Key Facts
• June 21, 2025: Czech team departs Prague Castle for Osaka Expo.
• 16 participants use 7 vintage cars (pre-1980) and support vehicles.
• Route spans 16,000 km across Eurasia, including the Balkans and Turkey.
• Vehicles include a 1959 Tatra and a 1977 Toyota Celica.
• Frequent challenges: breakdowns, roadblocks, and border delays.
• Current location (as of July 6): near Kazakhstan-China border.
• Inspired by a 1970 hitchhiking journey to Osaka Expo by Zdenek Toma.
• Toma’s 1970 trip took 6.5 months and 497 rides.
• Czech National Day (July 24): planned car exhibition at Osaka Expo.
• Goal: promote Czech-Japanese friendship and cultural exchange.
Summary
A Czech team led by entrepreneur Josef Zajicek is driving vintage cars from Prague to the Osaka Expo 2025, retracing a historic 1970 journey. The 16-member group, using pre-1980 vehicles, aims to cover 16,000 km across Eurasia, overcoming mechanical and logistical challenges. Their mission is to foster Czech-Japanese cultural ties, with a car exhibition planned for Czech National Day on July 24. Inspired by Zdenek Toma’s 1970 hitchhiking adventure to the Osaka Expo, the project highlights the enduring spirit of cultural connection.
