Where to watch the MotoGP in Tokyo
Watching MotoGP races in Tokyo is straightforward and enjoyable, especially for expats, tourists, and motorsport fans. Tokyo has a solid network of international sports bars and pubs (mostly in Roppongi, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ebisu) that reliably show live MotoGP sessions (practice, qualifying, sprints, full races) on big screens, usually with English commentary.
Here’s everything you need to know for the 2026 MotoGP season.
The Next MotoGP race:
Thailand MotoGP is on Sunday 1st March 2026 in Buriram Thailand. Race time starts at 5pm Japan time.
Best Sports Bars in Tokyo to Watch MotoGP
Tokyo’s top venues are in expat-heavy areas like Roppongi, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ebisu — multiple HD screens, sound on, and reliable MotoGP coverage.
| Bar Name | Location | Description of Bar | Food Served |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Hobgoblin | Roppongi (6-8-8 Roppongi) | Classic British pub chain with 5+ large screens; shows MotoGP live (and other sports); lively expat crowd, English commentary; beer pong, darts; often packed for big races | British pub classics: Fish & chips, pies, bangers & mash; highlights include authentic fish & chips and hearty pies |
| The Footnik | Ebisu (near Shibuya) + Osaka | Dedicated sports bar with multiple TVs; shows MotoGP reliably; casual, welcoming vibe; expat favorite; accommodates motorsport viewing | Western pub favorites: Burgers, wings, fries, snacks; highlights include juicy burgers, crispy chicken wings, loaded fries |
| The Public Six | Shibuya | Modern sports bar with big screens; covers MotoGP reliably; relaxed atmosphere; good food/drinks; convenient for Roppongi nightlife | Elevated pub grub: Burgers, sandwiches, steaks; highlights include premium burgers, grilled steaks, hearty comfort meals |
| Hooters | Ginza | American-style sports bar with multiple screens; shows MotoGP and other motorsports; fun, lively vibe; known for wings and beer | American pub classics: Buffalo wings, burgers, ribs; highlights include spicy buffalo wings, loaded burgers, nachos |
| Hub Pubs (Shinjuku/Shibuya branches) | Multiple locations (Shinjuku, Shibuya) | Chain of British-style pubs with big screens; shows major sports including MotoGP on request; affordable, casual vibe; expat hangout | British pub food: Fish & chips, burgers, pies; highlights include classic fish & chips and hearty pies |
Practical Tips for Watching MotoGP in Tokyo
- Check ahead: Bars post schedules on Facebook/Instagram. Message to confirm — most will show MotoGP.
- Atmosphere: Expat-heavy (Aussies/Brits), tourists, locals. Gets loud for Thailand GP, Mugello, Phillip Island — arrive early.
- Food & Drinks: Pub classics (burgers, wings, fish & chips), affordable beers (~¥600–900), happy hours common.
- Alternatives: Stream on FOD (Fuji TV OTT) or F1 TV Pro via phone/hotel TV (cast to smart TV).
- Location tip: Roppongi or Shibuya are the best hubs — easy subway access, lively nightlife.
MotoGP Broadcast in Japan (2026 Season)
MotoGP rights in Japan are held by Fuji TV (new deal starting 2026 through 2030), replacing DAZN.
- Live coverage on Fuji TV channels (Fuji TV Next Live Premium, Fuji TV Nextsmart) and the FOD streaming platform.
- F1 TV Pro/Premium is available in Japan (no geo-block) for full access (onboard cams, team radio, data, ~¥ 10,000–15,000/year).
- Sports bars in Tokyo use Fuji TV/FOD feeds, satellite, or international streaming to show every session live.
- They open early for European races (late night/early morning Japan time) or stay open late for Asian/Australian GPs.
2026 MotoGP Season Overview & Tokyo Viewing Times
- 22 races (starts March 1 in Thailand, ends November 22).
- Tokyo time (JST, UTC+9): 2 hours ahead of Thailand, 7 hours ahead of UK BST (summer), 8 hours ahead of CET (winter).
- Typical race start times in Tokyo:
- Thailand GP opener (March 1): afternoon – easy viewing
- European races (summer): late night/early morning (bars open from 6–8am)
- Australian GP (October): afternoon/evening – prime time
Enjoy the races!
Upcoming MotoGP races:
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