If you’re a Gundam lover and planning a trip to Tokyo, you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re into collecting Gunpla (Gundam plastic models) and Metal Build Gundam, hunting for rare kits, or just want to experience the world of mecha up close, Tokyo is basically heaven.
I’ve visited quite a few Gundam stores across the city—some big and flashy, others tucked away like hidden gems—and honestly, every stop has its own charm.
In this guide, I’ll share 10 of the best places to buy Gundam in Tokyo, from the iconic stores in Akihabara to the futuristic Gundam Base in Odaiba. I’ve picked these not just based on size, but also on how beginner-friendly they are, how rare the items can be, and of course… how exciting the experience feels.
So if you’re wondering where to start your Gundam shopping adventure, let’s dive in!
No. 10 Yodobashi Akihabara
✅ Regular Gundam ❌ Limited or P-Bandai ❌ Metal Build
Yodobashi Akihabara is one of the go-to spots if you’re looking for cheaper Gundam kits in Tokyo. Super easy to find—literally just outside the Akihabara Station exit. So even if it’s your first time in Tokyo, you won’t get lost.
If you’re a tourist, you’ll also get a 10% tax-free discount for purchases over 5,000 yen, which is a nice bonus!
The selection here is pretty solid, especially for standard Gunpla kits. But just a heads up, don’t expect to find rare items, limited editions, or Metal Builds. It’s more of a reliable place to stock up on the basics at good prices.
No. 9 Yellow Submarine Akihabara
✅ Regular Gundam ❌ Limited or P-Bandai ❌ Metal Build
Yellow Submarine is tucked away on the 6th floor of Radio Kaikan, and it’s super easy to reach, just hop out from Akihabara Station’s Electric Town South Exit, and you’re basically there. This shop is pretty well-known, with branches all over Japan, but the Akihabara one has a special charm for Gunpla fans.
You’ll find plenty of regular Gundams here at really good prices, and the best part?
No annoying purchase limits like in Yodobashi. I even scored a kit for under 1,000 yen once—what a win!
Just a heads up though, don’t expect any limited editions or Metal Builds here. It’s more of a great spot if you want to stock up without breaking the bank.
No. 8 LABI1 Yamada Denki Ikebukuro
✅ Regular Gundam ❌ Limited or P-Bandai ❌ Metal Build
Yamada Denki in Ikebukuro feels a bit like the Yodobashi of the area, but with its own twist. Head up to the top floor and you’ll find LABI1, a big, bright section dedicated to all kinds of toys, including a pretty solid Gundam lineup.
The prices here? Super affordable, perfect if you’re shopping on a budget. The store itself is spacious, clean, and really well organized, so it’s easy to browse without feeling overwhelmed.
What makes this spot special is that they often stock PG (Perfect Grade) Gundams, which are kinda rare to find in most stores.
Just like Yodobashi and Yellow Submarine, though, you’ll mostly find regular kits. So don’t expect limited editions or Metal Builds here either. Still, for everyday Gunpla hunting, it’s a great place to check out!
No. 7 X Akihabara
✅ Regular Gundam ✅ Limited or P-Bandai ✅ Metal Build
Back in Radio Kaikan, this time on the 5th floor, there’s a little shop called X Akihabara. It’s not a big store, and honestly, I didn’t expect much when I first walked in. But wow, I was totally wrong!
Despite its small size, this place is a goldmine for rare Gundam hunters. You’ll find limited editions, Metal Builds, and all sorts of gems you won’t usually see in bigger stores. Even some regular kits are priced a bit higher than usual. But trust me, the variety of rare Gunpla here makes it totally worth it.
If you’re after unique pieces for your collection, this hidden spot might just be your favorite stop.
No. 6 Trader Akihabara
✅ Regular Gundam ✅ Limited or P-Bandai ✅ Metal Build
There are quite a few Trader stores scattered around Akihabara, but if you’re looking for Gundams, this particular branch is the jackpot! Head up to the 4th floor, and you’ll find shelves packed with Gunpla, including limited editions and a bunch of Metal Builds!
Trader is a secondhand shop, so don’t expect everything to be brand new. But honestly, that’s part of the fun. The condition and prices vary depending on the box and what’s inside, and luckily, they clearly label everything so you know exactly what you’re getting.
