Hey everyone! I’m heading to Tokyo soon for a few days, and as a huge Nintendo fan, I’m trying to plan out my itinerary. I already know I want to hit the Nintendo Store and the Pokémon Center, but I’m looking for more suggestions specifically in Tokyo! It looks like I probably won’t be visiting any other cities in Japan. I’d also appreciate general recommendations for cool things to do since I’m pretty much going in blind here (the trip was planned last minute). Just to give you a little background on my interests, I love games like Splatoon, Zelda, Pokémon, Mario, and Metroid. If there are any places I should book in advance, or if there are retro shops where I can score some pre-2010 consoles at good prices, let me know! Oh, and I’m born in ’08 if that helps you suggest any must-see spots!
3 Answers
If you’re into retro, drop by the 84 Hashi Café! It’s run by a former Nintendo employee and it’s packed with awesome memorabilia! You need to book in advance, but it’s one of the most memorable experiences I had. Plus, both the Nintendo and Pokémon cafes need reservations, so make sure you sort those out before you arrive!
For a different vibe, make sure to check out the Tocho observation deck for fantastic views of the city—it’s free! If you want a little culture, visit the Meiji Shrine nearby and take a stroll through Yoyogi Park, especially on weekends when there are cool dance crews hanging out. If there’s time, TeamLab Planets is a must-see for its stunning interactive art installations!
Great tips! Oh, and you can also find some amazing snacks at Niki no Kashi in Ueno—a fun spot to grab treats to take home!
Shibuya Parco is a great spot with a Pokémon Center, Nintendo Store, and even a Capcom Store all in one spot! It’s super convenient and a fun place to shop around. Also, check out the Trader and Suruga shops in Akihabara for a wide selection of video games and collectibles. They’ve got multiple shops you can explore for different gaming goodies. And don’t miss Radio Kaikan for tons of unique finds, including rare collectibles.
Oh, and across from one of the stores, don’t forget to hit up Alba Curry! It’s the best food I’ve had in Japan. Trust me on this one!
Totally agree about the cafes! They’re top-notch. Just make sure to reserve your spot ahead of time.