Quirky and Offbeat Japan

KUMAGAYA, SAITAMA, JAPAN - 2017/08/26: Artwork on the side of an Are dekotora Japanese decorated truck which are like long-haul discos and are works or art on wheels or perhaps the personal statements of truck drivers? These gaudy, tricked-up trucks are usually found in rural areas of Japan where wheels are important. Though artistically decorated trucks and buses can be found outside Japan, what sets the Japanese version apart is the level of expertise, artistry and intricate finishes on the lighting apparatus and paint jobs. They are usually best viewed when illuminated thanks to their neon, ultraviolet, strobe and flashing lights. Occasionally they are even fitted with fancy interiors with chandeliers and other paraphernalia to give them an added kick. These unique trucks first came onto the scene in the 1970s, and appeared in the public consciousness with the Japanese movie Trucker Guys. Some decotora follow historical themes while others show more interest in animals or are all about lights and even some video games have taken on the theme of dekotora with trucks as heroes or villains. (Photo by John S Lander/LightRocket via Getty Images)