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How to Take a Free Toyota Factory Tour – Nagoya, Japan

Note that the Toyota Factory tour is currently suspended (2024). We have retained this overview of our visit to the Toyota Factory Tour and will update this information when the factory tours re-open. Read on for details on when that will be and also for alternatives to the Toyota Factory Tour.

It’s one of the iconic things to do in Japan – take a factory tour, especially as most of the Japanese factory tours are free.   Japan is the birthplace of just-in-time manufacturing, so a visit to a factory should be fascinating! Toyota is Japan’s biggest car manufacturer.  Toyota plant tours take place at the Toyota headquarters in Toyota City just outside Nagoya and is easy to reach.  So here’s all you need to know about visiting the Toyota Factory in Japan.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

There’s more information here on the closure of the Toyota Factory Tour.

You can read further information below about what it was like on the Toyota Factory Tour, and we have alternatives, but if you want to take a car factory tour, then you should head to Mazda. And I wrote about that here.

About the Toyota Factory Tour Nagoya

The Toyota plant tour in Nagoya includes seeing the full production line process at Toyota Nagoya.  This also includes their amazing multi-model systems which allow for the production of all models of vehicle on the SAME production line.

The tour is free, but you must book in advance, there are details below on how to book your place on Toyota’s free factory tour.

No photographs are allowed in the production area, although you can take photographs in the Toyota museum and showroom.

How long does the Toyota Factory Tour Last?

The tour takes place once a day from Monday and Friday and is offered in Japanese and English.   You must pre-book your tour.    The Toyota Factory tour lasts 2 hours.

How to visit the Toyota Factory Tour Japan

The Toyota Factory Japan Tour is free at the Toyota City / Nagoya plant, but you must pre-book your tour.  Tours usually start at around 11:00 but you must be present at the Kaikan museum 30 minutes prior to that.

How to Book a Toyota Factory Tour

You can book a tour up to 3 months in advance of the date that you wish to visit. 

Where is the Toyota Japan Factory Tour?

The Toyota Nagoya Tour is located at Toyota City, close to Nagoya.   You can reach the plant and museum within around 50 minutes from central Nagoya on the Meitetsu Toyota Line to Toyota-shi station.

How much is the Toyota Factory Tour and Museum Japan?

The Nagoya Toyota tour and visit to the museum at the Toyota headquarters is free.  The tour is conducted in both Japanese and English on separate schedules.  The Toyota Kaikan Museum at the Toyota plant is also free to visit.

The Toyota Kaikan Museum is open from 09:30 to 17:00 from Monday to Saturday and is closed on Sundays and holidays.

Who should take the Toyota Factory Tour Japan?

If you’re a car fanatic then you’ll love the Toyota Nagoya Plant tour.  If you’re interested in just-in-time production methods then this is a fabulous place to visit.  If you like free things to do in Japan then this is also a great experience.

Experience the Toyota Factory Tour Japan

Visiting the Toyoya plant in Japan is not difficult.  The Nagoya Toyota factory is easy to reach from Nagoya, so we did it as a day trip – and arrived there at 10 am, ready for our 11 am tour.  The Toyota Factory Tour even has its own train station (so if you’ve got a JR Pass it’s EASY to get to).

Be sure to pick up your JR Pass BEFORE you get into Japan – it will save you a FORTUNE on trains and make life very easy.  You can buy a 7, 14, or 21-day pass and get it shipped to your home address for free.  

The best way to travel around Japan is by train – and you can save a fortune on train travel in Japan by buying the JR Pass BEFORE you get to Japan. You can buy the JR Pass from a number of outlets. We recommend: Get your JR Pass from KLOOK here. – estimate 2 weeks for delivery of the exchange order Buy a JR Pass from JRAILPASS here – get it Fedexed within 24-48 hours to any location including a Fedex office or your hotel in Japan.

There is a cafeteria at the Toyota Kaikan museum where you’ll check in, so if you arrive early there are places to sit, get a drink, and eat snacks.

What Tours to Take in Nagoya

As well as the Toyota Factory tour in Nagoya there are a host of other activities and places to see in Nagoya.

• You can take a day trip from Nagoya to Magome and experience this ancient post town –  with a guide – Get details here
• If you like hiking, then hike the Magome – Tsumago trail under your own steam or take a guided tour here
• Enjoy a maid cafe experience in Nagoya – check details here
• Take a train trip to Inuyama Biyori and dress in a Kimono from Nagyoa – check prices here
• Have great family fun with a robot experience – with robots serving you tea!
• Take a guided walking tour of Nagyoa – with an included subway ticket for the day – Prices and booking details here
• Visit Legoland Nagoya – for a great famiy day out – pre-book tickets for Legoland here
• Visit the Nagoya Aquarium – pre-book your tickets for Aquarium Nagoya here

Visit the Toyota Factory Tour Museum

The Toyota Factory museum is free to enter and you do not need a guide to explore it.  As we had arrived early for our tour we spent an hour exploring.

You also get to look around at all the cars that Toyota hopes you will buy. The best was the car fitted for those with disabilities.  It’s possible to sit in most of the cars and really check them out while you’re here.

One of the best things about the Toyota Museum Japan is the fact that they have a robot that has an artificial lung that plays the trombone. And it is pretty damned cool.

Our Experience of the Toyota Factory Tour in Japan

As on the Mazda tour , there are no photos allowed on the tour of the Toyota plant. And when we head off we’re bussed between various parts of the plant, which is impressive and incredibly efficient.

We see several parts of the production line. We learn about just-in-time manufacturing and how quality is valued over quantity and speed.

It’s interesting that I thought it would be groundbreaking and look like it.  But it looks like a regular production line until you look a little closer.  Their multi-model lines are designed to build multiple models on the same line, which is pretty awesome.

There are way more people involved in the production lines than I expected (there are 7,500 people employed here in the Nagoya factory), and many fewer Toyota factory robots than I anticipated.

Perhaps I’m missing something, but the Mazda factory tour beats it hands down.  However, if you’re in Nagoya, then you shouldn’t miss this tour.  And yes, a reminder, it’s free.

It was good. But was it great? No. So I left Toyota, the car in front, feeling like it was definitely the brand behind after my trip to their factory.

And that’s interesting (to me at least). That in my trip to Japan, I’ve had my brand perceptions turned on their head.  Mazda , who I felt pretty ho-hum about – I’m now gung ho about. Toyota is the opposite. Those instant noodle packets that I saw in shops and thought, pah, no, looks cheap and nasty are now the ones that I will buy above all others. Yup, I’m definitely sold on Cup Noodles. Oh, and Asahi beer. Yup, I’ll take that and the  Asahi free brewery tour  and tasting over a poor Sapporo beer and tour and expensive beer hall experience any day.

