be limited. From central Tokyo, take the Tomei Expressway toward Gotemba. Exit at the Gotemba IC or Susono IC, and follow the signs to the circuit. The drive typically takes 90 minutes to two hours depending on traffic conditions. On race days, expect heavier traffic near the exits, so plan to arrive early.
The circuit has extensive on-site parking, though spaces fill quickly during major events. Parking fees vary by event, and pre-purchasing a parking pass is strongly recommended for popular races like WEC and SUPER GT rounds.
By Train and Bus
Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Mishima Station (approximately 55 minutes on the Kodama service). From Mishima, transfer to the JR Gotemba Line to Gotemba Station. On event days, shuttle buses typically operate between Gotemba Station and the circuit. The total journey takes approximately two to three hours.
Alternatively, highway buses run from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Gotemba Station, taking approximately 100 minutes. From Gotemba, taxis to the circuit take roughly 20 minutes.
Combining with a Mount Fuji Visit
Given its location at the foot of Mount Fuji, a visit to Fuji Speedway pairs naturally with sightseeing in the broader Fuji region. The Fuji Five Lakes area, Hakone, and Gotemba Premium Outlets are all within easy driving distance.
-
-
Tokyo to Mt Fuji 2026: 4 Ways from ¥1,950 (Bus/Train/Car)
How Far Is Mt Fuji from Tokyo? Mt Fuji sits roughly 100 km (62 miles) southwest of central Tokyo. Despite the modest distance on a map, actual travel time varies considerably depending on your transport mode, departure point, and destination on the Fuji side. Whether you are heading to the Fuji Five Lakes area (Kawaguchiko), the Subashiri 5th Station for climbing, or simply a scenic viewpoint, the journey from Tokyo to Mt Fuji typically takes between 1.5 and 3 hours one way. Understanding the geography is helpful: the Chuo Expressway and Route 138 cut through the mountains west of Tokyo, ...
続きを見る
Attending a Race at Fuji Speedway: Tips for Visitors
Reading vs. riding
Buying Tickets
Tickets for major events can be purchased through the official Fuji Speedway website, convenience store ticket terminals (Lawson, 7-Eleven, FamilyMart), or authorized resellers. General admission tickets typically range from ¥3,000 to ¥8,000 depending on the event, while reserved grandstand seats cost ¥8,000 to ¥20,000 or more for premium positions. WEC and SUPER GT events sell out quickly, so booking well in advance is essential.
What to Bring
Fuji Speedway sits at an elevation of roughly 550 to 600 meters, and weather conditions can change rapidly due to the mountain environment. Essential items include:
- Rain gear — the Fuji area is prone to sudden showers
- Warm layers, even in summer, as mornings and evenings can be cool
- Comfortable walking shoes — the venue is spread across a large area
- Sunscreen and a hat for clear days
- Ear protection (earplugs) for close grandstand viewing
- A portable cushion for grassy spectator areas
Best Viewing Spots
Turn 1 offers the most dramatic action, as cars brake from extreme speeds at the end of the main straight. The Coca-Cola corner area provides excellent views of technical driving, while the grandstands along the main straight offer the spectacle of high-speed passes and slipstream battles. For photographers, the hillside areas around the infield corners provide elevation and natural framing opportunities.
Fuji Speedway Beyond Racing
Fuji Speedway is not exclusively a race-day destination. The facility operates year-round and offers several experiences outside of major events:
- Fuji Speedway Museum: A collection of historic racing machines and memorabilia tracing the circuit's long history. Toyota-related motorsport exhibits feature prominently.
- Driving Experiences: Various programs allow visitors to drive high-performance vehicles on the circuit or on dedicated experience courses. Check the official website for current schedules and pricing.
- Cycling Events: The circuit occasionally hosts cycling events and running races on the track, offering a unique athletic experience.
- Fuji Motorsport Forest: Adjacent to the circuit, this outdoor recreation area features glamping facilities, restaurants, and nature trails — a relaxing complement to the adrenaline of the track.
Fuji Speedway and JDM Car Culture
Fuji Speedway holds a special place in Japan's automotive culture. The circuit has been the proving ground for some of the most legendary Japanese performance cars, from the Nissan Skyline GT-R to the Toyota Supra and Lexus LFA. The annual Nismo Festival, for example, draws tens of thousands of Nissan enthusiasts who gather to celebrate the brand's racing heritage alongside iconic road cars.
