4 Major Giant Anime Landmarks in Japan: Fukuoka Gundam, Awaji Island Godzilla, Kobe Tetsujin 28-go, and Ube Spear of Longinus

If you want to see anime and tokusatsu works come to life in Japan, you can embark on a pilgrimage from Kyushu all the way to Kansai and Yamaguchi: the 24.8-meter-tall RX-93ff ν Gundam in Fukuoka, the approximately 120-meter-long Godzilla on Awaji Island, the Tetsujin 28-go in Kobe, and the Spear of Longinus in Ube, Yamaguchi.

Four stops, four different experiences: The Fukuoka Gundam and Kobe Tetsujin 28-go can be viewed from the outside for free; the Awaji Island Godzilla is a paid outdoor attraction; the Ube Spear of Longinus is a city art landmark in collaboration with Evangelion, so be sure to verify the specific display location and dates.

Character installations may be suspended due to maintenance, expiration of collaborations, weather, or shopping mall operations. Performance times, ticket prices, height/weight restrictions, and nighttime lighting are subject to change; always check official announcements before departure. This article does not treat the information in the cards as a permanent guarantee.

Quick Comparison of Major Japanese Anime Landmarks

A note of caution: Don't just head to Odaiba, Tokyo as you used to

The life-sized Gundam display at Odaiba, Tokyo has changed its models and operational arrangements multiple times. The infographic specifically notes that the Odaiba Unicorn Gundam ended its exhibition on August 31, 2026; therefore, old blogs, clips, and photos may no longer be accurate.

Before visiting any large character installation, you should confirm:

• Whether the installation is still at its original location.
• Whether it is cordoned off for maintenance.
• Performance and lighting schedules.
• Shopping mall closing dates and outdoor plaza access.
• Whether there are alternative exhibitions or plans for new models.

Stop 1: RX-93ff ν Gundam, Fukuoka

The RX-93ff ν Gundam is located in the outdoor plaza of Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Fukuoka. The design is based on the ν Gundam from Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack, with Fukuoka-exclusive additions like the long-range fin funnel.

The statue is about 24.8 meters tall and is one of Fukuoka's most recognizable anime landmarks. Daytime is perfect for viewing mechanical details, while evening is ideal for the light and video performances.

How to get there?

A common method is to take the Kagoshima Main Line from JR Hakata Station to Takeshita Station, then walk to LaLaport Fukuoka. The infographic uses a 9-minute walk as a reference, but actual time depends on the exit, crowds, and walking speed.

If traveling with elderly, children, or heavy luggage, consider taking a bus or taxi. Do not drag luggage into the middle of the plaza to take photos.

Is it free to view the statue?

Outdoor viewing is usually free, but exhibitions, dining, games, or limited-time events inside the mall may charge a fee. Note that operating hours and outdoor plaza performance times are not the same thing.

Best photography times

• Morning: Fewer crowds, suitable for capturing the full machine.
• Dusk: The sky still has depth and colors, and the lights begin to stand out.
• Night: Best for lighting and video effects, though weekends are crowded.

Best angles?

Take a wide-angle shot of the full body from the edge of the plaza, then move closer to focus on the head, chest armor, and long-range fin funnel. Avoid keeping the ultra-wide lens close and shooting upwards, as this will significantly distort the proportions.

Fukuoka-exclusive merchandise

Shops in the mall may sell limited-edition RX-93ff ν Gundam models and merch, but stock, lottery systems, and purchase limits change frequently. Don't sacrifice your luggage weight or ignore customs/aviation regulations just to grab merchandise.

Stop 2: Godzilla Interception Operation, Awaji Island

"Godzilla Interception Operation" is located at Nijigen no Mori on Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture. It is an outdoor experience featuring a massive Godzilla model, ziplining, shooting missions, exhibitions, and themed food. The 120-meter length listed in the infographic is the core scene meant to represent the massive scale of the creature in the original work.

This isn't just a photo spot

The main experience involves outdoor activities and missions. Ticket types may vary by adult/child status, height, weight, or package deals. If you only want to see the model, verify the accessible areas and ticket types first.

Zipline restrictions

The zipline usually has height, weight, health, and clothing restrictions. The 120cm+ and 25-110kg limits listed are references; check official thresholds as they may adjust.

