On October 2nd, an interactive space was opened to the public in the former video game company factory complex in Uji city, about an hour’s drive south of Kyoto. This space is home to the Nintendo Museum, spread across three main buildings, where visitors can delve into the 135-year history of the company and explore a comprehensive exhibition featuring rare game consoles, prototypes, interactive games, experiences, and even a themed café.
While visitors won’t be able to jump and smash question mark blocks like Mario does – that can be done at the nearby Super Nintendo World amusement park in Osaka – they can immerse themselves in a wealth of information that offers a glimpse into the mind of Nintendo’s visionary leader, Shigeru Miyamoto, also known as the father of Super Mario.
The colossal video game company was first founded in 1889 as a manufacturer of Japanese playing cards called „Hanafuda“ (which translates to „flower cards“). The museum pays homage to this humble beginning with a section dedicated to „Origins and Games,“ featuring a Hanafuda room where visitors can learn to play the traditional card game using modern technology and even participate in workshops to create their own flower cards.
However, the main highlight of the museum is the „Discoveries“ zone: a vast hall showcasing nearly every product ever released by the company, including rare limited-edition devices and failed prototypes. Another highlight in the „Discoveries“ building is a collection of eight special interactive games, each reflecting a legendary creation from the company’s gaming history.
In the „Master Control“ zone, players can collaborate and play classic Nintendo games using giant controllers designed to resemble the original Wii and Famicom console controllers. Among the mini-games offered is the laser shooting game „Zapper & Scope,“ reminiscent of the shooting light gun system created by the company in 1973, and the „Love Tester,“ first introduced in 1969.
Visitors to the museum are given 10 digital coins that can be used to play games, but it’s worth noting that additional coins cannot be purchased, so players must strategize and choose wisely.
Despite its modest gray facade, the museum is filled with playful, distinctly Nintendo details – from little mushroom characters from the Super Mario world that sing when their heads are touched, to cabinets resembling Gameboy cartridges.
The museum’s café, „Hatena Burger,“ boasts Nintendo-themed decor, and the gift shop sells souvenirs such as giant controller-shaped pillows, keychains, and Hanafuda cards.
However, visiting this museum is quite challenging. You can’t just show up at the door and buy a ticket, as reported by CNN. Visitors must visit the museum’s website and register for a lottery at least three months in advance. This means that travelers can now participate in the lottery and get tickets to the museum no earlier than January – selecting up to three preferred dates and times.
Winners are announced two months before the scheduled visit date, and tickets must be purchased immediately. Those who missed the pre-registration can also try their luck on the museum’s website calendar and look for tickets that have been returned or added later.
The ticket price is 3,300 yen (21 euros) for adults and 2,200 yen (14 euros) for children. Additional entrance fees may apply to certain exhibition areas.
The Nintendo Museum offers a unique and immersive experience for fans and enthusiasts, showcasing the rich history and innovation of one of the most iconic video game companies in the world.