Daikoku survives on goodwill. The owners who show up are mostly respectful, and the rest area still works for the truck drivers and commuters who need it. Every bad incident makes another closure more likely. Here's how to be the guest everyone's glad to see.
Look, don't touch. Ask before photographing people. Stay off the driving lanes. No climbing, revving or burnouts. Follow police instructions immediately. And be friendly — most owners love talking about their cars.
The 10 rules
- Don't touch the cars. Not the paint, the wing, the wheels or the mirrors. Not even to "just feel the carbon".
- Ask before photographing people. Cars are fair game; faces are personal.
- Stay off the driving lanes. Stand on walkways, not where cars are moving.
- No climbing. Not on walls, barriers, fences or cars. Climbing by visitors has been reported as a growing problem.
- No revving, burnouts or loud music. They're the fastest way to get the car park closed for everyone.
- Park properly. One car, one space, in the right area for your vehicle type.
- Be quick at the toilets and shop. Long-haul drivers need them too.
- Take your rubbish with you, or use the bins.
- Follow police and staff instructions immediately. If they ask everyone to leave, leave.
- Be friendly. A smile and a "sugoi!" (amazing!) go a long way.
How to talk to owners
Many owners are proud of their cars and happy to chat, even with limited English. Point, smile, ask "Photo OK?" and wait for a nod. If someone's packing up, eating or clearly busy, let them be.
Learn three words: sugoi (amazing), kakkoii (cool), and arigatou (thank you). Owners light up when a visitor makes the effort.
Photography etiquette
- Turn off your flash. It ruins photos and dazzles people.
- Don't block a car's exit for a shot.
- Don't use a drone. Flying over an expressway rest area is a very bad idea.
- If an owner waves you off, move on with a smile.
Arriving in a rental
Park where your guide points, turn the engine off, and walk. Want a photo with your car? We'll help you find a clean spot that doesn't block anyone.
Why this matters
Daikoku has no organiser and no security team for car fans. The only thing standing between an open car park and a closed one is how people behave on the night.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sit in someone's car at Daikoku?
Only if the owner invites you. Never open a door yourself.
Is drinking allowed at Daikoku?
It's an expressway rest area and everyone arrives by car. Drivers must not drink at all.
Can I use a drone?
No. Don't fly drones at Daikoku or over expressways.
Is it OK to film owners driving out?
From a safe spot on the walkway, yes. Never stand in the lane to get the shot.