Shizuoka Hobby Square
Explore Japan's hobby capital! Shizuoka Hobby Square showcases intricate model cars, robots, and more, celebrating a rich manufacturing legacy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Shizuoka Hobby Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Japan's hobby capital! Shizuoka Hobby Square showcases intricate model cars, robots, and more, celebrating a rich manufacturing legacy.
"A compact gem for hobbyists, offering a free glimpse into Japan's model-making prowess."
Free Entry Gem 🌟
The permanent exhibition is free! Special exhibits might have a small fee, but it's worth it.
JR Station Convenience 🚂
Just a short walk from Shizuoka JR Station, with a covered walkway. Look for small signs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Model Car Showcase
Permanent Exhibition
Marvel at intricately detailed model cars, a core part of Shizuoka's manufacturing legacy.
Gundam & Robot Displays
Permanent Exhibition
Explore a vast collection of Gundam and other robot models, showcasing Japanese pop culture.
Special Exhibition Events
Special Exhibition Hall
Experience rotating exhibits, from RC car tracks to unique model car gatherings.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Hobby Capital Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry Gem 🌟
The permanent exhibition is free! Special exhibits might have a small fee, but it's worth it.
JR Station Convenience 🚂
Just a short walk from Shizuoka JR Station, with a covered walkway. Look for small signs.
Bilingual Info Available 🌏
While most exhibits are in Japanese, some traditional craft explanations are bilingual.
Gift Shop Treasures 🍯
Check out the gift shop for a wide variety of model kits and hobby items.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry Gem 🌟
The permanent exhibition is free! Special exhibits might have a small fee, but it's worth it.
JR Station Convenience 🚂
Just a short walk from Shizuoka JR Station, with a covered walkway. Look for small signs.
Bilingual Info Available 🌏
While most exhibits are in Japanese, some traditional craft explanations are bilingual.
Gift Shop Treasures 🍯
Check out the gift shop for a wide variety of model kits and hobby items.
Quick & Insightful Visit 👍
Perfect for a 10-15 minute stop if you're in the area. Great for model enthusiasts!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Shizuoka Hobby Square for its free admission and fascinating displays of detailed model cars, robots, and more, reflecting the city's status as a hobby capital. While small, it's a worthwhile quick stop for enthusiasts, though most information is in Japanese. Some note that special exhibitions can add a small fee.
"Free entrance to view the history of Japan plastic model manufacturing. For Gunpla fans, there are a few limited premium Bandai products that you can find here. Worth strolling through for 10 - 15 min if Ty Ou are around."
Jeff Tao (Momonoart Studio)
"This is just a few minutes walk from Shizuoka JR station. There's a covered walkway leads directly to it. Admission to the permanent exhibition is free, but the special exhibition is usually ¥300-500. There's a history of models in Japan, but unfortunately it is only in Japanese. The good news is that there are some explanations of traditional Shizuoka crafts that are Japanese and English! The bulk of the collection is simply model displays. Shizuoka is the model capital, so many of the famous manufacturers are based here including Bandai. There are lots of Gundam models on display, as well as more standard model cars and airplanes.
It is very small, but considering the importance of models in Shizuoka and Japanese culture in general I'd highly recommend visiting here if only for a few minutes!"
Peter Kadden
"Convenient and good for a part of sightseeing or playground tour with Lu ku lu. We can learn the history of toy cultures in Shizuoka."
N.Macchan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
It's a very short walk from Shizuoka JR Station. There's a covered walkway that leads directly to the building. Keep an eye out for the signs, though they can be a bit small.
Yes, it's conveniently located near Shizuoka JR Station, making it easily accessible by train. If you're coming from Tokyo, you'll likely take the Shinkansen or a bus to Shizuoka.
While not directly mentioned for the Hobby Square itself, if you're visiting the Maruko Chan land in Shimizu, there's a free shuttle bus from Shimizu Station to the S-Pulse mall, where the Hobby Square is located.
Information on dedicated parking for the Hobby Square is limited, but it's best to utilize public transport due to its proximity to Shizuoka JR Station.
The most common and efficient way to travel from Tokyo to Shizuoka is by Shinkansen (bullet train) or by bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The permanent exhibition at Shizuoka Hobby Square is completely free to enter. Special exhibitions may have a fee ranging from ¥300-¥500.
For the free permanent exhibition, advance booking is generally not required. For special events, it's advisable to check their official website or social media for any booking requirements.
