The Legacy of Ebisu Circuit: Birthplace of Drifting in Japan

This article looks at drifting and how Ebisu Circuit contributed to its popularity. Drifting is a racing technique that you may have seen in movies such as Cars and The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift. Carry on reading to learn more about it and how it became so popular.

What Is Drifting?

Drifting is a technique that’s used in race car driving. It involves the driver deliberately oversteering around a turn; though the car loses traction, the driver can retain complete control over it and successfully navigate the turn. A lot of the time, when drifting, the front wheels will end up pointing in the opposite direction to where the car’s turning. For example, if the car’s turning right, the wheels will probably be pointing left.

Drifting enables drivers to quickly get around tight turns without losing too much speed. It’s a technique that’s been popularised through various forms of media, as well as competitions that focus on drifting.

What’s the Ebisu Circuit?

The Ebisu Circuit is a motorsports racing complex. It’s in the Japanese city of Nihonmatsu in the Fukushima Prefecture. Below are some key facts about it:

  • Opened in 1986
  • Owned by Nobushige Kumakubo, a famous drifting driver
  • Five main courses over 1,000m in length
  • Several smaller courses, including practice ones

Nobushige Kumakubo designed the complex and its courses. He also oversaw its construction. It’s nearly 30 years old and has hosted many top events throughout its history. These include the D1 Grand Prix and Formula Drift Japan. The former is a Japanese car drifting series, and the latter is a US-based motorsports drifting series.

The History of Drifting in Japan

Kunimitsu Takahashi is credited with pioneering the technique of drifting in the 1970s. He had a very successful career as a professional racer. Before specializing in race car driving, he was a motorcyclist. The drifting techniques he would perform in races helped him win many titles, not to mention many fans.

Keiichi Tsuchiya, another professional race car driver, became interested in Kunimitsu’s drifting techniques. He spent much time on mountainous roads throughout Japan, practising drifting and developing his techniques. After becoming proficient at it, he’d eventually earn the nickname ‘The Drift King.’ 

A video produced by several popular car magazines showcases Keiichi’s drifting techniques. This video caught the public’s attention and inspired many races to perform drifts in their races. More drifting events occurred in Japan throughout the 70s, 80s and 90s. It wasn’t until the late 90s that the first drifting event outside of Japan was held.

Drifting Competitions

There are quite a few competitions that focus on this particular driving technique. The aim is to see which racers can perform drifts the best. The structure of drifting competitions varies slightly from one country to the next. However, they mostly include the same two stages:

  • A qualifying session, each driver completes a solo run in front of the judges, with the top-ranking ones proceeding to the final.
  • The final; drivers are paired off and complete tandem runs, taking turns to lead.

For the final, there are several knockout stages with only the best drivers moving forward. Drivers are ranked based on four criteria. These include speed/fluidity, style, the angle of the drift and how well the driver sticks to the line. Before a competition starts, the judges suggest a line for drivers to follow; the more closely they stick to this, the more points they’ll earn.

Discover the Thrills of Racing Games

Watching races that involve drifting can be a lot of fun. What’s more enjoyable is taking part in them. But you must be a professional driver to compete in the top-level races. The next best option is to play racing games.

If you’re keen on driving, check out some top racing games for consoles. For those who prefer a quicker, more casual gaming experience, there are slot games themed to racing. With video games, you’re in the driver’s seat and can perform various techniques, including drifting. There’s no limit to what you can do.

If you want to play some racing-themed slots, be sure to claim casino bonuses. With these, you can play for free and still have a chance of winning real money. One of the best casino bonuses to watch is the 100 free spins offer. This gives you many free spins on one or more select slot games.

When playing racing-themed slots for real money, remember to be sensible. If you have any problems, don’t hesitate to contact the Responsible Gambling Council. This organization can help you with 

Summary

Drifting is a driving technique that enables drivers to quickly make their way around tight turns. It became popular in Japan and has spread around the world. There are special events that focus on drifting and rank drivers based on how well they perform the technique. 

FAQ

Is drifting big in Japan?

Drifting is indeed big in Japan. There are major competitions where professional drivers perform the technique of drifting. You’ll also find events where semi-professionals and amateurs can practise drifting. 

Is drifting safe?

Drifting is a driving technique that’s best suited for controlled environments. These include closed practice sessions on private racetracks and competitions where drifting is permitted. Overall, it’s a safe technique though it takes some practice to master.

Is drifting illegal?

In most countries, drifting is illegal on public roads. If you want to practise drifting yourself, the best option is to find a racetrack with drifting sessions.

Did drifting start in Japan?

It’s widely believed that drifting began in Japan. While it was popularised in Japan, it was actually first practised in Europe around the 1950s.