Have you ever dreamed of touching the classic models that accompanied your childhood, feeling the craftsmanship and stories behind them? Now is your chance! Embark on a model pilgrimage to Shizuoka, where we'll uncover six must-visit sacred sites that will ignite your collector's soul.
Shizuoka: The Mecca for Model Enthusiasts
Shizuoka, the birthplace of world-renowned model manufacturers Bandai and Tamiya, has nurtured countless dreams in the model and toy industry. Here, models are not just toys but represent a culture and nostalgia. Follow our journey through Shizuoka's model wonders for an experience filled with surprises and emotional connections.
First Stop: Shizuoka Hobby Square – A Paradise for Model Lovers
- Location: 3F South Spot Shizuoka, 18-1 Minami-cho, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka City
- Hours: Weekdays 11:00–18:00, Weekends/Holidays 10:00–18:00 (Closed Mondays)
- Recommended Duration: 0.5–1 hour
- Admission: Free for model exhibits; Mini 4WD track: 300 yen for middle school students and above, free for elementary students
Imagine immersing yourself in a world of dazzling models that transport you back to childhood. Shizuoka Hobby Square offers precisely this experience, featuring collections from multiple renowned local manufacturers. From aircraft and cars to Gundam models and figurines, the variety will satisfy any enthusiast.
The venue also boasts a five-lane Mini 4WD track where visitors can race their cars. Whether you're a seasoned racer or a beginner, the track promises excitement. Don't miss the shop near the exit, which often stocks limited-edition models that might include your dream collectible.
Second Stop: Tamiya Headquarters – Behind the Scenes of a Model Empire
- Location: 3-7 Onda-hara, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka City 422-8610
- Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00–16:30
- Recommended Duration: 1–1.5 hours
- Admission: Free (advance reservation required for groups of five or fewer)
As a giant in the model industry, Tamiya's headquarters naturally stands as a sacred site for enthusiasts. The factory tour offers insights into the company's history and craftsmanship. Visitors can observe Tamiya's models through the ages and learn about their production processes.
The highlight is the exhibition area, displaying Tamiya's classic models and historical pieces. The tour provides a profound appreciation for the brand's dedication to innovation and quality.
Third Stop: Kunozan Toshogu – Where History Meets Gundam
- Hours: 9:00–17:00
- Recommended Duration: 1 hour
Would you expect to find Gundam models in a solemn ancient shrine? Kunozan Toshogu delivers this unique surprise. Accessible via bus from Shizuoka Station to Nihondaira, then by cable car, this shrine honors Tokugawa Ieyasu as Japan's first Toshogu.
The shrine's architecture reflects the opulent Momoyama culture and is designated as an Important Cultural Property. The unexpected presence of Gundam models adds a modern touch to this historical site. From elevated vantage points, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Suruga Bay, blending nature with history.
Fourth Stop: Bandai Hobby Center – The Birthplace of Gundam
- Location: 500-12 Naganuma, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka City 420-0813
- Hours: Currently closed to the public
- Recommended Duration: 5 minutes
For Gundam fans, the Bandai Hobby Center represents a holy site where countless model toys have been born. Although currently closed for tours, even an exterior visit offers a glimpse into Bandai's legacy. Located near Nagahara Station on the Shizuoka Shimizu Line, this spot remains meaningful for dedicated fans.
Fifth Stop: Suruga-ya Main Store – A Treasure Trove of Rare Finds
- Location: 5-44 Denma-cho, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka City 420-0858
- Hours: 9:00–22:00
- Recommended Duration: 1 hour
Suruga-ya, one of Japan's most famous second-hand collectible stores, houses a four-story department store filled with rare dolls, models, figurines, trading cards, and retro game cartridges. The third floor features a free arcade zone where visitors can relive classic games from decades past.
Sixth Stop: Shizuoka Model Memorial Signs – Collecting Urban Model Markers
Throughout Shizuoka City, colorful plastic monuments dot stations and streets. These installations, part of a municipal tourism initiative, offer model enthusiasts an urban scavenger hunt. As of March 2025, fifteen signs await discovery. Renting an electric bicycle provides an efficient way to locate them all.
Making Your Shizuoka Model Journey Unforgettable
A trip to Shizuoka transcends ordinary travel—it's an immersion into model culture and a reconnection with childhood passions. From witnessing master craftsmanship to experiencing the fusion of model culture with local history, every moment in Shizuoka reveals the city's distinctive charm.
Travel Tips
- Transportation: Shizuoka's efficient public transit includes trains, buses, and taxis. Consider a one-day pass for savings.
- Accommodations: Options range from hotels to guesthouses. Book early during peak seasons.
- Cuisine: Sample local specialties like fresh seafood and matcha desserts.
- Shopping: Beyond models, regional products include green tea, wasabi, and eel.
In Shizuoka, you might meet model designers, witness production processes, or discover cutting-edge creations at exhibitions. These experiences make Shizuoka a destination where dreams materialize for model enthusiasts.