Your Guide to THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR in Australia

By Justin Carlo

on Sep 9, 2025

For over 45 years, GUNDAM has inspired fans across the globe with its giant mecha, gripping stories, and the creative hobby of GUNPLA (GUNDAM plastic model kits).

In 2025, Bandai Namco Asia is celebrating this milestone with THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR — a global event series bringing the official Gundam Base experience to cities around the world.

Now, for the first time ever in Australia, Sydney fans will get to step inside this world when THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR lands at Broadway Sydney Shopping Centre from Tuesday, 23 September to Sunday, 12 October 2025.

What is GUNDAM?

First aired in 1979, Mobile Suit Gundam revolutionised anime with its grounded “real robot” storytelling. Instead of invincible superheroes, GUNDAM showed machines as tools of war — piloted by humans with political, emotional, and moral struggles.

Since then, GUNDAM has grown into one of Japan’s most influential cultural exports, with dozens of series, films, novels, and games inspiring generations of fans.

What is GUNPLA?

“GUNPLA” (short for Gundam Plastic Model) are scale model kits based on Mobile Suits from the GUNDAM universe. Launched in 1980, GUNPLA quickly became a worldwide hobby, known for:

Their detail and variety, from entry-level kits to Perfect Grade masterpieces
Their creativity that allows builders to customise colours, weathering, and poses
Their global reach — more than 700 million kits shipped worldwide

GUNPLA isn’t just a hobby, it’s a way for fans to connect with GUNDAM’s world and with each other.

What is THE GUNDAM BASE?

Image: Gundam Base in Tokyo

The GUNDAM BASE is the official store for GUNDAM fans, serving as both a retail destination and an experiential space. Inside, visitors can:

Explore a wide range of GUNPLA kits, including exclusives not available anywhere else
Discover detailed exhibits of GUNDAM models and large-scale displays of iconic Mobile Suits
Take part in hands-on workshops where fans of all ages can learn, build, and share in the hobby

THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR brings this concept to international audiences, offering fans around the world the chance to experience the excitement, craftsmanship, and creativity that define the GUNDAM universe.

What is THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR?

First launched in Japan in April 2025, THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR has already travelled to Mainland China, France, Malaysia, Korea, and Singapore. Each stop brings the magic of THE GUNDAM BASE — Bandai’s official store and experience hub — to local fans.

Sydney’s pop-up will be no exception. Visitors can expect:

A towering 4-metre RX-78-2 Gundam balloon
Expansive model kit exhibits featuring classic and modern Mobile Suits
Hands-on GUNPLA workshops for all skill levels
Exclusive items available only at THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR
GUNDAM movies screened at HOYTS on Level 2

A key attraction is the G-Base Limited line, special colour variants, clear parts, coatings, or commemorative packaging that you won’t find outside official GUNDAM BASE channels. These exclusives are part of what makes every visit feel like a treasure hunt for collectors.

Workshops & Stamp Rally

Alongside exclusive kits and exhibits, THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR in Sydney will also feature FREE GUNPLA workshops. These beginner-friendly sessions guide you through the basics of model building — from part removal and nub cleanup to decals and panel lining. Perfect for newcomers or anyone looking to refine their skills, workshops are free but spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended.

Another highlight is the Stamp Rally, a fun way to explore the entire event. By visiting different zones and collecting stamps, fans can unlock rewards and enjoy the exhibition in an interactive way. It’s a great activity for kids, families, and collectors alike.

THE GUNPLA BUILDERS WORLD CUP (GBWC)

The Gunpla Builders World Cup (GBWC) is Bandai Spirits’ official global competition for GUNPLA builders, judged on craftsmanship, creativity, and presentation.

At THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR in Sydney, fans can:

Admire incredible entries from across Australia on display throughout the event
Celebrate the passion and talent of the local Gunpla community
Witness the GBWC 13th Australia Grand Finals on Sunday, 12 October 2025

At this special ceremony, Australia’s champions will be chosen to advance to the GBWC Grand Finals in Japan, where they’ll compete against the world’s top builders for the title of World Champion.

Tips for First Time G-Base Visitors

Arrive early for high-demand exclusives, as stock can sell out quickly.
Plan ahead for workshops or competitions; seats are limited.
Bring inspiration, such as reference images of favourite suits or custom colour schemes.
Think tools, not just kits: nippers, sanders, panel line markers, and topcoats can elevate your build.
Talk to the community: Hobbyco staff and fellow fans are often the best source of hands on advice.

GUNPLA Culture, Growing Together

Until now, fans in Australia could only experience THE GUNDAM BASE by travelling overseas. With THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR, the community can finally enjoy:

Exclusive event-limited kits without leaving the country
Free workshops to learn building techniques in person
Inspiring exhibitions of iconic builds
A direct connection to the global stage of GUNPLA through the GBWC

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in GUNDAM culture right here at home.

With locations conveniently located throughout Metro Sydney, finding the perfect hobby shop near you has never been easier. Experience the excitement of exploring our vast selection of GUNPLA, expert advice, and exceptional customer service. Discover why Hobbyco is the number one hobby shop in Australia. Customers can buy products online through our platform.