A Golden Tribute to Shohei Ohtani
In an exciting development for baseball and collectible enthusiasts, a life-size golden statue of Major League Baseball star Shohei Ohtani is set to make its debut in Hokkaido. This magnificent piece, crafted by SGC Co., Ltd., a company renowned for its gold manufacturing and sales based in Ginza, Tokyo, will be part of the "Great Gold Exhibition" running from April 24 to May 3, 2026, at Sapporo Mitsukoshi.
A Historic Milestone for Hokkaido
The life-size golden statue, known as "The Golden Pitcher Shohei Ohtani," uses 1,450 sheets of gold leaf and stands approximately 1.7 meters tall. This special exhibition marks the first time this stunning statue will be showcased in Hokkaido, a region that holds sentimental value as it was home to Ohtani's previous team, the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. After two years of meticulous craftsmanship, this piece epitomizes not only Ohtani's incredible talent but also the art of goldsmithing. Its esteemed reference price of 50 million yen (tax excluded) reflects Ohtani’s extraordinary achievements in the 2024 season, where he made history with his 50-50 record of 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases. For fans and residents alike, this is an unparalleled opportunity to witness a remarkable blend of artistry and sports history.
Exclusive Gold Collection of Shohei Ohtani
Alongside the towering statue, SGC will introduce the "Shohei Ohtani Pure Gold Collection," featuring a series of collectibles that include pure gold medals and figurines. Each medal, crafted from 100 grams of pure gold, will be available in two variations — one depicting Ohtani as a batter and the other as a pitcher — each priced around 9.6 million yen. In addition, customers can choose from exquisite figurines available in three designs: "K24 Batter Shohei Ohtani," "K24 Pitcher Shohei Ohtani," and "K24 Two-Way Shohei Ohtani." These will be offered in 1/10 and 1/20 scale, with prices ranging dramatically from approximately 6.82 million yen for the smaller scale to around 47 million yen for the larger Two-Way version.
A Grand Showcase of Gold Artifacts
In the context of Japan experiencing a significant rise in the retail price of gold, the "Great Gold Exhibition" will present over 1,000 exquisite gold items. Attendees will be treated to a magnificent display of craftsmanship that includes not only Ohtani-related memorabilia but also a plethora of traditional gold artifacts, which encompass everything from Buddhist implements created by Living National Treasures to modern decorative utensils. Collectors and casual visitors alike will find elegance and beauty in these gold crafts that represent the pinnacle of Japanese artistry.
Moreover, the exhibition will provide opportunities for attendees to have their old gold jewelry and items appraised on-site using state-of-the-art X-ray analyzers, allowing for immediate cash buybacks. Items like broken necklaces or lone earrings will not go unvalued, as SGC aims to serve both collectors and those wishing to liquidate their precious metals.
Event Details for the Great Gold Exhibition
- - Date: April 24, 2026 – May 3, 2026 (Inclusive)
- - Opening Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM (Last day until 5 PM)
- - Location: Sapporo Mitsukoshi, 8th Floor (3-8 Minami 1-jo Nishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo)
- - Admission: Free
- - Note: Pricing may change based on fluctuations in gold market value. Attendees should check the official website for updates and possible entry restrictions on busier days.
Explore the finest in gold products and celebrate Shohei Ohtani’s remarkable legacy in Hokkaido at this unmissable exhibition, where art, sports, and luxury meet.