Gunpla, short for "Gundam plastic model kits," has gained a massive following in Canada and around the world. These intricately designed model kits allow enthusiasts to bring their favorite mecha from the iconic Gundam series to life. Gunpla has become a beloved hobby for many Canadians, offering a creative outlet and a way to connect with fellow enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the origins of Gunpla, the availability of hobby shops in Canada, the different products available, and the thriving community that surrounds this fascinating hobby.

The roots of Gunpla can be traced back to Japan in the late 1970s. The Gundam series, created by Yoshiyuki Tomino, revolutionized the world of mecha anime and introduced a unique concept of giant humanoid robots piloted by humans. As the popularity of the Gundam franchise soared, Bandai, a renowned Japanese toy company, seized the opportunity to capitalize on the growing fanbase.

In 1980, Bandai released the first-ever Gundam plastic model kit, marking the birth of Gunpla. These kits allowed fans to recreate the intricate mecha designs from the Gundam series with precise details and articulation. The concept took off, and Gunpla became a global phenomenon, captivating enthusiasts of all ages.

As the popularity of Gunpla grew, so did the demand for hobby shops that catered to Gundam enthusiasts in Canada. Today, there are numerous hobby shops across the country that specialize in Gunpla and provide a wide range of products to meet the needs of builders at all skill levels.

One notable example is our own shop, Tistaminis, based in Hamilton, Ontario. We offer an extensive selection of Gunpla kits, including the latest releases and hard-to-find limited editions. 

In addition to Tistaminis, there are many other hobby shops throughout Canada that offer a diverse range of Gunpla products. Whether you're in Vancouver, Montreal, or any major Canadian city, you're likely to find a local hobby shop that caters to the Gunpla community.

Gunpla enthusiasts have a wide variety of options when it comes to choosing their next project. There are different grades of Gunpla kits, each offering a unique level of detail, complexity, and affordability.

The High Grade (HG) series is a popular choice for beginners and collectors alike. These kits are characterized by their 1/144 scale and relatively simple assembly process. Despite their smaller size, HG kits still feature impressive articulation and a decent level of detail.

For more experienced builders looking for a challenge, the Real Grade (RG) series offers a higher level of detail and intricacy. These 1/144 scale kits feature an advanced inner frame system that allows for realistic posing and precise part separation.

Moving up the ladder, we have the Master Grade (MG) series, known for its larger 1/100 scale and superior detail. These kits offer a more complex assembly process, including inner frames, additional accessories, and a higher number of parts. The end result is a stunning display piece that showcases the iconic mecha designs in all their glory.

Finally, we have the Perfect Grade (PG) series, which represents the pinnacle of Gunpla craftsmanship. These 1/60 scale kits feature an unparalleled level of detail, intricate part separation, and advanced engineering. Building a Perfect Grade kit is a labor of love, requiring time, patience, and meticulous attention to detail. The end result, however, is a breathtaking masterpiece that captures the essence of the Gundam series.