What to Expect at Nintendo Museum Which Just Opened in Kyoto
You’ve probably heard about (or already been to) Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan, but there’s even more excitement for Nintendo fans this year! A brand-new Nintendo Museum is opening in Kyoto, offering a deep dive into the fascinating world of Nintendo.
From iconic characters and games like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda to legendary devices like the timeless Game Boy, Nintendo’s legacy speaks for itself. Whether you’re a gaming geek or not, this attraction will definitely be a fun addition to your Japan itinerary!
Here’s what we know so far:
What is the Nintendo Museum?
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
Be transported into the Nintendo universe at Nintendo Museum, which occupies the site of the former Nintendo Uji Ogura Plant - a factory that used to produce Nintendo playing cards, and later served as a repair center for toys and consoles. Be immersed in the world of Nintendo, from learning about its history as a playing card company in its earlier days to its transformation into producing the modern games and inventions we all know and love today.
Besides various interactive and immersive exhibits, the Nintendo Museum will also feature a themed café, and a merchandise shop.
Where and When is Nintendo Museum Opening?
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
Nintendo Museum will officially open its doors on 2 October 2024.
Address: 56 Kaguraden, Ogura-cho, Uji-shi, Kyoto 611-0042
If you are taking the train:
- 5-minute walk from the East exit of Ogura Station (Kintetsu Railway Kyoto Line)
- 8-minute walk from the North exit of JR Ogura Station (JR Nara Line)
- 22-minute walk from the North exit of Uji Station (JR Nara Line)
Do note that the museum does not offer parking spaces for cars, motorcycles, or bicycles so it’s best to travel via public transport.
How to get tickets to Nintendo Museum?
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
Currently, getting tickets to the Nintendo Museum is based on luck: tickets are allocated via a random draw, beginning three months prior to your visit. You need a free Nintendo account to enter the drawing and purchase the tickets. The cost of the ticket must be paid after your entry is drawn to confirm your slot.
If you wish to participate in the workshop, you'll have to make a reservation on the day of your visit (do note that separate fees apply).
What to do at Nintendo Museum?
1. Check out Interactive Exhibits
There are two floors in Nintendo Museum: The first floor features interactive exhibits while the second floor houses a display of Ninento memorabilia and more on Nintendo’s history.
First Floor
Check out fun interactive and colourful exhibits, including a batting cage and even classic Nintendo consoles loaded with over 80 games to pick from! Guests can use digital coins to interact with the different exhibits.
Think of it as an ‘arcade’ - you can ‘spend’ coins at your chosen exhibitions and games, and when you run out, you can also purchase additional coins! Every guest receives 10 coins upon entering the museum.
Shigureden SP
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
Hyakunin Isshu is played using modern technology, using a huge screen at your feet and your smartphone. Guests will be given a special smart phone, and be tasked to match the different poem cards, much like a ‘picture matching’ game.
Zapper & Scope SP
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
This is a shooting game using a Zapper and Super Scope in the world of Mario that unfolds on the giant screen in front of you! Shoot the goombas and koopas to gain points!
Ultra Machine SP
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
Similar to the Ultra Machine indoor pitching machine produced in 1968, this exhibit allows you to step up to bat and hit fastballs and curveballs!
Ultra Hand SP
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
At the Ultra Hand exhibit, challenge your friend to see who can grab the most balls and drop them into the pipe!
Love Tester SP
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
This is a game that requires two people to play. You and your partner will have to join hands and complete a series of challenges!
Game & Watch SP
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
Use your shadow to play Game & Watch!
Nintendo Classic
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
Have a ball of a time at these classic Nintendo game consoles! You can play games released from Famicom, Super Famicom, and Nintendo 64 - even the consoles are the original ones used in the past. Talk about retro! There are also 2-player games available.
Big Controller
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
Play your favourite games on giant controllers!
Second Floor
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
The second floor highlights the history of Nintendo, featuring all sorts of Nintendo products like Hanafuda playing cards - Nintendo's first-ever product when it was founded in 1889!
2. Enjoy Special Experiences
Exhibits aside, you can also make reservations for special hands-on exhibits, which require a separate fee.
Craft Room
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
Using the special kit provided you can make and paint your own Hanafuda cards to take home!
Play Room
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
Based on "hanaawase," one of the most well-known Hanafuda games, the experience uses image recognition and projection technology so that even beginners can try their hand at playing - explanations and rules will also be provided along the way.
3. Shop for Exclusive Merchandise
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
The gift shop has gotta be everybody’s favourite part - after all, what is an attraction without exclusive merchandise? Pick up exclusive limited-edition merch that’s only available at the Nintendo Museum, making it the perfect souvenir to remember your time here!
You can also snag official merchandise themed around the world and characters of Nintendo games - how cute. We can’t wait to see what’s stocked on the shelves!
Note: The shop is located inside the Nintendo Museum, so only ticket holders can access it.
4. Tuck into Delights at the Museum Cafe
Image credit: Nintendo Museum
Feeling hungry after an afternoon of fun and games? Make a pit stop at the museum’s cafe! Customise your own tasty burger - you can create over 270,000 possible combinations by mixing and matching your favourite ingredients! There are also special drinks and side dishes available.
Note: The cafe is located inside the Nintendo Museum, so only ticket holders can access it.
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