If you’ve ever dreamed of sliding a car sideways through corners or feeling the rush of a police pursuit, this Tokyo drift experience might just be the highlight of your Japan trip. Offered by the Matenro & Co. Inc., this private lesson combines expert instruction with the excitement of a simulated police chase, all set on a professional circuit.
What makes this tour stand out? First, you get the chance to learn authentic drifting techniques from seasoned Japanese drivers who come from a long-standing OG drift team. Second, the addition of an actual police car pursuit simulation adds a level of fun and adrenaline that’s hard to find anywhere else.
However, this isn’t a passive experience—it’s hands-on, requiring you to actively drive and learn. For some, the $807 price tag might seem high, but considering the personalized coaching, the quality of the cars involved, and the unique police chase thrill, it offers significant value for car lovers or thrill-seekers.
This experience suits those who love cars, crave adrenaline, or want a once-in-a-lifetime behind-the-wheel skill boost—especially if you’re a beginner or intermediate driver eager to pick up the basics of drifting in a safe, controlled environment.
Key Points
- Authentic Japanese drift experience: Learn from a local OG drift team with deep roots in street and professional racing.
- Private instruction: Three hours of personalized coaching ensures you get tailored tips and feedback.
- Unique police chase simulation: End the session with the thrill of a simulated pursuit in a replica undercover police vehicle.
- Skill-building for all levels: Beginners learn donuts and figure 8s; intermediates advance with e-brakes and gear techniques.
- All about the cars: Drive a Nissan 350Z, Mazda MX-5 Miyata NB, Mazda RX-8, or Nissan 180SX depending on availability.
- Convenience and safety: Includes free pickup/drop-off, helmets, gloves, and multilingual staff for a smooth experience.
👉 Check out our guide to the 2 Best Craft Beer Tours And Tastings In Tokyo
Contents
- Key Points
- An In-Depth Look at the Experience
- The Setting and Location
- What the Tour Looks Like
- The Cars and Equipment
- The Police Chase Simulation
- What People Are Saying
- Practical Considerations
- The Booking Process
- Who Will Love This Experience?
- The Sum Up: Who Is This Experience Best For?
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in Tokyo
- More Workshops & Classes in Tokyo
- More Tour Reviews in Tokyo
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Tokyo we have recnetly reviewed
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Tokyo
The Setting and Location
Based in Tokyo, this Honshu-based drifting course is designed for travelers wanting a memorable, hands-on activity without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads. The professional circuit and dedicated drifting space ensure safety and control—crucial for those new to drifting or high-speed maneuvers.
What the Tour Looks Like
The experience kicks off with a private, 3-hour lesson led by seasoned instructors from the local OG drift team. What sets this apart is the personalized coaching in a private setting—no crowded group, just you and your instructor. You can expect a mix of classroom explanation and practical driving, with the instructor guiding you step-by-step.
For beginners, the initial focus is on mastering donuts—those circular spins that look easy but require finesse—and figure eights, which help you control your car’s balance and steering. Once you get comfortable, the instructors push you toward more advanced techniques, including using e-brakes and shifting gears to control slides better.
The Cars and Equipment
You’ll be behind the wheel of a Nissan 350Z, Mazda MX-5 Miyata NB, Mazda RX-8, or Nissan 180SX. The vehicle choice varies, but all are well-suited for drifting practice. Expect a safety helmet and gloves for protection and comfort, standard in professional driving courses.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Police Chase Simulation
The highlight for many is the police pursuit in a replica undercover police vehicle. This is not a real chase but a simulated experience designed to give you a sense of what it’s like to drift in a pursuit. It adds a layer of excitement that makes the whole session feel like a scene straight out of a Hollywood movie.
What People Are Saying
Multiple reviews praise the knowledge and professionalism of the instructors. Jesse called the experience “well organized and amazing,” while Mike described it as “one of the most amazing experiences” he’s ever had, highlighting how much he learned and enjoyed the hands-on approach.
Another reviewer, Kevin, appreciated the excitement and informative nature of the lesson, noting that the instructors are true professionals. Rob’s comment about making a 16-year-old from California happy shows this experience’s broad appeal—whether for young drivers or seasoned car enthusiasts.
Practical Considerations
The price of $807 per person might seem steep, but it includes a completely private lesson, practice time, use of high-quality cars, and the police chase simulation. Plus, free pickup and drop-off add convenience, especially if you’re staying in Tokyo city.
Participants are advised to wear long-sleeve shirts, long pants, and sneakers—no sandals—to ensure safety and comfort during driving.
The Booking Process
Designed for flexibility, you can reserve now and pay later, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes planning easy, especially if your schedule might shift.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is perfect for car enthusiasts or anyone curious about drifting but unsure where to start. It offers a safe, controlled environment to try something normally reserved for professional racers or stunt drivers.
Beginners will appreciate the clear, step-by-step coaching, while intermediate drivers can push their skills further. If you’re a lover of fast cars, adrenaline, or just want a unique story to tell, this experience will meet and exceed your expectations.
It’s also a fantastic gift for someone who dreams of racing or has a passion for Japanese car culture. Whether you’re visiting Tokyo or just want an unparalleled activity that combines learning, fun, and adrenaline, this drifiting adventure checks many boxes.
The Sum Up: Who Is This Experience Best For?
This Japanese drifting experience offers rare access to authentic techniques, delivered by experienced locals. While it is a bit of an investment, the personalized coaching, high-quality cars, and police chase simulation make it a value-packed thrill—a memorable highlight for car lovers and thrill-seekers alike. It’s especially suited for those wanting to learn drifting basics in a safe environment, and for travelers eager for a hands-on activity that stands apart from typical sightseeing.
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, a learning opportunity, or a cultural peek into Japan’s legendary drift scene, this tour could be your ticket. Just be ready to get your hands dirty (or at least sweaty) and enjoy every slide, spin, and simulated pursuit.
Tokyo Drift Lesson w/ Pro Teacher & Police Chase Experience
“Incredible experience! The whole team taught us how to drift, and even picked us up from our hotel. Recommended to everyone!”
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the experience is designed for beginners and intermediate drivers. Instructors will teach you basic donuts and figure eights, building your confidence before moving to more advanced techniques.
What cars will I drive?
You might drive a Nissan 350Z, Mazda MX-5 Miyata NB, Mazda RX-8, or Nissan 180SX. The specific vehicle varies depending on the day, but all are capable drift cars.
Are there any age or driver license requirements?
The tour description doesn’t specify age or licensing requirements, but given the nature of the activity, you should be comfortable driving and meet basic safety standards.
How long is the total experience?
The lesson lasts 3 hours. This includes private coaching, practice, and the police chase simulation.
What should I wear?
Long-sleeve shirts, long pants, and sneakers are recommended. No sandals or open-toed shoes.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel planning.
Overall, this Tokyo drift lesson is a must-try for car aficionados and adrenaline junkies. It’s an authentic, professionally guided experience that leaves you with new skills, unforgettable memories, and stories of a simulated police chase. Whether you’re a total rookie or an experienced driver, you’ll find value, excitement, and a genuine taste of Japanese drift culture here.
You can check availability for your dates here:
