These trucks are works of art

pulse

April 11, 2018 8:56 PM

Dekotora trucks are semi trucks covered in flashing LED lights and beautiful murals. The insides are just as extravagant.

These are Japanese Dekotora trucks. "Dekotora" means "decorated." They are also known as art trucks. This subculture has been around for over 50 years. Dekotora became popular by the Torakku Yarô (Truck Rascals) film series. It followed the antics of two truckers in decked-out trucks. Japan's trucker scene has been hooked ever since.

At the height of the movement, the trucks were often used for work. It wasn’t uncommon to see a Deko-truck delivering goods. Although a lot of the same elements can be found on the trucks. Each truck is completely different from the next. Dekotora is all about personal expression. And a lot of flash.

Here’s what you can find inside. Outrageous fabrics. Chandeliers. Rooms. Japan has stores dedicated to selling Dekotora accessories. The most expensive part is the paint job. Hand-painted murals often cover the trailer. Paint jobs of this caliber can cost north of $5,000. But that’s barely a dent in the overall price. Owners spend up to $100,000 on their trucks. But the trucks are never finished. Instead, they are constantly evolving.

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