Replacing the legendary Suzuka circuit for the Japanese Grand Prix from 2007, the Fuji Speedway has a tough act to follow. But with Mount Fuji as a backdrop, a multimillion-dollar refurbishment by track design guru Hermann Tilke and an overtaking-friendly 1.5-kilometre straight, Japan's new Grand Prix circuit is more than ready to take on the challenge.

Originally built in the style of an American speedway in 1966, Fuji is best remembered for hosting the very first Japanese Grand Prix in 1976. The inaugural race was the setting for one of Formula One racing's closest title showdowns, between James Hunt and Niki Lauda. Though the event proved popular, the 1977 race would be the circuit's last appearance on the Formula One world championship calendar for 30 years.

In 2000, Toyota bought a 93 percent stake in the track and three years later Fuji was closed for renovation, before reopening in February 2005. Measuring 4.5 kilometres in length, the results of Tilke's refurbishment were substantial. Combining the original circuit's celebrated straight with his characteristic twists and turns, the new design impressed enough to secure the Japanese race from 2007. Updated and modernised, the track easily rivals other new circuits in Bahrain, Shanghai and Istanbul. Widened tarmac run-off areas have improved driver safety, while the enhanced infrastructure and modern facilities satisfy the demands of both the paddock and the spectators.

Located in Japan's populous Shizuoka Prefecture and just 62 miles from Tokyo, organisers hope to attract up to 280,000 spectators to Fuji over the course of the race weekend, with 140,000 on race day alone. To accommodate the crowds, the circuit boasts some of the calendar's best grandstands, including seating for 24,000 opposite the pits.