Gundam and Japanese Art Collide for New Ukiyo-e Inspired Gunpla Kits
Traditional Japanese art and modern plastic model kits are colliding in a stunning new Gunpla release from the Bandai Spirits Hobby Division.
Three new “ENTRY GRADE Ukiyo-e Package Ver.” models are set to offer builders a beautiful blend of classic mecha designs and historic cultural aesthetics.
Mobile Suit Gundam is a legendary anime franchise that first premiered in 1979 and revolutionized the mecha genre with its grounded take on futuristic warfare.
A huge part of the enduring global success of the series is the incredibly popular hobby of building Gunpla, or Gundam plastic models.
The ENTRY GRADE line is specifically designed to be highly accessible for beginners and younger fans looking to start their building journey.
These specific kits feature parts molded in color and can be assembled without the need for specialized tools, paint, or glue.
Ukiyo-e translates to “pictures of the floating world” and refers to a historic genre of Japanese art that flourished from the 17th through 19th centuries.
These traditional woodblock prints and paintings often featured beautiful landscapes, flora, fauna, and folklore.
To celebrate this rich cultural heritage, the box art for the new model kits has been completely redesigned to mimic the classic Ukiyo-e style.
Builders will also receive an exclusive sheet of brand new Japanese-style decals to customize their completed mobile suits.
These unique stickers feature traditional motifs such as Mount Fuji, beautiful cherry blossoms, and crashing ocean waves.
Let’s take a look at the three new Ukiyo-e Gunpla kits!
- ENTRY GRADE 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam [Ukiyo-e Package Ver.]
- Price: 1,430 yen (approx. $10 USD / £8 GBP)
This kit features the original and most recognizable mobile suit piloted by Amuro Ray.
- ENTRY GRADE 1/144 Strike Gundam [Ukiyo-e Package Ver.]
- Price: 1,430 yen (approx. $10 USD / £8 GBP)
This release highlights the versatile mobile suit featured prominently in Mobile Suit Gundam SEED.
- ENTRY GRADE 1/144 Wing Gundam [Ukiyo-e Package Ver.]
- Price: 1,760 yen (approx. $12 USD / £9 GBP)
This kit captures the iconic transforming mecha from New Mobile Report Gundam Wing.
The “ENTRY GRADE Ukiyo-e Package Ver.” Gunpla kits are scheduled to launch across Japan in August 2026, with sales set to take place at most major Gunpla stockists.
International collectors can find the kits at online hobby goods retailers, such as HobbyLink Japan.
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