About Daikoku NYC

Daikoku NYC Corp is a New York–based nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and advancing automotive culture through community-centered events, education, and creative collaboration.

More than a car club, Daikoku NYC is a movement, a community, and a cultural hub rooted in Japanese automotive heritage and shaped by New York City’s underground creative energy. Inspired by the legendary Daikoku Parking Area in Japan, we bring together car enthusiasts, builders, artists, and storytellers who share a deep respect for JDM culture, craftsmanship, and the evolving language of automotive design.

With strong ties to Asian car culture, urban nightlife, and grassroots creativity, Daikoku NYC exists to bridge automotive heritage with modern city life — creating inclusive, safe, and culturally meaningful spaces under the glow of New York’s streets.

Our Mission

Daikoku NYC’s mission is to foster community, creativity, and education through automotive culture while promoting safety, accessibility, and well-being.

We believe cars are more than machines. They are cultural artifacts, creative expressions, and tools for connection — capable of bringing people together across generations, backgrounds, and disciplines.

Our Focus Areas

Preserving & Promoting JDM Culture

We honor the legacy of Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicles, from timeless classics to contemporary builds. Whether track-focused machines, VIP-style cruisers, or carefully restored street cars, we celebrate the craftsmanship, engineering, and dedication behind every build.

Building Community, Not Just a Scene

Daikoku NYC prioritizes genuine connection over clout. Our meets, track days, and pop-up events are designed as platforms for collaboration, conversation, and creative exchange. Enthusiasts, artists, racers, and newcomers are all welcome — with respect and inclusion as core principles.

Mental Health & Support Through Car Culture

For many, automotive culture provides relief, focus, and a sense of belonging. Daikoku NYC recognizes the mental health benefits of creative and mechanical expression and advocates for supportive, respectful community environments that prioritize well-being alongside passion.

Safe Driving & Racing Advocacy

We actively promote responsible driving practices by encouraging track-based racing, simulator training, and skill development as alternatives to reckless street activity. Our approach emphasizes education, discipline, and respect for both public safety and the craft of driving.

Supporting Local & Small Businesses

Daikoku NYC collaborates with independent auto shops, performance specialists, wrap and fabrication studios, artists, and AAPI, BIPOC and Immigrant owned small businesses. Through partnerships, events, and merchandise, we help circulate resources back into the communities that sustain automotive culture.

What We Do

  • Community Automotive Events

    Night meets, curated showcases, and cultural gatherings inspired by Japanese highway and parking-area culture, adapted responsibly for New York City.

  • Track Days & Simulator Training

    Legal, structured opportunities for performance driving education and racing skill development, both on real circuits and advanced simulators.

  • Cultural & Community Activations

  • Participation in AAPI heritage events, parades, charity activations, gallery collaborations, and multidisciplinary showcases blending cars with music, art, and fashion.

  • Media & Storytelling

    Documentary-style photography, film, and digital storytelling capturing NYC’s automotive culture and preserving its history for future generations.

  • Merchandise & Creative Collaborations

    Limited-edition apparel, sticker drops, and collaborations with artists and brands that reflect our mission and help fund nonprofit programming.

Who We Serve

Daikoku NYC primarily serves New York City residents, including automotive enthusiasts, creatives, young adults, and community members seeking safe, inclusive spaces to engage with car culture.

Our programs are open to the public and emphasize accessibility, cultural respect, and community well-being over exclusivity or commercial gain.

Our Values

  • Community-first, not clout-driven

  • Safety, responsibility, and mutual respect

  • Cultural preservation and creative expression

  • Collaboration with local businesses and institutions

  • Zero tolerance for harassment, reckless behavior, or exclusion

Organizational Status

Daikoku NYC Corp. is a registered nonprofit organization in the State of New York.
Daikoku NYC Corp. is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) public charity.
Contributions may be tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

Governance & Accountability

Daikoku NYC is governed by a volunteer board and operates in accordance with New York State nonprofit regulations. The organization maintains policies addressing financial transparency, community conduct, anti-harassment, and participant safety to ensure accountability and public trust.

Get Involved

Daikoku NYC thrives through community participation and collaboration. Whether you’re interested in registering your vehicle, attending an event, supporting our mission, or exploring partnership opportunities, we welcome individuals and organizations aligned with our values.

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