Archive for Culture

Dekotora

Dekotora(デコトラ) is an abbreviated word which stands for “Decoration trucks” in Japan. Dekotora consists in loudly decorating trucks with extravagant shiny stainless steel parts, colorful paints (who said kitshy?) and flashy lights.

Such trucks can be seen from time to time on the highway but seldom in the city. Actually “dekotora” need to pass an inspection prior to burn the road. I guess it’s better not being involved in a car accident with one of those artsy monsters!

Dekotora
Taken from this page.

Dekotora became popular among truckers in the mid 70’s when the movie “Trucker” (トラック野郎) was released. Below, an excerpt. I love the song at the end.

One might think only japanese can invent such crazy things but there are some countries where “trucks decoration” is big too. Pakistan for instance.

Truck in Pakistan
Taken from this page.

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