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The Ultimate Guide To Tokyo Auto Salon 2026: Dates, Venue, And 5 JDM Trends You Can't Miss

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The most anticipated event in the global tuning calendar is officially confirmed. As of late December 2025, the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 (TAS 2026) is set to kick off the new year, promising a spectacular showcase of cutting-edge JDM culture, modified vehicles, and the latest in aftermarket technology. This comprehensive guide provides all the confirmed details you need to plan your trip, from the official dates and venue to the must-see exhibitors and emerging tuning trends.

The Tokyo Auto Salon is not just a car show; it is a cultural phenomenon that dictates the direction of the automotive aftermarket for the entire year. With major manufacturers and legendary tuning houses preparing their biggest reveals, TAS 2026 is shaping up to be an unmissable event for enthusiasts worldwide.

Tokyo Auto Salon 2026: Official Dates and Essential Information

The official schedule for the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 follows its traditional early January slot, ensuring it remains the first major international automotive event of the year. The three-day event is held at its long-standing home, the sprawling Makuhari Messe complex in Chiba City, Japan.

  • Official Dates: Friday, January 9, 2026, to Sunday, January 11, 2026.
  • Venue: Makuhari Messe International Exhibition Halls 1-11, International Conference Hall, Event Hall, and Outdoor Arena.
  • Location: Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.

Detailed 2026 Schedule Breakdown

For attendees planning their visit, the three days are structured to cater to different audiences. Understanding this schedule is crucial for maximizing your experience, especially if you are seeking a quieter, more focused viewing opportunity.

  • Friday, January 9 (Premium Day): This day is primarily reserved for media, industry professionals, and holders of the exclusive Premium Ticket. The public admission window is typically limited to the afternoon, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM JST, offering a less crowded experience for serious enthusiasts.
  • Saturday, January 10 (Public Day): The first full public day, featuring the largest crowds, live demos, and main stage events.
  • Sunday, January 11 (Public Day): The final day of the event, offering another full day of access to the exhibits, often with slightly lighter crowds than Saturday.

Ticket Information: Premium Tickets for Friday, January 9, are typically priced around ¥4,000 (including tax). General admission ticket sales are confirmed to begin on November 1st at 10:00 AM JST, so setting an alert is highly recommended to secure your spot.

Confirmed and Anticipated Major Exhibitors for TAS 2026

The Tokyo Auto Salon is unique in that it features both major global OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and the world's most influential local tuning shops. The blend of factory-backed concepts and grassroots custom builds is what gives the show its distinctive energy.

OEM Powerhouses

Major Japanese automakers use TAS to showcase their performance divisions, new concepts, and factory-backed aftermarket parts.

  • Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR): TGR is a perennial headliner, planning to exhibit its latest racing technology and performance concepts. Anticipate new GR-badged models, potential updates to the GR Supra, GR86, and GR Yaris, and concepts that bridge motorsport with street performance.
  • Honda: Honda has confirmed its presence, typically utilizing the Central Hall. The focus is expected to be on their performance line-up, potentially including tuned versions of the Civic Type R and the highly anticipated new generation of models, such as the virtual JDM tuning treatments seen on the new Honda Prelude.
  • Nissan: Nissan will also be at Makuhari Messe, likely showcasing NISMO-tuned vehicles and their commitment to both performance and future mobility solutions.

Legendary Aftermarket and Tuning Houses

These are the entities that define JDM culture, often debuting widebody kits, engine swaps, and performance parts that set global trends.

  • Liberty Walk: Confirmed to be exhibiting, Liberty Walk is internationally famous for its dramatic, riveted widebody kits, especially for supercars and JDM classics. Their booth is always a major attraction.
  • HKS: A staple of the tuning world, HKS is expected to showcase its latest turbochargers, coil-overs, exhaust systems, and engine components for popular platforms.
  • Mugen Motorsports: Closely tied to Honda, Mugen is the go-to for high-performance accessories, body kits, and sports exhausts, often debuting parts for new Honda models at the show.
  • Rauh-Welt Begriff (RWB): While not always officially listed, the presence of RWB's signature Porsche builds is always highly anticipated by fans of extreme aesthetics.
  • Ogura Clutch & HAL Springs: These performance parts suppliers, exhibiting in collaboration with ROOKIE Racing, highlight the essential role of specialized components like clutches and suspension springs in high-level tuning.

5 JDM Tuning Trends and Technologies to Watch at TAS 2026

The Tokyo Auto Salon is the ultimate barometer for the automotive aftermarket. Based on current industry momentum and technological advancements, these are the key trends expected to dominate the 2026 show floor, offering a glimpse into the future of custom car culture.

1. Retro-Modern Fusion and Heritage Restorations

The deep appreciation for Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) classics like the Nissan Skyline GT-R, Mazda RX-7, and Toyota AE86 continues to grow. TAS 2026 will likely feature numerous "restomod" projects, blending classic styling with modern performance and safety features. Expect to see new lines of aftermarket parts, including remanufactured and high-quality 3D-printed components, aimed at helping enthusiasts restore and customize iconic cars like the Honda NSX.

2. The Rise of Performance Electrification

While JDM culture is rooted in combustion engines, major OEMs and tuning houses are increasingly embracing electrification. TGR and Honda are expected to showcase performance hybrid or fully electric concepts that demonstrate how tuning can apply to the new era of mobility. Look for "e-tuning" solutions, including specialized battery management systems and electric motor upgrades, aimed at maximizing instant torque and handling.

3. Extreme Widebody & Aerodynamic Innovation

The widebody aesthetic, popularized globally by entities like Liberty Walk, remains a dominant force. However, the trend is moving beyond pure aesthetics toward functional aerodynamics. Expect to see increasingly complex carbon fiber body kits, active aero elements, and intricate underbody diffusers designed to enhance track performance, not just street presence.

4. Advanced Digital Customization and Interior Upgrades

Tuning is no longer just about the engine bay. The interior and digital experience are becoming key customization areas. We anticipate a surge in custom digital dashboards, integrated telemetry systems, and high-end interior components. The demand for JDM-style interior upgrades, such as unique shift knobs, specialized racing seats, and premium materials, is projected to remain strong through 2026 across global markets.

5. Suspension and Drivetrain Precision

As engine power figures become increasingly high, the focus shifts to effectively putting that power to the ground. TAS 2026 will be a major showcase for sophisticated suspension technology, including advanced coil-overs, air ride systems, and specialized components from companies like HAL Springs. Furthermore, the exhibition of high-performance drivetrain parts, such as those from Ogura Clutch, underscores the industry's commitment to durability and precision for both street and track use.

Planning Your Trip to Makuhari Messe

Attending the Tokyo Auto Salon is a bucket-list item for any car enthusiast. Since the event takes place in early January, it coincides with the Japanese tradition of Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year), making the whole experience a unique blend of modern culture and tradition.

Makuhari Messe is easily accessible from central Tokyo via the JR Keiyo Line to Kaihin-Makuhari Station. Given the massive attendance—often surpassing 300,000 visitors over the three days—early arrival on Saturday and Sunday is highly recommended to beat the crowds. For those seeking the freshest reveals and the best photo opportunities, securing a Premium Ticket for the restricted Friday afternoon session is the best strategy.

TAS 2026 promises to be a landmark event, setting the tone for the global custom car and aftermarket industry. Mark your calendars for January 9–11, 2026, and prepare to witness the pinnacle of Japanese automotive innovation.

The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Auto Salon 2026: Dates, Venue, and 5 JDM Trends You Can't Miss
tokyo auto salon 2026 dates
tokyo auto salon 2026 dates

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