Dive into the Deep!
Build the Shinkai 6500

Explore the depths of the ocean with this LEGO Ideas set. A unique and rare model with 413 pieces, originally released exclusively in Japan.

🏛 LEGO Ideas and CUUSOO
Set #21100

Shinkai 6500 Submarine

The Shinkai 6500 Submarine is a charming and unique LEGO Ideas set.

Before you buy

Who it's for
Ages 12+ · Intermediate build LEGO fans who enjoy unique display models and have an interest in science and exploration.
Build
413 pieces · about 3 hours Build time is an estimate.
Availability
Likely retired
★★★★☆ 4.2 AI-generated review score, not a customer rating

Fans appreciate the unique subject matter and the detailed recreation of the Shinkai 6500. Some find the build simple but enjoyable, while others feel the set is slightly overpriced for the piece count.

📝 Our Take

AI-assisted editorial summary, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

The Shinkai 6500 Submarine is a charming and unique LEGO Ideas set. Based on the real-life Japanese deep-sea research submersible, this set captures the essence of exploration and scientific discovery in a compact and displayable model.

This set is perfect for LEGO enthusiasts who appreciate unique themes and display models. The build is relatively straightforward, making it accessible to a wide range of builders, and the finished model looks great on a shelf or desk.

Skip this if you are looking for complex building techniques or extensive play features. This set is more about the display aspect and the novelty of the subject matter. Consider larger LEGO Ideas sets for more intricate builds.

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How does this set compare to other LEGO Ideas sets in terms of collectibility? What are some good ways to display the Shinkai 6500? Is this set a good introduction to more complex LEGO building techniques? How accurate is the LEGO model compared to the real Shinkai 6500 submarine?

🧱 Building Experience

AI-assisted build estimate, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI
🧩
413
Pieces
⏱
3h
Estimated Build Time
📊
Intermediate
Difficulty
👤
12+
Ages
Build Highlights:
  • Clever use of slopes and curves to replicate the submarine's shape
  • Interesting techniques for creating the spherical pressure hull
  • Trans-clear elements add a nice touch of realism
  • Includes a small display stand to showcase the model

📈 Investment Analysis

AI-assisted investment analysis, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI
Not enough price history for a trend
B+
Investment Grade
⏳ Retired
The Shinkai 6500 Submarine, as a retired LEGO Ideas set, presents an interesting investment opportunity. Its appeal lies in its unique subject matter and limited availability. LEGO Ideas sets often perform well in the secondary market, especially those based on real-world objects or scientific themes. While not as widely popular as licensed themes like Star Wars, the niche appeal and relatively low piece count could lead to steady appreciation. However, potential investors should be aware that the appreciation may not be as rapid or substantial as some larger, more sought-after sets.

Not Financial Advice: Content is for educational purposes only. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Full disclaimer

⚖ Compare Similar Sets

Compared to other LEGO Ideas sets, the Shinkai 6500 is smaller and more focused on display than play. Sets like the LEGO Ideas International Space Station (21321-1) offer a similar scientific theme but with a larger piece count and more complex build. For those seeking a smaller, more affordable display piece, the Shinkai 6500 is a great choice. However, if you prefer play features or a more challenging build, other LEGO Ideas sets might be more appealing.

