This year's spring installment of the Japan HW show circuit was a great success, and featured the debut of an incredible two-car box set honoring dinner guest designer Phil Riehlman. The set includes the VW Drag Bus and VW Drag Truck castings, both featuring flames designed by Phil himself. Saturday's dinner and charity auction were lively and fun for all attendees. Mattel offered a generous prototype donation to the auction slate, which was complemented by some excellent Code-3 items commemorating the show. Bus collectors beware - some of these are hot! The night was capped by a special event for auction winners of the "Cocktail Party Ticket." They were treated to a special baggied Merc and a private meet and greet party with Phil.

Sunday's agenda was full of show fun at the convention hall, which included space for dealers, custom car displays, an official Mattel Japan booth, Sizzler and Downhill racing, and a very busy autograph line for Phil. He's going to need an "off season" to recoup from all of the signing! The room was busy all day with people coming and going, and the afternoon ended with the presentation of awards in several categories, including one featuring castings created by Phil. I especially liked the "Phil Farb" entry.

It was a long way to travel for a Hot Wheels event, but it was a lot of fun and I hope that I will be able to attend again in the future. Watch the official site for updates announcing the fall show, which should be held in Tokyo.

More photos to be added as time permits....

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