The Iconic Rising Sun Nobori Flags of Japanese Car Culture

An Introduction to JDM Nobori Flags

In the world of Japanese drift culture and JDM (Japanese domestic market) car enthusiasts, nobori flags are a popular and iconic symbol. These large, vertical flags often feature bold kanji lettering, vibrant colors, and graphics representing car makes, models, parts brands, racing teams, events, and more.

Nobori, meaning "rising sun flag" in Japanese, have a long history dating back centuries as traditional markers and identifiers. Today, they are frequently seen waving above vendor booths, decorating cars, and being proudly displayed by fans at drift events, car shows, motorsports races, and tuning shop meets.

The History and Meaning of Nobori in Car Culture

Displaying nobori flags at automotive gatherings can be traced back to the origins of drifting in Japan in the 1960s and 70s. As the scene progressed through the 80s and 90s, flags helped create a festive atmosphere and show support for teams and brands.

The vibrant, vertical orientation makes nobori highly visible even when hung in rows. Bold Japanese text and logos help identify and bring attention to featured companies or race teams. For enthusiasts, carrying and flying nobori demonstrates their passion for their car, favorite parts brands, or the overall culture.

Today, nobori are a globally recognized symbol of the excitement and energy of grassroots drifting, Time Attack racing, and the aftermarket tuning lifestyle. Whether at events in Japan or meets worldwide, you’ll find enthusiasts proudly waving nobori for their favorite makes like Nissan, Toyota, Mazda, and Honda.

Popular Styles and Designs

While some nobori feature simple logos or text, many have colorful graphic elements that represent car culture. Here are some common nobori design themes and motifs:

• Car manufacturer logos like Honda, Nissan, or Toyota
• Aftermarket brands like HKS, Greddy, Sparco, or Bride
• Custom illustrations of drifting cars executing slides
• Japanese drifting terms like “hashiriya” meaning street racer
• Car parts like turbos, intercoolers, or shift knobs
• Names of race tracks like Ebisu or Tsukuba
• Event names and graphics like World Time Attack
• Racing team names and liveries

The artwork varies from simple one-color designs to highly detailed illustrations. Some nobori integrate iconic JDM car graphics like rising suns, cherry blossoms, drifting exhause smoke, and customized street racing vehicles.

Popular Places to Display Nobori Flags

Enthusiasts display nobori flags at car events and also in their daily lives as decorative items. Here are some of the most common places you’ll see nobori flags flying high:

• Above vendor booths at car meets and shows
• Mounted behind car windshields while driving
• As room decor in garages and workshops
• Outside or above the doors of tuning shops
• Along guardrails and fences at race tracks
• In pits areas and paddocks at drift events
• As staging area markers at Time Attack competitions
• Hung across city streets during drifting meet-ups

Spotting rows of nobori banners creatively displayed is an integral part of the atmosphere at any JDM or drifting gathering. Enthusiasts take pride in their car culture nobori collections and many rare flags become prized possessions.

Popular Japanese Car Nobori Flag Brands

While some fans create their own custom nobori, there are a number of reputable brands producing high quality flags for automotive aficionados:

• Bulletproof - Founded in Japan, known for vibrant drifting-themed designs
• Seibon Carbon - Specializes in carbon fiber nobori with car parts graphics
• FEELICKS - Offers a wide variety of original illustrations
• BATTLECRAFT - Known for limited edition collector flags
• Car Make Flag - Flags for brands like Honda, Toyota, Nissan, etc.
• MODdiction - Has popup shop displays at major events

These producers offer nobori ranging from inexpensive to rare exclusive editions. Many racing teams, events, and shops also produce custom branded flags only available at their booths or pits. Fans enjoy collecting rare finds across brands.

Where to Buy Nobori Car Flags

While the best place to get nobori is in-person at JDM car events in Japan, enthusiasts worldwide can buy nobori flags through several channels:

• Import specialty shops - Some tuning and JDM parts stores sell nobori in-store and online.
• eCommerce sites - Car part retailers like PAC and JDMEuro offer nobori selections.
• eBay - You can often find rare and collectible nobori listings.
• Etsy - Individual flag artists sell custom designed nobori.
• Japan Proxy Sites - Allow you to buy flags directly from Japanese brands and ship overseas.

Prices range from around $15 for common designs up to $100+ for extra large or rare limited edition nobori. Some fans also pay custom flag makers to design one-of-a-kind flags for their cars.

Displaying Nobori as a Passionate JDM Enthusiast

Incorporating nobori flags into your Japanese car or drifting adventures is a great way to showcase your passion. Let these iconic rising sun banners add some vibrant flair to your garage, car, or trips to automotive gatherings. Collect, display, and wave nobori flags proudly as a true JDM gearhead!

FAQs

What are the typical dimensions of nobori flags?

Nobori flags are traditionally long vertical banners that range from around 3 feet up to 6 feet in height. Width is commonly about 1.5 to 2 feet.

How should I hang and display my nobori car flags?

Nobori can be hung from horizontal poles or attached to vertical surfaces with ties or clips. Display with the logos/designs upright and visible. Let them wave proudly for maximum effect.

What types of materials are nobori made from?

Most quality nobori are printed on lightweight polyester fabrics. Some feature embroidered elements and high-end models use satin materials. Fiberglass poles are common.

Can I get custom nobori designed?

Yes, many flag makers offer custom designs for individuals, events, race teams, shops, etc. Send your graphics and specifications for a quote.

What's the best way to care for and preserve my nobori collection?

Avoid leaving nobori displayed in direct sun and rain when possible. Gently roll or fold for storage. Wash in cold water and air dry any dirty flags to preserve the fabrics.