Personalizing your workspace, being your desk or your truck, is a normal part of the workplace. When we think of personalizing a truck, we think of having a few pictures, seat covers, maybe a bobble-head or two, or a custom metallic gloss paint job if you’re really serious.
In Japan, truck customization is a bit more involved: custom mirrors, stainless steel truck decks that look like dragons, full murals on the trailer, and hundreds of neon flashing lights. It’s such a common practice in the country, that it’s an art form of sorts called Dekotora. Although the practice started with individual drivers using spare parts to customize their rigs, it has since become an entire industry in Japan, with readymade parts available for a myriad of customizations, no matter how specialized. The result is truck stops that look more like casinos than rest areas.
Check out some of our favorites.
For more pictures check out Jalopnik's Dakotora archive, and more at Dark Roasted Blend.
