THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO: A Must-Visit Site for Gunpla Fans

• Table of Contents
• 1. THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO: A Must-Visit for Gundam Fans
• 2. The Features of THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO
• 3. Shopping and Admission at THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO
• 4. Nearby Spots and Access

1. THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO: A Must-Visit for Gundam Fans

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THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO is the official shop that handles Gundam-related goods, centered on Gunpla (Gundam plastic models), and is a dream destination for Gunpla enthusiasts.

This facility is located on the 7th floor of DiverCity Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba, Tokyo, and is a popular spot where visitors can experience the appeal of Gundam from multiple angles.

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In recent years, the popularity of the "Mobile Suit Gundam" series has risen even further, with new works appearing one after another.

The series is well known both in Japan and abroad, and Gunpla overseas sales account for roughly 50% of total sales, illustrating its worldwide popularity. THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO has become a must-visit destination for Gunpla fans.

About Gunpla, the Gundam Plastic Models

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GUNPLA is a coined term derived from the English phrase "GUNdam PLAstic Model", and refers primarily to plastic models of the robots, characters, warships, and other items that appear in the "Mobile Suit Gundam" series. It has high recognition worldwide and is one of Japan's representative classic toys.

Models come in various grades such as EG, HG, RG, MG, and PG. As the grade increases, the number of parts rises, and the model's design detail becomes richer. Naturally, assembly difficulty also increases, and the higher grades are almost professional-spec, more like collectibles.

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At THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO, you can see finished models carefully assembled by staff — their overwhelming coolness and intricate craftsmanship are truly awe-inspiring.

2. The Features of THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO

Now, let us take a closer look at why THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO can be considered a must-visit place for Gunpla fans around the world!

Shop Zone

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Many visitors to THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO come primarily to purchase Gunpla. The variety of items on the shelves is extremely rich, ranging from new releases and popular series to reissued items, and the lineup is sure to catch your eye. You may find your shopping basket filling up as you get carried away.

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Assembled finished models are displayed above the product shelves, allowing purchasers to easily grasp the finished size and appearance of the Gunpla. You can also use the display pieces as reference for setting up your own completed models.

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The store has several distinctive sections, and the shelves display packages featuring retro illustrations. These are Gunpla kits from the early 1980s and, unlike today's snap-fit parts, they require plastic model cement.

That said, these kits are very affordable and popular with people who buy them to learn painting techniques, as retro items, or as souvenirs to collect.

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One highlight you must not miss here are the THE GUNDAM BASE exclusive Gunpla models. What sets them apart from regular retail items are their rarity and specifications — for example, "special color schemes," "transparent materials," or "plating/metal finishes" that you don't usually see in mass-market releases.

There are also special set products, and these items are truly dream pieces for model fans. Be sure to check them out when you visit.

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THE GUNDAM BASE not only sells many Gunpla, but also carries tools necessary for Gunpla building. For example: nippers, craft knives, cutting mats, and adhesives. Some tools are even Gundam-themed, so you're sure to find a favorite item.

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In addition to plastic models, you can also purchase Gundam souvenir items in limited packaging. For example, traditional Japanese rice crackers such as Kabuki-age make great gifts or personal keepsakes.

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Although Gundam normally has a cool image, plush toys feature cute designs that appeal to many customers. The familiar Gundam, Zaku, and Haro are adorable as plush toys.

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A corner of the store also houses an apparel shop called STRICT-G, which sells Gundam-related clothing and goods based on the world of Gundam.

STRICT-G collaborates with manufacturers across Japan to produce everyday fashion items—such as T-shirts, backpacks, shoes, and accessories—based on the "Mobile Suit Gundam" series, utilizing specialized techniques from each field and strict quality standards.

Builders Zone

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In the Builders Zone, the Painting Room offers rentable space for a fee where you can assemble and paint Gunpla purchased in the store. You can also freely use professional tools such as work mats, nippers, and airbrushes.

Here, staff carefully teach how to use these tools and assembly techniques for plastic models, making it an excellent opportunity for Gunpla beginners to experience professional instruction.

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Also within the same Builders Zone, the Build Room is an area opened for members-only events at the Gundam Base, such as the Gunpla Night Club and the Gunpla Skills Certification.

When participating in events, Gundam Base members can assemble Gunpla models in this room while chatting with friends, discussing anime storylines, and exchanging assembly techniques.

If you live in Japan and like Gunpla, be sure to join these events and spend a great time with fellow Gunpla enthusiasts in this special space.

Event Zone

Exhibits vary depending on the time of your visit. This photo shows the Gunpla 45th Anniversary display.
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The Event Zone is an area that hosts a variety of displays and events, such as irregularly scheduled beginner Gunpla Assembly Workshops, the Gunpla building contest GUNPLA BUILDERS WORLD CUP, special exhibition projects related to works from the "Mobile Suit Gundam" series, previews of unreleased new products, and historical exhibitions about Gunpla.

This area changes the most, so you can enjoy different displays each time you visit.

When we visited, there was a commemorative Gunpla 45th Anniversary exhibition featuring Gunpla and the technological evolution from 1980 to 2025. It offered a sense of how much technological progress and research BANDAI SPIRITS has invested in Gunpla.

3. Shopping and Admission at THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO

Below is a summary of information regarding admission to THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO, which offers a wide range of attractions! Please use it as a reference.

4. Nearby Spots and Access Information

©SOTSU・SUNRISE. As of May 2025

The most famous spot near THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO is The Life-Sized Unicorn Gundam Statue, inspired by "Mobile Suit Gundam UC," which stands in front of DiverCity Tokyo Plaza.

During the day, transformation shows take place at 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, and 17:00. At night, from 19:00 to 21:30, special performances synchronized with music, video, and lighting occur every 30 minutes along with the transformation.

The Life-Sized Unicorn Gundam Statue is well worth seeing and has become a spot that tourists visiting Tokyo make a point of stopping by. People of all ages are likely to pick up their cameras or smartphones to take photos when they see the Unicorn Gundam Statue.

Behind the statue is THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO ANNEX, an annex of THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO, which you may also want to visit.

There are two main ways to access THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO and The Life-Sized Unicorn Gundam Statue. The first is to take the Yurikamome Line and get off at Daiba Station, then walk about 5 minutes.

The second is to take the Rinkai Line and get off at Tokyo Teleport Station, then walk about 5 minutes. Access is very convenient, and we recommend visiting both spots together.

5. Visit THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO

As of early September 2025, THE GUNDAM BASE has locations in Tokyo, Hokkaido, Osaka, and four other prefectures within Japan, and it also operates stores overseas in South Korea, Taiwan, China, and Thailand.

Still, THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO is very special to fans. That’s not only because it boasts one of the largest retail floor areas in the world, but also because of its commitment to quality—planning, development, and production of Gunpla carried out within Japan—and the fact that the Gundam IP originated in Japan.

This place is not only a dream destination for Gunpla fans, but also a spot that helps the general public feel closer to the world of Gunpla and the Gundam IP. When you visit Tokyo, be sure to stop by—it's a must-see experience that the whole family can enjoy!

In cooperation with THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO
Main image courtesy of THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO