By Todd McClure
The History of JCCS
The Japanese Classic Car Show all started 20 years ago when a group of enthusiasts in Southern California wanted to create a new event that “would celebrate vintage Japanese automobiles and the culture that surrounds them”. This culture is often referred to as “Kyusha culture”, an existing Japanese term that was popularized in the US by JCCS when the show began. The growth of JCCS is evident with the 2024 show having nearly 500 Japanese classics displayed. With 2025 being the 20th anniversary, we wouldn’t be surprised to see it make another jump in attendance.
I spoke with Terry Yamaguchi, the CEO/Event Organizer of JCCS. She described how the popularization and inclusion of Japanese classics has changed over the years.
She said, “after our first event in 2005 I received a message from a fairly well-known journalist saying that we shouldn’t be using the word ‘classics’ when describing Japanese vehicles. His feeling was that only vehicles like Mustangs and Camaros and maybe some European cars should be called classics. I told him that he doesn’t get to decide what a classic is, and we don’t need his approval. At that time, we accepted vehicles 1985 and earlier. Now over the years we have had a much more positive experience and even have had big names like Jay Leno attend our show. He has brought his own Japanese classics to the show and speaks positively about what we are doing here.”
Watch a recap of last year’s event here.
Two Milestones, One Great Event
Another exciting fact about this 20th anniversary is that it coincides with the 60th anniversary of Brock Racing Enterprises, who will be gathering at the show and collaborating with JCCS to make this year’s event even more special. The legendary racer, Peter Brock, along with many people from his team will again be in attendance celebrating this great milestone.
Click here to watch a great interview with Peter Brock.
SEMA ARMO Involvement
While the historical focus of ARMO (Automotive Restoration Market Organization) has been on the domestic classics, we want to continue to involve all who have a passion for bringing beautiful vehicles back to life. ARMO continues to demonstrate its support for Japanese classics as we attend and sponsor JCCS 2025, and it’s always possible you may see another import in the ARMO booth at the SEMA show this year. Last year you may have seen the 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R that we had on display. If you’re attending this year’s show, come by the ARMO booth to chat with our council leaders about ARMO resources as well as our shared appreciation for cool classic vehicles!
When and Where
JCCS 2025 will take place October 11, 2025, at Marina Green Park in Long Beach, California.
You can find more information including registration at japaneseclassiccarshow.com
Do you have a business that is involved in automotive restoration? Find out about becoming an ARMO member company here.