Ikaho Toy, Doll and Car Museum — Attraction in Yoshioka

A visit to the Ikaho Toy, Doll and Car Museum in Gunma Prefecture is more than just a nostalgic stroll—it’s a full-sensory journey through time and imagination. Nestled in the hills near the historic Ikaho Onsen town, the museum boasts an astonishing range of exhibits that appeal to both children and adults. From vintage Japanese toys and dolls to an impressive collection of classic cars—including a dedicated section for fans of the anime Initial D—the sheer quantity and diversity of items on display is remarkable. Each room offers a new surprise: retro arcade games, teddy bears, Showa-era street recreations, and even a European-style café that adds a whimsical touch to the experience.

The museum’s layout guides visitors through themed zones, each carefully curated to evoke a specific era or cultural moment. Whether you’re admiring a fleet of classic Minis or browsing through movie posters in the open-air gallery, the attention to detail is evident throughout. It’s a place where generations of memories converge, and where even the smallest figurine tells a story.

Beyond the museum, the surrounding area offers scenic charm. Ikaho Onsen is just a short drive away, with its stone steps, traditional ryokan inns, and natural hot springs providing a perfect complement to the day’s adventure. The drive itself is part of the joy—winding mountain roads, lush greenery, and panoramic views make the journey feel like a retreat from the everyday.

Altogether, the Ikaho Toy, Doll and Car Museum delivers not only in scale and variety but in atmosphere and emotion. It’s a destination that blends playfulness with cultural depth, and the road trip there adds a layer of serenity and anticipation that makes the entire experience...

I initially expected just a simple toy display, but this museum completely exceeded expectations with its detailed, professional curation. The collection spans multiple floors with incredible variety - toys from Japan’s cathode ray tube era when Astro Boy aired through the pre-smartphone period, complete with recreated game arcades, magazines, and snack areas that authentically capture different time periods.

The second floor houses an impressive automotive collection featuring famous Japanese cars from the industry’s beginnings, racing cars, and even vehicles from Initial D, while the first floor includes British Mini models. Beyond the main exhibits, there’s an outdoor park with American movie-style posters, detailed military dioramas that war enthusiasts would love, and a European-style indoor cafe. This museum is far more diverse and engaging than it appears from outside - definitely a must-visit if...

As a huge fan of Initial D and Japanese cars in general, I came here for the vintage Japanese car collection. They also have an impressively large collection of vintage toys, dolls and teddy bears. This place is worth the visit if you're a history buff, or just want a trip down memory lane.

As for the car exhibit, they an incredible collection of vintage Japanese cars including the Hakosuka and Kenmerri GT-Rs, racecars, an entire exhibit on the mini Cooper as well as many many others. Unfortunately, you're not allowed to take pictures at the mini exhibit. The initial D AE86 and FD RX-7 are in attendance as well as the original Fujino Tofu Shop storefront (the tofu shop from initial D was based on). This stop is a must for initial D fans and car...