Kanjo Racing in Osaka, Japan

Introduction

• Location: Osaka, Japan
• Topic: Underground street racing, specifically Kanjo racers
• Legal Context: Japan's conviction rate exceeds 99% due to a strict legal system often called "hostage justice."
• Objective: Explore the world of Kanjo racers and experience the legendary Kanjo Loop.

Kanjo Racers (Kanjizoku)

• Mystery in the West: Shrouded in mystery among Western audiences.
• Key Features:
  • Teams of Honda builds
  • Two-lane freeway racing with multiple Civics
  • Secrecy maintained among racers

Osaka vs. Tokyo Car Scene

• Osaka: Known for its warm, generous people and unique car scene.
• Tokyo: Different car culture; Osaka likened to Los Angeles, Tokyo to New York City.

Gathering Information

• Art Fixer Lucas: Organized a meeting to connect with locals.
• Zero Fighter Shop: A major Honda tuning shop in Japan.
  • Specializes in track-prepped cars
  • Maintains secrecy about involvement with Kanjo races

History of Kanjo Racers

• Origins: Emerged in Osaka during the 1980s, Japan's automotive golden era.
• Team Dynamics: Kanjizoku teams were prominent in the early '90s.
• Car Choice:
  • Preference for Honda Civics over more powerful cars for their agility and light weight.
  • Popular Civic chassis: EF, EG, EK with B-series engines.

Police Crackdowns

• Technological Advances: Use of AI-driven cameras, undercover officers, and digital tracking.
• Privacy Concerns: Critics argue advanced surveillance technologies threaten privacy.
• Police Tactics: Building cases digitally using GPS and facial recognition.

Evolution of Kanjo Racing

• Shift to Togue Roads: Some teams transitioned to mountain racing after police crackdowns.
• Night Racing: Conducted after 2 a.m. to avoid public interference.

Journalist Experience

• Objective: Document the Kanjo Loop experience.
• Unexpected Call: Provided a chance to ride on the Kanjo Loop.
• Tactics: Use of Priuses as blocking cars against police intervention.

Conclusion

• Future of Kanjo Racing: Faces challenges from advanced surveillance and policing methods.
• Cultural Impact: Represents a blend of automotive passion and cultural rebellion in Japan.
• Acknowledgments: Thanks to local contacts for making the documentary possible.