When it comes to gaming, Japan isn’t just a country — it’s the homeland of legends.
Growing up, some of my greatest memories were shaped by games like Final Fantasy VI, VII, and IX, pouring hours into EarthBound, and getting lost in the magical worlds of the Zelda series.
Even today, I still find myself revisiting timeless masterpieces like the Persona series, Tales of series, and Final Fantasy VII Remake/Rebirth — games that completely changed what storytelling in gaming could be.
Whether you’re nostalgic about Super Mario and Mario Kart battles, obsessed with Dragon Ball games like Budokai Tenkaichi 3, or you’re the type who spent late nights mastering combos in Tekken, Japan has probably shaped your gaming DNA without you even realising it.
And now, imagine visiting the very place where it all began…
From towering arcades in Akihabara to Pokémon Centers, retro game stores, and even Super Nintendo World, Japan isn’t just a dream for gamers — it’s a full-blown level up experience.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the ultimate beginner’s journey for experiencing gaming in Japan:
where to go, what to play, what to expect — and why Japan is still the final boss when it comes to gaming culture.
Grab your controller — it’s time to start! 🎮✨
🎮 Must-Visit Gaming Spots in Japan
If you’re a true gamer, Japan is like stepping into another dimension.
There’s nowhere else in the world where gaming is treated not just as a hobby — but as a full-blown lifestyle.
Here are some must-visit spots you absolutely can’t miss:
🏙 Akihabara – The Electric Town
Walking through Akihabara in Tokyo feels like you’ve been transported straight into a video game.
Every corner is stacked with retro game shops, multi-floor arcades, and even Pokémon Centers packed with exclusive merch, plushies, and rare collector’s items.
You’ll find hidden gems like vintage Super Famicom cartridges, limited edition consoles, and figures that’ll make your inner collector scream.
And if you’ve ever dreamed of playing Dance Dance Revolution in a packed Japanese arcade with flashing lights and J-pop blasting — Akihabara’s arcades are where it happens.
🧢 Pokémon Centers – A Trainer’s Paradise
If you grew up obsessed with Pokémon like so many others, visiting a Pokémon Center in Japan will absolutely blow your mind!
These official stores aren’t just a few shelves of merch — they’re massive themed wonderlands.
You’ll find life-sized statues of Pikachu, Charizard, and legendary Pokémon, along with exclusive goods you can’t buy anywhere else:
limited edition plushies, rare trading cards, even Pokémon-themed snacks!
Whether you’re still dreaming of becoming a Pokémon Master or just want a cute Snorlax plush for your room, stepping inside a Pokémon Center is like living inside your childhood dream.
🎢 Super Nintendo World – A Real-Life Mushroom Kingdom
Although I haven’t had the chance to visit Super Nintendo World yet, it’s definitely near the top of my bucket list.
From everything I’ve seen, it’s basically the ultimate fantasy for anyone who grew up racing through Mario Kart, collecting Yoshi eggs, or battling Bowser.
They’ve even got real-life Mario Kart rides, interactive games where you punch blocks just like Mario, and themed food like Super Star rice bowls and Piranha Plant Caprese.
If you love Mario, Zelda, or even just the sheer magic of Nintendo — this place looks like a dream come true.
🕹️ Retro Game Shopping in Nakano Broadway
Nakano Broadway is another absolute paradise, especially if you’re into classic JRPGs like Final Fantasy, Seiken Densetsu series, or the Tales of series.
The shopping complex is stacked with rare finds:
sealed Game Boy Advance games, original PlayStation RPGs, pristine collector’s editions — basically everything a retro gamer could ever want.
If you’re like me and still get goosebumps hearing the opening notes of Tifa’s Theme or seeing the world maps from Chrono Trigger, hunting through Nakano Broadway’s treasure troves will feel like pure magic.
Whether you’re chasing the adrenaline rush of a high-score arcade battle or quietly hunting down a mint condition JRPG cartridge, Japan’s gaming culture is built to leave you completely spellbound!
🎮 Popular Japanese Games You Must Try
Japan isn’t just the birthplace of gaming — it’s the epicenter of some of the most legendary franchises in history.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of classic JRPGs or looking to dive into something totally new, there’s something magical waiting for everyone.
Here are a few iconic games and series that every gamer (especially if you’re into Japanese culture) needs to experience:
🧙♂️ Final Fantasy Series
If you’re anything like me, Final Fantasy was probably one of your first introductions into the beauty of deep, emotional storytelling in games.
Games like Final Fantasy VI, VII, IX and Tactics are masterpieces — with unforgettable characters, epic soundtracks by Nobuo Uematsu, and twists that hit you right in the feels.
