Daikoku PA: Tokyo's Legendary Car Meet Spot

Daikoku Parking Area is a legendary expressway parking lot in Yokohama that became world-famous as a meeting place for Japanese car enthusiasts. It’s not a traditional tourist attraction but an authentic gathering spot where people show tuned cars, supercars and rare JDM models. The atmosphere is electric, especially on weekend nights, with an incredible density of iconic Japanese cars. The area can be very crowded and is sometimes closed because of police intervention, but for car fans it’s a pilgrimage spot and one of Japan’s most unique automotive experiences. Note that it’s reachable only by car, and it may be closed on weekend nights.

Opening hours24/7 (but often closed Friday-Saturday nights 9PM-2AM due to overcrowding)

Entry feeFree (highway toll required to access)

Phone+230-0054

Address15 Daikokufuto, Tsurumi Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0054, Japan

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Overview

Daikoku Parking Area is a highway rest stop on the Shuto Expressway that has achieved legendary status among car enthusiasts worldwide. What makes it unique is its transformation from a simple rest area into an unofficial gathering spot for Japan's most dedicated car enthusiasts, who showcase their meticulously tuned vehicles, rare JDM models, and exotic supercars.

Visitor Experience

The atmosphere at Daikoku PA is electric and authentic. Visitors describe it as a pilgrimage site for car lovers, with an incredible variety of vehicles ranging from classic Japanese models to extreme custom builds. The parking area becomes particularly lively on weekend evenings when enthusiasts gather to share their passion. Many visitors book tours through companies like Klook or Airbnb Experiences to visit safely, as the area can be intimidating for first-timers.

Practical Considerations

The parking area is only accessible by car via the Shuto Expressway Bayshore Route. It's located under a circular bridge with a unique entrance design. The facility includes restrooms, a convenience store selling Yokohama souvenirs and Initial D merchandise, a food court with ramen and other Japanese dishes, and a Tully's Coffee on the second floor. However, visitors should be aware that the area frequently closes on Friday and Saturday nights (9 PM-2 AM) due to overcrowding and police intervention.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Unparalleled access to authentic Japanese car culture, incredible variety of rare and tuned vehicles, friendly atmosphere among enthusiasts, unique photo opportunities, free entry.

Cons: Only accessible by car, often extremely crowded, sometimes closed due to police activity, noisy environment, some visitors report tourists taking photos without permission, can be intimidating for non-enthusiasts.

Tips for Visitors

Visit on weekday evenings for a less crowded experience. Arrive before 7 PM to avoid closures. Book a guided tour if you're unfamiliar with the area. Be respectful of car owners and ask permission before photographing vehicles. Check electronic signs on the expressway for closure announcements. Don't lean on or touch vehicles without permission.