Just goes to show, that when you dig in a little, perception differs wildly from reality. Now, if only I were in the market for a car… I suppose I’ll make do with cup noodles and beer!

The last word, though goes to the robot… he’s not quite  Asimo , but he plays a mean tune…

Alternatives to the Toyota Factory Tour

As the Toyota Factory Tour is currently CLOSED, then we recommend the following alternatives

The Mazda Factory Tour

Another free car factory tour, this is easy to get to and also close to Nagoya.  You can read more about it here .

The Toyota Techno Museum

This is also known as the Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, or the Toyota Museum Nagoya.  It is located in central Nagoya.  There is no factory here but you’ll find a lot of exhibits on the car production process.

The Toyota Techno Museum is easily reached from Sako station and is close to Nagoya station.  The museum is open from 09:30 to 17:00, the last entry is 16:30 and admission is 500 yen.  The museum is closed on Mondays and also on Tuesdays if Monday is a national holiday.

The Toyota Automobile Museum

This museum displays cars from the late 1800s onwards from Europe, Japan, and America.  You will find it close to Geidaidori Station.   The museum is open from 09:30 to 17:00, with the last entry at 16:30.  The museum is closed on Mondays, and also Tuesdays if the Monday is a National Holiday.  Entrance is 1000 yen.

Other Free Factory Tours in Japan

The Toyota Factory tour is just one of those available when you visit Japan.  Here are other factory tours that we recommend for your visit to Japan.

The Mazda factory tour:  Another great free car factory tour – perhaps even better than the Toyota Factory Tour.

The Asahi Brewery tour : Available at 8 locations throughout Japan this tour not only provides an understanding of Asahi’s history but also gives you free beer tasting at the end – and they’re not small measures!

The  Cup Noodle factory – There are several places where you can visit a cup noodle museum in Japan, but for us visiting the birthplace of noodles in Ikeda was on the list.  Make your own cup noodles here.

If you’re looking for unique experiences in Japan, then I highly recommend heading to watch Sumo practice in Tokyo and experiencing a Maid Cafe in Akihabara too.

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Sarah Carter

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2 thoughts on “ How to Take a Free Toyota Factory Tour – Nagoya, Japan ”

• 2 comments

I like to see live your factory and museum

My son dreams to see the Toyota Factory. He is about 7 years old now and he wishes to work and serve your factory one day. He is a very intelligent kid who is very thoughtful. I wish if I can help him to achieve his dreams.

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Toyota-related attractions

Japan's leading car manufacturer, Toyota, has its headquarters and many of its domestic production plants in the region around Nagoya . The company's headquarters are located in the city of Toyota, less than one hour east of central Nagoya. Next to the headquarters stands the Toyota Kaikan Museum , where Toyota displays its new models and technologies to the public.

The Kaikan Museum also used to serve as the meeting point for plant tours; however, they were discontinued during the coronavirus pandemic.

The best substitute for a plant tour is a visit to the Toyota Techno Museum (also known as Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology) in central Nagoya . The museum introduces the history of Toyota from its beginnings as a textile machinery manufacturer and also features many exhibits on automotive technologies and the car production process.

Car fans should also consider a visit to the Toyota Automobile Museum , which exhibits Japanese, European and American automobiles from the late 1800s to the 1960s.

Toyota Techno Museum

The museum is a short walk from Sako Station which is one station north from Nagoya Station along the Meitetsu Railway (2 minutes, 170 yen one way). It is also the first stop after Nagoya Station along the Meguru loop bus line (10 minutes, 210 yen per ride or 500 yen for a 1-day pass). Alternatively, you can walk from Nagoya Station to the museum in about 20 minutes.

Toyota Automobile Museum

From central Nagoya, take the Higashiyama Subway Line to Fujigaoka Station and transfer to the Linimo elevated train. The museum is a few steps from Geidaidori Station. The trip from central Nagoya takes about 45 minutes and costs 610 yen one way.

How to get to and around Nagoya

Hours and Fees

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Toyota commemorative museum of industry and technology (techno museum), hotels around nagoya.

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How To Take A Free Toyota Factory Tour – Nagoya, Japan

Published: September 9, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Mellie Loya

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Are you an automotive enthusiast fascinated by the intricate manufacturing processes behind your favorite vehicles? If so, a visit to the Toyota factory in Nagoya, Japan is a must-do experience. As one of the world’s leading automotive manufacturers, Toyota offers free factory tours that provide a behind-the-scenes glimpse into their cutting-edge production facilities.

Located in the Aichi Prefecture, the Toyota factory offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the meticulous craftsmanship and advanced technology that goes into creating their renowned automobiles. From the assembly line to the quality control stations, you’ll get an up-close view of how a car goes from raw materials to a finished product.

Whether you’re a car enthusiast, engineering student, or simply curious about the manufacturing process, the Toyota factory tour offers an educational and immersive experience. Witnessing the precision and efficiency of Toyota’s production methods can be both inspiring and eye-opening, leaving visitors with a newfound appreciation for the automotive industry.

Not only is the tour informative, but it also allows visitors to explore the rich history and legacy of Toyota. The company’s commitment to innovation and quality can be traced back to its roots, and the factory tour provides a deeper understanding of Toyota’s evolution over the years.

But before you rush off to book your Toyota factory tour, there are a few important details to consider. In the next sections, we’ll dive into the location, requirements, reservation process, tour schedule, and what you can expect from this unforgettable experience.

Location and Requirements

The Toyota factory is conveniently located in Nagoya, Japan, making it easily accessible for both domestic and international visitors. Nagoya is the capital city of Aichi Prefecture and is well-connected by various modes of transportation, including trains, buses, and flights.

To participate in the Toyota factory tour, there are a few requirements to keep in mind. First, all visitors must be at least 13 years old. While there is no upper age limit, it’s important to note that the tour involves walking and standing for extended periods, so a certain level of fitness and mobility is necessary.

Additionally, it is mandatory for all visitors to wear closed-toe shoes during the tour. This is to ensure safety standards are met in the factory environment. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing, as the tour can last up to two hours.

If you’re an international visitor, it’s important to note that the tour is conducted in Japanese. However, audio guides in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean, are available. These audio guides provide detailed explanations about the various stages of the production process, allowing non-Japanese speakers to fully engage with the tour.

When planning your visit, keep in mind that the Toyota factory tour is only available on weekdays. It’s always best to check the official Toyota website or contact the factory directly to verify the tour availability and timings.

Now that you’re familiar with the location and requirements, let’s move on to the next section: the reservation process. It’s important to secure your spot in advance, as the tour can be quite popular, especially during peak tourist seasons. So, let’s explore how to reserve your seat and secure your place on this exclusive tour.

