On the Road with Takeuchi: Nagano, Japan

Every Takeuchi machine has a story—and recently, we traveled to where Takeuchi’s story truly began. Our latest adventure on the road took us to Nagano, Japan, home to Takeuchi’s global headquarters and the birthplace of compact equipment innovation as we know it.

The journey started in Tokyo. We gave ourselves one day to explore the city before heading to Nagano, and we made the most of it: 35,000 steps of it to be exact. That’s around 15 miles of walking if you were wondering. We spent the day weaving through Shibuya Crossing, squeezing through crowded street markets, wandering through centuries-old temples and shrines and even stumbled into a traditional Shinto festival in Shinjuku. Tokyo’s mix of modern energy and longstanding tradition set the tone for the entire trip. From there, we boarded the Shinkansen bullet train and watched the city give way to mountains as we approached Nagano. Here, tucked between forests and peaks, is where Takeuchi’s heartbeat has pulsed for over 60 years.

Walking into HO (our global headquarters) felt like stepping directly into Takeuchi history. The original buildings still stand next to modern engineering offices and expanded production facilities. On the factory floor, we saw firsthand how ideas become steel and steel becomes the machines our customers run every day. Filming here meant capturing each stage of the manufacturing process from raw materials to final assembly. We also met the craftsmen and women who take pride into building every track loader, excavator and dumper that leaves Nagano. But the most meaningful moment came early in the visit: meeting Mr. Akio Takeuchi himself, the founder of our company and the inventor of both the 360° slew excavator and the compact track loader—industry “firsts” that changed construction forever. Mr. Takeuchi is in his 90s, but he still walks the factory floor every single day to check on operations and talk with employees. Watching staff bow with respect as he approached—and watching him bow back—spoke volumes about Takeuchi culture.

And then came a moment we’ll never forget. A special team of employees assembled at the front of the offices where the world’s first compact excavator, the TB1000, is on display for employees and guests to see. But on this day, the machine was brought out of its glass enclosure and with a hand crank to start the engine, it roared to life and we were able to watch it work. Seeing this 55-year-old machine still running smoothly, and recognizing how much it influenced today’s equipment, was extraordinary. We captured every angle for our new corporate video, but being there in person was special.

We also had the opportunity to sit down with Toshiya Takeuchi, our current president, to discuss the future of the company. We talked about technology, growth, and what it means to uphold a legacy while still pushing forward. Filming that conversation—father’s legacy meeting son’s vision—will become a highlight of our new corporate video.

Outside of filming, we immersed ourselves in the culture of the Nagano region. We visited Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most impressive surviving original castles. Its architecture and craftsmanship reflect centuries of craftsmanship and discipline—values that align with Takeuchi’s approach to manufacturing. We also participated in a cultural experience that included wearing kimonos and learning about samurai-era practices, which is something no amount of marketing training can fully prepare you for.

And the food—Japan’s reputation is well earned. Meals throughout the trip were incredibly fresh and thoughtfully prepared, whether soba noodles, rice, ramen, sushi, grilled meats or locally grown fresh vegetables. Even convenience-store snacks somehow tasted better.

What struck us most throughout the entire trip was the character of the people we met. Whether in bustling Tokyo or quiet Nagano, the Japanese people are hardworking, dedicated, humble and unfailingly kind. Every bow, every warm greeting, every act of hospitality made us feel welcomed and respected.

We came to capture the heart of Takeuchi for our new corporate video—but the trip also highlighted the cultural foundations behind our brand. Takeuchi isn’t just a manufacturer. It’s a company built on innovation and rooted in culture, craftsmanship and care—values that come directly from the people who started it all in Nagano nearly 60 years ago.

Until the next adventure—see you on the road.