While the original five-person creative team HEADGEAR's Mobile Police Patlabor might not have seen many memorable follow-ups, it remains an undeniable classic for countless 90s anime fans. Last year, the "Mobile Police Patlabor EZY" project was announced for a 2026 launch, signaling new content on the horizon.
Now, the franchise is teaming up with Tsuchiura City—one of the story's key settings—to release a limited-edition collaboration buckwheat shochu, "Type-J9," which is officially available for pre-order!
This shochu's design draws inspiration from the anime's iconic antagonist mecha, the "Griffin." Both the label and outer box feature stunning illustrations personally drawn by Akemi Takada, HEADGEAR's character designer, making this a definite must-have for fans!
In the series' lore, the "Griffin" was developed at the "SHAFT Enterprise Tsuchiura Lab," which has since cemented Tsuchiura City as a "holy land" for Patlabor enthusiasts. The city has even hosted exhibitions and installed collaboration manhole covers to attract fans on pilgrimage.
The "Type-J9" buckwheat shochu uses Ibaraki Prefecture's prized "Hitachi Aki Soba" buckwheat, boasting a natural aroma that's delicious served on the rocks, with hot water, or neat. To complete the experience, a complementary collaboration wooden masu cup (traditional sake cup), the "TYPE-J9 Masu," is also available for an even more authentic drinking experience.
Mobile Police Patlabor Collaboration Buckwheat Shochu "Tsuchiura Komachi"
Price: 5,000 JPY
Volume: 720ml
Alcohol Content: 25%
TYPE-J9 Masu
Price: 1,200 JPY
via： PR TIMES HIROMEDO STORE