📦 Parts Inventory

Official piece count
413
Parts cataloged in this inventory
78 unique parts, 413 pieces
Wing, Tail 4 x 1 x 3 Wing, Tail 4 x 1 x 3
Part #: 2340 1× Orange
Brick 2 x 2 Corner Brick 2 x 2 Corner
Part #: 2357 2× White
Tile Special 1 x 2 Grille with Bottom Groove Tile Special 1 x ...
Part #: 2412b 4× Black
Plate 2 x 2 Corner Plate 2 x 2 Corner
Part #: 2420 1× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 2 x 2 Corner Plate 2 x 2 Corner
Part #: 2420 6× White
Tile 1 x 4 with Groove Tile 1 x 4 with G...
Part #: 2431 6× White
Plate 2 x 12 Plate 2 x 12
Part #: 2445 4× Black
Brick Special 1 x 2 with Pin Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 2458 6× Tan
Plate Round 2 x 2 with Rounded Bottom [Boat Stud] Plate Round 2 x 2...
Part #: 2654 2× Trans-Clear
Technic Pin with Friction Ridges Lengthwise and Center Slots Technic Pin with ...
Part #: 2780 3× Black
Technic Beam Triangle Thin [Type I] Technic Beam Tria...
Part #: 2905 1× Black
Brick 2 x 4 Brick 2 x 4
Part #: 3001 3× Dark Bluish Gray
Brick 2 x 2 Brick 2 x 2
Part #: 3003 1× White
Plate Special 2 x 2 with Bar Frame Octagonal Plate Special 2 x...
Part #: 30033 1× White
Brick 1 x 2 Brick 1 x 2
Part #: 3004 5× Dark Bluish Gray
Brick 1 x 1 Brick 1 x 1
Part #: 3005 4× Dark Bluish Gray
Brick 1 x 1 Brick 1 x 1
Part #: 3005 2× White
Plate 2 x 4 Plate 2 x 4
Part #: 3020 6× White
Plate 2 x 3 Plate 2 x 3
Part #: 3021 4× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 2 x 3 Plate 2 x 3
Part #: 3021 3× Black
Plate 2 x 3 Plate 2 x 3
Part #: 3021 1× White
Plate 2 x 2 Plate 2 x 2
Part #: 3022 1× White
Plate 2 x 2 Plate 2 x 2
Part #: 3022 2× Black
Plate 1 x 2 Plate 1 x 2
Part #: 3023 1× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 2 Plate 1 x 2
Part #: 3023 11× White
Plate 1 x 2 Plate 1 x 2
Part #: 3023 4× Black
Plate 1 x 2 Plate 1 x 2
Part #: 3023 10× Orange
Plate 1 x 1 Plate 1 x 1
Part #: 3024 4× White
Plate 6 x 10 Plate 6 x 10
Part #: 3033 3× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 2 x 8 Plate 2 x 8
Part #: 3034 4× Black
Torso Mechanical, Battle Droid Torso Mechanical,...
Part #: 30375 2× White
Brick Special 1 x 4 with 4 Studs on One Side Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 30414 4× Dark Bluish Gray
Hinge Cylinder 1 x 2 Locking with 1 Finger and Axle Hole On Ends Hinge Cylinder 1 ...
Part #: 30552 6× Black
Brick Round 1 x 1 Open Stud Brick Round 1 x 1...
Part #: 3062b 8× White
Brick Round 1 x 1 Open Stud Brick Round 1 x 1...
Part #: 3062b 2× Trans-Clear
Tile 2 x 2 with Groove Tile 2 x 2 with G...
Part #: 3068b 7× White
Tile 1 x 2 with Groove Tile 1 x 2 with G...
Part #: 3069b 4× White
Tile 1 x 2 with Groove Tile 1 x 2 with G...
Part #: 3069b 2× Light Bluish Gray
Tile 1 x 2 with Groove Tile 1 x 2 with G...
Part #: 3069b 2× Black
Tile 1 x 2 with Groove Tile 1 x 2 with G...
Part #: 3069b 10× Orange
Tile 1 x 1 with Groove Tile 1 x 1 with G...
Part #: 3070b 7× White
Technic Pin 3/4 Technic Pin 3/4
Part #: 32002 2× Dark Bluish Gray
Technic Axle and Pin Connector Angled #1 Technic Axle and ...
Part #: 32013 1× Black
Technic Axle and Pin Connector Angled #3 - 157.5° Technic Axle and ...
Part #: 32016 1× Light Bluish Gray
Technic Axle 2 Notched Technic Axle 2 No...
Part #: 32062 5× Red
Technic Axle 5 Technic Axle 5
Part #: 32073 1× Light Bluish Gray
Technic Pin Connector Plate with One Hole (Single on Bottom) Technic Pin Conne...
Part #: 32529 1× Black
Brick 1 x 3 Brick 1 x 3
Part #: 3622 1× Dark Bluish Gray
Brick 1 x 3 Brick 1 x 3
Part #: 3622 8× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 3 Plate 1 x 3
Part #: 3623 3× Black
Plate 1 x 3 Plate 1 x 3
Part #: 3623 1× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 3 Plate 1 x 3
Part #: 3623 4× White
Plate 1 x 6 Plate 1 x 6
Part #: 3666 12× White
Technic Brick 1 x 4 [3 Pin Holes] Technic Brick 1 x...
Part #: 3701 1× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 4 Plate 1 x 4
Part #: 3710 7× White
Plate 1 x 4 Plate 1 x 4
Part #: 3710 1× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 4 Plate 1 x 4
Part #: 3710 3× Orange
Technic Axle Pin without Friction Ridges Lengthwise Technic Axle Pin ...
Part #: 3749 1× Tan
Plate Special 1 x 2 with 1 Stud with Groove (Jumper) Plate Special 1 x...
Part #: 3794b 7× White
Plate 2 x 6 Plate 2 x 6
Part #: 3795 4× Black
