Autopolis International Racing Course - Short Course
Autopolis International Racing Course - Short Course
- Corners
- 11
- Length
- 1.88 miles
- Longest Straight
- 0.56 miles
- Elevation Gap
- 0.02 miles
- Country
- Japan
- Circuit
- Autopolis
Autopolis International Racing Course - Short Course: History, Features, and Motorsport Significance
Autopolis International Racing Course - Short Course is a renowned racing facility located in the scenic Oita Prefecture on Kyushu Island, Japan. Opened in 1990, the circuit was designed to meet the highest international standards and has carved a notable reputation among motorsport enthusiasts. The short course configuration offers a condensed yet challenging racing experience, providing both professional drivers and sim racers with a technically demanding layout popularly featured in high-profile racing games like Gran Turismo 7.
What distinguishes the Short Course layout at Autopolis is its combination of tight corners, elevation changes, and flowing sections, all set amid picturesque mountain surroundings. While the full-length circuit measures 4.673 kilometers, the Short Course offers a more accessible alternative, testing drivers’ skills in cornering and acceleration with a layout that favors agility and rapid directional changes. This makes it an excellent venue for touring car series, club races, and training events.
Throughout its history, Autopolis has hosted a variety of prestigious national and international races, from Super GT and Super Formula to endurance championships. The Short Course, while not always the centerpiece for headline events, regularly features in support category races and is prized for its ability to create close, competitive action. Its inclusion in major racing simulators has further raised its profile globally, allowing sim racers to experience its unique character regardless of location.
Autopolis's Short Course continues to be an essential training ground for Japanese and international drivers alike. Its challenging layout, immaculate facilities, and beautiful scenery have ensured its status as a beloved motorsports destination. Whether for real-world racing or virtual competition, the circuit remains a favorite among those seeking to hone their racing craft on one of Japan’s most technically engaging tracks.
