I often get asked by people visiting Japan – what are the must see events when planning a trip to Japan? Of course, that list usually includes the likes of Tokyo Auto Salon and the numerous underground car meetings, but there’s one event that I always make sure to include: DoriDore.
DoriDore – or roughly ‘drift dress up’ in English – is a far cry from a Formula Drift round, or local drift day; it’s more of a celebration of low car style drifting. Throw any rules and regulations you may know about drifting in the bin, as DoriDore is all about style and chaos.
Held in the mountains of Gifu, Okuibuiki Ski Resort has one of the most scenic venues in the country for a drift event. Coupled with a tough style course running through its lower half, Okuibuki is the perfect setting for a day of automotive carnage. Ironically, one of my favourite parts of DoriDore to shoot is the paddock. Sat at the highest point of Okuibuki, the ‘pits’ are a kaleidoscope of the nicest drift cars you’ll ever see.
There’s no bad angle up here, particularly as the morning light gleams in over the mountains. DoriDore has quickly become the international standard for style in drifting.
Just 5 years ago the event could’ve been considered underground, with predominantly Japanese locals making their way to both spectate and drive. But as popularity around both drifting and JDM culture has thrived, DoriDore has ridden the wave of stardom; this year’s event was packed with tourists and international visitors.
Much like the rules for drivers, there is a similarly relaxed approach for the media. Once approved, there are few locations out of bounds for shooting. Most choose to stand right in the middle of it all; a sensory overload in every way possible.
As DoriDore grows internationally, guests – such as this year’s Mad Mike – have joined the chaos. Mike chose to bring out his iconic three-rotor RX3 Wagon, as well as his son in his four-rotor ND MX-5. Right on their door was Naoki Nakumura in his LS-powered D1-spec S13 Silvia.
While all the madness unfolds on the skid pad up top, the lower touge course is opened up twice a day. Much like Gunsai Touge, one of Japan’s most famous legal mountain courses, media rules are relaxed, this means maximum course side action, no barriers, no safety, just me, my camera, and a whole lot of trust.
DoriDore will forever be my must-attend Japanese drift event. There’s no other event in the calendar that shares the same mix of cars and chaos.
As DoriDore becomes more popular, I look forward to seeing what the continued success brings to the quiet mountains of Shiga.
Sooo cool, I really want to go next summer. I originally saw Mad Mike’s video on the event, but this article shows off the culture so well; thanks Alec.
It’s exciting that this is the type of content TP is starting off with. Now I can’t wait for what’s next, looking forward to what you and Dino will show the world!