Cars don’t become part of people’s lives simply by being made.
They must be chosen, purchased, and delivered to the right place. Only when all of these elements come together does a car truly become the customer’s own.

One man paved the way for that in Toyota’s early days: Shotaro Kamiya.
How did he come to be known as the God of Car Sales?

After gaining experience at companies such as Mitsui & Co. and General Motors Japan, he joined Toyoda Automatic Loom Works in 1935. As founder Kiichiro Toyoda pursued his vision of building Japanese-made automobiles, he entrusted Kamiya with full authority over sales.

Kamiya’s philosophy was simple:
“First the customer, second the dealer, third the manufacturer.”
As Japan’s postwar recovery transitioned into a period of rapid economic growth and people’s lifestyles gradually improved, cars became an essential part of society.

Kamiya built a nationwide sales network and cultivated trust with dealers.
When dealers have confidence in Toyota vehicles, customers can choose them with peace of mind.

As motorization advanced, the growing number of traffic accidents became a serious social issue.
Shoko-ji Temple on Mt. Tateshina in Chino City, Nagano Prefecture, which was established at Kamiya’s behest, continues to convey sincere prayers for traffic safety and remembrance for those who lost their lives in traffic accidents.

Connecting customers, dealers, and manufacturers, Shotaro Kamiya sincerely wished for a world where people could drive their entire lives without accidents.
Numerous testimonies illustrate his achievements and character.

Don’t miss the second installment of Toyota Legends.