Gundam Model Kits: Top 7 Stores in Japan and Collector Tips

The Popularity of Gundam Plastic Models

Gunpla is derived from the English word for Gundam Plastic Models, or Gundam model kits. The word refers to the commercialization of the robots and ships featured in the Mobile Suit Gundam series as model kits.

With new anime series released yearly, Gundam model kits have garnered a large fan base worldwide, becoming a must-buy souvenir for many visitors to Japan.

If you want to buy Gundam model kits, you can find them at large chain electronics stores throughout Japan or online. This article introduces seven fan-favorite stores in Japan where you can find Gundam model kits.

1. Official Store THE GUNDAM BASE in Tokyo, Fukuoka, Nagoya, Kyoto, Sendai

GUNDAM BASE at AEON MALL KYOTO
GUNDAM BASE is the official specialty store for Gundam models with five stores across Japan in Tokyo, Fukuoka, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Sendai. The flagship store at Odaiba in Tokyo offers up to 2,000 products for sale and boasts 1,500 display items, making it a mecca for Gundam fans worldwide.

The store is divided into four areas focused on "purchasing, building, admiring, and learning," catering to adults and children. You can find almost all newly released products here, along with many limited edition items.

2. TAMASHII NATIONS STORE in Akihabara, Tokyo

The TAMASHII NATIONS STORE at the Electric Town exit from JR Akihabara Station sells S.H.Figuarts and Chogokin series model kits.

In addition to Gundam alloy models, TAMASHII NATIONS STORE offers models from other series like Kamen Rider and Saint Seiya. Fans of alloy models should definitely visit.

Situated in Akihabara, the store often collaborates with anime events, showcasing exquisite models that may tempt you to purchase high-priced alloy models.

3. Bic Camera Stores Nationwide

Bic Camera is a nationwide chain of large-scale electronics retail stores. In addition to electronics, they offer a wide range of toys and models, with dedicated video games and anime sections in their larger stores. Of course, they also sell Gundam model kits and attract many visitors because they allow photographs.

If you plan to buy Gundam model kits or other toys, shopping at Bic Camera is highly recommended.

4. Don Quijote Stores Nationwide

Don Quijote has many stores across Japan and is extremely popular among international visitors. Each store typically has a toy section where you can find Gundam model kits.

While the range may not be as extensive as larger electronics retailers, you can usually find the latest products if they haven't sold out. Travelers in local cities can consider shopping at Don Quijote.

If you plan to visit Don Quijote, remember to use coupons to snag even better prices!

5. EDION Aiden: Nationwide

EDION is another nationwide chain of large-scale electronics retail stores, mostly located in western Japan. Some EDION stores have toy sections where you can look for Gundam model kits.

MATCHA and EDION also have a coupon partnership offering a 10% tax exemption plus a 7% discount coupon, which is quite cost-effective. Don't forget to use it!

6. Yodobashi Camera Stores Nationwide

Yodobashi Camera is also a nationwide chain of large-scale electronics retail stores. Similar to Bic Camera, stores of various sizes have toy sections where you can find Gundam model kits.

7. Joshin & Joshin SUPER KIDS LAND Stores Nationwide

Joshin Denki is another famous electronics retailer in Japan, with a dedicated toy store called Joshin SUPER KIDS LAND.

At the Nihonbashi main store in Osaka or Joshin SUPER KIDS LAND, they claim to be the "largest plastic model shop in Japan," offering a wide range of Gundam model kits, tools, Tamiya products, railway models, and more. You can find almost all the model products you're looking for!

Places Across Japan with Large Gundam Models

1. Diver City Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba

Odaiba's Gundam is the second-generation RX-0 Unicorn Gundam featured in the popular series Mobile Suit Gundam UC. The most notable feature is how it transforms when activating the NT-D system, an aspect faithfully recreated in Odaiba's Unicorn Gundam.

There are transformation performances every day at 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, and 17:00, with additional visual effects projected in the evening. Occasionally, they even coordinate with new Gundam series releases, showing clips from the anime, making it a must-visit spot for Gundam fans.

2. LaLaport Fukuoka

The RX-93ν Gundam appears in the movie "Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack," piloted by the protagonist Amuro Ray. There's a "ν Gundam Activation" performance each hour from 11:00 to 18:00.

From 19:00 onward, new clips from "Char's Counterattack" are introduced and screened every half hour. If you are visiting Fukuoka, be sure to witness this life-sized Gundam's magnificence. My first visit left me extremely excited!

Explore the World of Gundam Model Kits!

Gundam model kits are not just for kids. Even adults enjoy constructing them, leading to a dedicated fan base worldwide.

In Japan, the birthplace of Gundam model kits, new products hit the shelves weekly, and old items are re-released, making it a paradise for Gundam fans. Fans visiting Japan are encouraged to check out the seven stores mentioned above to purchase the latest Gundam model kits and merchandise!