Where was The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift filmed?
2006
City Locations
Victorville (USA), Takeshita-don (Japan), Shibuya-ku (Japan), Hawthorne (USA), Kabukicho (Japan), Universal City (USA), Los Angeles (USA), Long Beach (USA)
Location Types
Warehouse, School, Storefront
Location Styles
Modern Building, Modern Car, Asian, Foreign, Parking Lot, Sport Car, Motor
About The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift
Released in 2006, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift is an exhilarating action film centered around Sean Boswell (Lucas Black), a teenager immersed in the clandestine realm of drift racing. To evade imprisonment in the United States, Sean relocates to Tokyo to reunite with his long-lost father. Experience the heart-pounding thrills as Sean embarks on a high-stakes adventure in this gripping cinematic masterpiece. In this exhilarating adventure, Sean discovers solace and thrills as he immerses himself in Tokyo's vibrant, drifting community. As an outsider, he strives to establish his identity as a passionate and determined street racer, defying the odds. Racing becomes his ultimate escape, allowing him to demonstrate his worth and potential. An intriguing aspect of this movie is that it serves as the third installment in the immensely popular "Fast and Furious" franchise. While introducing new characters and a fresh setting, it stays true to the franchise's essence: heart-pounding car races and adrenaline-fueled action. Through its dynamic racing sequences and vibrant portrayal of Tokyo's underground street racing culture, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift takes viewers on an exhilarating and unforgettable journey.
The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift Locations
The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift is an adrenaline-fueled film that showcases a thrilling blend of domestic and international settings. Principal photography took place in August and November of 2005, capturing captivating scenes in Los Angeles and Tokyo. This marked a significant milestone for the franchise as it introduced international filming locations. Tokyo Drift utilized various locations throughout the Tokyo area, including the vibrant Shibuya and Roppongi districts. The film captures the electric atmosphere of Tokyo, showcasing its iconic landmarks and attractions. Notably, the movie features the adrenaline-fueled "Drift King" race on the highway leading to Mount Fuji. Other notable locations include Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Big Sight, and Rainbow Bridge. The backdrop of Tokyo in the film brims with energy and excitement, immersing viewers in a thrilling cinematic experience. Exploring the real-life locations featured in Tokyo Drift would offer an extraordinary and enriching experience. Venturing into the vibrant districts of Shibuya and Roppongi allows fans to glimpse Tokyo's electrifying energy, as depicted in the movie. Embarking on a journey along the highway to Mount Fuji unveils the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the region, offering a unique perspective of the city. Witnessing the majestic Tokyo Tower and the iconic Big Sight in person leaves an indelible mark, as these landmarks symbolize the city's essence. A bridge tour of the awe-inspiring Rainbow Bridge presents a stunning panoramic view of the Tokyo skyline while evoking the exhilaration of the "Drift King" race. All in all, a visit to Tokyo to explore the actual locations used in Tokyo Drift guarantees an unforgettable and gratifying adventure.
Racing at the school scene in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift
Cabrillo High School, 2001 Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA, USA
Sean Boswell (Lucas Black) and Clay (Zachery Ty Bryan) engage in a thrilling race, each vying for the attention and affection of Cindy, Clay's girlfriend (Nikki Griffin). The race ends when Sean cuts through a structure and catches up to Clay, resulting in a high-speed turn that causes both cars to crash. Cabrillo High School, located in Long Beach, California, is a renowned educational institution within the Long Beach Unified School District. With a strong sense of community and support, Cabrillo High School offers a nurturing environment for its students. The school emphasizes academic excellence and offers students the opportunity to take Advanced Placement® coursework and exams. This dedication to academic rigor prepares students for future success. If you're coming from the north, take I-710 S to Pacific Coast Hwy until you reach Santa Fe Ave. Turn left onto Santa Fe Ave, and you will find Cabrillo High School on your right.
Long Beach Filming Locations Exploration
Racing scene in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift
Tigertail St & Ferndale Rd, Victorville, CA, USA
There is an exhilarating scene where a souped-up Chevrolet Monte Carlo and a Dodge Viper SRT10 engage in a high-speed race. The scene showcases these iconic vehicles' raw power and speed as they tear through the streets, maneuvering with precision and agility. The roaring engines and screeching tires add to the adrenaline-filled atmosphere, captivating audiences with the thrill of the race. Nestled in the heart of Victorville lies Tigertail Street & Ferndale Road - a neighborhood that embodies the perfect combination of suburban charm and convenience. The area has beautifully manicured lawns, spacious homes, and friendly neighbors who take pride in their community. With access to excellent schools, parks, and local amenities, this charming neighborhood has everything you need to live your best life. To reach your destination, turn onto Hollyvale Avenue before making a right onto El Rio Road. Continue straight until you reach Ferndale Road, and then make a left. Finally, turn right onto Tigertail Street, and voila!