Opening hours can vary, especially for special exhibitions. It's recommended to check the official Shizuoka Hobby Square website or their social media channels for the most up-to-date information on operating hours.
The Hobby Square is generally open on weekends, but it's always best to confirm the specific operating hours for the day you plan to visit, especially if there's a special event.
Since the permanent exhibition is free, discounts are typically not applicable. For special exhibitions, check for any potential group rates or event-specific promotions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a wide variety of models, including detailed model cars, motorcycles, robots (like Gundam), and airplanes, reflecting Shizuoka's rich hobby manufacturing history.
The permanent exhibition is primarily in Japanese. However, some explanations regarding traditional Shizuoka crafts are available in both Japanese and English.
In the past, special events have featured interactive elements like a large RC car track where people race their custom-built cars.
Most visitors find that 10-15 minutes is sufficient for a quick stroll through the permanent exhibition, making it a great addition to other sightseeing.
Yes, children who are interested in models and toys will likely enjoy the displays. It's a great place to learn about the history of toy cultures in Shizuoka.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Shizuoka Hobby Square itself is primarily an exhibition space and does not typically have on-site dining facilities.
Being located near Shizuoka JR Station, you'll find numerous dining options in the vicinity, ranging from casual eateries to more formal restaurants.
It's generally recommended to consume outside food and drinks before entering exhibition spaces. Check for specific venue policies upon arrival.
Yes, the area around Shizuoka JR Station is well-equipped with cafes where you can relax and grab a coffee or a light snack.
Shizuoka is known for its fresh seafood, particularly tuna, and its delicious green tea. You can find these specialties in many local restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the permanent exhibition, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially in special exhibition areas.
The detailed model displays, especially the Gundam and car models, offer great photo opportunities. The special exhibition areas can also provide unique backdrops.
Flash photography is often discouraged or prohibited in museums and exhibition spaces to protect the exhibits. Please be mindful of any signage.
You can use hashtags like #ShizuokaHobbySquare, #ModelCars, #Gundam, and #HobbyJapan to share your experience.
A camera with good macro capabilities or a smartphone with a decent camera will work well for capturing the intricate details of the models.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a special event if available, as these sometimes include more interactive elements like RC car tracks, which can be particularly engaging for younger visitors. The proximity to Shizuoka JR Station also makes it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing without a lot of travel hassle. Remember that most informational text is in Japanese, but the visual appeal of the models transcends language barriers.
hobby Enthusiasts & Collectors
Keep an eye on their schedule for special exhibitions, which often feature unique displays, competitions, or even opportunities to see rare or limited-edition models. The gift shop is also a key attraction, potentially offering exclusive items or hard-to-find kits that are perfect for collectors. The square's convenient location makes it an easy addition to any Shizuoka itinerary focused on automotive or model culture.
Day-Trippers from Tokyo
Combine your visit with other Shizuoka attractions, perhaps exploring the city center or enjoying local cuisine. The Hobby Square offers a unique glimpse into a significant aspect of Japanese culture and industry, providing a memorable experience without taking up a large chunk of your day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Shizuoka: The Heart of Japan's Hobby Industry
The Shizuoka Hobby Square serves as a testament to this legacy, showcasing the evolution and artistry of Japanese model making. It's a place where visitors can appreciate the craftsmanship and innovation that have defined the industry for decades. The annual Shizuoka Hobby Show is a major event that draws international attention, further solidifying the city's status as a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about models.
Beyond the Hobby Square, Shizuoka's commitment to its hobby culture is evident in various initiatives and events throughout the year. This dedication ensures that the city remains a vibrant center for creativity and a pilgrimage site for model builders and collectors worldwide. Exploring Shizuoka offers a unique glimpse into a significant aspect of Japanese industrial and cultural heritage.
Exploring the Shizuoka Hobby Square Exhibits
While the permanent collection is a draw, the special exhibitions are where the Hobby Square truly comes alive with dynamic content. These rotating displays can range from intricate dioramas to large-scale RC car tracks, offering interactive experiences and showcasing the latest trends in the hobby world. Past events have included thrilling RC car races, demonstrating the active community surrounding model building and racing.
For those interested in the cultural context, the Hobby Square also touches upon Shizuoka's traditional crafts, with some bilingual explanations available. This blend of modern hobby culture and traditional craftsmanship provides a well-rounded understanding of the region's creative spirit. Don't forget to visit the gift shop, which is stocked with a variety of model kits and hobby-related merchandise, perfect for souvenirs or your next project.




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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit