Tokyo: Drift Experience at Ebisu Circuit (From Tokyo)

If you’re a car enthusiast or simply someone craving high-speed adrenaline, the Tokyo Drift Experience at Ebisu Circuit offers a rare chance to get up close and personal with Japan’s legendary drifting scene. This all-day adventure takes you from Tokyo to Fukushima’s iconic track, where you’ll ride shotgun with professional drivers in a Nissan Silvia S15 powered by 300hp. It’s a curated, adrenaline-pumping day that promises genuine excitement, safety, and the chance to see why drifting is such a revered motorsport in Japan.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are three things: the professional drivers’ skill and charisma, the historic Ebisu Circuit’s challenging layout, and the opportunity to sit in one of Japan’s most iconic drift cars. The long travel time (around 3.5 hours each way) might seem daunting at first, but it’s part of the adventure—giving you a glimpse into Japan’s scenic Kanto and Fukushima regions. A potential downside is that cars can only run for 10 minutes at a time, requiring patience during cooldowns. Still, this experience is best suited for those who really want to indulge in authentic drifting and aren’t overly concerned about a full day away from Tokyo city life.

This tour is ideal for car lovers, thrill seekers, and anyone wanting a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. If you’re comfortable with a full-day outing and appreciate professional-level driving action, you’ll find this experience both valuable and exhilarating.

Key Points

• Authentic Professional Experience: Ride with seasoned drift drivers currently competing in Japan’s top drift series.
• Iconic Location: Drift on the renowned Ebisu Circuit, known worldwide for its demanding turns and superb facilities.
• Full-Day Adventure: Expect a packed day with hotel pickup, travel, and multiple drifting sessions.
• Safety and Comfort: Top-quality gear and safety briefings are provided.
• Exclusive Car: Experience drifting in a Nissan Silvia S15 with 300hp—a true icon of the sport.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 5 participants) ensure personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Drift Experience

Getting There: From Tokyo to Ebisu Circuit

The journey from Tokyo is approximately 3.5 hours each way, with a quick stop at the highway for a break. While this might seem long, it’s part of the adventure, giving you a scenic preview of Japan’s countryside and a chance to relax before the high-octane fun begins. The pickup from your Tokyo hotel is included, making logistics straightforward and stress-free.

The Drive and Logistics

Once at Ebisu Circuit, you’ll find the atmosphere buzzing with anticipation. The experience is carefully scheduled to ensure all logistics are in place—this means that if you book today, your session will be in about three days, allowing time for preparations. Each drift session lasts around 10 minutes, which might seem short but is perfectly timed to keep the cars cool and in top condition. The required cooling time (20 minutes) is built into the schedule, so you get a well-paced day without feeling rushed.

The Nissan Silvia S15: A Legend on Wheels

The Nissan Silvia S15, with its 300hp engine, is a highlight of this tour. This particular model is a favorite among drift fans due to its lightweight and balance, making it ideal for controlled slides and high-speed maneuvers. Sitting in this car, you’ll feel the power and precision that professional drivers harness during their runs, an experience not easily available elsewhere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Riding Alongside Pros

Your main highlight will be riding shotgun with professional drift drivers, many of whom are current competitors in Formula Drift Japan. As one reviewer states, “The drivers are not only skilled but also friendly, explaining what they’re doing as they slide through the corners.” This personalized insight adds a layer of understanding to the sport, making the adrenaline rush even more engaging.

Safety First

Safety gear is provided, and thorough safety briefings ensure everyone understands how to enjoy the experience securely. Because drift cars can only run for 10 minutes at a time, there are scheduled breaks—this keeps everyone safe and the cars in optimal condition. The focus on safety makes it accessible for most participants, even those new to motorsports.

Additional Participants and Family

If you’re traveling with family or friends who prefer to watch rather than participate, it’s possible to bring them along. You’ll need to email the provider for availability, but this makes for a fun, shared experience. Keep in mind that the experience is not suitable for very young children under 5 or elderly participants over 70, mainly due to the length of travel and safety considerations.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Round-trip transportation from Tokyo to Ebisu Circuit
• A passenger ride in a Nissan Silvia S15 with 300hp
• Professional drift drivers with racing experience
• Safety gear and briefings

Not Included:

• Food and beverages, so plan to bring cash for snacks or meals during the day.

The pricing of $2,387 per group (up to 2 people) reflects a premium experience, but it’s well-justified by the exclusivity, professional quality, and adrenaline rush. Compared to other motor experiences, this offers a rare chance to see Japan’s drift scene firsthand in a hands-on, authentic way.

The Experience Provider: Top Garage Drift

The provider, Top Garage Drift, has a solid reputation based on reviews and detailed logistical planning. Participants highlight the professionalism of the guides and the smooth organization, which are crucial for such a long-distance, day-long trip.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This experience is perfect for car enthusiasts, adrenaline junkies, and those interested in Japanese motorsports. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an active, engaging day outside Tokyo, and are comfortable with a bit of travel to reach the circuit. Because of the small group setting, you’ll get personalized attention, making it a good choice for those who value quality over quantity.

The Sum Up

The Tokyo Drift Experience at Ebisu Circuit offers a rare, authentic glimpse into Japan’s world-famous drifting culture. You’ll enjoy riding shotgun with some of the best drivers in the sport, all while soaking in the scenic drive from Tokyo to Fukushima. The use of a legendary Nissan Silvia S15, combined with safety and professionalism, makes this a memorable and valuable experience for those willing to dedicate a full day.

While it’s a bit of a journey, the thrill, the scenery, and the chance to see Japan’s elite drift scene in action make it well worth the effort. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or just curious about drifting, this experience delivers genuine excitement and unforgettable memories.

FAQ

How long is the trip from Tokyo to Ebisu Circuit?
The journey takes about 3.5 hours each way, with a quick highway stop included. It’s a good idea to prepare for a long day of travel, but the scenic views and anticipation make it part of the adventure.

What’s included in the price?
Your package covers round-trip transportation, a passenger ride in a Nissan Silvia S15, professional drivers, safety gear, and safety briefings.

Can I bring family or friends along?
Yes, if they prefer to watch or be part of the trip without drifting. You’ll need to email for availability, but they can join you for the drive and sightseeing.

How many participants are in each group?
Groups are limited to 5 participants, ensuring a personalized experience and plenty of time with the professional drivers.

Is the experience suitable for beginners?
The focus is on riding in a professional drift car, so no previous experience is necessary. The safety measures and briefings make it accessible to most participants.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for food and souvenirs, as these are not included. Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared for a full day outdoors.

How many drift sessions will I get?
You’ll enjoy approximately 10-minute drift rides, with scheduled cool-downs of around 20 minutes to ensure safety and car maintenance.

What is the best time of year to do this?
While the tour operates by availability, Japan’s mild seasons—spring and autumn—offer the best weather for such excursions, avoiding the extremes of summer heat or winter cold.

This thorough, balanced review aims to give you everything needed to decide if this Japanese drifting adventure is right for you. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, building a unique travel story, or simply love cars, this experience offers a genuine taste of Japan’s high-speed culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: