TAKUJI YAMADA

Born in 1959 in Hama-matsu, nestled in Shizuoka prefecture, Takuji Yamada has carved out a niche for himself as a revered figure in the world of modeling. Remaining rooted in his hometown, renowned for its modeling heritage, Yamada has become synonymous with excellence in diorama arts, particularly those depicting scenes from the Showa era.

Yamada's passion for modeling spans a wide array of genres, including Gundam, Tokusatsu, and military themes, but it is his devotion to diorama arts that truly sets him apart. Before turning professional, he honed his craft by participating in various competitions, notably clinching the prestigious "Figure Modification" class title twice at TAMIYA INC.'s contests.

Godzilla and Gamera dioramas by Takuji Yamada

Elevating his status to that of a professional modeler, Yamada's talents reached new heights, earning him the coveted title of "The king of pro-modeler" five times in total, a feat showcased in television series. It was during this time that he earned the moniker "The king of diorama," a testament to his unparalleled skills in crafting immersive scenes from bygone eras.

Yamada's accolades extend beyond national borders, with international recognition including a gold prize at the diorama class of the renowned Euromilitaire modeling event in 1995. In 2000, he further solidified his legacy by publishing his own diorama art photo book, showcasing his captivating creations to a wider audience.

His influence reverberates through exhibitions across Japan, from the museum of Hama-matsu in Shimizu ward to showcases in Okinawa and Tottori prefecture, each highlighting his nostalgic reverence for Showa era themes. Yamada's talent has transcended mere modeling, as evidenced by his appearances on television programs, where his extraordinary skills captivate audiences.

Covers of Takuji Yamada's books where he models himself with his wife and daughter.

In 2011, Yamada's contributions were officially recognized when he was appointed as an ambassador for the city of Hama-matsu, a testament to his enduring impact on the local community. His crowning achievements came with the opportunity to create massive-scale dioramas commemorating the 400th anniversary of Leyasu Tokugawa's historical battles, commissioned by public institutions in 2015 and 2017.

Continuing to share his passion on a global scale, Yamada's exhibitions in Taiwan in 2020 and 2022 further cement his status as a master of his craft, inspiring admiration and awe wherever his creations are showcased.