Japan is a paradise for car lovers and JDM enthusiasts alike.
In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of five must-visit automobile museums outside of Tokyo, each offering a unique collection of rare and iconic vehicles you won’t easily find anywhere else. From the legendary Toyota Museum in Nagoya to Mazda’s futuristic HQ in Hiroshima, these museums are sure to impress.
If you’re also interested in car museums around Tokyo, check out this Link.
Whether you’re into motorsports history or nostalgic classics, one of these destinations is bound to become your next road trip goal.
Toyota Museum
The Toyota Automobile Museum, located in Aichi Prefecture, is a facility that introduces the history and technology of the Japanese automobile. opened in 1989, the museum aims to reflect on the development of the global automobile industry based on the philosophy of Kiichiro Toyoda, Toyota’s founder.
Main Features
- Collection: The museum displays approximately 150 vehicles from Toyota as well as other automakers from around the world. This allows visitors to experience the evolution of automobiles and the changes in their design.
- Exhibition areas: Exhibits are divided into various themes, such as the History Exhibition Room, which traces the history of the automobile, and the Technology Exhibition Room, which introduces Toyota’s technologies and production methods.
- Hands-on programs: Visitors can also take part in interactive programs such as driving or assembling a car.
- Special Exhibitions: Special exhibitions with different themes are held regularly, offering something new to discover each time you visit.
- Access and Facilities: Easy access from Nagoya and a café and store inside the museum make it a fun place for families and tourists alike.
The Toyota Automobile Museum is a great place to visit for those interested in automobiles as well as technology and design.
Access
Address:41-100 Yokomichi, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
Nearest station:Take Linimo (Tobu Kyuryo Line) and get off at Geidaidori Station (in front of Toyota Museum) (Exit 1). 5 minutes walk from the station.
Admission fee
| Adults | Seniors(65~) | Jr. high/ High school students | Elementry students | |
| Ticket | 1,200yen | 700yen | 600yen | 400yen |
Facility Information
- Telephone number: 0561-63-5151
- Hours: 9:30AM-5PM (Admission until 4:30PM)
- Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday) and year-end and New Year holidays
- Parking: Yes
- Official site: https://global.honda/jp/welcome-plaza/
Honda Collection Hall
The Honda Collection Hall is a museum in Tokyo dedicated to showcasing Honda’s history and technology. opened in 1998, it is a place where visitors can experience the company’s innovation and evolution, focusing on Honda motorcycles and automobiles.
Main Features
- Diverse collection: The museum displays a wide range of Honda motorcycles, automobiles, racing cars, and concept cars from the past. In particular, the museum offers a diverse lineup of vehicles, ranging from 1960s classics to the latest models.
- Historical Exhibits: An area detailing Honda’s history from its founding to the present day provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the ideas and vision of founder Soichiro Honda.
- Interactive Experiences: Some exhibits include programs that allow visitors to enjoy virtual experiences and test drives.
- Special Exhibitions: Special exhibitions are held periodically to showcase Honda’s innovations and new products.
- Access and Facilities: The museum is modern, clean, and comfortable for visitors. There is also a store and café where visitors can purchase souvenirs and take a break. There is also a hotel and an amusement park, which can be enjoyed by couples and families! Of course, it is also fun enough to visit alone.
The Honda Collection Hall is an attractive spot for Honda fans and anyone interested in cars and motorcycles.
Access
Address:120-1, Hiyama, Motegi-machi, Haga-gun, Tochigi
Nearest station:Take Linimo (Tobu Kyuryo Line) and get off at Geidaidori Station (in front of Toyota Museum) (Exit 1). 5 minutes on foot.
Admission fee
| Adults | Under Elementry students | |
| Ticket | 1,900yen | 900yen |
Facility Information
- Telephone number: 0285-64-0001
- Hours: 10AM-4PM
- Closed: Changes daily, please check the official website in advance.
- Parking: Yes (parking fee included in the admission fee)
- Official site: https://www.mr-motegi.jp/eng/collection-hall/
Japan Automobile Museum
The Japan Automobile Museum is the largest automobile museum in Japan. Located in Ishikawa Prefecture, the museum introduces the history and culture of the automobile to a wide range of visitors. 1994, the museum opened and exhibits a variety of automobiles from Japan and abroad.
Main Features
- Extensive collection: Approximately 500 vehicles are on display, ranging from domestic to foreign cars. The collection includes classic cars, race cars, and rare models, providing a space where visitors can experience the evolution of the automobile.
- Thematic Exhibits: Exhibits are divided by theme, introducing visitors to the fascinating world of automobiles from a variety of perspectives, including history, technology, and design.
- Hands-on programs: Visitors can actually touch and experience cars through driving simulators and special events.
- Lectures and events: The museum regularly hosts lectures and special events on automobiles, providing a forum for interaction with experts and enthusiasts.
- Access and Facilities: The museum is spacious and has a store and café. The environment is suitable for families and groups of visitors.
The Japan Automobile Museum is a place where visitors can not only learn about the history of automobiles, but also experience their fascination firsthand, making it an enjoyable destination for automobile enthusiasts and a wide range of visitors.
Access
Address: 40 Monshitsuyama, Futatsunashi-cho, Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, 923-0345, Japan
Nearest station:
(1)Take a CAN bus from JR Kagaonsen Station
(2)Take a cab from JR Awazu Station (7-8 minutes)
Admission fee
| Adults | Elementry~Senior High students | Seniors(65~) | |
| Ticket | 1,200yen | 900yen | 1,000yen |
Facility Information
- Telephone number: 0761-43-4343
- Hours: 9AM-5PM (Admission until 4:30PM)
- Closed: Wednesday of every week and year-end (Dec. 26-31)
- Parking: Yes
- Official site: https://www.motorcar-museum.jp/
Nissan Global Headquarters Gallery
The Nissan Global Headquarters Gallery is the official exhibition facility of Nissan Motor Co. in Minato-ku, Tokyo, showcasing the latest Nissan technologies, models, and corporate history. 2012 saw the reopening of the gallery, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the future of automobiles.
