From retro arcade nostalgia to immersive theme parks, Nintendo’s presence across Japan offers more than just memories—it’s an adventure for the senses. If you’re a die-hard fan, these locations across Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo are not just tourist stops. They’re the real-life warp pipes to the heart of the Nintendo universe. 🎮🍄

Let’s dive deeper into the essential Nintendo pilgrimage spots and discover what makes each destination so unforgettable.

🎓 Nintendo Museum (Kyoto – Opened October 2024)

📍 Location: Uji, Kyoto
Google Maps Link

Housed inside the renovated Nintendo Uji Ogura Plant, the Nintendo Museum opened in October 2024 and is the ultimate time machine for fans of all generations.

🏛️ What’s Inside:

  • Timeline Hall: Journey through Nintendo’s history from 1889 (when it made hanafuda playing cards) to the Switch era.
  • Console Showcase: Displays of every major Nintendo console, including rare prototypes and overseas editions.
  • Character Galleries: Life-size statues and interactive exhibits featuring Mario, Link, Samus, and more.
  • Design Archives: Hand-drawn character art, storyboards, and early game mechanics.

🎟️ Reservations are required, and time slots fill up quickly. There’s also an elegant gift shop with Kyoto-exclusive items like Mario-themed ceramic teacups and pixel-art furoshiki cloths.

📝 My tip: Visit early in the day and set aside 2–3 hours. It’s more like a modern cultural museum than a theme park—perfect for serious fans and history buffs.

🏰 Super Nintendo World (Universal Studios Japan, Osaka)

📍 Location: USJ, Konohana Ward, Osaka
Google Maps Link

Since its grand opening in 2021, Super Nintendo World has become one of the most immersive theme park lands in the world—and it keeps expanding!

🎮 Main Attractions:

  • Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge: A high-speed AR ride through Bowser’s Castle, where players wear AR visors and steer in sync.
  • Yoshi’s Adventure: A scenic ride suitable for all ages, with stunning views of the land.
  • Power-Up Band Activities: Scan your wristband to punch question blocks, earn digital coins, and battle bosses via the Nintendo app.

🍄 New Expansion (2024):

  • Donkey Kong Country: A lush jungle zone featuring a roller coaster inspired by the iconic mine cart levels.
  • Meet Donkey Kong, Diddy, and Cranky!
  • Eat tropical-themed snacks like banana churros and jungle juice.

🍽️ Where to Eat:
Kinopio’s Café (Toad’s Café) serves adorable mushroom-themed meals—try the “Super Mushroom Pizza Bowl” or “Question Block Tiramisu.”

🎟️ Advance tickets and timed entry passes are mandatory. Weekdays are less crowded.

🛍️ Nintendo Flagship Stores

Japan currently has three official Nintendo stores—each with its own character and exclusive products.

🏙️ Nintendo TOKYO (Shibuya Parco)

📍 Location: Shibuya, Tokyo
Google Maps Link

Opened in 2019 inside the stylish Shibuya Parco building, this was Nintendo’s first-ever flagship store.

⭐ Highlights:

  • Massive Mario and Link statues greet you at the entrance.
  • Exclusive plushies (e.g., Pikmin in seasonal outfits)
  • Nintendo-themed homeware like plates, bento boxes, and washi tape
  • Playable Switch demos and event previews
  • Gacha capsule toy machines with random collectibles

📝 Travel tip: You can enjoy a full Nintendo-themed day in Shibuya by combining your visit with the Pokémon Center Shibuya (same building) and Capcom Store next door!

🏙️ Nintendo OSAKA (Grand Front Osaka)

📍 Location: Umeda, Osaka
Google Maps Link

Opened in November 2022, this is the second official store and it’s perfect for fans visiting Universal Studios Japan nearby.

⭐ What’s Special:

  • Larger-than-life Mario jumping over Warp Pipes in the entrance
  • Osaka-only items, like Takoyaki Kirby or Mario in a yukata
  • Huge display screen showcasing trailers and game music
  • Less crowded than Shibuya, with smoother shopping experience

📝 Fun fact: Nintendo’s headquarters are located just south in Kyoto—making this store feel extra “authentic.”

🏯 Nintendo KYOTO (Kyoto Takashimaya S.C.)

📍 Location: Downtown Kyoto (Shijo area)
Google Maps Link

Opened in October 2023, this store marks Nintendo’s spiritual return home. It’s smaller than Tokyo or Osaka but packed with heart.

⭐ Best for:

  • Kyoto-style souvenirs with subtle Japanese designs (e.g., Mario on folding fans)
  • Special Pokémon × Nintendo collabs
  • Cozy atmosphere and a calm, respectful crowd

📝 Tip: Combine this visit with the nearby Nishiki Market for snacks, or Gion for traditional sightseeing.

📸 Bonus Stop: Nintendo Headquarters (Not Open to Public)

📍 Location: Minami Ward, Kyoto
Google Maps Link

Though you can’t go inside, many superfans still make the short trip to the Nintendo HQ building just to pay tribute.

It’s sleek, white, and completely unmarked aside from the name “Nintendo Co., Ltd.” You may spot employees biking to work or even catch a glimpse of developers entering the building.

📝 Respect local rules—no trespassing or loitering. It’s a silent but powerful reminder of how much this modest building has changed the world.

✈️ Final Thoughts

Japan is more than just the birthplace of Nintendo—it’s a living, breathing wonderland for fans of all ages. Whether you’re here to ride a Mario Kart roller coaster, collect exclusive merch, or walk the streets where Nintendo began, these destinations make the experience unforgettable.

So next time you’re planning a trip, don’t just game from home—go on a Nintendo-powered journey through Japan. 🌟