Tokyo Auto Salon 2026

Event date:
January 9, 2026 at 8:38 pm
Event end:
January 11, 2026 at 8:38 pm

Gear up for Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, one of the world’s largest and most thrilling custom car exhibitions! Held annually at Makuhari Messe, this high-octane event is a must-visit for automotive enthusiasts, industry professionals, and tuning fanatics. Unlike the Tokyo Motor Show, which focuses on street-legal production vehicles, the Auto Salon is all about modified cars, performance tuning, and motorsport technology.

🔥 Why Attend?
✔ Incredible Car Displays: Explore a stunning collection of customized cars, concept vehicles, and aftermarket modifications from top brands.
✔ Tuning & Performance Innovations: Discover the latest in engine tuning, body kits, and high-performance auto parts from Japan and beyond.
✔ Live Demos & Motorsport Action: Watch drift exhibitions, racing showcases, and live demonstrations from pro drivers.
✔ Meet Industry Icons & Models: Get up close with booth models, auto influencers, and motorsport legends.
✔ Shop Exclusive Auto Parts & Merchandise: Find limited-edition accessories, performance upgrades, and event-exclusive gear.

🎌 Tips for Hatsumode Visitors

Since the Tokyo Auto Salon happens in early January, it coincides with Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, a deeply rooted Japanese tradition. If you plan to experience Hatsumode while attending the Auto Salon, here are some tips:

✅ What to Expect During Hatsumode?
🔹 Crowds at Major Shrines: Expect large crowds at Meiji Shrine (Tokyo), Sensoji Temple (Asakusa), and Naritasan Shinshoji Temple near Chiba.
🔹 Purification Rituals: Many visitors purify their hands and mouths at the shrine entrance before offering prayers.
🔹 Fortune-Telling (Omikuji): Get a paper fortune to see what the new year has in store for you.
🔹 Buying Lucky Charms: Purchase omamori (protective charms) for good luck, health, or business success in the coming year.
🔹 Street Food & Festival Atmosphere: Enjoy traditional food stalls selling favorites like takoyaki, yakitori, and amazake (sweet rice wine).

🎯 Hatsumode Tips
✔ Visit Early in the Morning or Late at Night to avoid peak crowds.
✔ Carry Cash, as many shrine shops and food stalls don’t accept credit cards.
✔ Dress Warmly, as January in Japan can be chilly.
✔ Respect Shrine Etiquette, such as bowing before entering and following proper handwashing rituals.

🎟 Get Your Tickets
The event is open to the public, and tickets can be purchased online in advance. With an estimated attendance of 336,100 people and a projected event spend of $52.4 million USD, Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 promises an electrifying experience for all car lovers.