Reservation Process

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, it is highly recommended to make a reservation for the Toyota factory tour. Reserving your spot in advance guarantees that you won’t miss out on this fascinating opportunity to witness automotive manufacturing at its finest.

The reservation process is straightforward and can be completed online through the official Toyota website. Simply visit their website and navigate to the factory tour section. There, you will find all the necessary information, including available dates, time slots, and requirements.

Once you have selected your preferred date and time, you will be prompted to provide some basic information, such as your name, contact details, and the number of people in your group. It’s important to double-check all the information before submitting your reservation to avoid any issues.

After completing the reservation process, you will receive a confirmation email containing your booking details. Make sure to save this email as you may be required to show it when checking in for the tour.

It’s worth noting that reservation slots can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. It is advisable to book your tour well in advance to secure your desired date and time.

If you encounter any difficulties or have specific inquiries, you can reach out to the Toyota factory directly through the contact information provided on their website. Their helpful staff will assist you with any questions or concerns you may have regarding the reservation process.

Now that you know how to reserve your spot for the Toyota factory tour, let’s move on to the next section: the tour schedule. Understanding the timings and duration of the tour will help you plan your visit accordingly.

Tour Schedule

The Toyota factory tour operates on weekdays, excluding public holidays. It is important to check the schedule in advance to ensure that the tour is available on your preferred date.

The tour schedule typically consists of several time slots throughout the day, allowing visitors to choose a time that best suits their itinerary. The duration of the tour is approximately two hours, including both the factory visit and a visit to the Toyota Museum.

It’s important to arrive at the Toyota factory at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. This will give you enough time to check-in, receive any necessary instructions, and prepare for the tour.

During the tour, you will be guided through different sections of the factory, where you can observe the various stages of automobile production. From the initial stamping and welding processes to the final assembly line, you’ll witness the intricate steps that transform raw materials into a fully functional vehicle.

Each stage of the production process is carefully explained, either by the guide or through the audio guide if you’ve chosen to use one. This allows you to gain a comprehensive understanding of the manufacturing techniques employed by Toyota.

After the factory tour, visitors are given the opportunity to explore the Toyota Museum, located on the same premises. The museum showcases the history, innovations, and iconic models that have shaped Toyota’s success over the years. It’s a fantastic way to delve deeper into the legacy of one of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers.

Remember, the tour schedule may be subject to change, so it’s always wise to double-check the official Toyota website or contact the factory for the most up-to-date information.

Now that you’re familiar with the schedule, it’s time to jump into the next section: the factory tour experience. Discover what you can expect during your visit to the Toyota factory.

Factory Tour Experience

The Toyota factory tour provides a captivating and immersive experience that allows visitors to witness the intricate workings of automotive manufacturing. From the moment you step foot inside the factory, you’ll be greeted with a sense of awe and fascination as you observe the state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated workers in action.

Guided by knowledgeable staff or using the provided audio guides, you’ll be taken through different sections of the factory where you’ll witness the production process firsthand. You’ll see automated machines and skilled professionals working together to create the components that make up a Toyota vehicle.

From the stamping and welding processes that shape the vehicle’s body to the assembly line where parts are meticulously put together, every step of the production process is carefully executed with precision and attention to detail.

Throughout the tour, you’ll learn about Toyota’s commitment to quality and innovation. You’ll gain insights into their world-renowned Toyota Production System (TPS), which focuses on eliminating waste, improving efficiency, and continuously improving processes.

One of the highlights of the factory tour is witnessing the harmony between humans and robotics. Toyota has pioneered the use of advanced automation and robotics in their factories, and you’ll see firsthand how these technologies seamlessly integrate with human workers to optimize production.

The factory tour also emphasizes Toyota’s dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. You’ll learn about their efforts to minimize environmental impact through energy conservation, waste reduction, and the use of eco-friendly materials.

As you explore the factory, don’t hesitate to ask questions and interact with the knowledgeable staff. They are always ready to share their expertise and provide further insight into the manufacturing processes.

After the factory tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Toyota Museum, where you can delve deeper into the company’s history, technological advancements, and iconic vehicles. The museum showcases a remarkable collection of automobiles, from classic models to the latest innovations.

Overall, the factory tour experience provides a unique and memorable opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship, technology, and innovation that go into creating a Toyota vehicle.

With the factory tour experience covered, let’s move on to the final section: the Toyota Museum. Learn more about what you can explore in this captivating museum.

Toyota Museum

Located within the premises of the Toyota factory, the Toyota Museum is a captivating destination that allows visitors to delve into the rich history and technological innovations of one of the world’s leading automotive manufacturers.

Upon entering the museum, you’ll be greeted by a collection of stunning vehicles that represent different eras and milestones in Toyota’s journey. From classic models that evoke nostalgia to cutting-edge prototypes that push the boundaries of automotive design, the museum showcases the evolution of Toyota’s craftsmanship and engineering excellence.

One of the highlights of the Toyota Museum is the opportunity to learn about the company’s founder, Kiichiro Toyoda, and his vision for creating reliable, high-quality vehicles. Through interactive exhibits and informative displays, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the Toyoda family’s legacy and the values that continue to drive Toyota’s success.

The museum also showcases Toyota’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Exhibits highlight the company’s efforts to develop eco-friendly technologies, such as hybrid and electric vehicles, in response to the global call for more sustainable transportation solutions.

In addition to the vehicles on display, the Toyota Museum offers a wealth of information on the company’s research and development initiatives, safety innovations, and engineering prowess. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore the inner workings of engines, experiment with aerodynamics, and get hands-on with cutting-edge features.

For those interested in the future of mobility, the museum provides a glimpse into Toyota’s concepts and prototypes that push the boundaries of transportation. From self-driving cars to advanced connectivity features, you’ll witness how Toyota continues to innovate and shape the future of mobility.

As you explore the Toyota Museum, take your time to appreciate the attention to detail, the craftsmanship, and the passion that goes into every Toyota vehicle. From iconic sedans and SUVs to sporty coupes and rugged trucks, the museum showcases the diverse range of vehicles that have earned Toyota its global reputation for quality and reliability.

Before concluding your visit to the Toyota Museum, make sure to stop by the gift shop where you can find a wide range of Toyota merchandise, including miniature vehicle models, apparel, and collectibles.

With the Toyota Museum tour complete, you’ve now experienced the full wonder of the Toyota factory tour in Nagoya, Japan. The combination of the factory tour and the museum visit provides a comprehensive understanding of Toyota’s heritage, manufacturing processes, and commitment to excellence.

Now you’re equipped with all the information you need to plan your visit and make the most out of your time in Nagoya. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, engineering student, or simply curious about the world of automotive manufacturing, the Toyota factory tour and museum visit promise an unforgettable experience.

