If you’ve ever dreamed of drifting like a pro or feeling the adrenaline of a police pursuit, this Tokyo-based experience promises to give you a taste of motorsport culture straight from Japan’s heart. With a stellar 4.9 out of 5 rating based on twenty reviews, this private, hands-on lesson offers not just thrills but genuine instruction from seasoned OG drift drivers. It’s for car enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, or anyone curious about mastering the art of drifting in a safe, controlled environment.
What makes this experience stand out? First, you get professional, private coaching from Japanese drift veterans who know their stuff inside out. Second, the chance to drive real JDM cars like the Nissan 350Z or Mazda MX-5 makes this more than just a demo; it’s a hands-on opportunity. Third, the police chase replica adds a fun, adrenaline-pumping twist that’s hard to find elsewhere. The only caveat? It’s a somewhat pricey experience at $807 per person, so it’s best suited for those who value authentic, expert-led car adventures and are willing to invest in a memorable, hands-on motorsport experience.
If you love cars, enjoy learning new skills, or crave a once-in-a-lifetime thrill, this experience could be perfect. But it’s equally suitable for those who want to understand the mechanics behind drifting or are simply looking for an unforgettable Tokyo activity.
- Key Points
- An Authentic Japanese Drift Lesson in Tokyo
- The Police Chase Experience: A Fun Contrast
- The Cars and the Learning Curve
- What’s Included and What to Prepare
- Practical Details and Logistics
- Authenticity and Unique Elements
- Who Should Try This Experience?
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Key Points

- Authentic Japanese drift experience: Led by seasoned OG drift drivers from Tokyo.
- Private, personalized instruction: Three hours with professional teachers who guide you step-by-step.
- Hands-on driving: You get to actually drive a JDM drift car, with safety gear included.
- Extra adrenaline: Experience a simulated police car pursuit in a replica undercover vehicle.
- Skill progression: Beginners learn donuts and figure 8s, while intermediates refine techniques using e-brakes and gear changes.
- Flexible and convenient: Free pickup and drop-off, with options to reserve and pay later.
An Authentic Japanese Drift Lesson in Tokyo

This experience is delivered by Matenro & Co., a well-regarded OG drift team from Tokyo with decades of experience. Their reputation among reviewers is stellar—most mention how knowledgeable and friendly the instructors are. You won’t just be riding along; you’ll be learning proper drifting techniques, making this a genuinely educational experience, not just a thrill ride.
What to expect:
You’ll start with a brief safety overview and get fitted with helmets and gloves. Depending on your skill level, the instructor will tailor the lesson to suit your pace—beginners will master donuts and figure eights, while intermediate drivers learn to manipulate e-brakes and shift gears more precisely. The cars on offer include models like the Nissan 350Z, Mazda MX-5 Miyata NB, Mazda RX-8, or Nissan 180SX. Vehicle availability can vary, but all are iconic JDM machines perfect for drifting.
The driving session:
The three-hour private session ensures plenty of practice time. Reviewers like Jesse and Mike emphasized how well-organized the whole process was, with instructors guiding every step. Mike, who’s a car enthusiast, highlighted how he learned so much during his lesson, even joking about making his instructor laugh with his drifting attempts. The focus is on mastery, so you’ll leave not just with adrenaline but also with solid skills.
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The Police Chase Experience: A Fun Contrast

One of the most unique features is the replay of an actual police pursuit with a replica undercover car. After your drifting instruction, you’ll get a feel for what it’s like to be chased or chasing in a real police vehicle. Many reviews mention how exciting and immersive this added element is—an adrenaline rush wrapped in a safe, controlled environment.
The replica police car is designed to give you the sensation of high-speed pursuits, but safety is always a priority. The staff ensures you’re comfortable and understands the limits, making it perfect for thrill-seekers and car lovers alike.
The Cars and the Learning Curve

The selection of vehicles—ranging from the Nissan 350Z to Mazda MX-5—are all tuned for drifting, giving you authentic handling experiences. Reviewers appreciated how owning the wheel for three hours felt like an actual racing practice rather than a casual ride.
You’ll learn the basics if you’re a beginner, like how to control your car through donuts or the figure-eight, which are foundational for more advanced drifting. For those with intermediate skills, instructors will introduce techniques involving e-brakes and gear changes, helping you refine your style and confidence.
Rob’s review captures this well: “You made a 16-year-old kid from California one happy kid”—highlighting how accessible and fun the instruction is, even for newcomers.
What’s Included and What to Prepare

