Menu
The Mine Circuit, also known as the Meihan Sportsland, is a motorsports facility located in Nara, Japan. The circuit is known for its unique layout, which features a combination of high-speed corners and tight, technical sections.
The Mine Circuit was first opened in 1962 and has since become one of the most popular and iconic circuits in Japan. The track was designed by the renowned circuit architect Yoshimi Katayama, who is known for his work on some of the most challenging and exciting circuits in the world.
The circuit was originally built as a dirt track, and it quickly became known for its challenging layout and exciting racing. In the 1980s, the track was paved, and it was transformed into a permanent facility.
The Mine Circuit is a 2.12-kilometer long circuit that features a unique layout, which includes several high-speed corners and tight, technical sections. The track has a width of 10-12 meters and is suitable for both cars and motorcycles.
One of the standout features of the Mine Circuit is its location. The circuit is situated in a former mining area, and the track passes by several abandoned mines and industrial buildings. The track also includes several elevation changes, which add to the challenge and excitement of racing.
The circuit includes several challenging corners, including a high-speed 180-degree turn at the end of the main straight and a tight hairpin at Turn 2. The track also includes several long straights, which allow drivers to reach high speeds and make passing maneuvers.
The Mine Circuit has become known as one of the top motorsports venues in Japan and has hosted a variety of racing events since it opened in 1962. The circuit has become a popular destination for both professional and amateur racers, and it has been praised for its unique layout and exciting racing.
The Mine Circuit has hosted a variety of racing events over the years, including the Japanese Touring Car Championship, the Super Taikyu Endurance Series, and the D1 Grand Prix, which is a drifting competition. The circuit is also available for private rentals, allowing drivers to experience the thrill of driving on a professional motorsports facility.
Safety is a top priority at the Mine Circuit, and the facility includes a variety of safety features to ensure that all racers and spectators are protected. The track features high-quality safety barriers and catch fencing, as well as a medical center staffed with trained professionals.
In addition, the track has a team of experienced marshals and officials who monitor the racing events and ensure that all rules and regulations are followed. The facility also adheres to strict noise and environmental regulations to minimize the impact of racing on the surrounding area.
The Mine Circuit is open to visitors throughout the year, and there are a variety of ways to experience the facility. Visitors can watch racing events from the grandstands, which offer excellent views of the track and the surrounding scenery.
For those who want to experience the thrill of driving on the track, private rentals are available for both the main circuit and the karting track. The facility also offers driving instruction and coaching for those who want to improve their skills and learn more about motorsports.
In addition to racing, visitors to Nara can also enjoy the town’s many cultural and recreational attractions, including ancient temples, beautiful parks, and a variety of traditional festivals.
The Mine Circuit is a world-class motorsports facility that offers a unique and exciting racing experience. Its challenging layout, picturesque location, and rich history make it one of the top motorsports venues in Japan, and it remains a favorite among racers and fans alike.
