For over four decades, the Gundam franchise has captivated audiences worldwide — and in Yokohama, fans can experience the impossible: a life-sized, moving Gundam. Standing 18 meters tall and weighing 25 tons, the RX-78-2 Gundam at GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA is not a static statue but a fully articulated machine that moves its arms, legs, and head in a breathtaking performance.
Why American fans love this experience: Gundam is one of the most iconic anime franchises in North America, spanning multiple generations of fans. GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — this is the world's only life-sized moving Gundam, and the facility is a limited-time attraction. There is no guarantee it will remain open indefinitely, making this a must-visit for any Gundam fan before it's gone.
Getting There
GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA is located at Yamashita Pier (山下ふ頭), a short walk from Yokohama's major tourist areas.
From Tokyo
- JR Tokaido Line (25 min, ¥480) — Tokyo Station → Yokohama Station → transfer to Minatomirai Line → Motomachi-Chukagai Station → 15 min walk
- JR Keihin-Tohoku Line (40 min, ¥480) — Shinagawa → Kannai Station → 15 min walk
- Minatomirai Line (35 min, ¥310 from Shibuya) → Motomachi-Chukagai Station → 15 min walk
From Minato Mirai
If you're visiting Bungo Stray Dogs locations in Minato Mirai, GUNDAM FACTORY is a 15-minute walk from the Red Brick Warehouse along the waterfront promenade.
Shuttle Bus
During peak seasons, a shuttle bus runs from Sakuragicho Station and Yamashita Park to the factory. Check the official website for current schedules.
What to See & Do
The Gundam Performance
The centerpiece of GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA is the 18-meter-tall RX-78-2 Gundam, mounted on a moving gantry platform. The Gundam performs scheduled movements throughout the day, including:
- Walking motion: The Gundam takes slow, deliberate steps forward on its platform
- Arm movements: Raising its arm, pointing, and striking iconic poses
- Head rotation: Scanning the crowd and tracking movement
- Knee bends: Crouching and standing
- Combined sequence: A full choreographed performance combining all movements
Each performance lasts approximately 2-3 minutes and occurs every 30-60 minutes. The Gundam is also repositioned at specific times for different viewing angles.
Performance schedule: Check the official website for current showtimes, as they vary by season. Generally, performances run from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM with the last performance at 7:30 PM.
The GUNDAM-DOCK
The massive gantry structure that supports the Gundam — called the GUNDAM-DOCK — is an engineering marvel in itself. The 25-meter-tall structure includes:
- Main viewing deck: The primary observation area at ground level, offering unobstructed views
- Upper viewing platform: An elevated deck providing a perspective at eye level with the Gundam (additional ¥3,300)
- Maintenance area: Visible sections of the internal mechanisms and control systems
The GUNDAM LAB
An indoor exhibition space documenting the engineering behind the moving Gundam, including:
- Design blueprints: Original concept art and engineering diagrams
- Mechanism displays: Actual components used in the Gundam's articulation system
- Historical timeline: The evolution of the GUNDAM FACTORY project from concept to reality
- Interactive exhibits: Try controlling a miniature Gundam arm
The GUNDAM Café & Shop
- Official merchandise store: Exclusive GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA items, including:
- Limited-edition Gundam模型 (model kits)
- Factory-exclusive apparel and accessories
- Commemorative photo frames and postcards
- Collaboration items with other Yokohama attractions
- GUNDAM Café: Light meals, drinks, and Gundam-themed desserts
Tickets & Pricing
General Admission (Ground Level)
| Category | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (13+) | ¥1,650 | Main viewing area access |
| Child (7-12) | ¥1,100 | Must be accompanied by adult |
| Child (under 7) | Free | Must be accompanied by adult |
GUNDAM-DOCK Upper Deck
| Category | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (13+) | ¥3,300 | Includes general admission |
| Child (7-12) | ¥2,200 | Includes general admission |
Discounts
- Online advance purchase: 10% discount (recommended — same-day tickets often sell out)
- Yokohama tourist pass holders: Check for combination discounts
- No group discounts: Standard pricing applies to all visitors
Where to Buy
- Official website (recommended): Advance booking up to 3 months ahead
- On-site ticket booth: Subject to availability (long queues during peak times)
- Convenience store terminals: Available at 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart in Yokohama
Photography Tips
GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA is a photographer's dream. Here's how to get the best shots:
Best Locations
| Spot | Lens | Time | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ground level (front) | 16-35mm | Morning | Capture the full height with the sky background |
| Ground level (side) | 24-70mm | Afternoon | Get the profile view during performance |
| Upper viewing deck | 70-200mm | Sunset | Eye-level shots with Yokohama skyline |
| Behind the gantry | 24-70mm | Golden hour | Silhouette shots with Bay Bridge |
Performance Photography
- Use shutter priority (1/250s or faster) to freeze movement
- Burst mode is essential for capturing the full motion sequence
- A polarizing filter helps reduce glare from the Gundam's painted surfaces
- Tripods are allowed in designated areas only (not during peak hours)
Night Photography
The Gundam is illuminated after sunset with changing LED colors. The night show is equally impressive as the daytime performance. Bring a tripod for long exposures.
