Whether you’re into high-speed trains, transforming robots, or just love the idea of a Shinkansen suiting up for battle, the Soul of Chogokin GX-115 Shinkansen Transforming Robot Shinkalion E5 Hayabusa is something you’ll want on your radar. And probably on your shelf.
If you’re not already familiar with the franchise, Shinkalion is what happens when Japan’s iconic bullet trains decide they’ve had enough of boring commutes and start punching evil instead. Piloted by kids and backed by the Japan Railways Group, these robo-trains have starred in anime, movies, and toys since 2018. The most recent chapter, Shinkalion: Change the World, ran from April 2024 to February 2025.
And now, Bandai’s Soul of Chogokin line is giving the E5 Hayabusa the premium treatment it deserves—die-cast parts, detailed engineering, and, best of all, a transformation that doesn’t require any extra parts. That’s right, no fiddly bits or detachable limbs to babysit. It goes from Shinkansen to full-blown robot, just like in the show.
Standing about 260 mm (10.2 in.) tall in robot mode, the GX-115 comes with the iconic Kaisatsu Sword, wing parts, and a stand to complete the display. It’s big, bold, and unapologetically cool.
Sadly, this heroic commuter appears to be Japan and Asia-exclusive, so overseas fans may need to call in some favors—or make peace with proxy shipping. Pre-orders start June 2, 2025, and it rolls out in November for 41,800 yen (about US$270). Not exactly economy class, but hey, the transformation alone is worth the ticket.
Images: Tamashii Nations.
