In the 1980s and 1990s, a daring and renowned racing tribe developed from the heart of Osaka’s bustling streets. This group of street racers changed the course of Japanese motoring culture forever by pushing the envelope and defying norms.
The Hanshin Expressway, a major highway network running through Osaka’s crowded city, served as the Kanjozoku’s playground.
In the dead of night, these anonymous gearheads would get together for adrenaline-fueled races that would put their modified cars to the test.
The influence of this racing tribe is still visible in modern JDM culture. Their bold adventures and one-of-a-kind style have left an everlasting impression on the racing community.
Kanjo has become a symbol of speed, flair, and an undying passion for racing. Let’s get into more detail about the ins and outs of this famous car subculture.
Origins and History
The Kanjozoku has its roots in the crowded streets of Osaka, Japan, in the 1980s. A group of young, brave auto enthusiasts saw an opportunity to create their subculture inside the emerging underground Japanese street racing scene.
Their distinct fashion and close-knit camaraderie made them stand out from other racing groups.
Cars that graced the expressway were not only fast, but also visually striking. Bright neon colors, vibrant decals, and aggressive body modifications became hallmarks of this style.
These alterations not only improved the vehicle’s aerodynamics but also functioned as visual representations of the team’s connection, as well as the individual’s identity.
It continued to evolve and gain momentum as more enthusiasts became drawn to its thrilling atmosphere.
Their reputation for risky racing and unique car modifications drew others looking for the same adrenaline rush and community the group provided.
Eventually, teams and rivalries emerged, giving rise to an already fierce competitive atmosphere. Because of their tight-bound community and adherence to unwritten rules, they could survive despite the dangers of illegal racing.
Accidents and run-ins with the public were kept to a minimum by using safety measures, such as spotters, to alert approaching cars and law enforcement. This ensured they could keep racing without drawing unnecessary attention to themselves.
The identity of the individuals who initially built and established this style remains largely unknown and shrouded in secrecy. They were a secretive crew of street racers who did their thing in the shadows to protect their identities and stay out of trouble.
Kanjo society valued privacy and shied away from the public eye. Participants often used aliases or nicknames to conceal their true identities, further adding to the mystery surrounding the individuals involved.
This anonymity was essential for them to avoid legal repercussions and keep their network strong. Primarily, the culture is centered on a shared love for cars, high-speed racing, and the unique beauty of their customized cars.
Honda Civic: The Kanjo’s Weapon of Choice
The Honda Civic’s prevalence in Kanjozoku racing has played a significant role in establishing the identity and domination of the community.
Older Civic trim levels, especially the 4th, 5th, and 6th generations, became the preferred choice for racers because of several key factors.
The Honda Civic boasted characteristics that were ideal for the nimble style racing. Its light body allowed it to maneuver quickly and deftly on the road.
Its small size made it easy to maneuver in heavy traffic, making it the perfect car for the crowded streets of Osaka.
One of the key selling points for this platform was its VTEC or i-VTEC engine. VTEC, an abbreviation for “Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control,” improved performance at higher rpm.
This technology allowed the Civic to deliver a surge of power, making it capable of achieving impressive speeds on the highways.
The proximity of the Suzuka Circuit to Osaka also played a crucial role in the popularity of the Honda Civic among racers.
The Suzuka Circuit, not to be confused with Ebisu Circuit, known for hosting prestigious motorsport events, held “one-make” races specifically for Civics.
These events affected the Osaka auto-enthusiast community. Consequently, the Civic’s status as the preferred car for this style of racing scene was further cemented, and the term “Kanjozoku racing” came to be associated with the Civic.
For this reason, Osaka is the most Honda Civic-dominated area in Japan. The streets here are swarming with old Civic enthusiasts showcasing their modified cars and engaging in spirited racing battles.
Kanjozuko’s Influence
Kanjozoku’s impact on racing groups like No Good Racing has been significant, influencing and shaping the broader racing scene in Japan.
Professional and amateur racers alike have been profoundly influenced by the subculture’s distinctive qualities and approach to racing.
Unlike some other racing groups like Midnight Club which focus primarily on high-powered cars and straight-line speed, racers prioritize agility, precision, and the ability to navigate through traffic.
This method has greatly influenced the racing world encouraging a more balanced and adaptable attitude.
Their impact on other racing groups is very evident. For instance, circuit racing and drift contests have adopted the idea of deftly navigating around congested traffic areas.
Competitors in all types of racing now value drivers who can turn in on a dime and keep it together in crowded conditions.
However, as time has passed, their impact has somewhat diminished.
Racing has become more diverse because of factors like the proliferation of professional motorsport, the internationalization of racing events, and the development of racing subcultures such as touge.
Legal and Safety Concerns
Back in the 80s and 90s, the Japanese car culture went through a different vibe from now. There was a trend toward dangerous, unauthorized racing activities at the time.
More leeway was given to such antics during this period than it now receives, as authorities generally took a more relaxed stance. As time has progressed, the legal position toward street racing in Japan has shifted.
Authorities have cracked down due to concerns about road safety, the hazards presented by illicit racing, and the growing worldwide concern for responsible driving.
Because of the risks it presents to drivers, spectators, and bystanders, street racing is forbidden in Japan.
Driving recklessly, speeding, and endangering other people or their property are all violations of local law.
Legislation in Japan has changed to reflect a more watchful stance, and police have taken measures to clamp down on forbidden racing as a result of the dangers posed by the sport.
The penalty for violating these regulations may be harsh, with the police issuing fines, license suspensions, and even jail time in the most egregious situations.
They are monitoring the underground car scene with security cameras and extra patrols in problematic regions.
Events planned to take place on public highways are almost always illegal and are liable to be dispersed by the police.
Evidently, it’s effective. Anyone who is into cars in Japan will tell you that there isn’t nearly as much street racing as there used to be.
Consistent racers often mount picture-proof screens over their license plates or build spring-assisted swiveling systems that retain the plates down at high speeds.
Although street racing in Japan has a long and storied history, it is slowly disappearing as authorities crack down on the practice and aging performance cars are penalized in favor of environmentally friendly vehicles.
Although modern-day Japanese street racing pales in comparison to its heyday, the underground culture is nevertheless fascinating.
Concluding Thoughts
There has been a revival of curiosity around this subculture in recent years, both in Japan and abroad. It has gained recognition through various media platforms, including documentaries, films, and online communities.
Because of this fresh look, the significance of this style in the world of racing has been rediscovered and admired once again. What’s your take on automotive subcultures in Japan? Let us know in the comments.