An Eventful Suzuka Journey

Originally my itinerary had me going to the north Island of Hokkaido to do some nature shots, but due to a change of temperament , both in myself and of the weather, I decided to wing the next few days by seeing what else was 'close' by.

Having fallen for the efficiency of the Shinkansen (arrive and be on your way in 10 mins, rather than hours for flying), I picked out the Suzuka Circuit as being worth a trip , especially as there was racing on that weekend. Win, Win , so to speak.

Taking the Shinkansen to Nagoya, and then local trains down to the Suzuka region (another hour), I get off the train to an abandoned station. Rerouting to the right station, I go to the hotel and find out my reservation is with an almost identically named hotel in the middle of an industrial park, miles from anywhere!

Mildly daunted, and checked into 'the hotel', I find that there is no way to make it to the circuit other than to walk (no taxi's in sight anywhere!). After a 2 hour walk, I make it to Suzuka and it's well worth it , if you're into motorsport.

Of course, the circuit is wonderful but the facilities here are like nothing you will have seen elsewhere. A full motorsport and animal themed amusement park lies adjacent (I found out lots of people come just for that , and ignore the racing) , a large and varied food court, rollercoasters (motorcycle version!), the famous wheel etc etc.

Also, the rumours that Japanese race fans are 'nuts' (in a good way) about it are absolutely true. The place was very full, everyone wearing their team colours and one notable fan watching the whole thing in a full Michael Schumacher replica race suit with his helmet on (from the stands)!

The racing was great too , especially as for the following full day , I'd managed to make alternative travel arrangements. One to head back to, one day.