F1 2024 Insider's Guide No. 04 – Japan

The Japanese Grand Prix is one of the most exciting races of the season. The country’s technology-obsessed futurism and engineering prowess is brought to bear at a circuit that is quick and tough. That circuit at Suzuka, southwest of Nagoya and near to Osaka too, is one of the very few in the world to feature a dramatic Figure 8 set-up where a lightning-fast straight passes over the slower chicane section on a bridge, adding more excitement to the whole package. Couple this with Japan’s singular heritage and culture expressed in the architecture of nearby cities like Nagoya and Kyoto, the rolling green countryside and the many Japanese food choices at Suzuka and you have a recipe for something truly special. The Japanese Grand Prix dates back to 1963 and both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll have named it as their favourite race.

Where do the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team stay?

The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team stays in the town of Tsu. It’s situated some 20km away from the Suzuka Circuit. This town is less known than some of its neighbours but attracts a cherry blossom cognoscenti who come to see the best blooms – there are also apricot trees here. In addition, there’s the Tsu Castle and the storied Kannonji Temple and Yuki Shrine. The Mie Prefecture Art Museum is highly regarded.

Where does the Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team eat?

It’s hard to choose where to eat in Japan. Everything is so delicious. However, the team has a favourite spot called Coco. The Aston Aramco Martin F1® Team says: “Coco is a small restaurant that specialises in katsu curry. The chefs at Coco cook each curry to the individual’s desired spice level – ranging from 1 to 20 – so you get a good idea of who can handle the heat. It can become fairly competitive!” Coco is located minutes from the circuit and has perfected the katsu curry since it launched in 1978 – as well as personalising the spiciness. Its success has even launched its first London restaurant.

The team adds: “There are also some traditional ramen and sushi restaurants nearby, so the team eats well.”

Favourite spots for the Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team

Kyoto is the one place you would visit if you’ve been to the Grand Prix at Suzuka. “Many team members take the opportunity to visit Kyoto: once the capital of Japan. The city is best known for its many classical Buddhist temples and gardens, and offers a great insight into many of Japan’s formal traditions,” says the Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team. Kyoto is known for its cherry blossom, which attracts visitors from across the globe. But also for its handsome, historic attractions like the Sento Palace, Nishiki Market and the Golden Pavilion.

Tips for petrolheads

“Motorsport fans will also enjoy the Honda Collection Hall – a museum housing over 300 of Honda’s cars, bikes and power products,” says the Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team. This is a shrine celebrating the global dominance of the Japanese automaker. The museum, located in Motegi and founded in 1998, displays over 350 vehicles.

Japanese people love their cars and the fans are loyal here. “The Japanese fans are amongst the best in the world, so any spare time at the track is spent meeting those who have travelled to Suzuka for the race. The team are always so impressed by the creative ways in which they show their support: from homemade hats in the shape of rear wings to personalised chopsticks branded with Aston Martin colours. They are incredibly warm and welcoming,” says the Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team.

The Globe-Trotter x Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team partnership celebrates a shared commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and heritage; bringing together the timeless style of Globe-Trotter’s handcrafted luggage and the cutting-edge design and performance of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team.