The package includes everything you need for a safe, professional session—drift-driving lessons with expert teachers, helmets, gloves, and free transportation to and from the circuit.
You should bring:
- Long sleeve shirts and long pants for safety and comfort.
- Sneakers (no sandals or open-toed shoes).
Price point:
At $807 per person, this experience is an investment in both learning and adrenaline. Many reviewers feel the skill level and authenticity justify the cost, especially given the private nature of the lesson, the quality of the cars, and the chance to learn from true Japanese drift pros.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Logistics
The tour is based in Honshu, Japan, and is entirely private, making it a personalized experience. You’ll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel or designated location, which adds convenience. Since you can reserve now and pay later, it’s flexible for those with unpredictable schedules or who want to secure their spot early.
The activity lasts three hours—ample time for instruction, practice, and the police chase. The experience is offered in both English and Japanese, with fluent translation available, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference.
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Authenticity and Unique Elements

This isn’t just a commercialized thrill ride—it’s led by local OG drift drivers who bring a wealth of street and professional racing experience. Several reviewers highlight how genuine the teaching felt, with Jesse mentioning how “well organized and amazing the teachers” were, and Kevin emphasizing the professionalism of the instructors.
The police chase element is a standout feature, giving you a taste of Japan’s real car culture and adding an extra layer of excitement. Many guests have said that this part alone makes the experience memorable and completely different from typical drifting lessons.
Who Should Try This Experience?

This tour suits a range of travelers:
- Car enthusiasts eager to learn from seasoned Japanese drivers.
- Beginners who want to start with the basics of drifting in a safe environment.
- Intermediate drivers looking to refine their skills with professional guidance.
- Adrenaline junkies eager for the police chase simulation.
- Fans of Japanese car culture wanting an authentic, behind-the-scenes experience.
However, those on a tight budget or with less interest in motorsport might find the price steep for only a few hours of activity. It’s also worth noting that safety gear and attire requirements are straightforward but should be adhered to for comfort and safety.
Final Thoughts
This Tokyo Drift Lesson with a Police Chase Experience offers an unbeatable combo of learning, fun, and adrenaline in Japan’s vibrant car scene. With expert instructors guiding you through fundamental and advanced techniques, you’ll leave with practical skills and unforgettable memories. The police chase simulation adds a Hollywood touch, making it appealing beyond just car nuts.
The experience’s high ratings underscore how well it delivers on authenticity and professionalism. Although the price might seem high, many find the combination of personalized instruction, quality cars, and culture worth every penny.
It’s ideal for anyone eager to experience Japanese drifting firsthand or wanting a fun, action-packed day in Tokyo that stands apart from typical sightseeing tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, beginners will learn basic skills like donuts and figure eights, with instructors tailoring the lesson to your comfort level.
How long does the activity last?
The private lesson and police chase experience run for a total of three hours, providing ample practice and fun.
Are safety helmets and gloves provided?
Yes, these safety gear items are included in the package.
Can I reserve my spot now and pay later?
Absolutely—booking allows you to reserve your place with the option to pay closer to the date.
What cars are available for driving?
You might drive models like the Nissan 350Z, Mazda MX-5 Miyata NB, Mazda RX-8, or Nissan 180SX, depending on availability.
Is transportation included?
Yes, you will enjoy free pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy.
Is there an age or experience limit?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but the focus is on beginner to intermediate drivers; safety guidelines will apply.
What languages are available?
Lessons are conducted in English and Japanese, with fluent translators on site.
What should I wear?
Long sleeve shirts, long pants, and sneakers are recommended for safety and comfort.
What is the cost, and does it offer good value?
At $807, it’s an investment, but many reviewers believe the quality, authenticity, and fun justify the price—especially with private instruction and unique features like the police chase.
This experience offers a rare chance to learn Japanese drifting techniques directly from the pros, paired with the thrill of a police pursuit simulation. Perfect for car lovers, adrenaline chasers, or anyone wanting a unique Tokyo adventure, it promises not only skills but unforgettable memories.
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