Transforming Shinkansen robot action figure set for release in Japan
Bandai Spirits has revealed a new transforming robot action figure based on the Shinkalion franchise.
The new figure is set to join their premium “Soul of Chogokin” line of die-cast metal action figures.
The Shinkalion franchise, which began with a toy line before spawning an animated series, centers around a team of robots that can transform from realistic Japanese bullet trains (Shinkansen) into powerful combat mecha to protect Earth from various threats.
This newest addition to the series brings to life the “Shinkalion E5 Hayabusa” from the first season of the popular TV anime, Shinkansen Henkei Robo Shinkalion.
The “E5 Hayabusa” is based on the E5 shinkansen trains operated by JR East where the fastest train service with the fewest stops is referred to as the “Hayabusa” service.
The train is known for its distinctive green livery which sets it apart from Japan’s other shinkansen trains.
It also served as the main protagonist’s robot in the first Shinkalion anime series, making it a recognizable mecha among fans.
The “Soul of Chogokin” series is a long-running and highly respected line of high-end collectible figures from Bandai Spirits known for its extensive use of die-cast metal (Chogokin means “super alloy” in Japanese).
The series features a range of faithful recreations of iconic mecha from various anime and tokusatsu franchises
Figures in this line are celebrated for their impressive weight, premium feel, and often complex transformation mechanisms that minimize or eliminate the need for part swapping.
A standout feature of the “Soul of Chogokin GX-115 Shinkansen Transforming Robot Shinkalion E5 Hayabusa” is its faithful and complete transformation capability.
True to its depiction in the anime and a hallmark of the Soul of Chogokin series, the figure can transform seamlessly from its Shinkansen train mode into the fully poseable Shinkalion robot mode without the need for any additional parts swapping.
The figure features extensive articulation throughout its body, allowing for a wide range of action poses and it can wield its signature weapon, the “Turnstile Blade”.
The level of detail and articulation is such that all five individual fingers on each hand in robot mode are individually movable.
In its Shinkansen mode, both the front and rear cars are equipped with coupling covers that can be opened and closed, accurately replicating the mechanism seen in the anime when the trains connect prior to transformation.
Pre-orders for the “Soul of Chogokin GX-115 Shinkansen Transforming Robot Shinkalion E5 Hayabusa” figure will start on Monday, June 2nd, 2025 with a price tag of 41,800 yen (approx. $293 USD / £217 GBP).
It is expected to be released in November 2025 and current indications from Bandai Spirits are that it will only be sold in Japan and Asia.
Source: Official Website
© Bandai Spirits
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