Nintendo Museum – Kyoto’s New Home for Gaming History

Perched in Uji, Kyoto, inside a repurposed 1960s toy and playing-card factory, the Nintendo Museum opened its doors on October 2, 2024. From the exterior’s subtle pixelated design to a playful question-mark block near the entrance, the museum blends nostalgic aesthetics with a sense of discovery. Stepping inside, the ground floor bursts with interactivity. Visitors receive ten tokens to spend across eight hands-on exhibits—like giant shadow‑play Game & Watch, reimagined laser‑gun shooting of Mario characters, and a retro ball‑launching “Ultra Hand” experience. There’s even a workshop where you can craft your own Hanafuda cards, honoring Nintendo’s origins in paper games. On the second floor, a sleek circular gallery showcases Nintendo’s full product timeline—from early hanafuda decks and arcade arcade prototypes to iconic consoles like Famicom, Game Boy, and Switch. It’s a curated journey through innovation and nostalgia, with large-scale displays and immersive storytelling. A café nestled on site lets you build your own “Hatena Burger,” while the shop (accessible only to ticket holders) features exclusive museum merchandise—though items like cushion collectibles and themed accessories may be limited to one per customer due to high demand. Tickets are only available via a monthly lottery system (up to three months ahead), and they tend to sell out quickly. The museum operates from 10 am to 6 pm, closing Tuesdays and during the New Year break, and is best reached via a short walk from Kintetsu or JR Ogura Station. For gaming fans of all ages, this museum offers a thoughtfully curated blend of play, history, and heart—immersing you in Nintendo’s creative journey from humble beginnings to global icon. #japanitinerary