The surrounding Fuji region is also popular among driving enthusiasts for its winding mountain roads, scenic toll roads like the Fuji Subaru Line, and stunning views. Exploring these roads in a JDM sports car is one of the most immersive ways to experience the culture firsthand. The journey from Tokyo through the Hakone and Gotemba areas toward the circuit takes you through some of Japan's most celebrated driving roads.
-
-
Rent a Car Tokyo to Hakone Onsen: Complete Driving Guide for Visitors
Why Drive from Tokyo to Hakone Onsen? Renting a car gives you door‑to‑door access to hot spring towns, ryokan with private baths, and scenic viewpoints that are difficult to reach by train or bus. A car also lets you time onsen visits to avoid crowds, bring luggage without transfers, and combine Hakone with outlets, wineries, or Mt. Fuji photo spots in a single loop. When Is the Best Time to Drive to Hakone? Hakone is a year‑round destination. Weekdays outside national holidays are best for smooth traffic. Peak congestion times include Saturday mornings outbound from Tokyo and Sunday evenings inbound. ...
続きを見る
Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting
A trip to Fuji Speedway can easily be extended into a multi-day excursion. The surrounding area offers a wealth of attractions:
- Gotemba Premium Outlets: One of Japan's largest outlet malls, located just 20 minutes from the circuit, featuring views of Mount Fuji.
- Hakone: A renowned hot spring resort area with art museums, Lake Ashi cruises, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum — approximately 40 minutes from the circuit by car.
- Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko): The scenic lake region on the northern side of Mount Fuji, offering water activities, hiking, and some of the most photographed views of the mountain.
- Mishima Skywalk: Japan's longest pedestrian suspension bridge, offering panoramic views of Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay.
-
-
Drive from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Onsen: The Ultimate Self-Drive Guide for Overseas Visitors
Planning to drive from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko onsen? This in‑depth guide covers routes, permits, parking, tolls, itineraries, and seasonal tips—everything you need to enjoy Lake Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji hot springs by rental car. Why Drive from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Onsen? Driving gives you freedom to stop at scenic viewpoints, lesser‑known onsen ryokan, and cafés around the Fuji Five Lakes. Compared with trains and buses, a car lets you combine multiple sights in one day, travel early or late to avoid crowds, and carry luggage with ease. Quick Facts Distance & time: ~110–140 km from central Tokyo; 2–2.5 hours in ...
続きを見る
Practical Information for 2026
Here is a summary of essential details for planning your visit to Fuji Speedway:
- Address: 694 Nakahinata, Oyama-cho, Sunto-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture 410-1307, Japan
- Official Website: fsw.tv/en
- Circuit Length: 4.563 km (Grand Prix layout)
- Capacity: Over 100,000 (including standing areas)
- Parking: Available on-site; advance booking recommended for major events
- Languages: Signage and announcements are primarily in Japanese, though major international events include English support
- Accessibility: The main grandstands and facilities are wheelchair accessible
Fuji Speedway is open for specific events and experiences rather than as a general sightseeing venue, so always check the official calendar before visiting. Non-event days may still offer museum access and dining, but the track itself will not be viewable without a scheduled activity.
Why Fuji Speedway Deserves a Spot on Your Japan Itinerary
Whether you are a dedicated motorsport fan traveling to Japan for a specific race or a car enthusiast exploring the country's automotive culture, Fuji Speedway offers an experience unlike any other. The combination of world-class racing, the awe-inspiring presence of Mount Fuji as a backdrop, and the deep connection to Japanese automotive heritage makes it one of the most compelling racing venues on the planet. With easy access from Tokyo and a wealth of nearby attractions, Fuji Speedway is far more than a racetrack — it is a gateway to one of Japan's most scenic and culturally rich regions.
Book Your Tokyo JDM Tour Today
Customer Reviews
Important Information
- The tour begins and ends at the same location (Shibuya).
- If the Daikoku Parking Area is closed, we will instead guide you to another car meet further away.
- The consultant is a cultural expert and navigator, not a taxi service.
Ready to Lock In Your Tokyo Dates?
