Cars & Motorcycles

The Japanese car scene is growing more popular every year, and the best place to enjoy it is where it all began. Here are your connections for information about the scene and where to enjoy it when you're there.

Based in California, Japanese Nostalgic Car is the probably the best-known English-language website covering the classic car scene - both in America and Japan.

Dreaming about those unobtainable Japanese custom parts you see on Hai-Oku, JNC, or Speedhunters? Stop dreaming and obtain them! Suruga Performance exports!

Want to ride in Japan? The guys on the Gaijin Riders Forum can answer any question you can think up. From where to rent, to the latest speed traps , to where you can find the best burger in Japan.

Act out Mario Kart in real life on the streets of Akihabara! AkibaCart rents out go-karts that you can drive on the streets of Tokyo. You have to see it to believe it! Rates start at ¥2,700 for an hour, and ¥3,800 for two hours.

Renting a motorcycle in Tokyo is super easy thanks to Japan Bike Rentals. The all-English-speaking staff (hey, they're gaijin) have a nice selection of bikes, gear, and even English GPS units for rent. They're located in Minato-ku, a short walk from Akasaka Station. Take exit 7, turn right (south) at the top of the stairs, right at the next street, then they're on the left.

Miminum rental is 48 hours, and you should book well in advance. Especially if wanting to rent on a weekend or for a long tour.

Drive your Japanese dream car - modern or classic - around the scenic roads of Hakone with Mt. Fuji in the background. Sounds like a dream, right? Well your dream can come true at fun2drive! Just contact Yokoyamaさん and he will be happy to put you in your dream car and recommend scenic local roads.

Be sure to get your AAA International Driving Permit first!

Links to the cars currently available (Japanese market name in parenthesis):
Honda: Beat, NSX, or S2000 AP1
Mazda: Miata (Eunos), RX-7 (FD3S)
Nissan: "Hakosuka" Skyline GT-R, "R32" Skyline GT-R, "R35" GT-R
Toyota: Corolla (AE86 Levin), 86