Mazda Motor Corporation announced last Friday that the newly-renovated Mazda Museum will be open to the general public for visits beginning on Saturday 5th February, 2005. The two-month renovation project was completed to help mark the 85th anniversary of Mazda Motor Corporation--which was established in 1920 as Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd. Improvements to the museum include new displays on the rotary engine, a new entrance hall and a museum giftshop for Mazda goods.

Located near the company's global headquarters in Hiroshima and first opened for tours in May 1994, the museum has welcomed an average of 60,000 annual visitors from the Hiroshima area and around the globe.

The entire exhibition floorspace of the Museum--from design to layout--has been transformed into a space alive with Mazda's Zoom-Zoom spirit. Visitors of all ages can enjoy learning about vehicles and the sensations of movement. Guests are encouraged to experience Mazda's DNA by passing through six distinct sections. These sections include a Rotary Engine area and a Technology zone, which introduces the manufacturing process. Visitors can also learn about Mazda's history--celebrated with 18 storied vehicles--and experience a forward-looking exhibition showcasing the visionary cars to come.

Special attention was paid during renovations to ensure completely barrier-free access to all elevators and restrooms. Open from 4th February, 2005, the Museum Shop will sell a variety of gifts and products sporting Mazda's company logo.

A special exhibition to commemorate the renovation will be held from Saturday, 5th February, to Sunday, 13th March, 2005. "From the Past to the Future: Geneology of Tsuneji Matsuda and the Rotary Engine" looks backs on the distinguished work of Tsuneji Matsuda and his enduring legacy--the development of the rotary engine, which is now a symbol of Mazda's challenging spirit.

The Mazda Museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays (closed Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays). Admission is free. For inquiries or to book an English tour (only available weekdays after 1 p.m., reservations are necessary) call +81-82-252-5050.