Kyoto (Suzuka)

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Hosted at the Suzuka Circuit since 1987 (barring a brief alternation with Fuji in the mid-2000s), the Japanese Grand Prix remains a firm favourite with race fans. Officially now one of the mainstays of the Formula One calendar, the race typically holds a late slot in the schedule which has led to no less than 13 World Champions being crowned directly at this venue. As if that guarantee of drama wasn’t enough reason for a trip, the proximity of this circuit (slightly off the beaten track) means those who travel can opt to take in both Kyoto and Tokyo rather seamlessly. As far as two major cities go, it truly is chalk and cheese.

Few cities epitomise their nation’s historical and cultural roots quite to the extent Kyoto. This ancient former capital is a majestic throwback to Old Japan, with pristinely kept temples, exquisite gardens of natural beauty and artisan works helping to preserve this ancient corner of an ultra-modern nation. Home to a whopping 17 (yes, seventeen) UNESCO World Heritage sites, it’s not uncommon to witness fully robed monks scurrying around the streets and large groups of locals collecting for meditation sessions. As far as de-stressing goes, there aren’t many better locations.

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If the stripped-back Kyoto offers a look into the past, then Tokyo certainly proves the flip side of that coin. With a tube map often said to resemble a serving of noodles, the Japanese capital is one of the world’s most highly populated cities to scale of size – but that doesn’t mean that getting around is a chore. Far from it in fact, as this pioneering metropolis continues to develop at a startling rate. Art, fashion and food all salute Tokyo as one of their global keystones, whilst technological advancement continues to fly the flag in a number of spheres. With so much to offer, any visitor can pull together their own completely unique itinerary and enjoy an experience completely different to those who have gone before them.

Be it an Oriental adventure or a bid to break new ground a spiritual search – the light can always be discovered in the Land Of The Rising Sun.

Top Grandstand Picks

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Grandstand D, Q1, Q2, however most grandstands have great views