Giant moving Gundam robot towers over Yokohama port

Dec 20, 2020 | News On Japan

Dec 20, 2020 (Nikkei) - An 18-meter kinetic statue of Gundam, a famous anime robot, was revealed to the public at the Gundam Factory Yokohama complex southwest of Tokyo on Saturday.

Hundreds of people lined up outside the complex to see the giant robot before the opening at 10 a.m. Some fans had face masks emblazoned with pictures of Gundam, others dressed as their favorite characters from the anime series, such as Char Aznable.

"I have been a fan for long and am so excited to see the moving Gundam," said a 53-year-old man waiting in line. The man, who works in construction, added: "It's amazing to see how they build a statue this size."

An American man living in Tokyo came with his wife and son. "Gundam is little known in U.S., but my son loves them."

Japanese toymaker Bandai Namco Holdings is behind the construction of the giant moving statue and is hosting performances at the newly opened attraction. Visitors can view the robot from observation decks 15 meters to 18 meters off the ground for a close-up view of the fictional automaton's head and body.

In addition to the exhibition, the complex hosts Gundam-Lab, where visitors can learn how the kinetic statue works. There is also an attraction that lets people enjoy a "live" operator's-eye view of Gundam using 5G technology. The souvenir shop sells exclusive merchandise and there is a Gundam-themed cafe.

Admission is 1,650 yen ($16) for people 13 and older. Tickets to the observation deck cost an additional 3,300 yen.

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