Paris found in Kyoto, touring in a Renault Twingo.

Renault is a French-born automobile manufacturer. The "TWINGO" is particularly popular for its rounded, compact form and unique design. Combined with its outstanding ride comfort and ease of handling, the TWINGO is also a favorite among the fashion-conscious, who have a strong opinion about cars. France, the home country of Renault, is also known for its beautiful scenery and rich history. It is known as a country that has a strong affinity with Japan, especially Kyoto, the "city of a thousand years," where beauty can be experienced on a daily basis. This time, we took the "Twingo" on a tour of Kyoto. The president of the boutique store "Loftman," Makoto Kimura, served as our navigator around the city. We will visit the spots recommended by Mr. Kimura in the "Twingo".

Photo_Masao Inoue (TRYOUT)
Text_Shinsuke Sakakima (TRYOUT)
Edit_Yosuke Ishii

SPOT.3 Institut Français Kansai-Kyoto

The atmospheric building is the cultural facility "Institut français Kansai-Kyoto". . It is designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan.

Next, Mr. Kimura guided us to the "Institut français Kansai-Kyoto," with its impressive white walls. This facility has a history of more than 90 years, with the goal of promoting cultural exchange between France and Japan. The current building was renovated in 2003, and in addition to French language courses, various events such as exhibitions and movies are held there. Inside the building, visitors can also view books and DVDs related to France.

The entrance where a monument with the history of the facility and other information in French will be installed.

A rest area is located next to the cafe. A large painting by Tsuguharu Fujita hangs on the wall.

This place where one can experience French culture without even leaving Kyoto is a testament to the close relationship between Japan and France, isn't it? Also, although it is not well known, there is a café here. There are not many tourists here, so I use it when I want to spend some time alone or take a break," he said.

The museum has a café with a terrace called Le Café. Visitors can enjoy drinks and French home cooking.

With its clean white color scheme, it is also used as an event space and wedding venue. . It has long been loved as an institution for cultural exchange between Japan and France that is rooted in the city.

SHOP INFO

Institut français du Kansai-Kyoto
8 Yoshida Izumidono-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
TEL: 075-761-2105
Open: 9:30 - 21:00 (Sat. - 19:00, only cafe open on Sundays) Closed on Mondays and holidays

INFORMATION

Renault Japon

www.renault.jp/car_lineup/twingo

Renault TWINGO

Manufacturer's suggested retail price ¥1,986,000 (tax included)

［ Renault Twingo EDC］

Specifications: Right-hand drive 6-speed Efficient Dual Clutch
Overall length x overall width x overall height (mm): 3,645 x 1,650 x 1,545
Total displacement: 0.897L
Maximum output: 68 kW (92 ps) at 5,500 rpm

The one-of-a-kind Twingo designed by Akira Minagawa is now available at T-SITE.

Renault Japon is sponsoring "FUTURE ANTIQUE," an event organized by T-SITE under the theme "From modern craftsmanship to antiques of the future. Renault Japon is co-sponsoring "FUTURE ANTIQUE," an event organized by T-SITE under the theme of "Antiques of the future from contemporary craftsmanship. In conjunction with this event, a one-of-a-kind Twingo designed by Akira Minagawa, designer of "minä perhonen," will be exhibited at T-SITE in Daikanyama, Hiroshima, and Shonan. The exhibition will be held at the Daikanyama T-SITE until December 9 (Mon.), and will then travel to the Hiroshima T-SITE and Shonan T-SITE through January next year. The world's one and only limited edition "Twingo" is a cute looking car. If you are in the neighborhood, please visit T-SITE.

In conjunction with this event, Renault authorized dealers will also hold the "Renault Twingo Noel Fair" for two days only on December 7 (Sat.) and 8 (Sun.). Those who take a test drive or have an assessment during the fair will receive a Renault Japon original 2020 notebook and an original bookmark and badge featuring Mr. Minagawa's design on the Twingo. Don't miss out on this opportunity to win one of these prizes as well!

Daikanyama T-SITE Twingo Exhibition Overview
Description: Exhibition of Renault Twingo designed by Akira Minagawa and the first Renault Twingo
Dates: Friday, November 29, 10:00 a.m. to Monday, December 9, 17:00 p.m.
*The first generation Renault Twingo will be on display until Friday, December 6.
Location: Daikanyama T-SITE (16-15 Sarugaku-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
*A talk show on the theme of "FUTURE ANTIQUE" by Akira Minagawa and Kenmei Nagaoka will be held for the general public hosted by T-SITE on Saturday, December 7.