First Gundam manhole covers installed in Nagano Prefecture
Last Updated on April 19, 2025

Komoro City has become the first municipality in Nagano Prefecture to install “Gundam Manhole” covers.
These manhole covers are part of a unique initiative that blends the popular “Mobile Suit Gundam” anime franchise with local tourist attractions.
The distinctive manhole covers were donated to the city by the Bandai Namco Group’s “Gundam Manhole Project”, a nationwide endeavor aimed at revitalizing local areas, promoting tourism and fostering connections between Japanese cities and Gundam fans.

The “Gundam Manhole Project” spearheaded by the Bandai Namco Group’s Gundam Project team, collaborates with local governments throughout Japan to install original manhole covers adorned with iconic Gundam designs.
Komoro City was selected as the first partner for the project within Nagano Prefecture and received two uniquely designed manhole covers as a contribution to regional revitalization.
One of the installed manhole covers features the iconic RX-78-2 Gundam standing amidst a flurry of falling cherry blossoms in front of the old castle gate that is the entrance to Komoro’s historic Nostalgia Garden (also known as Komoro Castle Park).

Nostalgia Garden, the former site of Komoro Castle, is known for its stunning seasonal beauty, particularly its cherry blossoms in spring.
The placement of this manhole cover is on the stone pavement in front of an underground passage that connects Komoro Station to the garden, making it a prominent feature for visitors arriving in the city.

The second installed manhole cover showcases the formidable MS-14 Gelgoog mobile suit towering over the Nunobiki Kannon, a significant Buddhist temple that marks the starting point of the “Pilgrimage to Zenkoji Temple Pulled by Oxen”, a well-known local pilgrimage route.

Aguri no Yu Komoro, a popular local hot spring facility, serves as the installation location for this design, where it has been situated next to its main entrance, ensuring visibility for both locals and tourists seeking relaxation and recreation.

Prior to their installation, the two “Gundam Manhole” covers were displayed in the lobby of Komoro City Hall from Wednesday, March 19th, to Friday, April 11th, allowing residents a preview of the unique artworks.
The official installation event took place on April 12th, under clear skies and amidst the cherry blossoms, drawing attendees from both the local area and further afield.

The “Gundam Manhole Project” has gained traction across Japan, with various cities recognizing the potential of these unique installations to attract tourism and engage residents.

In recent months the cities of Mito and Odawara as well as Matsuyama have all installed Gundam manhole covers and more Japanese cities are expected to do so throughout the year.
Source: Komoro City
Images: © Komoro City, Sotsu, Sunrise, Bandai Namco, Mainichi Shimbun