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 […]
Lancer Evolution: The History of Evolution and Its Appeal
Introduction The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is a high-performance 4WD sports car that Mitsubishi Motors proudly introduced to the world. Since its sensational debut in 1992, it has continued to captivate car enthusiasts with its outstanding performance and remarkable achievements in the World Rally Championship (WRC). This article traces the evolutionary history of the Lancer Evolution, […]
Komaki Air Base Aviation Festival Report
On March 2, 2025, the Komaki Air Base, located in Komaki City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, hosted its annual aviation festival. Our staff had the opportunity to visit the site and report on the event. The Atmosphere on the Day of the Event The day was unfortunately met with light rain, and the sky was covered […]
JU Gifu Hashima Auto Auction’s Images Have Evolved!
JU Gifu Hashima Auto Auction has significantly upgraded its photography system starting from the auction held on January 11, 2025. This enhancement further solidifies JU Gifu as a leading player in the Japan Car Auction industry, providing higher-quality vehicle images for buyers worldwide. As part of this upgrade, a massive LED lighting system measuring 10 […]