The Shiden-Kai was one of the best fighters produced for the Japanese Navy during WWII. It is a ground-based variant of the Kawanishi N1K1 Kyofu "Rex" seaplane. The museum has a Kyofu also, in storage. The museum's Shiden-Kai is complete, though only the fuselage is on display.
This aircraft was sent to the Champlin Fighter Museum for restoration, funded by Toyota.
N1K2-J and predecessor N1K1-J derived from Kawanishi N1K1 seaplane fighter (code name "Rex"), a development ordered by Imperial Navy 1940. On own initiative, Kawanishi modified seaplane design into landplane later called "George." After successful tests, offered experimental model to Navy for testing, but was greeted with skepticism. Not officially accepted until 43 and put into production after a series of modifications to engine and landing gear. Entry into service further delayed by difficulties in pilot training and logistical problems reflecting Japan's military and economic reverses. Once operational, showed itself to be superb aircraft and was respected by Allied pilots.