How to Legally Drive a Nissan Gt-R on Tokyo Streets

If you've ever wanted to live out your Tokyo Drift fantasies, you're in luck. Tokyo is one of the few places in the world where the car culture you see in movies is still very much alive on the streets where it started .

Take the wheel on a guided tour

Navigating Tokyo's busy roads can be tricky, so guided driving tours are a great way to see the sights. Companies like Ichioku Tours let you get behind the wheel of legendary cars, like a Nissan GT-R, and drive past famous spots like Shibuya Crossing and the Rainbow Bridge . These tours usually cover your fuel, tolls, and insurance, but don't forget that you must have a valid International Driving Permit to drive .

Explore the legendary car meets

Tokyo's car scene is famous for its late-night gatherings at highway parking areas. The most iconic spot is the Daikoku Parking Area in Yokohama. This is where car lovers hang out to show off everything from classic cars to heavily modified builds . Keep in mind that these aren't official events—they are just local hangouts. If you visit, be respectful of the car owners and remember that you are a guest in their space .

Visit free brand showrooms

If you want a more relaxed experience, check out the city's brand showrooms. Many are free and open to the public, such as the Nissan Crossing in Ginza or the Honda Welcome Plaza in Aoyama . These showrooms often feature cool concept cars and historical models, making them a great place to stop by while you're exploring the city .

Don't miss the tuning shops

For a deeper look into the scene, you can visit some famous tuning workshops. Just remember that most of these are active, working garages, not tourist attractions, so it is best to contact them before you show up . If you want a guaranteed spot to visit, the Liberty Walk Tokyo showroom is a great choice; it's designed specifically for fans to come in and check out their famous custom builds .