Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Gunpla in Akiba




Went in to Tokyo today with a friend and ended up in Akihabara. Went into Yodobashi Camera first to check out their toys and games floor. I've been there before, but that was 3 years ago when I didn't know much about Gundam or model kits. As you can see above, they have one wall dedicated to Master Grades and Perfect Grades on the bottom. The other side of the aisle had all the High Grades. Didn't notice all the kits last time I was here 2 years ago, or maybe they've amped up stock for the ongoing 30th anniversary. Not really planning on buying anything since it would be difficult to bring back home. I might if I see a good deal though... I can always ship it back.


They had some completed models on display as well. As I took the photo one employee rushed over to inform me that photos were not allowed. So I dejectedly said "gomennasai" and walked away... Got the photo though! Not that it was anything special, looks like some MG on the first and second shelves, 1/100 NGs on the bottom.

Some more displayed Gunplas in another store (not sure if photography was allowed, at least no one yelled at me). These were interesting to see as I've never seen Perfect Grades in person before. Somehow they're a little larger than I expected (a PG 00 Raiser looked massive), so maybe now I'll have to pick up a PG RX-178 or RX-78 to really experience the scale first hand.

Second photo is at an escalator after the Gunpla floor. Runners! Sorry it's blurry, took it quickly since I still didn't want to get yelled at. Can't really make out which kits they're from (the blurriness doesn't help).

Gunpla seems more popular now than it was before (but maybe I'm just noticing it now). Either way, nice to see it all over. Lot's of hobby tools and paints on sale too. Still not planning on buying anything while I'm here, but maybe I'll break down and get something my 6th week. Definitely have to get some Topcoat though.

Hopefully more to come!

9 comments:

  1. Wow, great pictures! Thanks for doing this, even if people are yelling at you :)

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  2. Haha, thanks! I don't get it, it's not secret information or anything. Not sure why photos aren't allowed...

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  3. that's a heaven of gunplaaaaaaaa

    really want to go there one day.

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  4. Haha, yeah, too bad I can't take it all home with me

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  5. Yeah, it is. Didn't check the prices there, but another store had all Gunpla like 30% off, even the new kits.

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  6. Wow heaven bro. Just wondering whether the Gunpla price at Akiba (after currency conversions) substantially cheaper compared here?

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  7. Since there aren't any official retailers in the US, I think most stores here have inflated prices to turn a profit. Especially with the added shipping too, I think it's still a lot cheaper just to buy here. Not that I have any suitcase space though... Not sure how it works with your currency though

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