Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on January 2010

Vistors to the Tokyo Auto Salon in Makuhari Messe this weekend will be treated to a visual feast of bodies, paint jobs, shiny exteriors, blinged accessories and curvy models. And those are just the girls draped over the cars. Despite the recession that decimated last autumn’s Tokyo Motor Show, business is still healthy at Japan’s—OK, make that the world’s—largest custom car show. There’ll be more than 400 companies participating this year, with some 630-odd vehicles on display, in addition to booths for parts makers and automotive businesses. Live entertainment is being organized by J-pop behemoth Avex, which often pulls out its big hitters for the event: previous years have been soundtracked by Crazy Ken Band, TRF and Ami Suzuki. Visitors who are just going for the automotive eye candy can vote in the Tokyo International Custom Car Contest, with categories for Concept Car, Tuning Car, Sedan, Minivan, Wagon, SUV, Compact Car and Eco-Car. Advance tickets cost ¥1,700 and are available at convenience stores; admission on the day is ¥2,000 for adults and ¥1,500 for junior and senior high school students.

Tokyo Auto Salon 2010
Exhibition of custom cars and related products. Jan 15, 1-6pm, ¥2,500 (adv)/¥3,000 (door); Jan 16, 9am-6pm; Jan 17, 9am-5pm, ¥1,700 (adv)/¥2,000 (door). Makuhari Messe, Chiba. Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. www.e-autosalon.net