And honestly?
The newer Final Fantasy VII Remake and Rebirth are just on another level.
Gorgeous visuals, intense battles, iconic soundtracks… you can literally feel the passion that went into them.
👹 Persona Series
The Persona series is where stylish anime art meets mind-bending JRPG gameplay.
Especially with Persona 5, the style, the music, the turn-based combat — everything feels so perfectly “cool” and yet so incredibly Japanese.
Exploring Tokyo neighbourhoods, making friends, battling demons in the Metaverse… it’s honestly one of the most stylish series ever made.
🌸 Tales of Series
One of my personal favourites growing up!
The Tales of series (especially Tales of Symphonia and the latest Tales of Arise) brings together fast-paced action combat, emotional storylines, and gorgeous anime art styles.
If you love deep character development, sprawling worlds, and beautiful JRPG music, you owe it to yourself to jump into these games.
🐉 Dragon Ball Games
Let’s be real — if you grew up watching Dragon Ball Z every morning before school (like me lol), playing Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 or Supersonic Warriors on the Game Boy Advance was just a rite of passage.
There’s just something about going Super Saiyan in a game that hits differently.
Even the newer games like Dragon Ball FighterZ have insane polish and competitive depth…
🛡️ The Legend of Zelda Series
You can’t talk about gaming legends without mentioning The Legend of Zelda.
Ocarina of Time, A Link to the Past, and the newer games like Breath of the Wild aren’t just classics — they’re genre-defining masterpieces.
If you love puzzle-solving, epic quests, and exploring sprawling worlds filled with mystery, Zelda is basically pure magic.
🏎️ Mario Kart and Mario Games
No matter how serious or casual a gamer you are, everyone’s got a soft spot for Mario.
Mario Kart, Super Mario World, Super Smash Bros…
The simplicity and joy of Nintendo’s games just hits perfectly.
Whether you’re racing your friends on Rainbow Road or jumping across Mushroom Kingdom, Mario games are basically a core memory at this point.
🎮 Some of my other personal favourites…
- EarthBound (Mother 2) — A quirky, heartfelt RPG that’s still one of the most unique gaming experiences ever made.
- Seiken Densetsu 3 (Trials of Mana) — Classic JRPG goodness with iconic sprite work and an amazing soundtrack.
- Ghost of Tsushima — Even though it’s technically by a Western developer, this game captures feudal Japan so beautifully that it deserves a spot here.
Long story short?
If you’re even slightly into gaming, Japan is the holy land.
And once you start playing these iconic series, you’ll understand why Japanese games have left such a huge mark on gamers all around the world — including me. 🎮
🎌 Japanese Gaming Culture: What Makes it Unique
The atmosphere around gaming in Japan feels completely different from anywhere else in the world, and honestly, it’s one of the biggest reasons I can’t wait to fully experience it first-hand!
Here’s what makes the Japanese gaming culture so special:
🕹️ Arcades Are Still Alive (and Thriving)
While arcades have mostly disappeared in the West, Japan’s arcades are still thriving.
Step into a multi-story Taito Station or SEGA arcade in places like Tokyo’s Akihabara or Osaka’s Namba, and it’s like entering another dimension.
Rhythm games, claw machines (called UFO catchers), fighting games, classic retro machines — the vibe is electric.
People of all ages are there, from teens smashing buttons to businessmen letting off steam after work.
It’s an experience you just don’t find anywhere else anymore!
👾 Respect for Retro Gaming
Japan doesn’t forget its gaming roots.
There’s a huge love and nostalgia for retro games like Super Mario World, Final Fantasy VI, EarthBound, and the original Pokémon Red & Green.
Retro gaming stores like Super Potato are literal treasure chests, packed with old consoles, games, merchandise, and even playable demo stations.
It’s the kind of place where you could easily lose an afternoon (and half your wallet 😂) just geeking out.
🎮 Portable and Mobile Gaming is Massive
Unlike in the West where consoles dominate, handheld gaming has always been massive in Japan.
You’ll see people everywhere — trains, cafes, parks — playing their Nintendo Switch, mobile games, or even older handhelds like the 3DS.
Games like Monster Hunter literally created a culture of meeting up in cafes for co-op gaming sessions.
There’s just something really cozy and community-driven about gaming in Japan — it’s not just “stay at home and play” — it’s about sharing the experience wherever you go.
🎡 Themed Cafes and Events
Ever dreamed of stepping into the world of your favourite game?
In Japan, it’s 100% possible.
There are:
- Final Fantasy cafes
- Kirby cafes
- Pokémon Cafes
- Even Monster Hunter restaurants
Themed cafes let you eat special dishes, see exclusive artwork, buy merch, and basically geek out like there’s no tomorrow.
