The highly anticipated Nintendo Museum is set to open in Kyoto on October 2nd. This permanent attraction highlights Nintendo’s rich history, providing visitors with an in-depth look at its evolution from its humble beginnings as a card game manufacturer to becoming a global cultural phenomenon.
Located in Nintendo’s former Uji Ogura factory in Uji City, Kyoto, where the company originally used to make Hanafuda and other playing cards, the museum offers fans a chance to engage with many interactive exhibits, customise a delicious burger, and purchase exclusive merchandise, making it a must-visit destination for Nintendo enthusiasts.
Nintendo has released a detailed video tour of the new Nintendo Museum in Kyoto, Japan in a special titled “Nintendo Museum Direct” hosted by Shigeru Miyamoto.
Exhibitions and Experiences
Nintendo Museum was designed to offer guests a comprehensive look at the history of the world-renowned entertainment and video game company. Located on the 2nd floor of Exhibition Building 1 , guests will find a massive exhibit showcasing Nintendo’s Japanese and international video game hardware from the Famicom and NES, through to the Nintendo Switch and beyond.
The exhibition also features displays all the titles Nintendo has ever released, highlighting Nintendo’s iconic game artwork through the years. Displays will highlight the evolution of gaming via video screens above displaying gameplay footage, utelising innovative directional audio technology so you only hear the audio of the screen you’re standing in front of.
The 1st floor features unique play experiences using modern technology, including hands-on interactive exhibits that require digital coins to experience. When entering the museum, guests will be given an admission pass, preloaded with 10 coins that they can ‘spend’ on activities (Nintendo note that visitors will not be able to experience all the interactive exhibits with 10 coins.)
The exhibit features a giant screen floor where guests can stand on top of this monitor and play Hyakunin Isshu using their smartphone. Visitors can also play classic Nintendo games, or work together as a team to play iconic NES, N64 and Wii games with giant controllers. Nintendo has also enhanced classic Nintendo devices with modern technology, inlcuding an upgraded NES and SNES Zappers.
Additionally, the museum will also be workshops to craft your very own Hanafuda playing cards, a traditional flower-themed card game and it was Nintendo’s first ever product when the company was founded back in 1889. Guests can also try their hand at a game of Hanafuda in the Play Room.
Nintendo Museum Cafe
The café at the Nintendo Museum offers a creative dining experience where visitors can create their own custom hamburgers, chosing from over 270,000 combinations. The café is located inside Nintendo Museum and is open only to ticket holders. The cafe is open 10:00–18:00 (Last order 17:30).
Shopping
It isnt a museum without a dedicated merchandise store! In addition to official merchandise themed after Nintendo game worlds and characters, the shop also carries items available only at Nintendo Museum. The shop is located inside Nintendo Museum and is open only to ticket holders.
Getting To Nintendo Museum
| Address | 56 Kaguraden, Ogura-cho, Uji-shi, Kyoto 611-0042 |
| Directions | A 5-minute walk from the East exit of Ogura Station (Kintetsu Railway Kyoto Line) or; 8-minute walk from the North exit of JR Ogura Station (JR Nara Line) Note: The museum does not offer parking spaces for cars, motorcycles, or bicycles. |
| Opening Hours | 10:00-18:00 (Last admission 16:30) |
| Scheduled Closures | Tuesdays and through the New Year’s holiday season (Dec. 30 – Jan. 3) |
Ticket Information
Tickets are sold via a randomly selected drawing. Entries will be accepted beginning three months prior to your visit. The cost of the ticket must be paid after your entry is drawn. A free Nintendo Account is required to enter the drawing and purchase tickets.
| Adult | Youth (ages 12-17) | Child (ages 6-11） | Preschoolers (ages 0-5） |
| ¥3,300 | ¥2,200 | ¥1,100 | Free |
For more infomation, viisit the official Nintendo Museum website.
All images © Nintendo
More on Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan Guidebook
Are you planning a trip to Universal Studios Japan? If so, you need our digital guidebook! Our guidebook is the most comprehensive resource available, covering everything you need to know about the park, including Super Nintendo World, Express Pass, hotels, restaurants, attractions, shows, seasonal events, and more! With our guidebook, you’ll be an expert on Universal Studios Japan before you even set foot in the park. You’ll know what to expect, where to go, and what to do. You’ll also be able to avoid the crowds and make the most of your time at the park.
Stress-Free Japan: Book with Klook
Make the most of your trip to Japan with these exclusive offerings from our trusted affiliate partner, Klook. From making bullet train reservations with ease to fully private tours, you can save time and money on your trip. I’ve used Klook since 2016, and it is my go-to booking platform for anything in Japan!
- Japan Shinkansen & Train Tickets
- JR Pass for All of Japan
- Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
- Asakusa Kimono Rental & Photo Shoot (Kimono Rental Ange)
- Mt. Fuji Private Customizable One Day Trip from Tokyo
Book Your Flight
I use Google Flights & Momodo to find affordable flights. Another great way is to sign up for Going to get notifications of cheap airfares, which happens often in Japan. You’ll sometimes stumble on cheap flights to Kansai International Airport.
Buy Your Shinkansen Tickets (Bullet Train)
Getting around Japan by the world-renowned bullet train, known as the Shinkansen, is incredibly fast, reliable, and affordable for visitors. You can travel from Tokyo to Osaka in just over 2 hours. Get the JR Rail Pass to save a ton of money on the bullet train for your trip.
Book Your Hotel
Universal Studios Japan has affordable accommodations that are steps away from the park and have easy access to Osaka. I recommend checking prices through Booking.com followed by the hotels directly. Sometimes, you’re able to score some incredible deals. Here’s a short list of hotels at Universal Studios Japan I recommend.
- The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan – You’re directly in front of the Park gates and have instant access to Universal CityWalk Osaka. The rooms are gorgeous, with restaurants and even a Lawson (Japanese convenience store).
- The Singulari HOTEL & SKYSPA – Attached to the train station is a fantastic hotel for those who want a comfortable, clean, and stylish place to sleep. After a long day at Universal Studios Japan, the rooftop sento (public bath) is excellent for unwinding and relaxing.
- Hotel Universal Port – This is an excellent hotel for the Minion fan in your family, only a 5-minute walk from Universal Studios Japan. It also boasts the largest breakfast buffet in Japan, a must during your visit.
Buy Your Tickets & Express Pass
In advance, save time and stress by buying your tickets and Express Pass for Universal Studios Japan.
Stay Connected
Universal Studios Japan only offers free Wi-Fi at the park’s entrance. That’s not enough to stay connected and share your day with everyone back home on Instagram to give them FOMO. Here’s how you can stay connected while travelling in Japan.
- Pocket Wi-Fi – If you’re travelling with a group or have multiple devices, this is your best and most affordable way to stay connected to the internet. Pick up and drop off at the airport. Easy.
- Japan SIM Card – If you have an unlocked phone and need a Japanese phone number, this is the best and easiest way.
Get Yourself Travel Insurance
While travelling aboard, having travel insurance protects you against injury, cancellations, illness, and other things you can never predict. Whenever I travel, I always budget for travel insurance to protect myself. I’ve used it, and I’m so glad I had it. My recommended companies are SafteyWing and World Nomads for travel insurance.
Learn More about Universal Studios Japan
Don’t forget to study our in-depth destination guide on Universal Studios Japan for more information on this beautiful park in Osaka.
Some links may be affiliate links to services I recommend. Buying services through these links at no extra cost to you help support TDR Explorer. Please read our full disclosure for more details.
