Ultimate Guide for Overseas JDM Fans: Watching Tuning Car Events at Fuji Speedway
Have you ever dreamed of experiencing Japan’s authentic tuning car culture in person?
For many overseas JDM enthusiasts, Fuji Speedway (FSW) is a must-visit destination. Nestled at the foot of Mt. Fuji, this iconic circuit hosts world-class races like the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and Super GT, but it’s also home to some of the most exciting tuning-focused events in Japan—HKS Premium Day, FuelFesta, and Nissan Fan Festival, just to name a few.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect when visiting Fuji Speedway for tuning car events, the best time to go, how to get there, and even some must-visit JDM spots along the way from Haneda or Narita Airport.
What Makes Fuji Speedway Special?
Located in Shizuoka Prefecture, about a two-hour drive from Tokyo, Fuji Speedway is one of Japan’s most prestigious racing circuits.
With its 4.5 km long main course and the iconic Mt. Fuji backdrop, it offers an unforgettable experience whether you’re there for high-speed racing or a tuning car festival.
Major Tuning Car Events at Fuji Speedway
Here are some of the most popular tuning-related events that attract JDM fans from all over the world:
HKS Premium Day
Hosted by HKS, one of Japan’s most renowned tuning brands, this event features time attack sessions, tuning parts showcases, and special talks with engineers. It’s a full-day festival for hardcore tuning fans, and in recent years, more English signage has been added.
FuelFesta
A large-scale event bringing together various tuning shops and manufacturers. From 1,000+ horsepower monsters to lightly tuned street cars, it’s a paradise for photographers and enthusiasts alike.
Nissan Fan Festival
Perfect for Nissan lovers—this festival gathers GT-Rs, Z models, and NISMO vehicles for exhibitions, demo runs, and sometimes even test ride sessions.
Local Test Days and Time Attack Sessions
During winter, many shops host private test sessions or shakedowns. These are usually held on weekdays, and while they’re more low-key, you can often spot record-chasing machines in action.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
The peak season for tuning and time attack events is winter (January–February).
Cold air means better engine performance, so many teams aim to set their best lap times during this period.
From spring to summer, the calendar is dominated by endurance and manufacturer-backed events, while autumn brings back a few festival-style gatherings.
How to Get There (and What to Expect)
Public transportation alone can be quite inconvenient. The nearest station is Gotemba, and although there are buses, the schedules are limited.
The most convenient option is renting a car or booking a private transfer, often combined with nearby sightseeing such as Mt. Fuji or the Gotemba Premium Outlets.
JDM Stops on the Way from Haneda or Narita Airport
If you’re flying into Haneda or Narita Airport, why not make your journey to Fuji Speedway even more memorable by stopping at some iconic JDM hotspots?
- Daikoku Parking Area (Daikoku PA) – Famous worldwide for its weekend and late-night car meets featuring Japan’s hottest street machines.
- Scoot Sports – A legendary tuning shop known for its drag and street builds.
- 130R Yokohama – Popular among overseas enthusiasts for its curated selection of JDM parts and merchandise.
Including these stops in your itinerary makes your trip more than just a race day—it becomes a full-blown JDM experience.
Is English Spoken at Fuji Speedway?
Unfortunately, English support is very limited during tuning events. While international races sometimes have English signage, smaller events are mostly Japanese-only.
That’s why we recommend visiting with a car enthusiast interpreter who can help you navigate the paddock, explain the cars, and make the most of your day.
Full-Service Support for Overseas Visitors
At JDM Tour, we specialize in creating customized Fuji Speedway experiences for international JDM fans.
From event tickets and paddock passes to hotel bookings, private transfers, and even guided stops at Daikoku PA, Scoot Sports, and 130R Yokohama—we arrange it all.
A bilingual car enthusiast guide will accompany you, so you can focus on enjoying the cars.
Final Thoughts
Fuji Speedway is not just a racetrack—it’s a hub for Japan’s modern tuning car culture.
Winter is the golden season for witnessing world-class time attack machines in action, and if you start your journey from Haneda or Narita, adding a stop at Daikoku PA or Yokohama’s famous tuning shops makes the trip unforgettable.
Want to plan your dream JDM trip?
Contact JDM Tour today and let us create your perfect Fuji Speedway experience!