These pop-up cafes and events aren’t just cash grabs either — they’re genuinely well made and designed to immerse you in the gaming world you love.
In short?
Gaming is woven into everyday life in Japan in a way that feels natural, nostalgic, and exciting all at once.
It’s not “just for kids” — it’s part of the culture at every level. 🎌🎮
🎮 Pokémon Centers, Nintendo Stores & Gaming Shops: A Must-Visit Experience
If you’re a gamer heading to Japan, visiting the major gaming stores and themed shops isn’t optional — it’s mandatory. 🎮✈️
These aren’t just shops; they’re full-blown experiences that pull you right into your favorite game worlds.
🧢 Pokémon Centers: Pure Nostalgia Overload
Walking into a Pokémon Center in Japan is like stepping straight into your childhood dreams.
Even if you’re not a hardcore Pokémon fan anymore, the energy is contagious.
You’ll find:
- Exclusive plushies, figures, and merchandise you can’t buy anywhere else
- Themed seasonal events (like Halloween Pikachu, Christmas Eevee, etc.)
- In-store experiences like Pokémon Café right next door in some locations
There are multiple Pokémon Centers across Japan — Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama — and each one has slightly different layouts and exclusive items.
(Yeah… visiting just one probably won’t be enough 😅)
🎮 Nintendo TOKYO (and now Nintendo OSAKA too)
If you grew up loving Super Mario, Zelda, Animal Crossing, or Splatoon, then Nintendo TOKYO is a dream come true.
Located inside Shibuya PARCO (an epic shopping mall in itself), this store has:
- Exclusive merch
- Iconic statues and displays (perfect for photos)
- Limited-edition goods that rotate often
Even if you’ve been a lifelong fan (like me, replaying Ocarina of Time and Link to the Past way too many times 😂), walking through this place feels genuinely magical.
And the best part?
They just recently opened Nintendo OSAKA too, meaning Kansai region fans can now get the same experience without trekking all the way to Tokyo.
👊 Capcom, Square Enix, and More
Shibuya PARCO doesn’t just have Nintendo — it’s packed with Capcom and Jump stores too.
(Yes, that’s Monster Hunter, Resident Evil, Street Fighter, and tons of anime gaming merch.)
If you love:
- Final Fantasy (like me — FFVII Rebirth soundtrack is legendary!)
- Dragon Ball Z games
- Monster Hunter or Devil May Cry
You’ll definitely want to check out the Square Enix Café & Store and Capcom Store Tokyo.
There are limited edition figures, concept art, soundtracks, keychains… it’s a total overload for the wallet 😂.
🎁 Why You Can’t Miss These Places
Even if you’re trying to “travel light,” these places are so much more than stores.
They’re destinations that celebrate the history and passion of gaming culture.
You don’t even need to buy anything (although… you probably will).
Just walking around, soaking it all in, seeing all the generations of games you grew up with — it’s honestly unforgettable…
🎮 Where to Buy Games and Consoles in Japan
While Japan is famous for its culture and food, let’s be real — for gamers, it’s basically paradise when it comes to buying games, consoles, and retro treasures. 🕹️
Whether you’re after the newest PS5 titles or hunting down a copy of Seiken Densetsu 3 (shoutout to the real ones who played it on the Super Famicom 👏), Japan has got you covered.
🛒 Big Retail Chains
For brand new games, consoles, accessories, and even gaming laptops, your best bet is checking out major electronic retailers:
These stores are massive.
Like, “10 floors of tech and gaming heaven” massive.
You can pick up the newest Nintendo Switch, PS5, Steam Decks, and tons of accessories — often at better prices than you’d find overseas.
(Plus, tax-free shopping for tourists — just show your passport!) 🛂
🕹️ Retro Gaming Goldmines
Now, if you’re like me and love the old-school classics (I’m talking EarthBound, FFVI, Chrono Trigger, and early Tales of games), you have to check out these spots:
- Super Potato (Akihabara, Osaka, Nagoya)
- Mandarake (various cities)
- Retro Game Camp (Akihabara)
These places are pure time machines — rows and rows of old cartridges, consoles, magazines, rare collector’s editions… even some consoles you’ve probably never seen before!
Finding a boxed Super Famicom or a mint condition PS1 classic feels like treasure hunting — and half the fun is just browsing and soaking in the nostalgia.