Plate 2 x 10 Plate 2 x 10
Part #: 3832 2× Light Bluish Gray
Technic Brick 1 x 6 [5 Pin Holes] Technic Brick 1 x...
Part #: 3894 2× White
Hinge Brick 1 x 2 Base Hinge Brick 1 x 2...
Part #: 3937 3× Light Bluish Gray
Bracket 2 x 2 - 2 x 2 Bracket 2 x 2 - 2...
Part #: 3956 1× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 6 x 6 Plate 6 x 6
Part #: 3958 2× White
Plate Round 2 x 2 with Axle Hole Type 1 (+ Opening) Plate Round 2 x 2...
Part #: 4032a 1× White
Brick Special 1 x 1 with Headlight Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 4070 8× White
Tile 1 x 8 with Groove Tile 1 x 8 with G...
Part #: 4162 8× Black
Tile 1 x 8 with Groove Tile 1 x 8 with G...
Part #: 4162 2× White
Technic Beam 1 x 2 Thin Technic Beam 1 x ...
Part #: 41677 2× Black
Brick Wedged, Curved 6 x 2 Right, Inner Ridges Brick Wedged, Cur...
Part #: 41747 1× White
Brick Wedged, Curved 6 x 2 Left, Inner Ridges Brick Wedged, Cur...
Part #: 41748 1× White
Brick Wedged, Curved Inverted 6 x 2 Right Brick Wedged, Cur...
Part #: 41764 1× White
Brick Wedged, Curved Inverted 6 x 2 Left Brick Wedged, Cur...
Part #: 41765 1× White
Brick Wedged, Angled 4 x 2 Right Brick Wedged, Ang...
Part #: 41767 3× White
Brick Wedged, Angled 4 x 2 Left Brick Wedged, Ang...
Part #: 41768 3× White
Brick Curved Inverted 6 x 1 Brick Curved Inve...
Part #: 42023 2× White
Hinge Plate 1 x 2 Locking with 2 Fingers On End, with Groove, 9 Teeth Hinge Plate 1 x 2...
Part #: 44302a 7× Black
Hinge Plate 1 x 2 Locking with 1 Finger on Side, with Groove Hinge Plate 1 x 2...
Part #: 44567a 1× Black
Bracket 1 x 2 - 2 x 2 Bracket 1 x 2 - 2...
Part #: 44728 2× White
Brick Special 1 x 1 Studs on 4 Sides Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 4733 3× Black
Dish 2 x 2 Inverted [Radar] Dish 2 x 2 Invert...
Part #: 4740 2× White
Bar 1L with Clip [Cut Edges and One Side Hole] [Gap in Clip] Bar 1L with Clip ...
Part #: 48729b 4× Dark Bluish Gray
Brick Curved 3 x 1 No Studs Brick Curved 3 x ...
Part #: 50950 22× White
Brick Sloped 30° 1 x 1 x 2/3 (Cheese Slope) Brick Sloped 30° ...
Part #: 54200 12× White
Arm Mechanical Straight (Droid) [2 Clips at 90°] Arm Mechanical St...
Part #: 59230 4× White
Plate Special 1 x 1 with Clip Horizontal [Thick U Clip] Plate Special 1 x...
Part #: 6019 2× Light Bluish Gray
Propeller 3 Blade 3 Diameter with Axle Cross Propeller 3 Blade...
Part #: 6041 1× Black
Rock Panel Triangular 3 x 8 x 7 Rock Panel Triang...
Part #: 6083 2× Dark Bluish Gray
Hinge Brick 2 x 2 Top Plate Thin Hinge Brick 2 x 2...
Part #: 6134 3× Light Bluish Gray
Plate Round 1 x 1 with Solid Stud Plate Round 1 x 1...
Part #: 6141 19× Light Bluish Gray
Plate Round 1 x 1 with Solid Stud Plate Round 1 x 1...
Part #: 6141 23× White
Plate Round 1 x 1 with Solid Stud Plate Round 1 x 1...
Part #: 6141 7× Red
Plate Round 1 x 1 with Solid Stud Plate Round 1 x 1...
Part #: 6141 1× Black
Plate Round 1 x 1 with Solid Stud Plate Round 1 x 1...
Part #: 6141 16× Trans-Clear
Brick Special 2 x 2 with Pin and Axle Hole Brick Special 2 x...
Part #: 6232 2× Dark Bluish Gray
Technic Brick 1 x 1 with Pin Hole Technic Brick 1 x...
Part #: 6541 9× Tan
Tile 1 x 6 with Groove Tile 1 x 6 with G...
Part #: 6636 1× White
Brick Special 1 x 1 with Stud on 1 Side Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 87087 2× Light Bluish Gray
🧱 Sticker Sheet for...
Part #: 98020 1× [No Color/Any Color]
The set features a good selection of white slopes and plates, useful for creating smooth, curved surfaces. The orange tiles add a splash of color and are also handy for detailing in other builds.

🛒 Where to Buy

💎 Notable Parts

White Slope Curved 3 x 1 No Studs (22x) $3.30
Light Bluish Gray Plate Round 1 x 1 with Solid Stud (19x) $1.90
Trans-Clear Plate Round 1 x 1 with Solid Stud (16x) $2.40
Orange Tile 1 x 2 with Groove (10x) $1.50
Black Tile 1 x 8 with Groove (8x) $2.00
Est. BrickLink Part Value
$11.10

💡 MOC Potential

🚢 Create alternate submarine designs
🚀 Adapt the spherical hull for a space capsule
🏙 Expand into an underwater research base diorama

Community Insights

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Charts Inventory Statistics

78
Unique Parts
413
Official Piece Count
413
Cataloged Inventory Pieces
0
Minifigures
11
Spare Parts
Inventory Version: 1

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