The "Mini Yonku" developed and sold by Tamiya is a racing hobby with a length of approximately 15cm, equipped with two AA batteries and one motor. The first product was released in 1982, and this year, in 2023, it celebrates its 41st anniversary. It gained popularity in the late 1980s and late 1990s as a social phenomenon due to its powerful performance with four-wheel drive, the depth of customization using separately sold "Grade-Up Parts," and the fun of competing with friends on dedicated circuits. Since its debut as the first installment of the series, it has sold a cumulative total of over 180 million units.
When people hear "Mini Yonku," they all reminisce and have a nostalgic expression saying, "Ah, I remember that!" Mini Yonku has a history of becoming a boom through its collaboration with the boys' manga magazine "CoroCoro Comic." It reminds people of reading the manga, recalling the machines they owned, and nostalgically thinking of their childhood.
After the second boom in the late 1990s, Mini Yonku experienced a revival in 2012 with the nationwide competition called the "Japan Cup." This led to a significant increase in the number of people who were once into Mini Yonku and became passionate about it again. In recent years, the "Japan Cup" has grown into a popular event with an attendance of over 30,000 people, not only in Japan but also in other Asian countries.
The photo shows the "Japan Cup" during the second boom in the 1990s, which attracted a total of approximately 300,000 participants.
Mini Yonku has a competitive aspect where enthusiasts gather at the nationwide "Japan Cup" and races held at Tamiya-approved hobby shops called "Mini Yonku Stations," aiming for speed and top positions. Based on the Mini Yonku kit, which costs around 1,000 yen, modifications are made using hundreds of "Grade-Up Parts" to create a machine that combines speed and stability. Participants then join racing competitions held nationwide. Currently, this is the mainstream way to enjoy Mini Yonku.
There are many websites that provide friendly and detailed instructions on modification methods for beginners of Mini Yonku. Start by referring to them and try building a machine. Then, enjoy running the machine you built yourself. You will surely be captivated by the new charms of Mini Yonku.