Volkswagen Enthusiasts Unite at the Weekend Meetup
On November 1, 2025, Volkswagen Japan hosted an exclusive event known as the "VW Weekend Meetup" at Daikanyama T-SITE in Tokyo. This occasion provided a platform for Volkswagen owners, affectionately called "VWers," to come together and strengthen their community ties. The event aimed to highlight the love for the brand, featuring award winners from the "I Love Volkswagen Photo Campaign" and about 80 randomly selected participants.
As attendees arrived, the fresh autumn air welcomed them to a festival of Volkswagen passion. Participants began gathering about an hour before the scheduled start time, with their beloved vehicles in tow. The array of cars on display was impressive, including classic models like the Beetle and the iconic VW Bus. Various generations of the Golf, popular SUVs, and the latest Passat were also present, showcasing the diverse range of VW enthusiasts.
One of the highlights of the day was the "VW Photo Award" segment, where outstanding entries from the photo campaign were acknowledged. Categories included "Best Car Photo," "Illustration," "Video," and "Kids’ Section." To applause from fellow participants, winners from across these departments were celebrated, representing the creativity and love fans have for their vehicles.
During the "Volkswagen Spotlight Picks," automotive journalist Tomoko Fujishima discussed iconic models such as the Golf GTI, Golf R, e-Golf, and Golf GTI TCR. She engaged with owners to illuminate what it’s like to live with a Volkswagen. One particularly impressive participant shared that they had owned 13 different Volkswagens since getting their license, earning gasps of admiration from the crowd.
Moreover, surprise guests from Volkswagen's headquarters in Germany made the event even more special. Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Brand, along with Martian Sander and Christian Vollmer, vice presidents in Sales/Marketing and Global Production, mingled with attendees. Schäfer expressed his delight in being in Tokyo and looked forward to interacting with everyone. He toured the venue, chatting with VW owners about their vehicles and deepening the connection with fans.
As the event drew to a close, attendees participated in group photos alongside a special message board, commemorating the day. Schäfer shared, "Seeing so many fans gathered and showcasing their prized vehicles fills me with immense pride. The passion and affection that fans have for Volkswagen were incredibly palpable today. I am truly happy to have shared this experience with all of you."
Meanwhile, brand director Martin Zarge, who had just taken on his role, expressed his thrill at witnessing such a large gathering of passionate Volkswagen fans. "I am deeply moved by the immense turnout from devoted fans. Thank you all for being here. Volkswagen aims to bring better and new products to our Japanese fans, and I commit to doing my utmost in supporting your passion for the brand," he affirmed, signaling his enthusiasm for the future.
Volkswagen Group Japan, Inc. invites inquiries via the Volkswagen Customer Center at 0120-993-199, where they promise to support every enthusiast's journey with comfort and attention.