Discover 9 Thrilling Destinations Embracing Japan's Gaming Heritage
Discovering Japan's gaming landscape is a must for enthusiasts worldwide. With roots in iconic titles like 'Mario,' 'Sonic,' and 'Pokemon,' Japan continues to exert a significant influence on global gaming culture. For gamers seeking to travel back to these gaming origins, the following places in Japan are essential additions to your itinerary.
Real-life Video Game Locations in Japan
Akihabara, Tokyo: Otaku's Playground
Known to many as the nerve center of Japan's gaming culture, Akihabara (often abbreviated as Akiba) is paradise for gamers. Its gaming stores, high-tech shops, and vibrant arcades cater to both casual and hardcore fans alike.
- Arcades: Experience old-school gaming at Mikado Game Center and Natsuge Game Museum. These arcades provide entertainment through vintage titles from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. GiGO Arcades and RETRO:G offer a contemporary gaming experience with Sega titles and iconic House of the Dead games. For fans of claw games and crane machines, stop by Everyday UFO Game Center.
- Specialized Gaming Stores and Attractions: Super Potato, a renowned retro game store, houses numerous vintage game cartridges, consoles, and retro arcade games. Those fond of Pokemon will be delighted by the various Pokemon Centers scattered across Tokyo, such as Pokemon Center DX in Ginza, Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo in Ikebukuro, and Pokemon Center Shibuya.
Additional Recommendations
- Primer on the fight for dominance: Setagaya in Tokyo is known among Street Fighter and other fighting game circles.
- Entertainment centers: Tokyo Joypolis and Daikeien Amusement Center offer a plethora of gaming and entertainment options.
For a deeper understanding of Japan's gaming history and impact, consider visiting the Huis Ten Bosch Game Museum in Nagasaki, which features consoles, arcades, and gaming technology from various eras.
- Immerse in Japan's rich gaming culture by taking a kimono rental and planning an itinerary to visit technology-driven sushi restaurants in Tokyo.
- As you traverse the fascinating gaming landscape, don't forget to include Akihabara, the vibrant hub of gaming culture and arcades, on your travel checklist.
- Apart from Mikado Game Center and Natsuge Game Museum, explore modern gaming experiences like Sega titles at GiGO Arcades and RETRO:G in Akihabara.
- For fans of vintage Japanese gaming, Super Potato, a specialized store in Tokyo, is a must-visit for its treasure trove of retro game consoles and titles.
- Akin to a pilgrimage for Pokemon fans, be sure to visit Pokemon Centers located in Ginza, Ikebukuro, and Shibuya, offering a glimpse into the influence of this iconic franchise on Japan's culture and lifestyle.
- Only a few steps away from gaming adventures, immerse yourself in traditional Japanese entertainment, food, and sports at Karaoke restaurants, Yakatabune cruises, and various sumo wrestling venues.
- Extend your travel experience by discovering the Huis Ten Bosch Game Museum in Nagasaki, a museum dedicated to preserving Japan's gaming history and technological advancements in games across various eras.
