Stepping into the All Japan Model & Hobby Show for the first time was an assault on the senses—in the best way possible. While it “only” occupied two of Tokyo Big Sight’s cavernous South Halls, the space was a wonderland buzzing with the energy of thousands of fans. From the buzz of excitement around the RC car booths to the hush around detailed models like the IJN Yamato, this wasn’t just an event. It was a pilgrimage site for every kind of hobbyist. I was thrilled to experience it myself.
Some of the most popular booths belonged to remote-controlled car giants like Tamiya, Kyosho, and Yokomo (who have an arena in Tsukuba). While there was no track to see them in action, the static displays offered something even better: a chance to get nose-to-glass with the incredible engineering. You could see every detail of the exposed carbon fiber chassis, the intricate oil-filled shock absorbers, and the gleaming, custom-painted bodies.
Whether you wanted a perfect replica of a Mercedes-AMG GT3 or a wild fantasy drift machine, you could find it. Seeing the sheer level of customization and precision up close made it instantly clear why this hobby is a serious passion in Japan.
At Tamiya’s massive booth, military models were front and center. World War II kits were a clear fan favorite. But the true showstopper was a stunning 2-meter-long model of the modern aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. Its flight deck was populated with F-18 Hornets, E-2C Hawkeyes, and helicopters. It was so real, I could almost see Maverick on the catapult.
Science-fiction-themed models got attention. The Gundam universe was among the frontrunners. They were camera magnets! Everyone made a beeline for them. Bandai’s booth took up a lot of floor space.
Fans will love the new models for Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury. They have super-detailed designs and articulation, reflecting the series’ unique aesthetic and characters. The anime series has had no major productions for a few years, so these new battlesuits should excite fans.
Guns were a big part of All Japan Model and Hobby Show 2022! Many of them looked and felt like the real thing. I’ve never seen a Kalashnikov AK 47 in real life, but the one I picked up made me feel like I was using a Russian infantryman’s best friend. Or do you prefer Dirty Harry’s Smith and Wesson M29 to deal with the punks? You could get one of those too.
The All Japan Model and Hobby Show was more than just an exhibition. It was a celebration of creativity, precision, and passion that fired up my imagination. From the breathtaking scale of the models to the incredible detail of the RC cars, the level of craftsmanship was top-class.
If you are in Japan in 2023, visit the All Japan Model and Hobby Show. It’ll be at Tokyo Big Site, and the entry fee is very reasonable. I can’t wait to go back.
Have you ever been to the Model and Hobby Show? Or do you have a hobby? Tell us about them in the comments below.
The event was photographer-friendly. Every booth welcomed cameras. But video was forbidden in a few areas.
Rohan has photographed Tokyo since 2011. He shoots it with his Canon EOS R5. There are no plans to stop.
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