So, don’t miss the chance to witness the precision, innovation, and legacy that make Toyota a global leader in the automotive industry. Book your tour, explore the factory, immerse yourself in the museum, and embark on a journey through the rich history and future possibilities of Toyota.

The Toyota factory tour and museum visit in Nagoya, Japan offer a remarkable opportunity to witness firsthand the precision, innovation, and legacy that have made Toyota a global leader in the automotive industry. From the intricate manufacturing processes of the factory tour to the rich history and technological advancements showcased in the museum, this experience promises to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

By taking part in the Toyota factory tour, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship, technology, and dedication required to produce high-quality vehicles. From the initial stages of stamping and welding to the final assembly line, you’ll witness the meticulous attention to detail and the fusion of human expertise with advanced automation.

The tour also provides valuable insights into Toyota’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. You’ll learn about their efforts to minimize environmental impact through energy conservation, waste reduction, and the use of eco-friendly materials, further enhancing your appreciation for the company’s responsible and forward-thinking approach to manufacturing.

The visit to the Toyota Museum offers a chance to explore the rich history, technological innovations, and future possibilities of Toyota. From classic models that have shaped the automotive industry to cutting-edge prototypes that showcase the company’s engineering prowess, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of Toyota’s journey and its impact on the global automotive landscape.

Whether you’re a car enthusiast, engineering student, or simply curious about the world of automotive manufacturing, the Toyota factory tour and museum visit in Nagoya are an absolute must-do. So, plan your visit in advance, make your reservation, and prepare to be amazed by the precision, innovation, and legacy that define Toyota.

Remember to check the official Toyota website for the most up-to-date information on tour availability and schedule. Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes to ensure a pleasant experience during the factory tour, and don’t forget to explore the gift shop at the Toyota Museum for unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

Embark on an incredible journey through the past, present, and future of Toyota, and gain a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship, technology, and legacy behind one of the world’s most renowned automotive manufacturers.

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Toyota Kaikan Museum & Toyota Plant Tour

• Published on : 25/02/2014
• by : Japan Experience
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Toyota Kaikan Museum: read a guide to Toyota Kaikan Museum in Toyota city which showcases the company's products and is the starting point for a tour of the car plant.

Toyota Kaikan Access

• Toyota Kaikan Video
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Nagoya Museums: Toyota Kaikan Museum 豊田会館

The Toyota Kaikan Museum in Toyota city on the eastern outskirts of Nagoya showcases Toyota's latest products and offers a history of the Toyota company.

The Toyota Kaikan Museum has a large showroom where visitors can get inside the vehicles and a number of video displays and panels demonstrating Toyota's production process and the safety features in Toyota cars.

The museum also has features on environmentally friendly cars, Toyota in society and Toyota's participation in motorsports.

Visitors wishing to participate in a tour of the Toyota plant must make a reservation between two weeks and 3 months in advance. Tours are held in English and Japanese once a day from Monday-Friday and last from 11am-1pm.

The second floor of Toyota Kaikan has a play area for children and an interesting shop selling miniature cars, confectionary, souvenir key rings, T-shirts plus books and DVDs.

Underneath the Toyota Kaikan is a Starbucks cafe and a restaurant. In the foyer of the museum a Toyota Partner Robot will serenade you on the trumpet with regular shows.

The Toyota Kaikan is close to the Toyota headquarters.

From Nagoya Station take the Higashiyama Line to Fushimi and then change to the Tsurumai Line and take a train going as far as Toyotashi. From Toyotashi Station walk to Shin-Toyota Station and take an Aichi Loop Line train to Mikawa-Toyota. From Mikawa-Toyota, the Toyota Kaikan is a 10-15 minute walk.

The Toyota Kaikan can also be accessed from Tsuchihashi Station on the Metetsu Line from Toyota Station. It would be a long 25 minute walk or a 10 minute taxi ride costing just over 1000 yen.

Toyota Kaikan 1 Toyota-cho Toyota 471-8571 Tel: 0565 29 3355 (Plant Tour Reservation)

Admission: Free

Other Toyota Museums in Nagoya are the Toyota Automobile Museum on the Linimo Line near Geidai Dori Station and the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry & Technology close to Sako Station not far from Nagoya Station.

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Cars are made up of some 30,000 parts - all filled with care and craftsmanship in every step of production. People are the heart of Toyota's manufacturing.

Cars are made up of some 30,000 parts - all filled with care and craftsmanship in every step of production People are the heart of Toyota's manufacturing.

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Introducing the care and craftsmanship that go into every unit made.

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The Toyota Production System helps produce vehicles in a timely manner.

Information on access to the Toyota Kaikan Museum.

Toyota Kaikan Museum

1 Toyota-cho, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture 471-8571, Japan

TEL：0565-29-3345

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If traveling to the museum by car

If traveling to the museum by train.

• If using the Tomei Expressway Approximately 20 minutes from the Toyota Interchange
• If using the Isewangan Expressway Approximately 10 minutes from the Toyota Higashi Interchange

Map of Toyota Kaikan Museum parking facilities

JR/Aichi Kanjo Line

Subway Line

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Map of the Toyota Kaikan Museum Area

• * There is no taxi stand at the Mikawa Toyota Station. It is recommended that you make a reservation in advance.
• * The recommended route differs depending on the time. Confirm the route by using a search site in advance and provide for extra travel time.

Information on buses to the Toyota Kaikan Museum

To Toyota Memorial Hospital, get off at Toyota Honsha-Mae (approx. a 5-minute ride)

To Toyota Memorial Hospital, get off at Toyota Honsha-Mae (approximately a 25-minute ride from the no. 4 boarding area which is below the Matsuzakaya Bridge)

Note: Buses runs infrequently. Please confirm bus time before coming to Toyota Kaikan Museum.

Taxi Company Telephone Numbers

Please Note: If taxi is not at station, you may have to wait up to 20-30 minutes.

• ALL Visitors Traveling by Train (route map)
• JR/Aichi Kanjo Line Map of the Toyota Kaikan Museum Area (Mikawa Toyota Station)
• Meitetsu Map of the Tsuchihashi Station Area
• Subway Line Map of the Toyota-shi Station Area (map of the Meitetsu Bus No. 4 Boarding Area)

Reference Links (Japanese only)

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Information on plant tours available in Japan

• 1 TOYOYA MOTOR HOKKAIDO, INC. (Japanese Only)
• 2 Toyota Motor East Japan Inc.
• 3 TOYOYA MOTOR CORPORATION. TAHARA Factory (Japanese Only)
• 4 TOYOTA MOTOR KYUSHU, INC.

Tours for other plants in Japan are available only in Japanese.

