Store Spotlight — 楽模型 in Shinbashi
I’m excited to post the first of what I hope will be many Store Spotlights. 🌟 A casual bit, where I’ll highlight neat spots to visit around town. Today let’s take a look at 楽模型 / Raku Models — a wonderful hobby store only slightly off the beaten track.
As much a hobbyist’s workstation as it is a retail premises.
A five minute walk from Shinbashi JR Station’s Karasumori Entrance will lead you to the Nakamura Building. Raku Models is located on the 8th floor, and in the evenings/weekends you may need to press the dedicated doorbell for the owner to let you inside.
Opening hours are extremely convenient, a peaky 9am - 9pm! This is fantastic if you want to spend a little hobby time before a busy day ahead, or vice versa.
View as you enter the store via the elevator.
I wasn’t expecting much, as the official site features a clean but neat photo of the premises. However, much seems to have changed since the taking of this photo!
Raku Models is jam packed from floor to ceiling with Gunpla, other plastic model kits, hobby supplies, and custom builds. You won’t find aftermarket kits here; rather a strong selection of general retail items for purchase at RRP. In fact, I think this may have one of the best general selections in central Tokyo!
Payment is cash only, though the owner may make exceptions for non-Bandai items (assume cash only).
There’s a lot to take in on first visit, and I spent a good 15 minutes carefully browsing the Gunpla and hobby supplies. I do recommend taking time — there’s treasure to be had if you look all the way down to the carpet; up towards the air-con units; and squeezed in amongst models from other franchises. The sprawling brown packaging boxes are fun, and are as much part of the store’s framework as they are storage!
The store is run by hobbyists, and it shows. You’ll find great builds all over the store, so do take a little time to look. Paints and other hobby supplies are also quite well stocked; plus there’s a table to build if you fancy!
The small, but equipped, table for ad-hoc build sessions.
I picked up just a few items, but will definitely start visiting more frequently. I’m curious about the situation for Day 1 releases… and wonder whether there’s a better chance to pick up a new kit here, vs other locations in town. Highly recommended if you have 30 minutes to spare in the area — it’s a charming store in an accessible location.
A little mix of treats.
Some extra photos. Apologies for the shallow depth of field… next time I’ll take a more suitable lens.