The following passengers should read the safety regulations first:

• Pregnant women.
• Those with heart, spinal, or joint conditions, or recent surgery.
• Those with a fear of heights or who cannot wear safety equipment themselves.
• Those wearing skirts, sandals, or footwear unsuitable for outdoor activities.

How to get there from Osaka or Kobe?

Nijigen no Mori is in northern Awaji Island. You can take a highway bus from Kobe-Sannomiya, Maiko, or other hubs, and get off at the relevant stop. Some buses don't go directly to the park entrance and may require transferring or walking.

Driving is more flexible, but expect traffic on weekends, holidays, and event days. The parking lot is huge; make sure to note your zone and the return route.

Is a reservation needed?

It is recommended to buy tickets in advance for popular dates. Light tickets, packages, child tickets, and paid missions vary; confirm if ziplining, shooting, and exhibition access are included before paying.

Weather risks

Outdoor facilities may be suspended due to strong winds, thunderstorms, extreme heat, or maintenance. Check the purchase terms regarding whether tickets can be rescheduled or partially refunded if attractions are closed.

Stop 3: Tetsujin 28-go Monument, Shin-Nagata, Kobe

The Tetsujin 28-go monument is located in Wakamatsu Park near Shin-Nagata Station in Kobe, standing about 15.3 meters tall. It is more than just an anime photo spot; it is linked to the revitalization of the Shin-Nagata area following the Great Hanshin Earthquake.

The original creator, Mitsuteru Yokoyama, was born in Kobe, and this monument uses his iconic work to build local identity and serves as a symbol of the revitalization of the shopping street and community.

How to get there?

It is a few minutes' walk from JR or Kobe Municipal Subway Shin-Nagata Station. The infographic lists 3 minutes as a reference, but the specific exit will affect distance.

Is a ticket required?

The statue is in an outdoor public space and is usually free to view. Surrounding shops, exhibitions, and events charge separately.

Photography highlights

• Shoot from a low angle to capture the power of the fist.
• Capture the full posture from the edge of the square.
• Include the shopping street and residents' daily life to reflect the context of local revitalization.
• Use the dusk sky and streetlights to add depth.

Don't just stop for 5 minutes

Explore the Shin-Nagata shopping street, decorations related to Mitsuteru Yokoyama's works, and local food. If you just take a photo and leave, you miss the connection between the statue and the community.

What to pair it with?

Shin-Nagata can be combined with Kobe Port, Nankinmachi, Suma, or Awaji Island. If visiting Nijigen no Mori on the same day, check bus times carefully to ensure you don't miss the last bus because of photography delays.

Stop 4: Spear of Longinus, Ube, Yamaguchi

Ube City is the birthplace of Hideaki Anno, the director of the Evangelion series. The city has previously integrated work elements, food, transportation, and public art into local travel through projects like "Machiju Evangelion."

The massive Spear of Longinus is made of metal and is approximately 7 meters tall as listed in the infographic. At night, lighting creates a different atmosphere. The location, display period, and lighting times for such collaborative installations can change, so always check the latest official information from Ube City before departing.

Where is the Spear of Longinus?

The infographic indicates a 15-minute walk from JR Tokiwa Station, but Ube's Evangelion project may include other stations, Tokiwa Park, and landmarks around Ube-Shinkawa Station. Please use the official map to confirm the current display location; do not rely solely on old social media posts for navigation.

Why does Ube have a close relationship with Evangelion?

In addition to Hideaki Anno's birthplace, the series has used local elements like Ube-Shinkawa Station. The city has consequently integrated anime pilgrimage with industrial history, sculpture, food, and local transport, rather than just placing a single model.

What else can you see in Ube?

• Ube-Shinkawa Station and related filming impressions.
• Tokiwa Park and its outdoor sculptures.
• Limited-time Evangelion food and stamp rallies.
• Industrial cityscapes and local art museums.

Night photography precautions

The infographic lists lighting until 10 PM, but this is for reference only. At night, do not shine bright lights toward roads, homes, or other tourists; do not let tripods obstruct pedestrian paths.

Can these four stops be arranged in one trip?

Yes, but as they are scattered across Fukuoka, Yamaguchi, Hyogo (Awaji), and Kobe, a 6 to 8-day trip is recommended rather than rushing through in two or three days.

