For anime and Japanese pop culture fans, seeing a life-size Gundam statue is an experience that should not be missed.
Japan is home to several iconic Gundam statues standing proudly in major cities, from the Unicorn Gundam in Odaiba, Tokyo, to the Nu Gundam in Fukuoka.
Gundam Statue in Tokyo (Unicorn Gundam, Odaiba)
In Tokyo, one of the most popular destinations for anime fans is the Unicorn Gundam statue in Odaiba. Standing approximately 19.7 meters tall, this life-size statue is located outside DiverCity Tokyo Plaza and features the legendary RX-0 Unicorn Gundam from the anime series Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn.
The Unicorn Gundam statue was installed in 2017, replacing the previous RX-78-2 Gundam statue, and has since become one of Tokyo’s most recognizable attractions.
What makes this statue especially impressive is its visual “transformation” feature. Several times a day, the Gundam changes from Unicorn Mode (with a single horn on its head) into Destroy Mode, where body panels open and the psycho-frame emits glowing lights, accompanied by sound and lighting effects that make it feel almost alive.
Update 2026! Unicorn Gundam Statue to Be Removed
After nearly nine years as one of the most popular landmarks in Odaiba, Tokyo, the life-size Unicorn Gundam statue will officially be dismantled at the end of August 2026.
Bandai Namco has not revealed the exact reason behind the removal. However, the company has announced a new project called the “Gundam Landmark Concept,” which is expected to become a new large-scale Gundam attraction in Japan.
As of the latest update to this article, there is still no official information regarding what will replace the Unicorn Gundam statue in Odaiba.
Gundam Statue in Fukuoka (Nu Gundam, LaLaport Fukuoka)
In Fukuoka, visitors can also see another impressive life-size Gundam statue: the RX-93ff ν (Nu) Gundam located at Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Fukuoka. This statue is a special version of the famous Nu Gundam from the film Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack (1988).
At approximately 24.8 meters tall, the Nu Gundam is currently the tallest Gundam statue in Japan and one of the largest life-size Gundam statues in the world.
In addition to serving as a giant monument, the Gundam also features moving parts, including the right shoulder, arm, and head, which perform small movements every hour.
Other Gundam-Themed Destinations to Visit in Japan
Besides the two Gundam statues above, Japan previously had another famous Gundam attraction in Yokohama: the RX-78F00, a life-size replica of the classic Gundam from the original Mobile Suit Gundam (1979) series.
Its biggest highlight was its ability to move mechanically, with dozens of articulated parts that made the Gundam appear alive. However, the attraction officially closed on March 31, 2024, and the statue was dismantled, although it later reappeared temporarily at World Expo Osaka 2025 as part of a special exhibition.
Beyond these famous statues, Japan also offers several other Gundam-themed destinations worth visiting.
The Gundam Base
The Gundam Base is an official Gundam store chain specializing in Gunpla (Gundam Plastic Models). Visitors can not only shop for Gundam model kits but also enjoy exhibitions, learn about Gundam history, and experience building Gunpla firsthand.
The Gundam Base has several branches across Japan, including:
THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO (Odaiba, Tokyo)
- Located on the 7th floor of DiverCity Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba, Tokyo.
- Visitors can shop, build, view displays, and learn about Gunpla through four main zones: Shop, Builders, Factory, and Event.
- The store offers thousands of model kits and exclusive items available only at this location.
- It is also conveniently located near the life-size Unicorn Gundam statue.
Additionally, there is THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO ANNEX on the 2nd floor of DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, focusing on Gundam souvenirs and merchandise, making it a popular stop for visitors after seeing the Gundam statue.
THE GUNDAM BASE FUKUOKA
- Located on the 1st floor of Canal City Hakata South Building in Fukuoka.
- This branch offers Gunpla collections, Gundam merchandise, and a dedicated build space (Builder Room) where visitors can assemble model kits.
- It is a great place to find exclusive items and learn more about Gunpla building.
THE GUNDAM BASE ANNEX (New Chitose Airport, Hokkaido)
- Located on the 4th floor of the domestic terminal at New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido.
- This branch mainly focuses on Gundam souvenirs and merchandise, making it ideal for travelers looking to buy last-minute gifts before leaving Japan.
- Entry is free, making it a convenient final stop before departure.
THE GUNDAM BASE SATELLITE
These are smaller official branches located in major shopping malls across Japan, including:
- Nagoya – AEON Mall Nagoya Dome-mae
- Kyoto – AEON Mall Kyoto Sakura-kan
- Sendai – SENDAI PARCO
- Hiroshima – AEON Mall Hiroshima Fuchu
- Kanazawa – Forus Kanazawa
Each satellite branch offers Gunpla collections, merchandise, and a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages.
Gundam Side-F (GSF)
Gundam Side-F (GSF) is a special Gundam-themed area located inside Gundam Park Fukuoka at Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Fukuoka, specifically on the 4th floor of the shopping complex.
Inside Gundam Side-F, visitors can explore official Gundam merchandise and information, especially products related to the Nu Gundam, along with interiors inspired by futuristic space colonies.
There is also a giant monitor measuring approximately 10 meters by 6 meters that displays impressive Gundam-themed visuals. Nearby, visitors can enjoy a Gunpla building area where they can assemble models while immersing themselves in the Gundam universe.
In addition, Gundam Side-F frequently hosts Gundam-themed events and offers limited-edition products available exclusively at this location.
Bandai Museum
Bandai Museum, also known as Omocha-no-Machi Bandai Museum, is a family-friendly toy museum that is especially appealing to anime, Gundam, and Japanese pop culture fans. The museum is located in Mibu, Shimotsuga District, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan.
At the entrance, visitors are welcomed by a more than 5-meter-tall RX-78 Gundam statue alongside the character Amuro Ray, creating an iconic photo spot.
The museum features an extensive toy collection, including:
- Japanese toys from the Edo period to the present
- Toys from around the world across different eras and countries
- A collection of Thomas Edison inventions showcasing early technological history, such as phonographs and light bulbs
- A Hobby/Gundam area featuring Gunpla displays and detailed dioramas like Zaku’s Dream and White Base
The Bandai Museum also regularly hosts workshops and interactive activities such as quizzes and craft-making sessions, allowing visitors to actively participate rather than simply viewing exhibits.
