Corolla 50th Anniversary Festival

Fans flocked to the museum-like venue, which featured all generations of the Corolla from the first model launched in 1966 to the current 11th generation. A special edition "Corolla Axio Hybrid G '50 Limited'" was also displayed, recreating the characteristics of the first-generation Corolla based on the current model.

A talk show hosted by automotive critic Yumi Yoshida featured Shinichi Yasui, Executive Managing Officer of Toyota Motor Corporation and head of Corolla development; Chief Engineer Yoshiki Konishi; and freelance writer Atsushi Kobayashi, an expert on the Corolla. Each shared anecdotes related to the Corolla.

Reflecting on his first assignment with the Corolla, Mr. Yasui stated, "When I was put in charge of the Corolla in my late 30s, I was surprised—why was I working on a car for older people? But Chief Engineer Ken Yoshida (at the time) instructed me that the Corolla wasn't just for Japan, so I should go see the world. Seeing how the Corolla differed by country in terms of users and usage, I became completely absorbed by its appeal and grandeur."

The stage featured various attractions, including a Corolla quiz with a first-generation Corolla mini-car as a prize and a Q&A session. Attendees ranged from former owners to families currently driving Corollas, sharing joy across generations. Finally, the results of a popularity vote for all-time Corollas were announced. The fourth-generation Corolla (AE70), released in 1979 and affectionately known as the "Nana-Maru," took the top spot.

The day was packed with exciting plans for fans, including a rare opportunity to ride in the first-generation Corolla. Eight meticulously crafted model cars were also on display, and panels detailing the Corolla's lineage and development stories proved popular.