SHUNSAKU Tamiya, chairman of the board and representative director of premier scale model maker Tamiya Inc., passed away on July 18 at the age of 90. Known as the “Master Modeler,” his death marks the end of an era for the global toymaker that bears his family’s name.
Tamiya Inc. of Japan was founded in 1946 as Tamiya Shoji Co., producing wooden scale models of ships, airplanes, and other vehicles. It has since transformed the world of scale modeling with its meticulously crafted plastic models, R/C cars, and Mini 4WDs. In 1994, Tamiya Inc. opened a factory in Cebu — the company’s only facility outside Japan — which now manufactures up to 80 percent of its products for export.
In April 2022, Tamiya himself confirmed an additional P2 billion investment in a new manufacturing plant, relocating from the Mactan Processing Zone to the Cebu Light Industrial Park. The new plant began operations in September 2023, adding about 300 workers to its 1,200-strong workforce, and reportedly increased output by 5 percent annually. Current production value exceeds $30 million.
During a hobbyist gathering in June 2022 called “Brickyard” in Makati, Tamiya visited the Philippines to personally launch the Mini 4WD model kit “Dyipne,” which was first sold exclusively at Lil’s Hobby Shop.
Born in 1934, Tamiya inherited a family sawmill and lumber business. His father, Yoshio, an artisan, created wooden scale models from scrap wood. In 1953, Shunsaku began experimenting with plastic model kits, and in 1960, produced the company’s first kit: the battleship Yamato. The company earned a reputation not only for its static models but also for its introduction of radio-controlled (R/C) vehicles, opening a new dimension of enjoyment for hobbyists.
Under his leadership, Tamiya became synonymous with quality in the hobby industry. Competing plastic model kits lacked the precise engineering, perfect part fit, and dedication to realism that defined Tamiya products.
His vision led to the creation of the now-iconic Mini 4WD series — an affordable, radio control-free racing platform that sparked a global phenomenon, built competitive racing communities, and inspired creativity in both young and old.
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