Two people try out the "Big Controller" at a press preview on September 25, Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture. (©Sankei by Mizue Torikoshi)
The Nintendo Museum opened on October 2 in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, showcasing the company's rich history of craftsmanship. The museum highlights past consoles and includes interactive sections where visitors can experience the wide range of entertainment Nintendo has developed over the years.
Tickets are currently on a waitlist through the end of November, with applications now open for the January lottery.
Exhibition Highlights
On the second floor, the exhibition area displays nearly all of Nintendo's game software since the Family Computer Disk System (Famicom). Visitors can watch gameplay footage while listening to sound effects through highly directional speakers.
Most exhibits intentionally omit detailed explanations, encouraging visitors to relive their own memories of playing the games.
The museum also features prototypes of the Game Boy and Super Nintendo Entertainment System, including items being shown for the first time.
On the first floor, there is a hands-on area where visitors can enjoy Nintendo's past creations through modern technology. Highlights include shooting games set in Mario's world on a giant screen and the chance to play on historic consoles with a giant controller.
There's even an attraction featuring Nintendo's founding product, Hanafuda (Japanese playing cards), which requires special coins provided upon entry to access.
Other Features
Additionally, the museum includes a gift shop offering exclusive Nintendo Museum merchandise and a cafe with themed hamburgers.
The museum is located on the site of the former Nintendo Uji Ogura Plant, which handled console repairs. Admission is ¥3,300 (around $22 USD) for adults, ¥2,200 for middle and high school students, and ¥1,100 for elementary school students. Activities like Hanafuda-making are available for an additional fee.
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(Read the article in Japanese.)
Author: Hiroto Kuwajima, The Sankei Shimbun
