Be the First to Pay Tribute: DiverCity’s Giant Gundam Returns – Countdown Begins as Japan’s Largest Gundam Base Opens

In tandem with the countdown to the arrival of the giant Unicorn Gundam at DiverCity, Japan’s largest Gundam facility, THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO, opened in August. (Photo provided by Mitsui Fudosan Japan)

Tokyo’s DiverCity is not only a fantastic place for shopping and entertainment but also a must-visit destination for Gundam fans. A brand-new “Unicorn Gundam” will officially make its appearance at the DiverCity shopping center at the end of September this year. Crafted at 1:1 scale, it features an illuminated night display that showcases the transformation into Destroy Mode—offering even more appeal than the original Gundam. To welcome this new landmark, Japan’s largest Gundam facility has also recently opened, providing fans with an up-close experience of the Gundam’s power and charm.

The incredibly popular Gundam series began selling Gundam model kits in July 1980, and by the end of March 2017, had sold a staggering 473 million units—a testament to its immense appeal. (Photo provided by Mitsui Fudosan Japan)

The brand-new “THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO” exhibition space is themed around the idea of “Let’s Build GUNPLA Together!” (Photo provided by Mitsui Fudosan Japan)

DiverCity Tokyo, a must-visit spot for travelers in Tokyo, offers a wide range of experiences including large-scale entertainment facilities, a comprehensive selection of Japanese goods, and unique restaurants. One of its most iconic attractions is the life-sized 1:1 scale Gundam statue, which has become a symbol of DiverCity.

The wildly popular Gundam series began selling model kits in July 1980, and by the end of March 2017, over 473 million units had been sold, demonstrating its lasting appeal. This spring, the “RX-78-2” Gundam statue officially retired, and starting September 24, it will be replaced by the “Unicorn Gundam.” Standing at 19.7 meters tall and built to real-life scale, the Unicorn Gundam will appear in DiverCity, featuring approximately 50 illuminated sections that create an even more stunning light show than the original Gundam. Every 30 minutes in the evening, a performance will showcase the full transformation from Unicorn Mode to Destroy Mode.

The brand-new “THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO” facility offers over 2,000 different types of merchandise. (Photo provided by Mitsui Fudosan Japan)

The venue also includes a “Factory Zone” where visitors can learn about the process of making plastic models and even touch raw production materials. (Photo provided by Mitsui Fudosan Japan)

Additionally, in conjunction with the launch of the new 1:1 “Unicorn Gundam” statue, Bandai Co., Ltd. has opened a new exhibition space on the 7th floor of DiverCity Tokyo, “THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO,” with the theme “Let’s Build GUNPLA Together!” The space offers over 2,000 items for sale, along with a “Build Zone” for hands-on assembly, a “Factory Zone” to explore the process of making plastic models, and an “Event Zone” for special events and limited-edition merchandise sales.

Moreover, for those eager to visit ahead of time, DiverCity Tokyo Plaza will host a variety of activities, including a special photo spot and an AR effect photography app. It's not just a great destination for shopping and dining but also a pilgrimage site that Gundam fans must visit in Japan.

The “THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO” venue also features a “Build Zone” where you can assemble your newly purchased items right away. (Photo provided by Mitsui Fudosan Japan)

% THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO Grand Opening Commemorative Stamp Rally Event

To celebrate the opening of THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO, a stamp rally event will be held starting August 21. Stamps will be available at various locations within THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO, GUNDAM CAFE, and DiverCity Tokyo Plaza. Collect them all to receive a limited-edition Gundam badge. (Badge quantities are limited and will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis; please check the official website for more details.)

% Download the AR Camera App for a Life-Sized Unicorn Gundam Experience

Visitors can also download the “Life-Sized Unicorn Gundam MS Camera” app, an AR-enhanced camera application. By pointing your camera at designated markers near the under-construction Unicorn Gundam or at animated backdrops, the completed Unicorn Gundam (in AR) will appear on your screen. (This feature is a limited service available before the unveiling ceremony.)

Furthermore, within DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, there are eight character photo spots. Aim your camera at the posters at these spots to see characters from “Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn” come to life—and take photos with them. Fans visiting DiverCity Tokyo Plaza’s Festival Plaza are sure to leave with wonderful Gundam memories.

Event Period: Until September 30, 2017

% Tokyo Life-Sized Unicorn Gundam Limited-Time Event

To commemorate the 2017 Tokyo Gundam Project, before the unveiling of the life-sized Unicorn Gundam, a special photo spot will be set up in front of the statue in Symbol Promenade Park. From August 26 (Saturday) to November 26, visitors can take photos with the Unicorn Gundam statue and also opt for paid professional photography services and original printed photo services. Don’t miss your chance to take the best photos with the life-sized Unicorn Gundam both before and after the unveiling ceremony.

Event Period: August 26, 2017 – November 26, 2017

Photo Service Fee: 500 yen (tax included)

% THE GUNDAM STORE

A Gundam-themed mobile shop, “THE GUNDAM STORE,” will open on the outdoor plaza starting September 24. In addition to selling merchandise, the store will feature a mini corner introducing “THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO” and the “Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn” series.

Event Period: Starting September 24, 2017

Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Organizer: Bandai Co., Ltd. Events & Scenario Development Division