When traveling for MotoGP, Tokyo is the ultimate starting point in a country where cities like Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Mandalay, Samarkand, and Shanghai evoke mystery, exoticness, and excitement. The Japanese capital city contains 26 other cities within it, ranging from Hachioji and Machida to Taito and Chuo. Located two hours south of Motegi, Tokyo offers something for everyone, beginning with Shinjuku where bright lights illuminate skyscrapers towering over the old town of Golden Gai. Modern commercial life sits on one side, alongside roughly 200 independently owned micro-bars in the other, plus a whole host of nightlife in between. East Shinjuku houses neon-lit towers filled with upscale hotels, bars, clubs, and karaoke rooms, while the Tokyo Metropolitan Building features an observation deck for those seeking panoramic views and heights.
Beyond Shinjuku, Ginza is the major modern area in the south featuring high-end brand shops spreading north of 15 floors. Meanwhile, Asakusa houses the Nakamise Shopping Street and the Senso-ji temple at the very top, serving as the oldest temple of any kind in Tokyo and the quintessential postcard view of Japan. Crossing the Sumida River leads to the Asahi Group's Headquarters, where visitors can enjoy a magnificent view of the city from the top. No trip is complete without visiting the iconic Shibuya crossing in the district of the same name, or exploring Shimokitazawa for a Bohemian scene filled with vinyl records, live music, and vintage stores.
Leaving Tokyo, travelers heading south will arrive at manufacturing hub Nagoya, street-food mad Osaka, imperial Kyoto, and imposing Mount Fuji. Heading north puts visitors near sprawling yet old town Mito or Utsunomiya, the birthplace of gyozas which is also famous for the rather splendid Oya Temple. Lying between both directions is Motegi, a regular MotoGP stop since 1999. This scenic rural town has a population of just over 10,000 people and is famous for Shiroyama Park, built on the site of Motegi Castle and known for double cherry blossoms called yaezakura, alongside over 500,000 red spider lilies blooming in autumn to create a botanical spectacle. Foodies can visit the Michi-No-Eki complex, while motorsport fans will find a dream at the track's Honda Collection Hall, packed with bikes and cars dating back throughout the company's history.
Driving from Tokyo to Motegi is the easiest method, featuring a Hillclimb-style route up through the mountains offering the best scenery once drivers get off the expressway. Public transport remains an option but takes significantly longer and involves multiple changes to arrive at the town of Motegi. While transport to Utsunomiya or Mito is far more frequent from the capital, visitors still ideally need wheels to reach the track.