And yes… it’s dangerously easy to walk out with more than you planned. 😂
💡 Pro Tips for Buying Games in Japan
- Check Region Locking:
Most Switch and PS5 games are region-free now (thankfully!), but older consoles like PS2 or GameCube will need Japanese systems to play. - Language Barrier:
Many retro games and even some modern ones will be Japanese-only, especially RPGs and visual novels.
(But hey — it’s a good excuse to practice your Japanese, right?) - Bring Extra Luggage:
If you’re anything like me… you’re gonna need the space.
(Seriously. You’ll walk into Super Potato “just to browse” and leave with a full set of classic Final Fantasy games 😅)
🕹️ Tips for Visiting Arcades in Japan
Arcades in Japan aren’t like your average “2 machines at the back of a bowling alley” kind of vibe.
They are multi-story, neon-lit kingdoms of pure gaming madness.
🎮✨
Places like Taito Station, Round One, and SEGA GiGO (formerly SEGA Arcade) are packed with:
- Rhythm games like Taiko no Tatsujin (the drum game — super fun, but surprisingly intense lol)
- Retro cabinets (Street Fighter, Tekken, DDR)
- Crane games (“UFO catchers”) that are way harder than they look
- Photo booths (purikura)
- VR games, racing sims, and crazy futuristic tech
🎯 Pro Tips for Maximum Arcade Enjoyment
- Start at Taito Station or GiGO:
They’re literally everywhere — especially in places like Akihabara, Shibuya, and Osaka’s Namba area. - Bring Coins:
Most machines take ¥100 coins per play.
There are change machines inside, but it’s always good to have a handful ready. - Don’t be afraid to lose:
Yeah… UFO catchers are borderline scams sometimes. 😅
But honestly, part of the fun is trying. (And when you actually catch that cute Kirby plushie? It’s hero status lol.) - Rhythm Games are Elite:
If you love music games, Japan is next-level.
Games like maimai, WACCA, and Project Diva have full crowds watching — and some players are insanely good. - Photography rules:
Some arcades don’t allow you to take photos of people playing without permission, so always be respectful.
🎮 Personal Note:
For me, just being inside a bustling arcade in Tokyo or Osaka is part of the real “Japan experience.”
The energy, the sounds, the absolute chaos of it all — it feels alive.
Way different from anything we have in the UK!
If you’re planning your trip, make time to dive into an arcade or two — even if you’re just there to watch the pros shred a rhythm game, it’s worth it.
🎮 eSports and Gaming Events in Japan
While Japan has always been a gaming powerhouse, eSports is still a growing scene compared to places like Korea or the US — but trust me, it’s catching up fast. 🚀
In recent years, Japan has fully embraced competitive gaming, with huge tournaments, pro teams, and even dedicated arenas popping up all over the country.
🎮 Major Games Popular for eSports in Japan:
- Street Fighter Series
Japan absolutely dominates in the fighting game community.
Legends like Daigo Umehara (aka “The Beast”) are basically national heroes. - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
The Japanese scene is crazy strong — and Smash tournaments regularly draw huge crowds. - Valorant and Apex Legends
In the FPS world, these titles are exploding, especially among younger gamers. - League of Legends (LoL)
It’s still a bit more niche compared to Korea, but it’s definitely picking up traction here too.
🏆 Must-Know eSports Events and Venues:
- EVO Japan
This is the tournament for fighting game fans.
Street Fighter, Tekken, Smash — you name it, it’s here.
And the vibe is electric ⚡. - RAGE eSports Events
One of Japan’s largest and fastest-growing eSports organizations.
They host Valorant, Apex Legends, and Fortnite tournaments. - eSports Hotels (Yes, really!)
Some hotels, like e-ZONe Denno Hotel in Osaka, are specifically built for gamers —
LAN centers, pro gaming gear, and rooms where you can practice and compete.
🎮 If you’re into competitive gaming, or even just want to watch some pro-level action, it’s totally worth checking out an event if you happen to be in Japan during a tournament season.
(Plus, some of the merch you can grab at these events is 🔥.)
🎯 Final Thoughts: Why Gaming in Japan is the Ultimate Experience
Japan isn’t just where games are made — it’s where gaming feels alive.
It’s walking through Akihabara and spotting a rare retro cartridge you never thought you’d see in real life.
It’s battling friends at a random arcade tucked away in Shinjuku.
It’s picking up a copy of a JRPG that hasn’t even been translated into English yet — and wanting to figure it out anyway.
Whether you grew up chasing high scores in Mario Kart, getting lost in the worlds of Final Fantasy, or grinding through epic battles in a Tales of game, Japan taps into that sense of excitement all over again — and somehow makes it even stronger.
Gaming here isn’t just a hobby. It’s part of the culture.
And as a gamer, you’ll feel that the second you touch down!