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Great Factory Tour - Toyota Kaikan Museum

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• Toyota Kaikan Museum

The Toyota Kaikan Museum features a detailed overview of Toyota's innovative automotive technology... read more

The kaikan museum has excellent displays of vehicles and interactive pieces to helps explain... read more

Great Factory Tour

We booked in advance the Toyota Factory Tour. This two hour tour is a must. We visited the assembly line and the welding area. Both were amazing for different reasons - the assembly line was just fascinating to watch the precision of the process and the workers - without it the factory could simply not produce 16000 cars a day (!) and the welding area - well its so futuristic with dozens of robots "attacking" the car as it enters their area and within seconds they all finish their welding mission and go back to "rest". The tour was well organized (like everything else in Japan it started and ended on time), the guide was informative, pleasant and with fairly good English. Recommended! We also had time to visit the Museum which is small but well done.

Factory tour shows how cars are produced (seems like not much has changed since decades), which is very interesting! Museum shows current technologies intend of engines and current cars. Would be interesting to see a bit more futuristic stuff, like self driving cars and car of the future. Nonetheless great place to see where tps was invented! Would not recommend though to do the trip just for the museum!

The Kaikan Museum features several exhibits detailing some of the steps of assembling cars and features several cars that visitors and see and sit in. Visitors who prearrange a tour board a bus to see an actual assembly plant. Our tour visited the Motomachi plant about 10 minutes from the museum. They day we visited, the models being produced were the Lexus GS and the Toyota Crown. The tour itself was about 45 minutes and featured about 4 stations showing different parts of the assembly process. My daughter and I both found it very interesting. There is a Starbucks and an enjoyable restaurant open for lunch one level down from the museum. We made arrangements to visit 3 months before our visit. The website has excellent directions to the museum from Nagoya via train.

Visit is more about the plant tour than about the museum. The plant tour to visit a car assembly line is very rewarding. The line we visited was assembling Lexus & Toyota Crown sedan. It is amazing to see how the assembly line works and how the required parts were supplied to the various stations.

I went to the Toyota factory for work to see some lean manufacturing techniques. I didn't expect to like the museum because I'm not really into cars, but it was actually really cool. The museum is really focused on Toyota's commitment to environmentally friendly vehicles and their Toyota production system.

We visited the Plant and later ended in the museum along with the same guide. Everything was perfect. The museum is a must if you like Toyota Vehicles, it's very modern and has everything you need!!!!.

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• Toyota Kaikan Museum

Toyota Kaikan Museum トヨタ会館

1 Toyota-cho, Toyota-shi, Aichi-ken

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A showroom for Toyota's latest vehicles and technology

The Toyota Kaikan Museum is the company's showroom. Visitors can learn about Toyota's latest vehicles and its philosophy of "producing happiness for all." New models are displayed in the showroom and information is available on CSR activities and the company's latest safety and environmental technologies.

How to Get There

The museum is a 15-minute walk from Mikawa-Toyota Station.

A global automotive powerhouse

The influence of the Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan is enormous. You just need to look around Aichi to see its impact. But if you want to really understand how the company functions, and where it is headed, you should pay a visit to the informative and entertaining Toyota Kaikan Museum.

Whether you are a devoted car enthusiast or just a curious tourist, the Toyota Kaikan Museum offers something for everyone, providing a fascinating glimpse into the workings of a global manufacturing giant.

If you enjoy this…

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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Toyota Motor Corporation – Factory Tour

Toyota motor corporation is a leading japanese car manufacturer headquartered in toyota city, aichi prefecture. the company was founded in 1937 by kiichiro toyoda as a division of toyoda automatic loom works. it is the home of the toyota production system (tps), a lean management philosophy founded on the two key pillars of jidoka and just-in-time..

Corporate Information

• Company : Toyota Motor Corporation
• Establishment : 1937
• Location : Headquartered in Aichi Prefecture
• Main Business : Automotive manufacturing

Toyota Factory Tour – Lean Characteristics

Tps, jidoka, just-in-time production.

Toyota is the home of the Toyota Production System (TPS). The lean manufacturing movement is based around the management principles, tools and culture that Toyota has been developing for over 60 years.

Supported by the two key pillars of Jidoka (a Japanese word that can be translated as “automation with a human touch”) and Just-In-Time, TPS aims to offer high quality, short delivery times, and reasonable cost through employee creativity and intense efforts to eliminate waste. It is designed so that machines and people alike stop production when there is equipment failure or any other irregularity in order for it to be immediately corrected. Also, it improves productivity without waste by manufacturing and delivering the necessary parts at the necessary time in the necessary quantity.

Shinka Management has shop floor-level access to the final assembly plant that produce the Toyota HiAce and the Toyota Coaster for Toyota Motor Corporation – facilities that are not open to the general public.

A factory visit includes access to welding (body shop), assembly and inspection lines. Unlike free public factory tours offered by Toyota (currently suspended indefinitely following the pandemic) which focus on general themes, Shinka Management tours focus on the application of the Toyota Production System and are led by one of our Sensei formerly from the Toyota Group.

The factory visit incorporates content on the two pillars of the Toyota Production System; Jidoka and Just-In-Time. The tour provides a close-up view of 5S, standard work, visual management, karakuri, poka-yoke, AGV (automated guided vehicle) and kanban application, with questions taken both on the shop floor and in a Q&A session following the visit.

The thing about the Lean Japan Tour by Shinka Management is that it’s not focused only on production efficiency, but also involves the lean way of managing people & reducing waste as a path to improving an organization’s quality & efficiency. We had the chance to visit different plants, and the privilege of meeting sensei… read more

It has been a great and eye-opening tour. It made me believe more that lean is possible and achievable. The way the tour was organised impressed me – your team has put time and effort into making the program well-organised and enjoyable. Thank you for keeping up the standard and keeping lean awareness going for… read more

A great tour. Having spent over 20 years in manufacturing I now understand the true meaning of Kaizen. read more

A very valuable and well-organized experience. Getting good access to factories where TPS and lean manufacturing are used as well as the instruction from experienced instructors made this a very worthwhile experience. Participants should leave well equipped to train others as well as conduct kaizen practices themselves. read more

The Lean Japan Tour has allowed me to learn both professionally and culturally. It has been an invaluable experience to learn through interacting directly with a Japanese sensei. It has been a pleasure experiencing this program in Japan, with the locals always helping us as if we were a relative. The Lean Japan tour is… read more

If you have embarked on a lean journey The Lean Study Tour should be on your bucket list! It was inspiring to see the Toyota Production System in action as a management system, as well as the small improvements made day in and day out by dedicated and motivated teams all striving to continuously improve.… read more

The Shinka Management Lean Japan Tour is a professional development program run several times annually. The program includes a mix of lean and kaizen seminars, hands-on lean training and visits to several benchmark lean companies. For further information and program dates, see the lean tour overview page.

Tour Inquiries

Interested in joining us in Japan? For additional information prior to registration please fill in the form provided or contact us .