Sample Itinerary
Half-Day Gundam Visit (4-5 hours)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1:00 PM | Arrive at GUNDAM FACTORY — entrance queue |
| 1:30 PM | First Gundam performance (ground level) |
| 2:00 PM | Explore GUNDAM LAB exhibition |
| 2:30 PM | Upper deck experience (booked slot) |
| 3:00 PM | Second performance (upper deck view) |
| 3:30 PM | GUNDAM Café + merchandise shopping |
| 4:30 PM | Walk to Yamashita Park for port photos |
| 5:00 PM | Chinatown dinner (10 min walk) |
| 6:30 PM | Night performance (if available) |
Full-Day Yokohama Gundam + Anime (8+ hours)
Combine GUNDAM FACTORY with Bungo Stray Dogs locations or Ghibli Poppy Hill for a complete Yokohama anime experience:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10:00 AM | Landmark Tower Sky Garden (Bungo Stray Dogs spot) |
| 11:00 AM | Minato Mirai walk → Red Brick Warehouse |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch at Red Brick Warehouse |
| 1:00 PM | GUNDAM FACTORY (booked) |
| 3:00 PM | Yamate Western Houses (Ghibli spot) |
| 5:00 PM | Harbor View Park (Ghibli spot) |
| 6:00 PM | Chinatown dinner |
Travel Tips
Crowd Avoidance
- Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends
- Advance tickets are essential — do not rely on same-day purchase
- Morning (10:00 AM opening) is the least crowded time
- The upper deck has limited capacity — book in advance
- Avoid Japanese school holiday periods (March-April, July-August, December-January)
- The first and last performances of the day are the least crowded
Best Time to Visit
- Daytime (10:00 AM - 3:00 PM): Best for photography, clearest views
- Late afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM): Combine with sunset at Yamashita Park
- Evening (after sunset): Illuminated Gundam with night skyline — spectacular
What to Bring
- Camera with versatile lens (24-70mm covers almost everything)
- Comfortable shoes (you'll stand for performances and walk between areas)
- Advance ticket printout or QR code on your phone
- Small bag (large bags must be stored in lockers — ¥300-500)
- Patience (queues are inevitable during peak times)
Important Notes
Limited-Time Attraction
GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA is a temporary attraction. The original run was scheduled to end in March 2024, but it has been extended multiple times due to popular demand. However, there is no guarantee of further extensions. Visit as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. If the factory closes, this article will be updated as a historical record.
Check the official GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA website for the current operating period.
Accessibility
- The facility is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators
- Wheelchairs are available for loan (limited数量)
- Service animals are permitted
- Some viewing areas may be crowded — consider visiting on weekdays for easier access
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does a typical visit take?
A: A standard visit takes 1.5-2 hours including one performance, the LAB exhibition, and the shop. Add 30 minutes if you book the upper deck. For a relaxed experience including café and multiple performances, plan for 3-4 hours.
Q: Can I see the Gundam without paying?
A: The Gundam is partially visible from outside the facility, but the viewing angles are limited and you won't see the full performance. The ground-level admission (¥1,650) is well worth the price for the complete experience.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes! Photography and video are allowed throughout the facility. The only restrictions are: no flash during performances (distracts other visitors), no tripods in crowded areas, and no commercial photography without permission.
Q: Can I buy Gundam模型 (model kits) at the factory?
A: Yes! The official shop sells exclusive GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA model kits, including a 1/48 scale RX-78-2 that is only available at this location. These make excellent souvenirs and are highly sought after by collectors.
Q: Is GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA suitable for non-Gundam fans?
A: Absolutely. The engineering spectacle of an 18-meter walking robot is impressive regardless of whether you know the franchise. Many visitors come for the novelty of seeing a life-sized mecha in motion. Combine with a Yokohama sightseeing day for a well-rounded trip.
Q: Is the Gundam always moving?
A: No. The Gundam performs at scheduled intervals throughout the day. Between performances, it remains in a stationary pose (usually a standing position or a maintenance posture). Check the daily schedule on the official website for performance times.
Related Articles
- Kanagawa Anime Pilgrimage Guide
- Bungo Stray Dogs Pilgrimage in Yokohama
- Studio Ghibli Pilgrimage in Yokohama
- Yokohama Area Guide
- Yokohama Landmark Tower Guide
- Yokohama Chinatown Food Guide
Last Updated: 2026-06-08 Written by: Anaba OffJapan Editorial Team
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