Festivals - Japan Expo 2025: S.H.Figuarts Booth Shines with Stunning Anime Figures and Collector Must-Haves

By Mulder, Villepinte, Parc des Expositions, 05 july 2025

At this year’s Japan Expo 2025 held at the Parc des Expositions de Villepinte, the S.H.Figuarts booth delivered one of the most visually compelling and fan-pleasing displays in the entire convention. Organized by Bandai Spirits, this exhibit not only showcased a dynamic range of highly detailed action figures from beloved anime and mecha franchises, but also proved once again why S.H.Figuarts remains a benchmark for both quality and fan engagement. Among the standout pieces on display was the Capricorn Shura (Revival Ver.) from Saint Seiya, resplendent in its polished golden armor with an assertive pose that evoked the commanding energy of the character. Priced at €149 and available for purchase directly at the stand, this figure was an instant eye-catcher and favorite among fans of the classic series. The level of detail in the sculpting, particularly the intricacies of the armor plates and the vibrant sheen of the cape, made it a prime example of what collectors have come to expect from the line.

Sharing the spotlight was the equally regal Aries Mu (Revival Ver.), also from Saint Seiya, accompanied by a miniature version of Kiki, Mu’s young apprentice. This combination, also offered at €149, was a popular photo subject for longtime series fans, many of whom appreciated the nostalgic throwback to one of the franchise’s most spiritually grounded characters. Right beside them stood the Virgo Shaka (Revival Ver.), surrounded by a stunning lineup of other Gold Saints, forming a majestic golden panorama that felt straight out of the anime’s sanctuary arc. The placement of these figures, combined with subtle lighting and clean acrylic display cases, made the booth feel like a museum of modern otaku culture, where precision engineering met fan devotion.

In contrast to the solemn elegance of the Saint Seiya figures, a burst of youthful energy came from the figure of Tanjiro Kamado, the protagonist of Demon Slayer. Priced accessibly at €35, the S.H.Figuarts figure captured the determined, battle-ready pose of Tanjiro mid-strike. With sharp facial expression sculpting and superb articulation in the limbs, this rendition was clearly designed with action in mind, not just display. It wasn’t rare to see younger fans striking similar poses next to the figure, with the surrounding crowd applauding every time someone nailed Tanjiro’s signature stance. It spoke volumes about the power of iconic characters and the accessibility of high-quality collectibles when offered at a fair price.

The booth’s diversity didn’t stop at human figures. Mecha fans were treated to an imposing and intricate statue of Grendizer, captured in a dramatic scene mid-battle, stomping down a monstrous enemy with clawed limbs and spiked armor. This diorama not only impressed by its scale and complexity, but also by the sheer passion it evoked among fans of vintage mecha anime. Displayed nearby was another golden figure with elaborate flame and arrow effects—likely representing Sagittarius Aiolos, radiating heroic grandeur and symbolic importance. These pieces, although not labeled with price tags in the visible shots, were clearly centerpiece items intended to attract serious collectors and showcase the pinnacle of what Tamashii Nations and Bandai Spirits can offer in terms of sculptural art.

The S.H.Figuarts booth at Japan Expo 2025 didn’t just display figures—it embodied a philosophy of craftsmanship, nostalgia, and joy. The mix of revival versions from Saint Seiya, action-ready modern icons like Tanjiro Kamado, and dynamic dioramas featuring legendary mechas revealed a curatorial approach that balanced historical homage with contemporary relevance. Attendees could be seen capturing every angle of the figures, often pausing to admire small details: the glint of gold, the placement of a hand, the curve of a cape. Conversations sparked around who sculpted what, and more than a few collectors could be overheard planning purchases based on what they’d just seen in person. The booth wasn’t just commercial—it was emotional, inspiring the kind of awe and connection that only fandoms can provide when treated with care and authenticity.

In a convention filled with sensory overload and branded spectacle, the S.H.Figuarts booth stood out for its elegance, variety, and undeniable respect for the source material. It was a masterclass in how to present collectibles not just as merchandise, but as cultural artifacts with stories to tell and legacies to preserve. For many visitors, especially fans of Saint Seiya, Demon Slayer, and classic mecha anime, it was the spiritual heart of Japan Expo 2025.

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Photos : Boris Colletier / Mulderville