The above form is for inquiries related to the Lean Japan Tour program, Shinka Management consulting and training services, and lean manufacturing software products. Shinka Management does not represent Toyota. For Toyota-related product and service inquiries, please contact Toyota directly.

Your Free Car Repair Advice and Auto Repair Help

How your Toyota Land Cruiser is made? Toyota factory tour in Japan

While I can’t provide a real-time tour, I can give you an overview of how the Toyota Land Cruiser is typically manufactured based on industry knowledge and descriptions of Toyota’s manufacturing processes.

1. Stamping and Body Construction:

• Stamping Plant: The process begins in a stamping plant where large rolls of steel are cut and pressed into body panels using massive stamping presses.
• Welding and Body Assembly: These panels are then welded together by robots to form the vehicle’s body shell. This includes spot welding, arc welding, and other techniques to ensure structural integrity.

2. Painting:

• Preparation: Before painting, the body goes through cleaning and preparation stages to ensure a clean surface for paint adhesion.
• Primer and Painting: The body is coated with primer and then moves through a paint booth where multiple layers of paint are applied using automated spray systems.
• Curing: The painted body is baked in ovens to cure the paint, ensuring durability and a glossy finish.

3. Assembly Line:

• Chassis Assembly: The chassis and drivetrain components are assembled separately and then brought together with the painted body on the assembly line.
• Interior Installation: The vehicle moves through various stations where the interior components, such as seats, dashboard, electronics, and wiring, are installed.

4. Quality Control:

• Inspection: At various stages of assembly, there are quality control checks to ensure everything meets Toyota’s standards.
• Testing: Vehicles undergo performance tests, including brake tests, alignment checks, and more, to ensure functionality and safety.

5. Final Inspection and Packaging:

• Final Touches: Any remaining parts or adjustments are made, and the vehicle undergoes a final inspection for quality.
• Packaging: Once approved, the vehicles are prepared for shipping. This includes adding fluids, fuel, and protective coverings to ensure they arrive at dealerships in pristine condition.

Toyota Factory Tour:

Toyota occasionally offers factory tours at some of its manufacturing plants in Japan, showcasing the production process. These tours often provide insights into the advanced robotics, efficient assembly techniques, and quality control measures employed by Toyota. If you’re interested in visiting and observing the manufacturing process firsthand, it’s best to check Toyota’s official website or contact them directly to inquire about tour availability and scheduling.

The production process may vary slightly between different Toyota factories, but the fundamentals of quality, precision, and efficiency are integral to Toyota’s manufacturing philosophy across its facilities.

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Japanese Prime Minister's N.C. visit will feature bluegrass, barbecue and factory tours

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will visit North Carolina following his state visit with President Joe Biden at the White House this week. 

Japanese companies have made big investments in North Carolina recently, including the new Toyota battery factory in Randolph County and the HondaJet factory at that company's headquarters in Greensboro. Kishida plans to tour both factories during his visit to North Carolina, according to the governor's office. 

What You Need To Know

The japanese prime minister will visit north carolina this week prime minister fumio kishida will tour the new toyota battery plant under construction and hondajet thursday gov. roy cooper will host the japanese delegation for a state lunch japan is north carolina's largest source of foreign direct investment, according to the governor's office.

“Kristin and I are looking forward to showing Prime Minister and Mrs. Kishida what North Carolina has to offer,” Gov. Roy Cooper said in a news release.

“Japanese investments in our state create thousands of jobs and these companies contribute so much to our communities. This historic visit provides a unique opportunity to showcase the best of North Carolina and continue to build this mutually beneficial relationship,” he said. 

Japan is North Carolina's largest source of foreign direct investment, according to the governor's office. 

The centerpiece of Kishida's visit will be a State Lunch at the North Carolina Executive Mansion in Raleigh Friday. 

Kishida's trip to North Carolina will mark the first time a head of state has visited the state's Executive Mansion, according to the State Archives. 

"Award-winning Raleigh Chef Ashley Christensen will prepare a menu that highlights North Carolina’s culinary tradition with contributions from Japanese fare," the governor's office said. 

“I am excited for the opportunity to cook for this group of outstanding leaders and to share some of North Carolina’s incredible bounty of ingredients, from land and sea, with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida,” Christensen said in the release from the governor's office.

Sam Jones BBQ, which does eastern North Carolin-style whole hog barbecue, is preparing the Thursday lunch for other members of the Japanese delegation and Japanese media accompanying the prime minister on his trip.

“We are honored to be a part of this visit and most excited to share a tradition and foodway that is rooted in eastern North Carolina,” said Sam Jones BBQ's Mitchell Letchworth. “Whole hog BBQ is a North Carolina standard and Sam Jones BBQ is proud to have our food served at such a momentous event.” 

Bluegrass band Unspoken Tradition will play a set in the garden outside the Executive Mansion during the lunch. 

While the prime minister tours the factories in Randolph and Guilford counties Friday morning, his wife Yuko Kishida will meet with Japanese exchange students and Japanese language students at a high school in Chapel Hill and visit Duke Gardens in Durham. 

The prime minister and his wife will also meet with students at North Carolina State University in Raleigh Friday afternoon. 

Analysis-Japan Inc Makes a Renewed U.S. Push as China Fears Mount

File photo: Workers install the fuel cell power system in a Toyota Mirai at a Toyota Motor Corp. factory in Toyota in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, Apriil 11, 2019. REUTERS/Joe White/File photo

By Daniel Leussink and David Dolan

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese companies are increasingly hitching their growth plans to the United States, as concerns about Chinese demand and Beijing's influence over supply chains prompt a noticeable pivot toward the world's largest economy.

Robot maker Yaskawa Electric, drinks company Asahi, chipmaker Renesas Electronics and automaker Honda are just a few of the companies that in recent months have either expressed interest in expanding in the U.S. or announced plans to do so.

While Japan remains tied to China through extensive trade and manufacturing operations, Tokyo has pledged with other members of the Group of Seven (G7) nations to "derisk" but not "decouple" from the world's second-largest economy.

That trend of limiting supply-chain exposure to China was highlighted by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's trip last week to the United States. Kishida, who visited North Carolina to tour a Toyota Motor EV battery facility now under construction, also emphasised cooperation on supply chains.

After years of seeing China as a market of almost endless opportunities, Japanese companies are now taking a more cautious view, executives and analysts say. Almost half of Japanese companies operating in China did not invest there last year or reduced investment, a survey showed in January.

Some of the caution is due to economic security risks - China last year detained a senior Astellas Pharma executive on suspicion of spying - while many companies cite pessimism about Chinese demand and a weakening economy.

"The illusion about the Chinese economy, the Chinese market, is disappearing," said Kunihiko Miyake, research director at the Canon Institute for Global Studies think tank.

