Why Is Golden Week Called 'Golden'? Origin, Meaning, and Japanese Holiday Explained
Introduction: The Phenomenon of Golden Week Golden Week, which occurs annually from late April to early May, is one of the most widely recognized and eagerly anticipated extended holiday periods in Japan. This time provides an excellent opportunity for many people to take long vacations, leading to heavy congestion in transportation systems and bustling tourist […]
Slight Increase in FY2024 Vehicle Registrations – A Sign That the "Used Car Shortage" Is Easing?
Japan's automotive market in fiscal year 2024 (April 2024 – March 2025) presented a complex picture. While new vehicle sales declined on a calendar year basis due to certification issues faced by some manufacturers and lingering supply constraints, the used car market—particularly for registered vehicles—saw the number of registrations exceed the previous year’s figures throughout […]
Impact of Trump Tariffs and Container Rates on RORO Shipping
Executive Summary This report analyzes the impact of the tariff measures implemented under the Trump administration, the current container shipping rate trends, and how these factors affect cargo transportation via Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) vessels. The Trump tariffs have significantly influenced international trade volumes, particularly affecting goods such as automobiles and construction machinery that are likely to […]
Why do Japanese people take off their shoes?
In Japan, the seemingly simple act of removing shoes before entering indoor spaces is deeply embedded in the very fabric of Japanese lifestyle. This custom extends beyond mere hygienic reasons, encompassing historical, environmental, social, and even spiritual dimensions. For visitors to Japan, it often stands out as a significant cultural element, prompting curiosity about its […]
Audi VW Retail Japan "Outlet Cars": Online Used Car Sales Service
Audi VW Retail Japan (AVRJ) launched its online used car sales service "Outlet Cars" on March 17, 2025. This new service targets vehicles traded in at the company's dealerships that do not meet the certified pre-owned standards for Audi and Volkswagen but have no accident repair history. A notable feature of Outlet Cars is that […]
Top 10 Japanese Used Car Exports in 2024
Executive Summary This report identifies the top 10 Japanese used car models exported in 2024 and analyzes the factors behind their popularity. The study found that models such as the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Hiace Van, and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado ranked highest in terms of export volume and frequency of market mention. These vehicles are […]
How Japan's New Vehicle Inspection and Emissions Regulations Could Transform the Used Car Market (2025 Analysis)
I. Overview This report analyzes the potential impact of revisions to Japan’s vehicle inspection and registration system (hereinafter referred to as the "Shaken system") and the strengthening of emission regulations on the used car market. In particular, it focuses on the possibility that some vehicles may be released into the market in large volumes due […]
Tsumutsumu, a Thatched-Roof Traditional Japanese House Café
Last weekend, our staff member Shuhei visited "Tsumutsumu," a 200-year-old thatched-roof traditional Japanese house café, located about a 16-minute drive from our company. Tsumutsumu is a café situated along Prefectural Road 82, one street off the main road,, and is known for serving dishes made with locally sourced vegetables. Additionally, the building was designated as […]
Sri Lanka Resumes Used Car Imports After 5 Years – But Over 200% Tax!?
The Sri Lankan government has lifted the import ban on private cars and motorcycles, which had been in place since early 2020, effective February 1, 2025. This ban, which lasted for approximately five years due to a shortage of foreign exchange reserves, is seen as a significant step toward the recovery of the Sri Lankan […]
USS Auto Auction Average Contract Price Reaches Record High of ¥1.26 Million
In February 2025, the average contract price at USS Auto Auction reached ¥1.26 million, marking a 6.3% increase year-on-year and setting a new all-time high. This surge is attributed to increased purchasing demand towards the fiscal year-end and the impact of used car exports. However, as a result, the average contract price tends to decline […]