Japan is one of the world’s most popular motor racing destinations, and it’s easy to see why. With its thrilling circuits, exciting events and passionate fans, it’s no surprise that Japan has become a hub for racers and motorsport aficionados alike. But just how many racetracks are there in Japan? In this article, we’ll take a look at all the circuits in the country, and explore why they’re so popular.
Number of Racing Tracks in Japan
There are currently twenty-two active racing tracks in Japan, spread across the country. The majority of these tracks are located on the main island of Honshu, with a few others on the islands of Hokkaido and Kyushu. These tracks range from small and compact circuits to large and challenging ones, catering to all levels of motorsport.
Categories of Racing Tracks in Japan
The racing tracks in Japan can be divided into three main categories: road courses, oval courses, and dragstrips.
- Road Courses: These are the most common type of racing track in Japan, and they are designed to test a driver’s skill and ability. These tracks typically feature a mix of tight turns, fast straights, and elevation changes. Some of the most popular road courses in Japan include the Suzuka International Racing Course, the Twin Ring Motegi circuit, and the Okayama International Circuit.
- Oval Courses: These tracks are designed for racing in a circle, and feature high-speed turns and straights. The most famous oval course in Japan is the Fuji Speedway, which is also the oldest track in the country. The other oval courses in Japan are the Suzuka Circuit, the Twin Ring Motegi, and the Autopolis.
- Dragstrips: These are the shortest type of racing track in Japan, and they are designed for straight-line speed. The most popular dragstrip in Japan is the Mine Circuit, located in Shizuoka Prefecture. The other dragstrips in Japan are the Sendai Dragway and the Okayama International Circuit.
Notable Racing Tracks in Japan
Japan has some of the most famous and iconic racing tracks in the world, and they are certainly worth a visit. Some of the most notable tracks in the country include:
- Suzuka International Racing Course: This is one of the most famous circuits in the world, and it is the home of the Japanese Grand Prix. The track is 5.807km long and features 18 turns, making it an incredibly challenging circuit for drivers. The circuit has hosted the F1 World Championship since 1987.
- Fuji Speedway: This is the oldest track in Japan, and it is located in the foothills of Mount Fuji. The track is 4.563km long and features 11 turns, making it a great circuit for drivers of all levels. The track has hosted the Japanese Grand Prix since 1976.
- Twin Ring Motegi: This is one of the most modern circuits in Japan, and it features a 2.493km oval course and a 4.801km road course. The track has hosted the Japanese Grand Prix since 1997, and it is a popular circuit for testing and development.
- Okayama International Circuit: This is one of the smaller circuits in Japan, measuring just 2.3km in length. The track is known for its technical nature, and it is often used for testing and development. The circuit has hosted the Super GT Championship since 2004.
Events at the Racing Tracks in Japan
The racing tracks in Japan play host to some of the most exciting motorsport events in the world. Here are just a few of the events that take place at the various tracks in the country:
- Japanese Grand Prix: This is one of the most prestigious events in the world of motorsport, and it takes place at the Suzuka International Racing Course. The race is held annually and features the very best drivers in the world.
- Super GT Championship: This is a hugely popular touring car series that takes place at various circuits in Japan. The championship is held annually and features some of the best drivers in the country.
- Formula Nippon: This is a single-seater series that takes place at various circuits in Japan, including the Suzuka International Racing Course. The series is held annually and features some of the best drivers in the world.
- All-Japan Drag Racing Championship: This is a drag racing series that takes place at various dragstrips in Japan. The series is held annually and features some of the best drag racers in the country.
Popularity of Racing Tracks in Japan
The racing tracks in Japan are hugely popular, both with local and international fans. The tracks are some of the most iconic and challenging circuits in the world, and they attract thousands of spectators each year. In addition, the events held at the tracks are some of the most exciting in the world, and they draw in huge crowds.
Future of Racing Tracks in Japan
The racing tracks in Japan are set to remain a popular destination for motorsport fans for years to come. With the increasing popularity of the sport, the tracks are expected to continue to host some of the most exciting events in the world. In addition, the tracks are continually being improved and developed, ensuring that they remain some of the best circuits in the world.
Conclusion
Japan is one of the most popular motorsport destinations in the world, and it is easy to see why. With its thrilling circuits, exciting events and passionate fans, it’s no surprise that Japan has become a hub for racers and motorsport aficionados alike. There are currently twenty-two active racing tracks in Japan, spread across the country, and they range from small and compact circuits to large and challenging ones. The tracks in Japan play host to some of the most exciting events in the world, and they are hugely popular with both local and international fans. The racing tracks in Japan are set to remain a popular destination for motorsport fans for years to come.