Attention all model fans, this is something you cannot miss. The famous Kongo-class battleship ”Kirishima” has arrived in a special edition that reproduces its appearance at the start of the war. Moreover, it is not just any plastic model. It is a masterpiece filled with attention to detail, coming as a set with photo-etched parts and wood deck stickers. This is your chance to assemble this ship, which carved its name into the history of the Imperial Japanese Navy, with your own hands. Just imagine being able to carefully recreate the form of this ship, which participated in numerous naval battles from the attack on Pearl Harbor to Midway and the Solomons, right at home—it is truly exciting.

One of the true highlights of this kit is, without a doubt, the photo-etched parts. It includes details that cannot be fully expressed with standard injection-molded parts—elements that define the character of the ship, such as ladders, handrails, catapults, and cranes. The realism, especially around the bridge and the aircraft equipment, makes it look as if the actual ship were scaled down exactly as it was. While careful assembly is required, the sense of accomplishment upon completion is exceptional. You will feel the prestige of the model rise significantly just by having these parts.

And we must not forget another attraction: the wood deck stickers. These are truly excellent. Since they are pre-cut specifically for this kit, they fit the flight deck parts perfectly, and just by applying them, the realism increases instantly. What deserves special attention is the wood-grain surface finish achieved through laser cutting. The subtle shading and irregular lines create a finish reminiscent of an actual wooden deck, making you stare in admiration. This texture, which cannot be fully expressed through painting, is a true blessing for authentic model fans.

This ”Kirishima Start of War Special Edition” is not just a model. It is like a device that brings back to the present day the weight of a battleship's existence and the memories of the people involved with it. You can feel that the creator's passion and respect for history are infused into every single precise part. ”Kirishima” once played a vital role in the Imperial Japanese Navy. The experience of reviving its majestic form with your own hands provides a level of emotion that goes beyond the hobby of model building.

It is not often that you encounter such a high-quality model kit. I would like those of you who love both history and craftsmanship to pick up this particular work.