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Yep, you’ll need to sort out your own flights to and from Japan. This gives you the flexibility to explore Japan before or after the event. We recommend arriving a couple of days before to prepare, and leaving a couple of days after the event to recover from the drive! Don’t worry, we’ll keep you posted on any sweet flight deals from our airline partners! 

Overseas two-way radios are banned because Japan has unique channel frequency requirements (and can potentially land you in hot water as a result). Never fear, we’ve got you covered. All teams will have a two-way radio provided.

Maybe, maybe not. In most places, yes. In the middle of nowhere? It’s a roll of the dice.

Both drivers will need a valid licence for driving in Japan. If you’re in Australia, just head to your local Automobile Association (or equivalent in your country) to get an international driving permit before you leave. Easy as!

Nope, the route maps and itinerary will be given to you the day before. We’re keeping the suspense alive: it’s part of the fun!

Sorry, no time for catch-ups during the event. If you want to hang with friends or family, plan for that before or after the Challenge.

Yep! The cars are fully insured, so no worries there. You break it, we fix it… within reason! We do recommend that YOU get travel insurance before you set off for Japan, on the off-chance that illness or injury sidelines you from some or all of the event. 

Pack light: remember, you’re squeezing into a kei car! The Gomanen team will send you a handy packing list closer to the event. You’ll need it. Your swags will be carried separately, but work on one small-medium suitcase and a backpack per person as the guide for maximum load capacity. 

Ideally yes! Each car is a team, and you must have two drivers to complete the Challenge. Entering solo? No dramas, we’ll partner you up with another lone wolf. You might even make a new mate!

Nope – you’re cramming into a tiny kei car. Trust us, two occupants and your gear is already a squeeze!

You will need to be old enough to hold a valid unrestricted driver’s licence/international driving permit to operate the car in Japan. No learner drivers here: this isn’t your first driving lesson! Note that the legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old, which may restrict participation in some activities for those that are younger, particularly at the end of the event!

Cash is king in Japan, especially in rural areas. We recommend using a Wise card that you can preload and withdraw from ATMs in Japan. Most international travel cards should work too. Here’s a handy link for Wise: https://wise.com/au/card/

Don’t stress, we’ll provide a mechanical support team ready to help. If we can’t get your trusty steed running, we’ll throw you in with another team. You’ll still finish the race, even if your car doesn’t.

Unfortunately, no. The registration and maintenance costs for these little beasts are many times higher than the purchase cost of the cars themselves. Parting will such be sweet sorrow: don’t be sad that it’s over, be glad that you met.

Fuel in Japan costs around ¥160 to ¥190 per litre. Kei cars are generally fuel-efficient, getting around 20-25km per litre. Around ¥10,000 yen/day will be ample for even the heaviest of lead foots. Not bad, hey?

Lunch costs can vary, but here’s a general idea:

  • Casual meals (fast food, local joints): ¥750-1100 for ramen, udon, sanwiches or a quick curry from a convenience store.
  • Mid-range restaurants: ¥1100-2500 for sushi sets, bento boxes, or tempura served fresh.
  • Fancy restaurants: ¥2500+ for kaiseki or top-notch sushi or all-you-can-eat. Treat yourself!