Fuji Speedway visitor guide

fuji-racetrack

 

Situated in the shadows of Mount Fuji, the Fuji Speedway is a hotspot for sportscar racing and well worth making a trip to see. After undergoing five layout changes since its opening in the 1960s, the Fuji Speedway frequently sees drivers pushing top speeds as they navigate 16 harrowing turns over the 2,835-mile race – so get ready for a real show.

Planning a visit to the famous Fuji Speedway? Hertz is here to provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip.

 

 

Where is Fuji Speedway?

Fuji Speedway is located approximately 100km southeast of Tokyo, in the foothills of Mount Fuji. The racetrack was initially put forward to be a NASCAR oval-style venue, however, it was repurposed as a more conventional, and equally challenging, road course.

At 1.475km, Fuji Speedway boasts one of the longest straights in motorsport, pushing power and aerodynamic efficiency. The first turn offers an excellent overtaking opportunity, so you’re guaranteed a great show from the very beginning. 

One of the Fuji Speedway track’s coolest features is that it offers a scenic view of Mount Fuji, the tallest mountain in Japan with a height of 3776m.The circuit itself is almost 800 meters longer than the mountain.

Racing began at the Fuji International Speedway in 1966, and ever since it has hosted a range of exciting races such as the F1 Grand Prix, World Endurance Championship and many others. On many occasions, it has served as a test track for the Japanese motor industry, and it even became the first racetrack to feature in a video game, in Pole Position back in 1982.

 

When was the first race at Fuji Speedway?

The first Formula 1 race took place at the Fuji Speedway track in 1976. It was an exciting title decider. It was the 16th and final round of the World Championship and took place on 24th October. At the time, the Fuji Speedway's old layout had a whopping 73 laps, which equated to 197.2 miles in total.

The famous rivalry between James Hunt and Niki Lauda took placeduring this race. The competition was hit by cloudy rainstorms, with many drivers resigning from the match. But ultimately, it was Hunt who claimed the title by just a single point – carving his name in racing history.

 

How to get to Fuji Speedway

If you’re travelling by plane, Tokyo Haneda Airport is the closest main airport to Fuji International Speedway. It’s about 100km away in the direction of Tokyo. Shizuoka Airport is another option, it’s located 120km from the track.

In you’re travelling by train, head to Gotemba station. You can then get a 25-minute bus or a 16-minute taxi back to the station.

Another option would be to get a Fuji Speedway car rental and travel around 90 minutes from Tokyo. FromvFuji, it takes around 44 minutes. 

 

Where to stay at Fuji Speedway

If you’re looking for places to stay near Fuji Speedway, you have three main options:

Hotels

The area around Fuji International Speedway is quite rural, so many visitors decide to stay in a hotel. Prices tend to range from around £70 to £200.

Popular options include:

  • Fuji Speedway Hotel, Unbound Collection by Hyatt
  • Fuji Zakura Hotel
  • Shinkaifujishoen

 

Holiday rentals 

You could get a holiday rental through Airbnb. The average price for 9 nights is
‎approximately £1,211.

Camping

If you fancy a cheaper option and prefer to spend some time in the great outdoors, you could pitch a tent at Fuji Speedway Active Park Camping.

 

What to do at Fuji Speedway

 A day out at Fuji International Speedway is a sure treat. If you’re looking for Fuji Speedway events to attend, there’s plenty to do at the actual circuit as well as in the surrounding areas and Mount Fuji.

Here are a few things you could get up to during your visit:

 

The circuit

  • Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival – This event is frequently hosted at the circuit and combines the excitement of motor racing with the thrill of carnival . Keep an eye out for the event’s schedule to see if Fuji will host during your visit.
 
  • Take a test drive on the track – If no Fuji Speedway events or races are being hosted, you can climb into a test car and live out your race car driving dream.

 

 The surrounding area

  • Mount Fuji – Japan’s most famous landmark, Mount Fuji is the main attraction around the circuit. Head over to the Fuji Five Lake at the northern foot, or take a trip to Hakone, a nearby hot spring resort. You could even climb Mount Fuji during July and August if you’re feeling adventurous.
 
  • Visit Oyama, Gotemba and Susuno – The three main towns near Mount Fuji, visit any of these areas to go on exciting natural trails and catch a glimpse of local landmarks like Suyama Sengen Shrine. If hiking isn’t your thing, you could go for a shopping trip at the Gotemba Premium Outlet where there are 290 stores, including international and Japanese brands.
 
  • Fuji-Q Highland – If you’re a true thrill seeker, the next spot you’ll want to hit after the Fuji Speedway track is this popular amusement park. Find it at the Fuji Five Lake region, at the foot of Mount Fuji. Take a trip on any of the four rollercoasters, or head to some of the anime attractions, kids’ entertainment spots or the fan-favourite Thomas Land.

 

Why should I visit Fuji Speedway?

As you now know, there’s plenty to do and see at Fuji Speedway. From the jaw-dropping races hosted at the track to the opportunity for you to participate in the fun with a test car drive, Fuji Speedway is a prime location for visitors as it’s close to Japan’s most famous landmark – Mount Fuji. That’s without mentioning the exciting landmarks and trails around the area.

If you’re planning on travelling to Fuji Speedway at any point during the World
Endurance Championship (WEC) calendar, check out our visitor guides on Le Mans and Monza.