Delve into the history of Japanese automobiles and explore an impressive collection of vintage cars at the Toyota Automobile Museum, which is located just a short way from central Nagoya. This popular museum combines its vast display of classic cars with informative exhibitions about the history and the social significance of the automobile in Japan.
Explore the main hall and admire the grand collection of classic cars from as long ago as the 19th century. The museum is owned and run by Toyota, but you will find models from a range of different manufacturers. Look out for the Mercedes-Benz 500K, one of the earliest successes for that brand. This snazzy luxury touring car dates back to the mid-1930s.
You will also find some of Toyota’s most classic models at the museum. Seek out the replica of the Toyota AA, the Japanese marque’s first-ever passenger car, built in 1987 in celebration of Toyota’s 50th anniversary. Eye up the sporty 2000GT, one of Toyota’s fastest-ever models with top speeds of up to 217 kilometres (135 miles) per hour. Such are the charms of the 2000GT that James Bond drove a convertible version of it in You Only Live Twice in 1967.
Head to the Annex to see an exciting multimedia display about the history of the automobile in Japan. Learn about the development of Toyota’s production techniques and the cultural role of cars in Japan in a permanent exhibition that includes a range of artefacts, audiovisual material and old photographs. The Annex also hosts travelling exhibitions on a temporary basis.
The Toyota Automobile Museum is easily accessible by metro, although there is also ample parking available. The museum is open every day but Monday, and it is closed from December 29 to January 1. There is a fee for entry.
