Suzuka International Racing Course

Owned by Honda and opened in 1962 as a test track, the Suzuka International Racing Course is one of the most revered and challenging circuits in the world. Located in Suzuka City, Japan, it is the only major international circuit to feature a figure-eight layout, with the back straight passing over the front straight via an overpass. The 5.807 km (3.608-mile) track was designed by John "Hans" Hugenholtz and is a favorite among drivers for its high-speed "Esses," the challenging Degner curves, the long Spoon Curve, and the legendary 130R corner. Suzuka has been the long-time home of the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, where it has been the site of numerous dramatic championship deciders. It also hosts the prestigious Suzuka 8 Hours motorcycle endurance race, a key event for Japanese manufacturers.