Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton returned to dominant form on Sunday, winning the Japanese Grand Prix to move a step closer to claiming his second straight Formula One title.

Hamilton, who was forced to retire at last weekend's Singapore GP, capitalized on a strong start and surged ahead of teammate Nico Rosberg at the first corner. He led the rest of the way, crossing the finish line a comfortable 18.9 seconds ahead of Rosberg. Ferrari driver Sebastian Vettel was third, 1.8 seconds behind Rosberg, who started from pole.

With five races left, Hamilton has a 48-point lead over Rosberg.

Hamilton claimed his eighth win of the season. It was his 41st career win, tying him with his childhood hero Ayrton Senna.

"I'm not a teary guy, but I'm full of joy and happiness today," Hamilton said.

Rosberg and Hamilton went through the first two bends side by side. Hamilton appeared to give Rosberg little room at the second turn, forcing the German partially off the track.

"The inside line is the inside line, so it was my corner," Hamilton said.