Life-size moving Gundam statue unveils in Japan
Gundam has come to life! An 18-meter life-size statue of Gundam, based on the giant robot featured in the iconic anime series, was finally unveiled in Japan recently.
While Japan is no stranger to giant robots, this one based on the original RX-78 Gundam from the original series, is the first that can actually move. Weighing in at 25 tons and featuring 20 moving parts, the massive mecha is quite a feat of engineering, offering an ultimate treat to fans everywhere.
The new and impressive Mobile Suit was unveiled prior to the opening of the Gundam Factory Yokohama entertainment complex, a cultural attraction set to open to the public on Dec. 19, after the 40th anniversary of the broadcasting of the “Mobile Suit Gundam” TV series was marked last year.
Visitors will be able to climb to the Gundam-Dock Tower, which contains special observation decks and scaffoldings from 15 meters to 18 meters high to get close-up views of the anime icon.
Japanese media shared videos of the gigantic Gundam statue showing off its moves as it was officially unveiled to the press Monday (Nov. 30).
As reported by Japan Today, the robot will strike different poses every half an hour and will be lit up in the evening for nighttime displays.
Gundam Factory Yokohama will also host a Gundam-Lab exhibition facility that uses AR technology in a virtual reality dome. Guests can enter a simulation of entering the 25-ton Mobile Suit cockpit and learn about various technologies such as robotics. The complex also contains a gift shop for exclusive products and a Gundam cafe, where visitors can enjoy a menu unique to Yokohama.
Admission to the Gundam-Lab area is 1,650 yen (roughly P760) for visitors aged 13 and older, 1,110 yen (a little over P500) for ages 7-12, and free for ages 6 and younger if in attendance with a paying adult. Meanwhile, a trip to the observation decks will cost an additional 3,300 yen (P1,518), according to the theme park's official website.
The Gundam Factory Yokohama complex was originally scheduled to open in October this year, but it faced delays due to coronavirus restrictions. It is now set to open to the public on Dec. 19 and will remain open until March 31, 2022.
(Images by Sotsu.Sunrise)