Main Features
- Latest models on display: Nissan’s latest vehicles and concept cars are always on display, making it fun to see new models each time you visit.
- Interactive experiences: Visitors can experience the latest technologies first-hand through digital exhibits and simulators. The self-driving technology and electric vehicle experiences are particularly popular.
- Corporate History and Vision: Visitors can learn about the history of Nissan, its origins, and its vision for the future, as well as the evolution of the automotive industry.
- Events and Workshops: Special events and workshops are held regularly to provide visitors with opportunities to learn more about the world of Nissan.
- Access and Facilities: The museum is modern and open, with a café and store. Visitors can relax and purchase souvenirs after enjoying the exhibitions. I purchased a USB in the shape of a Nissan key from the store! There are many rare items available, so be sure to stop by.
The Nissan Global Headquarters Gallery is a fascinating place for car enthusiasts as well as those interested in technology and design, and is a great place for families and tourists alike.
Access
Address:1-1-1 Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture Japan
Nearest station:
(1)7-minute walk from Yokohama Station (JR and Keikyu Lines) from the Central Passage to the East Exit (Hamamirai Walk ahead)
(2)5-minute walk from Shin-Takashima Station on the Minatomirai Line (Exit 3)
Admission fee
Free
Facility Information
- Telephone number: 045-523-5555
- Hours: 10AM-8PM
- Closed: irregular, please check the official website
- Parking: Yes
- Official site: https://www.nissan.co.jp/GALLERY/en/HQ/
Japan Automobile Museum
The Japan Automobile Museum is the largest automobile museum in Japan. Located in Ishikawa Prefecture, the museum introduces the history and culture of the automobile to a wide range of visitors. 1994, the museum opened and exhibits a variety of automobiles from Japan and abroad.
Main Features
- Extensive collection: Approximately 500 vehicles are on display, ranging from domestic to foreign cars. The collection includes classic cars, race cars, and rare models, providing a space where visitors can experience the evolution of the automobile.
- Thematic Exhibits: Exhibits are divided by theme, introducing visitors to the fascinating world of automobiles from a variety of perspectives, including history, technology, and design.
- Hands-on programs: Visitors can actually touch and experience cars through driving simulators and special events.
- Lectures and events: The museum regularly hosts lectures and special events on automobiles, providing a forum for interaction with experts and enthusiasts.
- Access and Facilities: The museum is spacious and has a store and café. The environment is suitable for families and groups of visitors.
The Japan Automobile Museum is a place where visitors can not only learn about the history of automobiles, but also experience their fascination firsthand, making it an enjoyable destination for automobile enthusiasts and a wide range of visitors.
Access
Address: 40 Monshitsuyama, Futatsunashi-cho, Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, 923-0345, Japan
Nearest station:
(1)Take a CAN bus from JR Kagaonsen Station
(2)Take a cab from JR Awazu Station (7-8 minutes)
Admission fee
| Adults | Elementry~Senior High students | Seniors(65~) | |
| Ticket | 1,200yen | 900yen | 1,000yen |
Facility Information
- Telephone number: 0761-43-4343
- Hours: 9AM-5PM (Admission until 4:30PM)
- Closed: Wednesday of every week and year-end (Dec. 26-31)
- Parking: Yes
- Official site: https://www.motorcar-museum.jp/
Mazda Museum
Mazda Museum is a hidden gem that combines a brand’s deep-rooted legacy with modern innovation. It’s an unmissable stop for those who appreciate engineering excellence and Japanese design.
Main Features
- Mazda’s Legacy in One Place: The Mazda Museum is located inside Mazda’s Hiroshima headquarters and offers an in-depth look at the brand’s history, philosophy, and innovations since its founding in 1920.
- Rotary Engine Innovation: You’ll find a dedicated area that highlights Mazda’s legendary rotary engine development, including iconic vehicles like the RX-7 and Cosmo Sport.
- Factory Tour Included: One of the highlights is the rare opportunity to tour an actual Mazda vehicle assembly line. Visitors can watch real-time production, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse of modern Japanese car manufacturing.
- Concept & Race Cars: The museum also showcases concept cars, Le Mans race vehicles, and future design studies, offering something exciting for every type of car enthusiast.
- Clean, Sleek, and Futuristic: Much like Mazda’s current design language, the museum’s interior is clean, minimalistic, and modern—perfectly reflecting the “KODO – Soul of Motion” philosophy.
Access
Address: 3-1 Shinchi, Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima 735-0028
Nearest station:
(1)By JR: Get off at “Mukainada Station” Station South Exit→walk 5 minutes
Admission fee
Admission is free, but reservations are required. Reservations can be made here
Facility Information
- Phone: +81-82-252-5050
- Opening Hours: Tours typically start at 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM (varies depending on schedule)
- Closed: Weekends, public holidays, and Mazda company holidays
- Parking: Limited — public transport is recommended
- Languages: Some English support available during the tour
- Official Site :https://www.mazda.com/en/experience/museum/
Summary
In this article, we introduced 5 of the most exciting car museums in Japan outside of Tokyo. From rare car exhibits to interactive simulators and even test drive experiences, each museum offers something special for every JDM enthusiast.
If you’re planning to explore Tokyo, be sure to check out our related article:
👉 5 Automobile Museums for Car Lovers in Tokyo
Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you again in another Japan Car Lovers article! 🚘
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