Celebrating 30 years since its TV anime debut, Neon Genesis Evangelion remains an absolute pop culture titan, constantly sparking new collaborations that prove its enduring appeal.
Now, Hamamatsu City in Shizuoka Prefecture – a real-world inspiration for scenes in the "Rebuild of Evangelion" movies – has officially launched its massive tourism collaboration with Evangelion! Kicking off on April 20th, the "Shin Hamamatsu Project" saw the city hold an opening ceremony, unveiling a colossal 6-meter EVA-01 statue right in the city hall's entrance lobby. Fans are already flocking to pay their respects!
This epic "Shin Hamamatsu Project" was launched to commemorate two major milestones: the 20th anniversary of Hamamatsu City's merger with 11 other towns and villages, and the 30th anniversary of the Evangelion anime!
Tenryu Futamata Station in Hamamatsu's Tenryu Ward, famously one of the real-world inspirations for the "Third Village" in the "Rebuild of Evangelion" films, is a key focus, hosting related collaborative events to draw in tourists.
Standing an incredible six meters tall – roughly three stories high – the EVA-01 statue is an awe-inspiring sight in the city hall lobby. It will be on display until January 25, 2026.
( Image Source /@shizushin_hama )
( Image Source /@concordehama )
But that's not all! The "Human Instrumentality Ride Project 2025" is also underway, featuring a stamp rally across 20 locations within Hamamatsu City and along the Tenryu Hamanako Railway and Enshu Railway lines. Each stamp spot will feature a life-sized Evangelion character standee, and those who collect all 10 unique stamps will snag a set of limited-edition stickers!
Adding to the excitement, trains on the local Tenryu Hamanako Railway will be decked out with EVA-01 and EVA-13 designs, while Enshu Railway trains will feature EVA-02 and EVA-08. These special trains will also sport Evangelion 30th-anniversary commemorative emblems on their headmarks. This train collaboration runs from April 20, 2025, to February 28, 2026.
Officials have also teased more local food, culture, and tourism collaborations on the horizon. If you're looking to make a pilgrimage or planning a trip to Japan, Hamamatsu City in Shizuoka Prefecture should definitely be on your itinerary!
via： 「新・濱松計畫」官網