After an unforgettable weekend at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025, Monday morning was all about experiencing drifting at its purest—grassroots style at Nikko Circuit. Located just a couple of hours outside of Tokyo, Nikko Circuit is a legendary track in Japan’s drift culture, known for its tight corners, fast transitions, and deep history within the scene.

For decades, Japan has been the heart of drifting, from the mountain touge runs to iconic circuits like Nikko, Ebisu, and Tsukuba. Unlike the polished show builds at TAS, grassroots drifting is raw, unpredictable, and all about the driving. Nikko Circuit has been a proving ground for countless drifters, from weekend warriors to seasoned pros. The track itself is compact but challenging—quick entries, technical turns, and just enough elevation changes to keep drivers on their toes.

As we arrived at the circuit, the smell of burning rubber and the sound of revving engines filled the crisp morning air. A mix of cars lined the pits—classic AE86s, well-loved S-chassis, battle-scarred JZXs, and a few modern builds pushing the limits. There were no big sponsors, no corporate banners—just a group of passionate drivers sending it for the love of the sport.

One of the highlights of the day was having our content contributor, Agus Agun, on-site capturing the action. His eye for detail and ability to freeze the most intense moments brought the energy of Nikko Circuit to life through his lens. From the smoke trails of aggressive entries to the close tandems brushing fenders, Agus documented the raw essence of grassroots drifting in Japan. His shots didn’t just capture cars in motion—they told the story of the drivers, their passion, and the culture that makes Nikko Circuit so special.

Watching the drivers throw their cars into corners with precision and style was mesmerizing. You could see the differences in technique, from the smooth, calculated lines of experienced drivers to the aggressive, all-in approach of newcomers trying to find their flow. There were moments of perfection—clean tandem runs where two or three cars moved in sync like a dance. Then there were the occasional spinouts, minor bumps, and drivers jumping out to make quick fixes before heading back out.

It was a reminder that drifting, at its core, is about passion, progression, and community. Everyone in the pits was helping each other, sharing tools, and giving advice. It wasn’t about who had the cleanest car or the most expensive setup—it was about driving and improving.

Experiencing grassroots drifting at Nikko Circuit after Tokyo Auto Salon was the perfect contrast—TAS showcased the peak of car culture, while Nikko reminded us of the soul behind it. Whether it’s a fully built show car or a beat-up missile, at the end of the day, it all comes down to the love of driving.

Stay tuned for more as we continue our Japan journey!

Photos: Agus Agun