Gundam and Gunpla are terms that have captured the attention of modeling enthusiasts and anime fans around the Globe. In Japan, primarily, these giant robots and the plastic models that represent them have achieved iconic status. In this article, we'll explore the popularity of Gundam and Gunpla worldwide, highlighting some important events and local trends surrounding this fascinating hobby.
Gundam is an anime franchise that has been on the air for over 40 years. It is characterized by its giant robots known as mobile suits, which participate in space and terrestrial battles. These characters have left an indelible mark on Japanese popular culture and have become globally recognizable symbols.
On the other hand, Gunpla is short for Gundam plastic model, which refers to the plastic models that represent Gundam's mobile suits. These modeling kits have become the dream of every fan of modeling and airbrushing. Gundam fans are not only dedicated to assembling these models but also customizing them with paint, decals, additional parts, and other details to make them unique. Airbrushing has become an essential technique to achieve professional and realistic finishes in the Gunpla, allowing the application of uniform colors, shadows, and special effects. At SprayGunner you can find all the supplies for this hobby: airbrushes & compressors, regular brushes & markers, paints & primers, accessories & tools.
In Japan, numerous Gundam and Gunpla-related events are held that bring together amateurs and modelers from all over the country. These events offer the opportunity to admire the creations of other enthusiasts, buy kits and accessories, participate in contests and workshops, and even see life-size replicas of some mobile suits. We will highlight some of the most important events and local trends surrounding this exciting modeling world.
One of the most spectacular events that took place recently was the presentation of the new life-size Gundam in Japan. This replica of the RX-93FF ν (Nu) Gundam, featured in the 1988 film "Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack", became the main attraction of Fukuoka's Mitsui Lalaport Mall. With a height of 24.8 meters, this imposing robot became the fourth full-scale Gundam in the world. The project was overseen by Gundam creator Yoshiyuki Tomino and is expected to attract numerous fans and visitors.
Another unmissable event for Gundam and Gunpla lovers is the Gundam Base Tokyo, a space dedicated exclusively to these models that are located in the DiverCity Tokyo Plaza shopping center.
Here you can find a wide variety of kits and accessories to assemble and customize mobile suits, from the most classic to the most innovative. The Gundam Base Tokyo also hosts themed exhibitions, impressive dioramas, and workshops where amateurs can learn assembly and painting techniques. In addition, outside the mall, visitors can marvel at the full-scale Unicorn Gundam, which changes from normal mode to destructor mode every hour.
The Gunpla Builders World Cup (GBWC) is another prominent event that brings together modelers from around the world to compete in creating artwork based on Gundam mobile suits. This annual competition rewards the creativity, skill, and passion of the participants and offers the opportunity to learn from the masters and admire their works. The GBWC has become a platform to showcase the latest trends in Gunpla modeling and promote the global community of hobbyists.
In addition to these highlights, Japan also hosts modeling fairs such as the Shizuoka Hobby Show, where the newest products from various brands of plastic models, including Gundam, are announced and exhibited. These expos are meeting places for enthusiasts, who can explore the latest trends and acquire new products for their collections.
As for local trends, there is a growing interest in the series "Mobile Suit Gundam THE WITCH FROM MERCURY.” This anime has captured the attention of fans with its exciting story and new mobile suit designs. Gunpla models based on this series, such as the S.H.Figuarts Suletta Mercury and the ROBOT SPIRITS Aerial Gundam Rebuild see. A.N.I.M.E., have been exhibited at recent events and have aroused great enthusiasm among fans.
In addition, new Gunpla product launches also generate buzz in the Gundam community in Japan. In June 2023, HG Demi Barding and HG Gundvölva from the series "Mobile Suit Gundam THE WITCH FROM MERCURY" are expected. These models offer fans the opportunity to recreate and collect the mobile suits of this popular series.
In short, Gundam and Gunpla continue to be a passion rooted in Japanese culture. Featured events and local trends demonstrate the commitment and creativity of fans, as well as the continuous evolution of this hobby. With each new event and product launch, the popularity of Gundam and Gunpla in Japan continues to grow, keeping alive the excitement and enthusiasm for these iconic robots and their plastic models.