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Dekotora trucks became popular in Japan during the 1980s. (Photo Credits: Instagram)

Japan’s Dekotora, or decorative trucks, are truly a work of art. Widely popularised during the 1980s, these trucks were the loudest and proudest trucks of Japan. Despite their popularity, these neon-clad trucks have become a rare sight on the roads over the decades.

The trucks became popular at the time of electric excess, when Japan’s economy touched new heights.

Japan’s Chrome-Clad Rebel Trucks

The large, chrome-led neon trucks were representatives of the working-class culture. These extravagantly decorated trucks pushed back against norms that defined Japanese behaviour as polite and quiet.

As per ABC News reports, veteran truckie and the chairman of the Utamaro Kai Club, Junichi Tajima, shared, “The decoration (in the trucks) was like fighting. If his bumper was 50 centimetres, you’d put yours out to a metre. Or if his lights were 50 watts, then you’d fit 800-watt ones. It was to show off.”

He also shared that even back in the day, being a truckie was not desirable. “To gain even a little recognition from people, we made trucks beautiful and turned them into art trucks.” Junichi further added that Dekotora trucks cannot be made overnight. One truck needs approximately ten years to complete and costs “tens if not hundreds of thousands of dollars to fit out.”

These trucks commonly feature neon, LED, or ultraviolet lights; detailed paint jobs; murals; and stainless steel or golden parts both on the inside and outside of the trucks. Its colourful bright lights help the trucks to be spotted from a distance.

Dekotora Trucks Find Renewed Purpose

In recent years, when the trucks faced extinction, the truckies found a renewed purpose. Following the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami, Dekotora truckies helped deliver supplies and raise funds for the victims, marking the beginning of a community drive that still continues.

After the devastating earthquake in 2024, nearly 100 dekotora trucks descended on the Noto Peninsula to help the community. “I’ve come to realise that dekotora trucks have this power to benefit society, help people, and ultimately to make everyone smile,” said one truckie, as per ABC News. What started as a rejection of traditional societal norms now poses as a drivable work of art that aids the community in need.