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Buying Gundam model kits in Japan: grades, stores and packing
What HG, RG, MG and PG mean, where to find kits in Tokyo (including a new Shibuya megastore opening in November 2026), and how to get bulky boxes home.
Gundam plastic model kits, known as Gunpla, are snap-together kits that need no glue. Japan has the widest range and the best prices, but popular kits sell out fast.
The grades explained
| Grade | Scale | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| EG (Entry Grade) | 1/144 | First-timers and kids. Very quick to build. |
| HG (High Grade) | 1/144 | The most common grade. Good detail, a few hours to build. |
| RG (Real Grade) | 1/144 | High detail in a small size. Many tiny parts. |
| MG (Master Grade) | 1/100 | Larger kits with an inner frame. A weekend project. |
| PG (Perfect Grade) | 1/60 | Big showpieces with the most detail and the biggest boxes. |
Where to shop in Tokyo
- The Gundam Base Tokyo at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba is the official store, with event-exclusive kits. The life-size statue outside is being taken down, so check before going just for photos.
- The Gundam Base Shibuya is due to open in November 2026 on the 5th floor of Shibuya Parco. It is more central than Odaiba.
- Akihabara electronics megastores have large hobby floors with steady stock of standard kits.
- Hobby shops in Akihabara and Nakano carry older and discontinued kits, often secondhand.
Release days and limits
New and re-released kits often come with a limit of one per person, and some stores use lotteries for the most popular ones. Arrive at opening time on restock days. Prices for sold-out kits from resellers can be several times the list price.
Tools worth buying in Japan
- Side cutters (nippers) made for plastic models. A good pair makes clean cuts and is cheaper here than abroad.
- Panel-lining markers to bring out detail.
- Sanding sticks for removing nub marks.
Getting kits home
- Boxes are bulky but light. Flatten the outer box only if you do not care about it as a collector.
- Buying a lot? Send them to your last hotel with a luggage delivery service, or ship them home from the store if it offers tax-free direct shipping.
- Spend ¥5,000 or more before tax in one store to qualify for tax-free.
