Japan’s Temple of Speed: The Stunning Concorso d’Eleganza Revealed
In the heart of Japan’s ancient capital, Nara, the Concorso d’Eleganza Japan elegantly unfolded at the serene and historic Yakushiji Temple—a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its timeless beauty and cultural significance. Expertly curated by automotive visionary Hidetomo Kimura, the event blended traditional Japanese aesthetics with the pinnacle of global automotive heritage, offering enthusiasts an unforgettable sensory journey.
A Curated Showcase of Automotive Excellence
Over 60 extraordinary collector cars, spanning from vintage classics to futuristic supercars, were thoughtfully displayed, each telling a unique story from automotive history.
European Elegance
The selection featured iconic European masterpieces such as a distinguished black Bugatti Type 13, a refined Aston Martin International, and the opulent Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental DHC Carlton, capturing the timeless charm of European automotive craftsmanship.
Italian Design Icons
Italy’s automotive artistry shone brightly through stunning Zagato-bodied vehicles including a Fiat 500B Zagato Panoramica, Fiat 1100 TV Zagato, and Alfa Romeo 1900 SSZ Coupe. Additionally, a dynamic trio of Bandini 750 race cars showcased post-war Italy’s fervent passion for speed and innovation.
Japanese Automotive Heritage:
Japan’s significant contributions to automotive excellence were represented through the ultra-exclusive Lexus LFA Spyder—one of only two ever built—and the iconic open-top Toyota 2000GT, immortalized by the legendary James Bond film, “You Only Live Twice.” These rare models underscored Japan’s blend of innovative engineering and cultural storytelling.
Hypercar Highlights
Modern automotive marvels were also present, drawing attention from younger generations of enthusiasts. Among these were Lamborghini’s striking Centenario and the electrifying Sián, Ferrari’s breathtaking Daytona SP3, and the meticulous craftsmanship embodied in the Singer-Porsche 911 DLS—each vehicle showcasing cutting-edge technology paired with iconic designs.
Best of Show
A Legendary Lancia Dominating the spotlight was Marcello Gandini’s groundbreaking 1970 Lancia Stratos Zero concept, winner of the coveted Best of Show. Renowned collector Phillip Sarofim transported this iconic wedge-shaped design all the way from California, underscoring the universal appreciation and global significance of this automotive masterpiece. The Stratos Zero's futuristic lines and timeless innovation captivated spectators, reinforcing its legendary status in automotive history.
A Fashion Statement
Pebble Beach Exclusive Tie Phillip Sarofim further elevated the occasion by accessorizing with an exclusive silk tie from The Outlierman—a limited-edition piece created in collaboration with the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®. Directly inspired by the Stratos Zero, this sophisticated accessory reflected the harmonious fusion between automotive and fashion heritage, making a subtle yet powerful style statement.
The Visionary: Hidetomo Kimura
Behind this extraordinary event stood Hidetomo Kimura, whose vision and passion for automotive culture and refined lifestyle experiences have made him a distinguished figure globally. Through his thoughtful curation, Kimura seamlessly blended automotive excellence with cultural heritage, offering attendees deeper insights into the artistry, stories, and passion behind each vehicle.
Immersive Lifestyle Experience
Concorso d’Eleganza Japan transcended the traditional automotive show, creating an immersive lifestyle experience that celebrated the interplay between vehicles, fashion, culture, and heritage. Attendees not only admired the automobiles but also enjoyed the serene beauty and harmony of the temple surroundings, providing memorable moments of reflection and appreciation for both automotive design and cultural sophistication.
A Celebration of Universal Passion
Ultimately, Concorso d’Eleganza Japan exemplified how automotive enthusiasm unites people across cultures, generations, and geographies. This event showcased not just the elegance and exclusivity of iconic cars but also celebrated the global community that passionately preserves and appreciates automotive history, design, and innovation.
Stay tuned as we continue to explore further insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and detailed coverage from this extraordinary event, highlighting the timeless appeal and evolving artistry of automotive culture.
Photo credits: RAGAZZI CLUB
