By Flipside Japan

In this adrenaline-fueled video, Flipside Japan dives deep into the underground car culture of Japan—specifically the thrilling world of street drifting. Shot entirely in Japan, the video captures late-night scenes of drift cars tearing up secluded roads, showcasing the raw passion and daring skill that has made Japanese drifting world-renowned. The filmmaker, a long-term resident of Japan since 2015, offers a genuine insider look into the unique automobile subculture that thrives beyond the public eye.

The video likely takes place in the mountainous or industrial outskirts of urban areas —classic locations for street drifting in Japan such as the mountainous touge roads around Gunma or industrial zones in Chiba and Kanagawa prefectures. In Japan, drifting isn't just a hobby; it's a lifestyle. The footage displays stunningly customized cars, screeching tires, and hairpin turns that mirror scenes out of movies like Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, giving a cinematic quality to what's actually real-life late-night motoring.

While street drifting is technically illegal on public roads in Japan, the culture surrounding it is rich and deep-rooted, going back decades to the rise of underground racing crews in the 1980s and 1990s. What makes this look into Japanese drifting culture even more significant is the filmmaker’s perspective as a longtime resident. The familiarity with the environment lends credibility and intimacy to the portrayal, offering more than just flashy cars—it’s a window into authentic street culture.

Street drifting in Japan has inspired generations of car enthusiasts worldwide. This video pays homage to those roots, and offers viewers a glimpse of a subculture that requires both precision driving and an unwavering love for the car community. Whether you're a JDM fan, automotive enthusiast, or simply curious about subcultures in Japan, this video is a gripping ride worth experiencing.