"I think Japan and the United States started to discover the merits of each other."

Miyake said he has been advising companies to bring home state-of-the-art technology from China.

The share of Japanese firms planning to expand in China fell below 30% for the first time, an annual survey from the Japan External Trade Organisation showed in November. Only Hong Kong and Russia scored worse.

Meanwhile, the share looking to expand in North America rose above 50%. Still, it remains to be seen how the tension around Nippon Steel's bid for U.S. Steel will impact the outlook.

AUTO INDUSTRY

For Japanese automakers, the importance of the U.S. market has been amplified by their decline in China, where they have steadily ceded ground to electric vehicle giant BYD and other local players.

"China has turned into very rough going for the Japanese automakers as sales have declined there a lot, particularly as consumers have been tilting towards... electric vehicles made by local brands," said Christopher Richter, senior Japan autos analyst at brokerage CLSA.

"That heightens the importance of the U.S. market," he said, adding that historically, the United States has been the most profitable market for Japan's car companies, exceeding even their home country.

Toyota late last year said it would boost investment by $8 billion at its EV battery plant in North Carolina, bringing the total investment to around $13.9 billion. The plant, which is expected to begin operations in 2025 will be its first automotive battery plant globally.

Honda this month said it would invest at least $700 million in transforming its Ohio plants as it creates an EV hub in the state.

The Honda investment showed how Japanese car companies weren't just investing for next year but for "years down the line" said Anita Rajan, general director of JAMA USA, a lobby group that represents the Japanese automakers.

Privately, one senior executive at a Japanese automaker said he was amazed by the dynamism of the U.S. economy. That, together with the difficulties in China, made him think the U.S. market offered the better opportunity for growth, he said.

'NIPPON STEEL'

Last year Japanese overseas acquisitions totalled 8.1 trillion yen ($53 billion), the most since 2019 and roughly double from a year earlier, according to LSEG data. More than half of that was in the United States.

But the United States is not without its complications.

Nippon Steel's $15 billion bid for U.S. Steel has riled politicians, with President Joe Biden saying the manufacturer must remain domestically owned and operated, while Donald Trump has pledged to block the deal if he becomes president again.

And despite the many headwinds in China, Japan Inc remains heavily reliant on its neighbour, both as a manufacturing base and a market.

Last year, mainland China was Japan's largest source of imports, at $174 billion, and its second-largest export market, at $126 billion, according to IMF trade statistics.

The United States was its top export market.

While some companies may see the U.S. market as a better long-term option, others don't have that option, said Canon Institute's Miyake.

"It's what I call the Hotel California syndrome," he said. "You can check out any time. You can never leave."

($1 = 154.2800 yen)

(Reporting by Daniel Leussink and David Dolan; editing by Miral Fahmy)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Tags: United States , Japan

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Kishida touts Japan’s investments in U.S. with visit to swing-state Toyota plant

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida sought to highlight his country’s investments in the U.S. with a visit to a Toyota plant in North Carolina, a crucial battleground state in the 2024 contest between U.S. President Joe Biden and Donald Trump.

"I was able to agree with President Biden that the promotion of bilateral investment is very important for the U.S.-Japan relationship to drive the global economy,” Kishida told reporters late Thursday, saying the visit would showcase Japan’s investments to the American public.

Kishida said he "felt that there is a strong common understanding in the U.S. that transcends party affiliation,” but the visit comes amid controversy over another planned Japanese investment, Nippon Steel’s bid to take over U.S. Steel, and with Biden struggling to get voters to credit him for policies that have sought to bring back manufacturing jobs to the U.S., in an election in which the economy is taking center stage.

U.S. Steel is headquartered in swing-state Pennsylvania. Trump has said he will try to block the deal and Biden’s labor allies are seeking greater concessions, worried about the prospect of job losses. Biden has said he wants U.S. Steel to remain domestically owned, but stopped short of pledging to kill the deal.

The deal is already facing two U.S. probes and the companies are deliberating a decision to formally push back the time frame they expect to close the transaction. Kishida has taken a cautious stance, characterizing it as a matter between two private companies.

North Carolina and Pennsylvania will be critical to Biden’s hopes of securing a second term. A March Bloomberg News/Morning Consult poll found Biden and Trump tied in Pennsylvania with 45% each and Trump holding a 49% to 43% edge in North Carolina. The poll showed the economy as the single most important issue to voters in seven swing states, a challenge for Biden with voters anxious about high inflation despite data showing job growth.

Kishida’s visit — which saw the Japanese leader survey the vast Greensboro Toyota campus — was designed to underscore the investments and growth Biden has said are happening under his tenure. Japan is the biggest foreign investor in the U.S. with a nearly $800 billion investment. Japanese companies employ about 1 million Americans across all 50 states, with half of them in manufacturing, Kishida said in his speech to the U.S. Congress Thursday.

The Greensboro campus is expected to hire 5,100 people — 800 of whom have already hired, according to Toyota. Tetsuo Ogawa, president and CEO of Toyota North America, greeted Kishida and thanked government representatives from the U.S. and Japan for building the relationships essential to the company’s U.S. business. North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, attended the event.

"Our commitment is to keep investment and jobs in the United States,” Ogawa said.

"Kishida’s visit to North Carolina reflects a Japanese realization that compared to DC, state governors are practical in welcoming Japanese investment,” said William Chou, a Japan Chair fellow at the Hudson Institute think tank in Washington. "The trip is also a PR exercise to remind Americans that Japan is the largest investor in the U.S., providing good careers that strengthen the U.S. industrial and technological bases.”

After Toyota, Kishida visited Honda Aircraft in Greensboro, which employs about 1,000 people and makes very light jets.

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Why North Carolina? The business and cultural ties between the Tar Heel State and Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and wife Yuko Kishida made history last week with their visit to the Governor’s mansion.

What You Need To Know

Japanese prime minister fumio kishida and wife yuko kishida became the first head of a foreign country to visit the governor's mansion last week connections between north carolina and japan date back to the 1890s, when japanese students were some of the first international students at n.c. state and unc north carolina has continued its cultural ties with japan through things like the n.c. japan center and japanese programs at schools throughout the state economic ties persist as well, with japan being north carolina's largest source of foreign direct investment, according to the governor's office.

It’s the first visit from the head of a foreign state to the Governor's mansion, but it also one event in the long-running and deep business and cultural connections between Japan and the Old North state.

A cultural connection 130 years in the making

The history of the relationship between North Carolina and Japan can be marked by three stories, those of two students and one doll.

The first story is of Teisaku Sugishita, the second international student to graduate from N.C. State, and is believed to be the first native of Japan to play college football in the U.S., according to the N.C. Japan Center.  

