The Nissan Crossing is a must-visit when in Tokyo
I consider myself very lucky to have been part of Nissan Philippines’ media delegation for the recent 2023 Japan Mobility Show which was held from October 25 to November 5, 2023. Not only was it my first time to experience one of the world’s prime motor (or mobility) shows, it was also my first time to visit Japan.
While Nissan Philippines and their global counterparts had an amazing itinerary prepared for us that even included a drive on the iconic Hakone Turnpike, one thing that I thought was missing was a visit to Nissan Crossing in Ginza, Tokyo. Of course, I had to.
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Nissan Crossing Ginza
The Nissan Crossing is somewhat like your typical car showroom, but taken steps further with a display or showcase of what the brand has done in the past, is doing in the present, and has ins store for the future, not only in terms of its vehicles, but also in motorsports.
I first took a peek at the place while taking a solo nightwalk around the very posh Ginza district which was just a short walk away from our hotel in nearby Shiodome. Sadly it was already closed by the time I got there. I actually chose to stay behind in Tokyo after the rest of the delegation left as I wanted to explore and experience more of the vibrant city. With good friends from other brands’ delegations in tow, I returned to Nissan Crossing on my last full day.
Welcoming visitors on the ground floor on a turntable, which Nissan calls The Cylinder, was the iconic Nissan 300ZX, known as the Fairlady Z for the Japanese market. It’s very rare to see iconic vehicles like this running on the road with most of them tucked-away in private garages, much more in such condition which basically can be said as factory-fresh.
Also on display were the Ariya EV crossover, which is gaining popularity globally. That I was able to drive on Japan roads so be sure to read about that here. Nissan’s Gen2 Formula E car from Season 8 of the race was also present. I’m not exactly sure what model it is since I’m not yet so familiar with motorsports (yes, unbecoming of a motoring journalist hehe) but I’m learning.
Going up to the second level, two of the current RZ34 generation Nissan Z (Fairlady Z for the Japanese market) were on display. One is a “regular” one painted in my favorite Seiran Blue, and on the Cylinder Top was the special Customized Edition from the 2022 Tokyo Auto Salon. That one pays homage to the legendary Fairlady Z432R with an exclusive orange body color combined with black paint on the hood, roof, and the tail end of the car. It also gets special retro-styled blacked-out alloy wheels, overfenders, dual exhaust pipes, and a large rear spoiler.
One of the best things about Nissan Crossing is actually not the cars, but the Crossing Café located on the 2nd floor. Here you can order some really tasty cups of coffee with what they call macchi-art which cleverly shows a Nissan vehicle of your choice on top. The café also has ample seating for a little bit of socializing with friends, as well as an unobstructed view of the street crossing below which is just as iconic as Shibuya Crossing.
And of course, a Nissan Boutique is also present just next to the café. Here you can purchase different kinds of Nissan merchandise ranging from model cars, t-shirts and jackets, keychains, and many more.
The Ultimate Car Showcase
Nissan Crossing surely is a must-visit when you’re in Tokyo, much more if you’re a car enthusiast, or simply a fan of the Nissan brand. It offers a unique look into what the brand has for us, and makes sure that we get to appreciate it, its products, and latest technology more than we already do.
If you want to visit the Nissan Crossing, it’s located at 8-1, 5-chome, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo. The closest Tokyo Metro station is Ginza Station with access from the Ginza, Marunouchi, and Hibiya Lines. The JR Yurakucho Station is also a short walk away.