Sean meeting the kids scene in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift
Hawthorne Plaza Mall, Hawthorne, CA, USA
Sean (Lucas Black) meets all the kids in the vast garage with the spiral ramp. The garage serves as a gathering spot for car enthusiasts and members of the drifting community in Tokyo. Sean finds himself among fellow car enthusiasts and meets a group of kids who share his passion for fast cars and drifting. The Hawthorne Plaza Mall is a shopping destination that offers something for everyone. From fashion-forward clothing stores to specialty boutiques, this mall has it all. With its sprawling layout and variety of shops, visitors will surely find what they're looking for at Hawthorne Plaza Mall. But the shopping experience doesn't end there - the mall also features a diverse selection of dining options, ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants. The mall boasts a state-of-the-art movie theater and plenty of cozy seating areas for those looking to catch a movie or simply relax. There are several ways to access the mall easily. If you're driving, take Interstate 405 and exit at Rosecrans Avenue. You can also take public transportation via the Metro Green Line, which stops at the Hawthorne/Lennox Station, just a short walk from the mall.
Han's garage scene in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift
S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Sean (Lucas Black), after damaging Han's (Sung Kang) Nissan Silvia S15 during a drift race, is forced to work off his debt by fixing cars in Han's garage. This scene showcases Sean's determination to repay Han and his growing involvement in the drifting world. South Santa Fe Avenue is a bustling street in the heart of Los Angeles. This dynamic avenue is home to many businesses, from small shops to large warehouses, making it a one-stop shop for all your everyday needs. The vibrant atmosphere is compounded by the iconic street art that graces the walls of the nearby buildings, giving the area a unique and edgy vibe. Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch at one of the various eateries or running errands, South Santa Fe will surely leave an impression on anyone who passes through. With its rich history and diverse community, South Santa Fe Avenue is integral to the ever-evolving Los Angeles landscape. Most visitors to South Santa Fe can access it by car. From the 10 freeway, take the Santa Fe exit and head south. If you're on public transit, a variety of bus routes service the area, including the 55/355, 60/260, 665, and 710.
Sean practicing drifting scene in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift
S Seaside Ave, Los Angeles, CA, USA
As Sean (Lucas Black) attempts to master the art of drifting, he attracts the attention of the local fishers, who are entertained and intrigued by his early attempts. Unbeknownst to Sean, among these amused fishers is the real-life "Drift King" Keiichi Tsuchiya, a professional race car driver known for his drifting skills. South Seaside Avenue is one of those streets in Los Angeles that truly embodies the city's unique spirit. Amidst the bustling sounds of traffic and honking horns, this charming stretch of road offers a glimpse into the eclectic mix of cultures that make up the area. From the colorful murals that adorn the buildings to the aromatic scent of freshly baked bread wafting from local bakeries, South Seaside Avenue is a sensory experience unlike any other. To get there, you'll need to plan your route carefully. The good news is that there are several ways to get to South Seaside Avenue, depending on your starting point. You can use GPS or a map app to guide you if you're driving. Alternatively, you can take public transportation, such as a bus or a train, that will get you close to your destination.
Han showing donuts scene in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift
800 Wilshire Blvd #200, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Han (Sung Kang) reveals to Sean (Lucas Black) the true motivation behind his drifting skills - to charm the ladies. He does this by performing donuts around two women in a car at a downtown Tokyo intersection. This scene highlights Han's character's playful and charismatic nature and his unique approach to drifting. By showcasing his drifting skills to impress and attract girls, Han adds an element of fun and charm to the world of street racing in Tokyo. Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles stands as a vibrant cultural hub. Spanning miles and miles, this destination offers a diverse array of attractions - renowned museums, trendy shopping districts, and a plethora of exquisite restaurants. The essence of Wilshire Boulevard encapsulates the quintessential LA vibe. It's not merely the swaying palm trees or the captivating Art Deco architecture that adorns the street, but rather the harmonious blend of locals and tourists, all relishing in the sights and sounds of this bustling thoroughfare. From the Miracle Mile to Santa Monica, Wilshire Boulevard embodies the unparalleled allure and excitement that Los Angeles is renowned for. If you're using public transportation, check the schedules and routes of buses or trains that can take you to the nearest stop or station to 800 Wilshire Blvd. Use a transit app or visit the website of the local transportation authority for specific directions.
Conclusion
In Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift, the filming locations in Los Angeles and Japan add a dynamic layer to the movie's visual narrative. The film masterfully captures the urban energy of Los Angeles, showcasing iconic landmarks such as Dodger Stadium and Wilshire Boulevard. The exhilarating race sequences emerge amidst the vibrant, neon-lit streets, while Los Angeles contrasts with its sprawling open roads. As the story transitions to Tokyo, the authenticity of Japanese locales like Shibuya Crossing and the Drift King's mountain course elevates the film's adrenaline-fueled racing sequences. These scenes set the tone for Sean's cross-cultural journey. The seamless blend of Los Angeles' bustling streets with Tokyo's neon-lit backdrops symbolizes his transformation as Sean navigates distinct yet interconnected worlds. The film's conclusion at the base of Mount Fuji serves as a symbolic culmination, fusing the spirit of both cities in an exhilarating showdown. Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift is not merely a tale of speed but a testament to the global resonance of car culture.