The race took place in bright sunshine on Sunday after a typhoon and torrential rains forced Saturday's qualifying to be postponed until the morning of the race for the first time in Formula One history.

Schumacher took it all in his stride, securing pole position before running away with his 83rd career win and sixth at Suzuka.

The all-conquering German, who had already clinched an unprecedented seventh world title in August, finished 14 seconds ahead of younger brother Ralf's Williams after slowing down at the end.

"Qualifying pre-determined the race I think," said Michael Schumacher.

"We had to be flat-out until the pit-stops but we have dominated all year and I didn't expect anything different here. We were superb."

Britain's Jenson Button finished third -- his 10th podium of 2004 -- for BAR in their 100th race since joining Formula One in 1999.

Japanese teammate Takuma Sato was fourth as BAR virtually secured second place in the constructor's standings ahead of Renault.

BAR have 116 points to 100 for Renault with just the Brazilian Grand Prix remaining.