Sugishita enrolled in the school’s civil engineering program in 1894 as part of the school’s fourth freshman class. It’s believed he may have been sent to the U.S. to study engineering as part of Japan’s efforts to industrialize.

"Between the 1860s and `80s, about 20 Japanese had been sent to the United States to study in various fields of engineering, with most of them returning to work in government positions, as did Mr. Sugishita, who worked for the Imperial Railway of Japan immediately upon returning," said John Baugh, former director of the North Carolina Japan Center and an N.C. State professor of civil engineering.

During his four years at the school, Sugishita played at most 12 games as quarterback for the school’s football team. He learned the game 40 years before it would become popular in Japan.

A second international student was also in the Triangle at the same time as Sugishita. Shinzaburo Mogi, from Tokyo, is believed to be UNC’s first international student, attending the school for the 1893-94 school year, according to the university.

Decades later, UNC sent books to the Hiroshima University library in 1951, after the atomic bombing of the city.

The third story that defines the history of the relationship between Japan and the Old North state is that of a doll, Miss Kagawa.

The doll was a gift from Japan in 1927, and is the longest serving ambassador between the state and nation, according to David Robinson, Honorary Consul for Japan in North Carolina.

After the attacks on Pearl Harbor, many of the other Japanese dolls on display in America were packed away, but Miss Kagawa was the only doll to be kept on display in the U.S., being displayed at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

Miss Kagawa remained on display until 1998, when it was sent back to Japan for refurbishing. When it returned to Raleigh in 2000, there was a welcome home ceremony.

Yuko Kishida, the wife of Japanese Prime Minster Fumio Kishida, made a stop at the Museum of Natural Sciences last week to see the doll.

Kishida also stopped by the Culberson Asiatic Arboretum at Duke University for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. The Japanese garden takes inspiration from Durham’s sister city, Toyama, Japan .  

Modern cultural connections

One-hundred-thirty years after Japanese students first attended universities in North Carolina, cultural connections continue to be formed.

Animazement , an annual Japanese animation and culture convention, holds events like tea ceremonies, language and culture classes, and studies of Japan’s culture.

Robinson, who also serves as the chair of Japan America Society of North Carolina, said the event serves as a celebration of Japanese culture, and is a pipeline for people to further study Japanese language and culture at one of the many programs at North Carolina universities.

Schools across the state, including Western Carolina University, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, have Japanese programs.

UNC offers classes in Japanese language, literature and culture. Duke has a Japanese program that is built to teach students Japanese language and culture.

But out of all the schools in North Carolina, N.C. State might have the closest ties with Japan. The school is home to the N.C. Japan Center, established by Governor James Hunt in 1980 after a state trade mission to Tokyo.

Robinson said the center was founded to provide services for foreign direct investment, but is also committed to cultural and academic exchange.

The Japan Center played host to Prime Minster Kishida during last week’ s visit, the first visit by a foreign head of government to N.C. State’s campus since 1954.

N.C. State also has a long-running relationship with Japan’s Nagoya University. The Nagoya Global Campus was established at N.C. State last year, offering dual-degree programs, student exchanges, and global internships for students from both schools.

Many of those students will go on to work at a Japanese-owned company in North Carolina.

Over 30,000 North Carolinians go to work at Japanese companies every day, according to the North Carolina Department of Commerce. More than 225 Japanese-owned companies operate in North Carolina from about 500 locations, according to the department.

Those numbers are only expected to grow.

Japan and North Carolina: Economic partners

Kishida’s visit was marked by Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, a Japanese biopharmaceutical company, announcing they would bring nearly 700 new jobs to Holly Springs as part of a $1.2 billion expansion in its manufacturing plant.

“The new jobs created by the expansion of FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies in Wake County is yet another example of the thriving economic relationship between North Carolina and Japan, and we are grateful for their continuing investments in our state. Japanese companies continue to provide good-paying jobs and economic opportunity for people across North Carolina,” Governor Roy Cooper said in a press release.

The expansion brings Fujifilm’s total investment in the state to $3.2 billion, providing over 1,400 jobs. But that’s just a small part of Japan’s economic investments into the state.

Robinson said that most of the Japanese companies that have invested in North Carolina are still here, and that success encourages other Japanese companies to invest.

Over the last decade, there has been $17.5 billion in Japanese capital investment in the state, and more than 9,000 jobs have been announced, according to the Department of Commerce. Japan is also North Carolina's largest source of foreign direct investment, according to the governor's office. 

Some of the largest Japanese companies in North Carolina include Honda Aircraft Company and Toyota, both of which Kishida visited with Governor Cooper last week.

Both companies have chosen North Carolina for some of their biggest expansions.

Honda Aircraft’s global headquarters is in Greensboro, where the company employs about 900 people. Last July, the HondaJet factory in Greensboro was chosen to develop and produce the HondaJet 2600, designed to be the world’s first light jet capable of nonstop transcontinental flight across the United States.

The expansion created nearly 300 new jobs through a $55.7 million investment, bringing the company’s total investment in the state to over $335 million.

State officials have emphasized the state’s workforce as a primary factor for expansion.

“Talent comes first when companies consider a business location,” said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. “Locations that can offer a talented and well-trained workforce, tailored to the needs of a particular industry, succeed in today’s business environment. North Carolina’s 'First in Talent' strategic plan helps our state deliver the world-class workforce that makes us the best place to do business in the world.”

Robinson says that North Carolina has the business conditions, like a good workforce, that draw companies in, but the decades-old connection between North Carolina and Japan makes the state an easy choice for Japanese companies.  

Toyota has also chosen North Carolina for innovative expansions. In 2021, the company chose Liberty, about 20 miles southeast of Greensboro, as the site for its first electric automotive plant globally.  The company has invested more than $13.9 billion in the Randolph County site and plans to create more than 5,000 jobs.

Japanese expansion in North Carolina has been supported by grants from the state. Fujifilm’s most recent expansion came with $18 million in incentives, and their 2021 expansion was supported by a nearly $20-million grant.

HondaJet’s expansion was supported by grant that could send the company up to $3.4 million over the next 12 years.

Toyota’s choice of North Carolina for its battery plant and subsequent expansions came after multiple meetings between the company’s executives and Governor Roy Cooper.

In 2023, Cooper traveled to Tokyo for the second time to attend the Southeast U.S./Japan Association Meeting. There, he met with Toyota and Bridgestone executives, another Japanese company that employs thousands of North Carolinians, according to the Governor’s office.

“Over thousands of miles of land and sea and several generations, North Carolina’s relationship with Japan has grown strong and resolute, producing valuable successes for our people. We look forward to continuing to work together to bring success to both the southeastern United States and Japan through this valuable partnership,” Governor Cooper said in a press release after the conference.

The 2024 SEUS/Japan Conference will come to Charlotte, North Carolina.  

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