FYI: Turn your JDM dreams into reality as you navigate Japan’s iconic mountain roads with Fun2Drive.
A Summer Adventure in Japanese Car Culture
Imagine a serene summer afternoon in Japan, where a convoy of Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) legends cool off after an exhilarating ride through twisty mountain passes. It sounds like a dream, but for car enthusiasts, this scenario is a vivid reality courtesy of Fun2Drive.
Unmissable Experience for Car Enthusiasts
Located near Hakone and Mount Fuji, Fun2Drive offers a unique opportunity for car lovers to drive JDM icons on some of Japan’s most storied roads. For many, like myself, this experience tops the bucket list.
The Ultimate Hakone Tour
Opting for the "Ultimate Hakone Tour," I embarked on a five-hour guided journey from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., cruising through legendary routes such as Hakone Skyline, Tsubaki Line, Lake Ashinoko Skyline, and the famed Hakone Turnpike. These roads are synonymous with the golden age of Japanese performance tuning, immortalized in media like Initial D.
A Dream Come True
Spending a day with Fun2Drive was an absolute highlight of my two-week trip to Japan. As the first thing I booked, anticipation ran high. The experience started with a safety briefing highlighting potential hazards, reassuring us with Fun2Drive’s emphasis on safety given the increasing value of these iconic cars.
Behind the Wheel of an Impreza
As a rally enthusiast, I reserved a 2000 Subaru Impreza Type R STI Version 6 Limited in iconic Sonic Blue Mica. Hearing the boxer engine roar reaffirmed my choice. Driving through Japan’s winding roads was a thrilling mix of new experiences and nostalgic reminisces.
Convoy of Legends
Starting at the back of the convoy, I got used to the car’s handling and adjusted to Japan’s driving norms. The convoy, including a Nissan R35 GT-R and a Datsun Fairlady Z, was a sight to behold. Whether it was the whisper-quiet tree-lined roads or bustling Japanese streets, the drive was pure joy.
A JDM Fantasy World
Parked alongside were other legends like an AE86 Toyota Trueno, a Porsche 911 Turbo, a Honda NSX, and a wide-body Mazda RX-7. The selection offered at Fun2Drive is unbeatable—from replica Nissan GT-Rs to the latest A90 Toyota Supras.
Spirited Driving and Relaxed Interludes
Balancing spirited driving with relaxed cruising, the Subaru’s agility made the twisty roads a delight. With its turbocharged 2.0L engine and impressive Dunlop Direzza tires, even the most demanding roads were tackled effortlessly.
Lunch and Conversations
After a lunch break adorned with automotive memorabilia, we resumed our tour. This allowed not just the cars to cool off from the June heat but also provided time for enriching conversations.
Magical Moments
Driving through Hakone, the scenes were picturesque. The iconic blue lights of the Subaru reflecting in shop windows were mesmerizing, creating unforgettable memories.
Conclusion
Returning to Fun2Drive HQ after an unforgettable day, I had mixed feelings. The exhilaration of driving such an incredible car was juxtaposed with the reality that these JDM icons are becoming less accessible. However, Fun2Drive exists to bridge that gap, making dreams come true for automotive enthusiasts.
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi or follow us on Twitter @automotivefyi.
Donald Smith
Editor of Automotive.fyi
