Shift into High Gear: “Initial D” x James 30th Anniversary Campaign Kicks Off!
Get ready, racing fans! The iconic street racing manga, “Initial D,” is celebrating its 30th anniversary by joining forces with James, a leading car accessories and maintenance chain operated by Toyota Mobility Parts Corporation, which is also marking its 30th year. This dream collaboration promises a thrilling month of exclusive merchandise, engaging challenges, and a deep dive into the beloved world of Takumi Fujiwara and his legendary AE86. The campaign officially launches on April 1, 2026, and runs through April 30, 2026.
This special collaboration brings a fresh wave of nostalgia and excitement, offering fans unique opportunities to own a piece of the “Initial D” legacy. For more details on the campaign, visit the special campaign site.
Exclusive Merchandise Drives into Stores: The In-Store Purchase & App Entry Campaign
During the campaign period, customers who spend 500 yen (tax included) or more at any James store and apply through the James official app will be entered into a lottery to win exclusive, non-sale “Initial D” goods. A total of 100 lucky winners will receive prizes that capture the essence of the series.
Prize Details:
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A Prize: Deluxe 4-Piece Set (15 winners)
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AE86 Wireless Mouse (Headlights open/close, light up when powered on, includes mouse pad)
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AE86 Wet Tissue Case (Wheels move, allowing forward/backward motion)
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Original T-shirt (L size)
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Original Acrylic Stand
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B Prize: Original T-shirt (20 winners)
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C Prize: Original Acrylic Stand (65 winners)
Imagine navigating your digital world with an AE86 mouse, its headlights glowing as you click away, or having a miniature AE86 wet tissue case grace your desk. These items are crafted to bring the thrill of Akina’s downhill pass right into your daily life.
Rev Your Engines on Social Media: The Follow & Repost Campaign
To further commemorate this epic collaboration, James is hosting a special giveaway on its official X (formerly Twitter) account. A total of 30 winners will have the chance to win luxurious prizes by simply following the official account and reposting the campaign announcement.
Prize Details:
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[Hachiroku] Prize: AE86 Wireless Mouse & AE86 Wet Tissue Case (1 winner)
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[Dialogue] Prize: Original QUO Card featuring famous lines (10,000 yen value) (5 winners)
- One of five designs will be randomly awarded, featuring iconic quotes like “Turn! Turn, my Hachiroku!!” or “Rev it up to 12,000 RPM!” These cards are not just currency; they are miniature works of art for any true fan.
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[Acrylic Stand] Prize: Original Acrylic Stand (24 winners)
To enter, simply:
- Follow James Official X: @jms_car_item
- Repost the campaign post.
- Quote repost or reply with the keyword for your desired prize:
[ハチロク],[セリフ], or[アクスタ].
Test Your “Initial D” Knowledge: Fan-Participatory Challenges on X
The excitement doesn’t stop with giveaways! The James Official X account will also feature a series of interactive, fan-participatory challenges designed to test your love and knowledge of “Initial D.” Prepare to revisit classic scenes and legendary dialogues.
- Aim for a Perfect Score! “Initial D” Knowledge Test: Challenge yourself with “fill-in-the-blank” quizzes featuring famous lines and difficult questions that will truly gauge your dedication to the series. Recall the thrill of those legendary street races and aim for a perfect score!
This is a fantastic opportunity for fans to engage with the series in a new, interactive way. “It’s like stepping back into the driver’s seat of the AE86, reliving every turn and every drift!” exclaimed one excited fan looking forward to the quiz.
Don’t miss out on these fun activities! Follow James Official X now to make the most of this legendary collaboration: https://x.com/jms_car_item
About “Initial D”
“Initial D” tells the exhilarating story of Takumi Fujiwara, a seemingly ordinary tofu delivery boy who possesses an extraordinary talent for street racing. Driving his father’s AE86, he embarks on a journey that pits him against formidable rivals in high-stakes public road races, igniting a passion for the mountain passes. The series captivated audiences across Japan and beyond, cementing its status as a legend of public road racing. Learn more at the Initial D Official Site.
About James
James is a specialty store for car maintenance and accessories, operating 88 locations across Japan (as of April 1, 2026). With a brand concept of “fun,” “casual,” “friendly,” and “trustworthy,” James aims to be “the place where your car becomes your beloved ride,” supporting customers’ car lives through comprehensive maintenance and a wide range of products. Visit their Official Website, download their Official App, or follow them on Official YouTube for more information.
This collaboration between “Initial D” and James is a testament to the enduring appeal of Japanese manga culture and its ability to intertwine with everyday life, even in the realm of automotive care. As these cultural touchstones continue to celebrate their milestones, it’s clear that the spirit of exhilarating drives and beloved characters will continue to inspire fans globally, driving the future of kawaii culture abroad with unique and passionate partnerships.
