Suzuka Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Suzuka, Japan with this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Suzuka

Suzuka is a city located in Mie Prefecture, Kansai region, Japan. It is famous for its Grand Prix and as the home of the Suzuki and Honda car manufacturers. However, Suzuka offers more than just motorsports and car factories. It boasts a variety of cultural and natural attractions, making it an ideal destination for tourists who want to experience Japan beyond its main cities.

In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Suzuka.

List of Places to Visit in Suzuka

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Suzuka Circuit

Suzuka Circuit is one of the most well-known attractions in Suzuka. It is a motorsports circuit that is home to the Japanese Grand Prix. It is also used for other motorsport events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the circuit, as well as the opportunity to drive a racing car.

Suzuka City Traditional Handicrafts Museum

For those interested in traditional Japanese handicrafts, the Suzuka City Traditional Handicrafts Museum is a must-visit. The museum showcases a variety of crafts that have been created in Suzuka for generations, including pottery, weaving, and lacquerware.

Kojinyama Kannon-ji Temple

Kojinyama Kannon-ji Temple is a beautiful temple located on a hill overlooking Suzuka City. It is known for its stunning views of the city and its impressive collection of Buddhist statuary.

Natural Attractions of Suzuka: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Suzuka Mountains

The Suzuka Mountains offer some of the best hiking and biking routes in the region. There are numerous trails available for all levels of hikers and bikers, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Shiratori Garden

Shiratori Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden located in Suzuka. The garden features a large pond, a tea house, and several walking paths. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Suzuka Forest Garden

Suzuka Forest Garden is a large park located in the center of the city. It features a variety of walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds. It is a popular spot for families and is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Suzuka

There are several hiking and biking routes in Suzuka that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. One of the most popular routes is the Suzuka Skyline. It is a toll road that winds its way through the Suzuka Mountains, offering spectacular views of the area. The road is often used by car enthusiasts and bikers.

For hikers, the Nishi-Wakayama Trail is a popular option. It is a 135-kilometer trail that runs through the Suzuka Mountains, offering a challenging hike with stunning views of the area.

Best Things to Do in Suzuka: Activities and Tours

In addition to the attractions listed above, there are several other activities and tours that visitors can enjoy in Suzuka.

Cooking Class

Learn how to cook traditional Japanese dishes with a cooking class in Suzuka. A local chef will guide you through the process of making dishes such as sushi, tempura, and more.

Sake Brewery Tour

Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine that is popular throughout the country. Take a tour of a local sake brewery in Suzuka to learn about the brewing process and sample some of the local brews.

Go-Kart Tour

Experience the thrill of driving a go-kart through the streets of Suzuka on a guided tour. The tour takes you through the city streets and countryside, offering a unique way to experience the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Suzuka

Day 1: Visit Suzuka City Traditional Handicrafts Museum and Kojinyama Kannon-ji Temple.

Day 2: Take a tour of the Suzuka Circuit and enjoy the thrill of driving a racing car.

Day 3: Explore the Suzuka Mountains on a hiking or biking adventure.

Day 4: Visit Shiratori Garden and enjoy the beautiful traditional Japanese garden.

Day 5: Take a cooking class to learn how to cook traditional Japanese dishes.

Day 6: Visit a sake brewery in Suzuka to learn about the brewing process and sample some of the local brews.

Day 7: Enjoy a go-kart tour through the streets of Suzuka and the surrounding countryside.

Food and Drink Scene of Suzuka

Must-Try Dishes

Cochin Chicken

Cochin chicken is a local specialty in Suzuka. It is a type of chicken that is raised in Suzuka and is known for its tender meat and rich flavor. It is typically served as a main dish in restaurants throughout the city.

Tekka-maki

Tekka-maki is a type of sushi that is popular throughout Japan. It is a simple dish that consists of rice and raw tuna rolled in seaweed. It is a must-try dish in Suzuka.

Local Beverages

Sake

Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine that is popular throughout the country. There are several sake breweries in Suzuka that offer tours and tasting opportunities.

Umeshu

Umeshu is a traditional Japanese plum wine that is made by steeping Japanese plums in sake. It is a sweet and fruity wine that is popular throughout Japan.

Where to Stay in Suzuka: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for accommodation in Suzuka, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses.

Hotel Green Park Suzuka

Hotel Green Park Suzuka is a popular hotel located in the heart of Suzuka. It offers comfortable rooms and a variety of amenities for guests.

Suzuka Circuit Hotel

The Suzuka Circuit Hotel is located on the Suzuka Circuit and offers guests a unique experience. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and access to the circuit.

Suzuka Guesthouse Route 42

For budget travelers, Suzuka Guesthouse Route 42 is a great option. It offers affordable accommodations and a variety of amenities for guests.

What to Buy in Suzuka: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cochin Chicken

Cochin chicken is a popular souvenir in Suzuka. Visitors can purchase Cochin chicken meat and eggs to bring home and try for themselves.

Suzuka Circuit Merchandise

For motorsports enthusiasts, Suzuka Circuit merchandise is a must-buy souvenir. The circuit offers a variety of merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, and accessories.

Local Culture and Customs of Suzuka

Respect for the Elderly

Respect for the elderly is an important part of Japanese culture, including in Suzuka. Visitors should always be respectful and deferential to older people.

Bowing

Bowing is a common practice in Japanese culture, and visitors should be familiar with the different types of bows and when they are appropriate.

Best Time to Visit Suzuka

The best time to visit Suzuka is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable. The summer months (June to August) can be hot and humid, while the winter months (December to February) can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Suzuka

Do:

  • Respect Japanese culture and customs
  • Try local food and drinks
  • Be polite and courteous to locals

Don’t:

  • Be loud or disruptive in public places
  • Eat or drink while walking in public
  • Tip in restaurants or cafes (it is not customary in Japan)

Safety and Health

Safety in Suzuka

Suzuka is a relatively safe city, with low crime rates. However, visitors should always take basic precautions to ensure their safety, such as keeping their valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Suzuka

The tap water in Suzuka is safe to drink, but visitors may want to consider buying bottled water for convenience. It is also important to take precautions against the sun, as the weather can be hot and sunny during the summer months.

Getting to Suzuka: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Suzuka

The closest airport to Suzuka is Chubu Centrair International Airport, located in Nagoya. From there, visitors can take a train or bus to Suzuka.

Bus Stations Near Suzuka

Suzuka has several bus stations that offer connections to other cities in the region. The main bus station is Suzuka Station, which is located in the center of the city.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train to Suzuka, as the city has several train stations that offer connections to other cities in the region.

How to Get Around in Suzuka

The best way to get around Suzuka is by train or bus. The city has several train stations and bus stops that offer connections to other cities in the region.

Where to Go Next from Suzuka: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nara

Nara is a city located just south of Suzuka and is known for its temples and deer park. It is a popular day trip destination from Suzuka.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a city located to the west of Suzuka and is known for its temples, shrines, and traditional architecture. It is a popular destination for tourists visiting Japan.

Conclusion

Suzuka is a city that offers a unique blend of motorsports, history, culture, and natural beauty. From the Suzuka Circuit to the Suzuka Mountains, there is something for everyone in this city. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan their perfect trip to Suzuka and experience all that this amazing city has to offer.

Suzuka Circuit Suzuka Circuit