In 2019, the city of Toyota in Japan’s Aichi Prefecture wants to show visitors that it is more than just a “car town.” Home to the auto manufacturer from which the city of 420,000 takes its name, Toyota City this autumn is hosting major art exhibits and four matches — including two marquee games featuring the Japanese and New Zealand squads — of the Rugby World Cup. These events are something of a coming out for Toyota City, whose reputation as a manufacturing center belies its rich history and mountain scenery. The city makes for an up-and-coming addition to any Japan travel itinerary.

A 50-minute train ride from Nagoya, Toyota City also has the advantage of being considerably lighter on the wallet compared to Tokyo or Osaka. Event and museum admissions are less expensive, thanks to subsidies from the carmaker, with hotel and restaurant options also being considerably cheaper compared to Japan’s big cities — perfect for travelers looking to extend their travel budget.

History and Culture

Toyota Municipal Museum of Art

Through Oct. 14, the Toyota Municipal Museum of Art will concurrently co-host the Aichi Triennale contemporary art festival, as well as an exhibition on the works of the Austrian symbolist painter Gustav Klimt. Adult admission costs 1600 yen per exhibit ($15) , or 2,000 yen (around $19) for a combined ticket. Constructed by Yoshio Taniguchi — the Japanese architect responsible for the 2004 redesign of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City — the grounds of the Toyota Municipal Museum of Art also offer scenic views of the city below.