Toyota Kirloskar Motor has opened a new experiential space called tem (Toyota Experiential Museum) at Phoenix Mall of Asia in Bengaluru, marking the company’s first cultural and lifestyle hub that aims to extend the brand beyond automobiles. The initiative is designed as a venue that brings together elements of Japanese and Indian cultural philosophies, presented through sensory and technology-driven installations.
Spread across 8,200 sq ft on the mall’s ground floor, tem is built as a walk-through space that visitors can explore freely at their own pace without having to go through a guided tour. Toyota describes the museum as an environment that aims to engage all five senses of the human body through visual projection rooms, sound-based installations, textured art surfaces, curated aromas and even a tasting corner.
Speaking at the launch, Tadashi Asazuma, Deputy Managing Director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “ At Toyota, our vision of creating ‘Happier Paths Together’ goes beyond mobility — it is about inspiring experiences that connect people, cultures, and emotions. With tem, we hope to offer a truly unique experience that embodies this spirit. In India, we found inspiration in the practice of Sādhanā — the mindful pursuit of inner balance and fulfilment. tem is where the Japanese culture and values of precision, serenity, and respect for nature beautifully align with the spirit of Sādhanā, making tem a meaningful blend of both. Designed to engage the senses and spark reflection, it brings together art, technology, and craftsmanship to inspire mindfulness, especially amongst the youth.”
What visitors can expect inside
The entry experience features infinite mirrored projections and a rhythmic experience inspired by changing seasons common to both India and Japan. Another installation is an audio-visual showcase made in collaboration with performance group DRUM TAO, with music and visual effects reflecting cultural exchange between the two countries.
{{/usCountry}}The entry experience features infinite mirrored projections and a rhythmic experience inspired by changing seasons common to both India and Japan. Another installation is an audio-visual showcase made in collaboration with performance group DRUM TAO, with music and visual effects reflecting cultural exchange between the two countries.
{{/usCountry}}Walking through this eventually leads to a central exhibit of a satin-draped car surrounded by a cascading water curtain. The flowing water, mist and lighting effects are used to create a peaceful viewing environment.
(Also read: Toyota to launch 15 new models in India by 2030, sharpens rural focus)
Beyond the installations, tem includes a Design Café merchandise zone with curated objects developed around craftsmanship and minimalist design. There is also an interactive Matcha Corner, which serves traditional matcha-based beverages, including variants with Indian flavour profiles such as a mango-based option.
tem is currently open to the general public at Phoenix Mall of Asia. The company has not announced a ticketing structure or long-term programming details yet.