Endless Paradigm

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Fujikyuko, owners of Fuji-Q Highland amusement park, announced on May 12th that they are building a new attraction dedicated to the popular anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion, which will include a full-sized replicate of part of one of the series mecha units.

The attraction is being called EVANGELION: WORLD, and will center around a three dimensional bust of the well-known Eva Unit 01, piloted in the series by the main character Shinji Ikari, as it sits in a replica of its hanger. The Mainichi noted that it will likely stand at around 9 meters (app. 30 ft.) high and 16 meter (app. 52 ft.) wide.

Fujikyuko stated that visitors will have a chance to not only see the Unit 01 bust, but will also be able to pay to have a souvenir photo taken in the unit’s cockpit. Other attractions within EVANGELION: WORLD will include a life-size model of the character Kaworu Nagisa, a museum, a video corner, studio gallery for additional photos, and a shop.

While Neon Genesis Evangelion originally premiered on Japanese TV in 1995, the Evangelion attraction is being built in conjunction with the recent theatrical releases of the series, the first two movies of which were released in 2007 and 2009.

The life-size Evangelion unit model comes after the success of other recently built life-sized anime models in Japan, including a Gundam in Tokyo and the Gigantor Tetsujin 28 in Kobe.

EVANGELION: WORLD is being built on a 1460 sq. meter (app. 15,715 sq. ft.) area within the Fuji-Q Highland park at a projected cost of ¥150 million (currently over $1.6 million USD). Fujikyuko anticipates the attraction will be ready for opening on July 23rd of this year.

Fuji-Q Highland costs ¥1,200 to enter, and EVANGELION: WORLD will cost an additional ¥800. Visitors can alternatively purchase a one-day ticket and attraction free pass for ¥4,800. Rebates are available for Children, students, seniors, and large groups. More information on the park, including access by train, bus, and car, is available in English on the Fuji-Q Highland website.