SINGAPORE — Jewel Changi Airport is solidifying its reputation as Southeast Asia’s premier hub for Japanese pop culture with the pending arrival of The Gundam Base, the official retail outlet for the iconic science-fiction franchise. Following the successful launches of branded stores for Pokémon and One Piece, this new location marks Singapore’s first official Gundam store. While the precise opening date remains unconfirmed, preliminary signage at the Changi Airport retail complex indicates the highly anticipated launch will occur sometime in 2026, offering anime and model enthusiasts a dedicated destination for official merchandise and events.
The strategic addition of The Gundam Base follows a clear trend of catering to the region’s fervent anime and manga fandom. The store, operated by Bandai Spirits, is expected to become a major draw for both international visitors and local collectors. Store hoardings are currently visible at Jewel, confirming the location and suggesting preparations are well underway for the 2026 debut.
What to Expect at The Gundam Base Singapore
Like its international counterparts in major Asian cities such as Tokyo, Taipei, and Bangkok, The Gundam Base at Jewel Changi Airport will specialize in Gunpla, or Gundam plastic model kits. These build-it-yourself kits are the cornerstone of the franchise’s merchandise, allowing fans to assemble detailed replicas of the giant military robots featured in the long-running animated series.
- Extensive Gunpla Selection: The store will feature a vast inventory of model kits, ranging from beginner-friendly versions with pre-colored snap-together parts to complex, detailed models requiring advanced techniques and custom painting.
- Life-Sized Displays: Visitors can anticipate large-scale and potentially life-sized Gundam robot displays, offering unique photo opportunities and enhancing the immersive retail experience.
- Workshops and Learning: The Singapore outlet is scheduled to host model-building workshops, catering to both novices looking to master basic construction and experienced builders seeking advanced tips and techniques.
- Exclusive Launches: To generate excitement, The Gundam Base locations often offer exclusive, limited-edition Gunpla kits specific to that country or region. The Jewel store is expected to debut Singapore-exclusive merchandise, highly coveted by serious collectors.
Expanding Global Footprint
The introduction of The Gundam Base reflects the franchise’s ongoing strategy to expand its international retail presence. The store portfolio currently includes multiple successful locations across Japan, highlighted by its flagship in Tokyo’s Odaiba district. Internationally, the brand has established strong footholds throughout Asia, with the Singapore opening following a new expansion set for Hong Kong in December 2025.
For enthusiasts, the arrival of this dedicated retail space means increased access to authentic merchandise and official events without relying on regional imports. It further establishes Jewel Changi Airport not just as a global aviation gateway, but a cultural magnet, drawing fans who value high-quality, specialized pop culture experiences alongside traditional luxury and dining.
This concentration of official anime retail outlets—Pokémon Center, the One Piece Mugiwara Store, and now The Gundam Base—transforms Jewel Changi Airport into an essential pilgrimage site for Asian pop culture consumers, significantly boosting its cultural relevance and drawing power in the region.