Tokyo at night is electric, but driving a 600 HP Nissan GTR R35 twin-turbo V6 through it is something else. At the end of October, I got to experience a night out that felt like a scene straight out of Tokyo Drift. This wasn’t just a drive; it was a dream come true. The tour that evening was arranged into two groups—eight cars in total—a mix of GTRs, Skylines, and a Porsche.
English- and German-speaking guides drove the lead cars, making everything smooth and enjoyable. My group consisted of just two cars: a car enthusiast couple from Italy in a beautiful Nissan Skyline in mint condition and myself in the GTR, plus our friendly German guide leading the way in another GTR. The second group consisted of mostly Liberty-Walk-tuned Nissans and a Porsche driven by a tourist group from Asia hosted by an English speaking guide.
The evening started with a quick rundown of the car and the route. The GTR roared to life, already providing a feeling you only get when you know you’re about to do something unforgettable. At first the lead car guided us through Tokyo’s streets, a first photo opportunity stop at the iconic Shibuya Crossing. Tourists there became excited at the sight of our cars and here, as well as later at Tokyo Tower, had fun taking photos of the vehicles, poking us with questions that made us feel like movie stars. From the driver’s seat, the city lights, bustling crowds, and the symphony of sounds felt like pure adrenaline. Then with the tour commencing came the Rainbow Bridge. Tokyo Bay stretched out on both sides, following the highway the city’s skyline gleamed like a futuristic painting. The GTR surged forward effortlessly, the engine's hum and smooth acceleration made me grin from ear to ear. It was the kind of drive that reminded me why I love cars.
At another stop at Autobacs Shinonome, a haven for car enthusiasts, I grabbed some Initial D, Wangan Midnight, and MF-Ghost merchandise, as well as a Tomika miniature of the GTR — a lovely memento of the night that found a place at my desk at home. But the real highlight was still to come: Daikoku Parking Area in Yokohama.
After a fun ride on the highway toward Yokohama, pulling into the Daikoku Parking Area felt like stepping into a car lover's paradise. Even under the week, there is always a decent crowd in the evening. Our group parked among a fantastic lineup of tuned and stock sports cars, the GTR holding its own effortlessly. I took plenty of photos and videos to capture the magic. It's easy to mingle with the crowd of car owners and tourists, the atmosphere is friendly, and geeking out on cars and culture is fun and welcome. The area also offers drinks and snacks at several restaurants and convenience stores. Driving back into Tokyo's Night Skyline, the city’s lights were dancing across the hood close to midnight, as you don't want this approx. 4-hour journey to end.
If you are into cars and have the time for a tour, take it. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after.
It's also possible to enjoy the fun without driving yourself,as you can also book the tour as a passenger.
