Hasegawa WL502 IJN Hospital Ship Hikawa Maru (1/700)

The Hasegawa WL502 plastic model kit represents the legendary Japanese hospital ship Hikawa Maru in a precise 1:700 scale. This is a unique offering for advanced modelers seeking authentic replicas of vessels used by the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II. The Hikawa Maru was built in the interwar period—launched in 1929 by NYK Line, it served as a luxurious ocean liner operating routes between Japan and the United States. In 1941-1945, it was converted by the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) into a hospital ship, supporting war efforts on the Pacific by transporting and rescuing wounded soldiers. Hikawa Maru played an important role in evacuations and humanitarian missions on the Pacific front, survived numerous bombings, and was one of the few Japanese hospital ships to survive the war. After the conflict ended, it returned to civilian service, and today it is a museum ship in Yokohama.

The Hasegawa WL502 model is intricately designed from high-quality plastic, faithfully capturing the distinct silhouette of Hikawa Maru and typical hospital ship markings, including the red cross bands along the sides and deck. The sprue elements ensure a high level of detail—realistically rendered superstructures, rescue equipment, funnels, and deck railings. The model does not include paints or glue, allowing you to personalize the end result according to your preferences. The kit includes a clear, illustrated assembly manual, painting guides, and decals for correct model markings.

This plastic model kit is a perfect addition to any World War II-era Japanese warship collection. It is dedicated to collectors interested in historical subjects and Axis fleets, as well as enthusiasts of precise 1:700 scale ship models. Thanks to its high-quality manufacture and attention to detail, the Hikawa Maru model is an excellent choice for intermediate and advanced modelers.

Category: plastic model kit.
Material: high-quality polystyrene plastic.
Scale: 1:700
Country of operation: Japan (Imperial Japanese Navy)
Historical period: World War II.
Assembly difficulty level: 3/5.
Recommended for: modelers interested in maritime subjects, collectors of auxiliary vessels, and naval history enthusiasts.

• Authentic recreation of a historical hospital ship
• Detailed instruction manual and decals included
• Kit requires self-assembly and painting
• Ideal for WWII 1:700 scale dioramas and collections
• High level of detail in decks, superstructures, and equipment