Fukuoka: My Unexpected Journey into the World of Gunpla

It was Day 3 of our Fukuoka adventure, and the plan was simple: explore Canal City Hakata and indulge in some retail therapy. Gundam wasn't even on my radar – not a single robot in sight!

But as any seasoned traveler knows, sometimes the most memorable moments are the unplanned ones.

As we wandered through the sprawling levels of Canal City, a colossal Gundam model at the entrance caught my eye, and just like that, my feet instinctively led me towards The Gundam Base store.

I'd passed by Gundam shops countless times in Kyoto and Bangkok, always without stepping inside.

So, I told myself, 'Just a quick peek, then we're out.'

📌 Essential Info

A Place That Captivates, Even if You Don't Know Gunpla

As I gazed at the finished models displayed in glass cases, I realized these weren't just robots assembled; they were dynamic scenes brought to life.

There were figures leaping through the air, wielding weapons, and intricate dioramas recreating iconic battle sequences from the anime.

Each model, big or small, possessed such unique character that even a Gundam novice like me found myself circling the displays, completely engrossed.

I walked in just to browse, but before I knew it, a Gunpla kit had magically appeared in my shopping basket.

My resolve to 'just buy one' quickly crumbled, and after careful consideration, I ended up with three.

At the checkout, a sign indicated a limit of one purchase per passport per day and quantity restrictions on identical models, likely due to limited editions.

'Surely I won't come back here again?' I thought, as I paid and left the store. Yet, a strange sense of longing lingered.

I'd already bought three, but I wanted more.

Looking back, I realize that was probably the moment my Gunpla journey truly began.

On the Hunt for LaLaport's Gundam

My original itinerary called for more general shopping, but my phone was already in my hand, and I was compulsively searching.

That's how I found LaLaport Fukuoka – renowned for its colossal, life-sized Gundam.

Thankfully, my travel companion was on board with a detour, so we hopped on a bus.

The entire ride, I couldn't stop thinking about getting home and assembling my new kits.

A Paradise for Gundam Enthusiasts: LaLaport Fukuoka

My first impression of LaLaport Fukuoka was that it felt like a premium, modern shopping complex – expansive, sleek, and sparkling clean.

And right at the entrance, standing tall and proud, was the colossal Gundam. Even if you knew nothing about Gundam, its sheer size was absolutely awe-inspiring.

Inside, the Gundam store was significantly larger than the one at Canal City, boasting an even wider selection.

My travel companion, noticing the sparkle in my eye, simply said, 'Buy whatever you want, so you don't regret it later.'

And with that permission, I indulged, picking up four more kits without a second thought.

It was an entirely unplanned, substantial purchase during my Fukuoka trip, but I had zero regrets.

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The Start of My Gunpla Journey

Once back from Fukuoka, the first thing I did was unbox my Gunpla kits and dive into the instructions.

At first, it felt a little daunting, but soon I was completely absorbed, losing track of time. Seeing my first completed Gunpla model gave me an unexpected sense of accomplishment.

Before I knew it, after returning to Thailand, I was visiting Gundam pop-up stores at places like Mega Bangna and exploring dedicated Gunpla shops.

In Fukuoka, I'd started with the beginner-friendly HG (High Grade) models, and I found the building process surprisingly enjoyable.

Soon, I was eager to tackle larger, more detailed models, which led me to purchase MG (Master Grade) kits in Thailand.

Before my Fukuoka trip, I'd envisioned ramen, shopping, and relaxing at an onsen – never in a million years did I expect to return home with a collection of Gunpla.

Looking back, that day truly marked the beginning of a fantastic new hobby.

📝 Quick Takeaway

I went in just to look, but ended up buying seven Gunpla kits – an unexpected journey into a captivating new hobby!

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