After over three years of thrilling followers with its towering, transferring Gundam robotic, the Yokohama Gundam Factory has closed down as of March 31, 2024. The attraction, which featured an 18-meter-tall RX-78 Gundam that would stroll and strike poses, was initially slated to run from December 2020 to March 2022. However, its unbelievable reputation led to 2 extensions, giving followers bonus years to expertise the mecha marvel.
A Gundam Attraction Like No Other
The Yokohama Gundam Factory was a groundbreaking attraction that pushed the boundaries of what was doable for Gundam-themed experiences. Visitors might discover a museum chronicling the event of the huge robotic, browse unique merchandise within the store, and seize themed meals and drinks on the Gundam Cafe. But the spotlight was undoubtedly the awe-inspiring, transferring Gundam itself.
Constructed to commemorate the Gundam franchise’s fortieth anniversary, the RX-78 required years of engineering innovation to turn out to be a actuality.
Fans have been astounded when the robotic was unveiled in 2020, capable of step out from its dock and transfer its arms and head. Over 1.5 million individuals visited throughout its run, a testomony to its must-see standing for Gundam lovers.
Challenges Behind the Scenes
Despite its wild reputation, the Yokohama Gundam Factory confronted a number of challenges that in the end led to its closure. Maintaining the colossal robotic, which contained quite a few advanced mechanisms permitting it to maneuver, proved pricey over time. Its seaside location additionally uncovered it to salty sea air, which risked corroding its parts extra rapidly.
Additionally, the Factory’s web site on Yamashita Pier was all the time meant as a short lived location. The attraction was granted two extensions to its land lease, however plans to redevelop the realm meant this might not proceed indefinitely.
Some have speculated that the Gundam’s reputation made it too costly for Bandai Namco to safe a longer-term lease.
A Spectacular Send-Off
Fans turned out in droves to catch one final glimpse of the RX-78 on its closing day of operations. Roughly 1,500 attendees watched the Gundam execute its trademark strikes, this time accented by a drone present and fireworks show. Even Gundam creator Yoshiyuki Tomino stopped by to say farewell to the robotic.
The crowd cheered because the Gundam took its closing steps, waving its arm as if saying goodbye. Many viewers turned emotional, shouting due to the robotic and the workers who maintained it over time.
The bittersweet ambiance mirrored the Yokohama Gundam Factory’s legacy – an attraction that redefined what was doable for Gundam followers and might be deeply missed.
Looking to the Future
As the transferring Gundam prepares for decommissioning, hypothesis abounds about whether or not it might be relocated elsewhere. The most persistent rumor is an look on the upcoming Gundam Pavilion at Osaka’s World Expo in 2025.
While Bandai Namco has not confirmed this, the corporate has a historical past of reusing fashionable Gundam property, and it’s believed the Expo can be a super venue.
Other followers hope the RX-78 might discover a everlasting house at a Gundam Base retailer, Bandai Namco’s chain of Gundam merchandise and exhibit areas. This would observe the sample of previous life-size Gundam statues, just like the RX-0 Unicorn Gundam at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza. For now, the corporate stays tight-lipped in regards to the icon’s destiny.
Fan Reactions and Reflections
Fans have taken to social media to specific their ideas and emotions in regards to the closure of the Yokohama Gundam Factory.
Here are some notable feedback:
- “I feel so lucky to have visited the Factory last year. Seeing the Gundam move in person was a dream come true. I’m sad future fans won’t get to experience it, but I’m grateful for the memories.”
- “The Yokohama Gundam Factory was a testament to human ingenuity and the power of science fiction to inspire us. It’s a shame it couldn’t stay open longer, but I’m excited to see what Bandai Namco dreams up next. Maybe a transforming Gundam?”
- “I hope they find a way to preserve the moving Gundam for future generations to enjoy. It was a marvel of engineering and a symbol of the franchise’s enduring popularity. Seeing it at the Osaka Expo would be amazing!”
- “The final day of the Factory was so emotional. Seeing the Gundam wave goodbye had me in tears. It felt like the end of an era, but also a celebration of everything the attraction achieved. I’ll never forget it.”
- “The Yokohama Gundam Factory may be gone, but its impact will live on. It showed the world what’s possible when you combine cutting-edge technology with a beloved franchise. I can’t wait to see what Bandai Namco and the Gundam fandom create next!”