Brianna Fox-Priest
March 3, 2024 It’s time to say farewell to the iconic 18-meter-tall moving Gundam at the Yokohama Gundam Factory. This haven for mecha enthusiasts is a testament to Japanese engineering and will be bidding farewell to visitors on March 31, 2024. This comes after multiple extensions due to its immense popularity, originally slated for closure in March 2022.
The recognizable Mobile Suit Gundam captivated audiences with its LED light shows and posing possibilities, showcasing the technological prowess behind the beloved anime franchise. While the exact reason for its closure remains undisclosed, March 2024 presents a last chance for fans to witness this marvel in person.
Planning Your Visit:
For those wishing to experience the Gundam Factory Yokohama before its curtain falls, tickets are available online and at the venue. Prices vary depending on age and desired experience. Please note that the Gundam Dock Tower is a separate ticket purchase from the General Admission.
- General Admission: Adults (13+) – ¥1,650 (approximately $11), Children (7-12) – ¥1,100 (approximately $7.50)
- Gundam Dock Tour + General Admission: Adults/Children (7 years and above) – ¥3,300 (approximately $22)
Exclusive Otaku tip:
It’s completely possible to see the Yokohama moving Gundam for free! If you are budget-conscious while on your Japan trip, save your yen by foregoing the factory altogether. Walk past the factory entrance on the left side of the building and walk towards the Gundam model. You may see a small crowd of people with their phones tilted up. Don’t be discouraged by the wall surrounding the Gundam Tower, it’s still possible to see the entire Gundam LED light show and famous poses from the anime!
Alternative Gundam Sighting: Unicorn Gundam at Odaiba
While the Yokohama Gundam’s closure marks the end of an era, Gundam enthusiasts can still get their fix at the Unicorn Gundam statue located at the Diver City Tokyo Plaza shopping mall in Odaiba, Tokyo. This life-sized statue, standing at 19.7 meters, depicts the RX-0 Unicorn Gundam from the Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn anime series. It boasts a similar light show experience, offering a glimpse into the world of giant Gundam robots for free.
A Legacy of Innovation
The Yokohama Gundam Factory’s closure is bittersweet, but it leaves behind a legacy of innovation and cultural significance. It served as a physical embodiment of the Gundam universe, attracting fans worldwide and solidifying the franchise’s place in Japanese pop culture. While the future of the moving Gundam remains uncertain, the memories it created will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.
Remember, tickets for the Yokohama Gundam Factory are selling out fast, so book your visit sooner rather than later. For those unable to make it before March 31st, the Unicorn Gundam in Odaiba offers a chance to witness another incredible piece of Gundam engineering.
