Giant Japanese robot spurs hopes for tourism after COVID-19 hit

The 18-metre robot will be the centerpiece of the Gundam Factory Yokohama attraction

Last updated: December 01, 2020 | 11:50

AFP and Compiled by Christian Borbon, Senior Web Editor

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An 18-metre (60-foot) 'Gundam' robot that can walk and move its arms was unveiled in Japan on Monday amid hopes that it will help invigorate tourism hit by COVID-19.

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The robot is modelled after a figure in 'Mobile Suit Gundam', a Japanese cartoon first launched in the late 1970s about enormous battle robots piloted by humans.

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A Gundam robot is displayed during sunset at the Gundam factory in Yokohama, Kanagawa prefecture.

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The series spawned multiple spin-offs and toys and gained a worldwide following.

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A Gundam robot is displayed at the Gundam factory in Yokohama.

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It will be the centrepiece of the Gundam Factory Yokohama, a tourist attraction that opens on Dec. 19 in the port city.

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'I hope this will lead to stimulating tourism demand and revitalising local areas,' Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato told a news conference.

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'Of course, we now have the coronavirus issue.

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A Gundam robot is displayed at the Gundam factory in Yokohama.

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I want people to tackle endeavours like this while making an effort to prevent the spread of infection.'

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