If you love the thrill of hunting for rare finds at a bargain, this place is a must-visit. Who knows, you might walk out with a dream kit that’s hard to find anywhere else!
No. 5 Mandarake Complex Akihabara
✅ Regular Gundam ✅ Limited or P-Bandai ✅ Metal Build
Still exploring Akihabara, we made a stop at the Mandarake Complex, one of the biggest and most iconic toy store chains in Japan. If you love collectibles, this place is like stepping into a treasure vault.
Head all the way to the top floor, and that’s where you’ll find their Gundam section. From standard kits to limited editions and Metal Builds, they’ve got a pretty awesome lineup. And if you’re a tourist, don’t forget, you’ll get a 10% tax-free discount when you spend over 5,000 yen.
One thing I love about Mandarake is that you can check their Gundam stock online before visiting. Just note down the item code, and the friendly staff will help you find it in-store. Super convenient and perfect if you’re hunting for something specific!
No. 4 The Gundam Base Odaiba
✅ Regular Gundam ✅ Limited or P-Bandai ❌ Metal Build
You could say this place is the Gundam capital of the world! It’s easily one of the most iconic Gundam stores out there, especially with that giant Gundam statue standing proudly just outside. Perfect for snapping a memorable photo before or after your shopping spree.
Inside, the store is huge, clean, and super organized, with plenty of space to walk around and explore. The shelves are packed with all kinds of kits, but what makes this place extra special is their exclusive Gundam Base limited editions, stuff you won’t find anywhere else!
Just a heads up though, no Metal Builds here. But even without them, the experience and the selection make it a must-visit for any Gunpla fan.
No. 3 Mandarake Nakano Broadway
✅ Regular Gundam ✅ Limited or P-Bandai ✅ Metal Build
Stepping outside of Akihabara for a bit, Nakano Broadway is hands down one of the best toy store complexes you can visit in Tokyo. It’s like a hidden paradise for collectors—and yes, that includes us Gundam fans!
Inside, make sure to check out Mandarake 2, a shop that truly feels like a Gundam treasure chest. You’ll find kits from all sorts of eras and generations, including vintage models, limited editions, and even Metal Builds. It’s definitely one of the best Gundam stores I’ve seen in Tokyo so far.
Just one small thing to note. Unlike the Mandarake Complex in Akihabara, this one doesn’t offer tax-free shopping, so plan your budget accordingly. Still, for the sheer variety and rare finds, it’s more than worth the visit!
No. 2 Surugaya Akihabara
✅ Regular Gundam ✅ Limited or P-Bandai ❌ Metal Build
Honestly, it was really tough choosing between my #1 and #2 picks—both are amazing in their own way! But for second place, I’m giving the spot to Surugaya Akihabara.
This store is well-known among Gunpla fans in Japan, especially if you’re into secondhand hunting. It’s quite spacious, and the amount of Gundam kits packed into the store is just wild, they’ve filled every corner with treasures!
If you’re on the hunt for MG (Master Grade) or PG (Perfect Grade) kits, this place is perfect, their collection is one of the biggest in Tokyo. You’ll find plenty of limited editions too! Just a quick note: I didn’t spot any Metal Builds during my visit, but trust me, there’s still more than enough to get excited about.
No. 1 Otachu Akihabara
✅ Regular Gundam ✅ Limited or P-Bandai ✅ Metal Build
And here it is, my top pick!
Otachu Akihabara truly feels like a Gundam paradise tucked away in the heart of Akihabara. It’s located near Radio Kaikan, though a bit hidden—so keep your eyes peeled or you might just walk past it!
The shop is spacious and super well-organized, with Gundam kits neatly arranged by story arc, which makes browsing extra fun (especially if you’re following a specific series). What makes this place stand out is its collection of rare kits and an impressive lineup of Metal Builds—a real treat for collectors!
Like most secondhand shops in Tokyo, the prices are a bit on the higher side. But hey, in my experience… it’s always better to regret buying than to regret not buying, especially when it’s that one perfect kit you’ve been dreaming about!
If you’re curious about what the inside of the shop looks like, you can watch it in my YouTube video below
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