7-Day Western Japan Anime Pilgrimage Route

• Days 1-2 Fukuoka: LaLaport Fukuoka Gundam, Hakata city area.
• Day 3 Ube, Yamaguchi: Spear of Longinus, Ube-Shinkawa Station, Tokiwa Park.
• Day 4 Move to Kobe: Shin-Nagata Tetsujin 28-go, Kobe city area.
• Day 5 Awaji Island: Nijigen no Mori Godzilla Interception Operation.
• Days 6-7: Extended travel in Kobe, Osaka, or Himeji.

East-to-West or West-to-East?

Entering through Fukuoka and departing from Osaka reduces backtracking; the reverse works too. Compare international flights, JR ticket prices, luggage transport, and Awaji Island transport, rather than just looking at map distances.

Are JR passes always worth it?

Not necessarily. Shinkansen can be used between Fukuoka, Yamaguchi, and Kobe, but Awaji Island relies primarily on buses or cars, and some intra-city transport is not covered by JR passes.

Calculate leg by leg before purchasing:

• Hakata to Shin-Yamaguchi or relevant stations.
• Local railways in Yamaguchi Prefecture.
• Yamaguchi to Shin-Kobe.
• Kobe to Shin-Nagata.
• Awaji Island highway bus.

Anime Pilgrimage Etiquette

• Do not climb on statue bases or cross fences.
• Do not obstruct paths with large props.
• Character poses can be mimicked, but do not disturb other tourists.
• Check before using tripods and flashes inside malls.
• Do not linger on train platforms for photos as it blocks passengers.
• Respect privacy if capturing faces of strangers in photos.
• Follow Japanese regulations and site restrictions for drones.

How to shop for character goods rationally?

• Check first if it is regional exclusive or available online.
• Account for model box size in your luggage.
• Carry fragile items by hand or use reinforced protection.
• Metal prop replicas may be restricted by airline and customs regulations.
• Do not buy large quantities of random items just to discard the packaging on site.

Tips for traveling with children and the elderly?

What to do on a rainy day?

The Fukuoka Gundam, Tetsujin 28-go, and Spear of Longinus are all outdoors; shorten photo sessions and utilize nearby indoor facilities. Some outdoor activities at Nijigen no Mori may be affected by weather.

• Bring a lightweight raincoat; avoid using large umbrellas in crowded areas.
• Use waterproof bags to protect phones, cameras, and tickets.
• Do not stay in open plazas or near metal installations during thunderstorms.
• If facilities are suspended, follow official instructions to reschedule or use alternative content.

FAQ

Do I need a ticket for the Fukuoka ν Gundam?

Outdoor viewing is usually free; internal exhibitions, games, dining, and limited-time events may charge a fee.

Does the Fukuoka Gundam move every day?

Dynamic, lighting, and video performances are scheduled according to official timetables and maintenance; check the daily schedule before departing.

Do I need to buy a ticket if I only want to take photos of the Awaji Island Godzilla?

The free-viewing area is different from the paid attraction area. Access to missions, ziplines, and exhibitions usually requires a ticket.

Can I enter the Godzilla Interception Operation without ziplining?

There may be different ticket types or visitor scopes, but actual arrangements change; check with officials for plans that do not include the zipline.

Is Tetsujin 28-go far from Shin-Nagata Station?

It is a few minutes' walk from the station; different exits and walking speeds affect time.

Is the Ube Spear of Longinus a permanent display?

Do not assume it is permanent. City collaboration projects, locations, and deadlines can change; check official Ube City information before departure.

Is the Unicorn Gundam still in Odaiba, Tokyo?

The infographic indicates the display ended on August 31, 2026. Check the mall and official Gundam announcements before visiting to confirm if there is a new display.

Which of the four landmarks is best for a first-time pilgrimage?

Fukuoka Gundam has the most complete transport and mall facilities; if already in Kansai, Kobe's Tetsujin 28-go is the easiest to visit.

Conclusion: A true pilgrimage is more than just a photo with a giant statue

The Fukuoka Gundam showcases how characters become new city landmarks, Awaji Island's Godzilla turns fiction into a physical experience, Kobe's Tetsujin 28-go records post-disaster recovery, and Ube's Spear of Longinus connects the creator's hometown with local industry.

After taking your photos, spend a little extra time exploring the surrounding neighborhoods. The most interesting part of an anime landmark is often not how tall it is, but why it appeared in that particular city.