For many of us, the sight of a Game Boy evokes a flood of memories, whether it was sneaking in one more level of Super Mario Land under the covers, or swapping Pokémon at the playground. Nintendo is more than just a company; it has been a constant companion through many of our childhood adventures and a master of imagination.
For these reasons and more, Nintendo’s first-ever museum, which will be opening this October 2024 at the birthplace of the iconic brand in Kyoto, Japan, is absolutely not to be missed.
Nestled in the Uji neighbourhood, the Nintendo Museum was first announced back in 2021 and promises to be a pilgrimage site for fans, historians, and gaming enthusiasts across the world. The soon-to-be popular spot stands on the grounds of Nintendo’s former Uji Ogura plant, a site steeped in the company’s rich history, once used to produce trading cards and the repair of toys and consoles. This also marks the brand’s symbolic return to its roots where the journey for the global gaming giant began.
The museum is set to showcase a comprehensive collection of Nintendo’s most beloved consoles, games, and memorabilia spanning its entire history from the year 1889. Those visiting can expect to see everything from the early Game & Watch series to the latest innovations like the Nintendo Switch. Interactive exhibits will enable visitors to relive the magic of their favourite games, whether that includes revisiting classic titles or discovering hidden gems from Nintendo’s vast library.
One of the highlights within the museum is a breakdown of Nintendo’s evolution over the years, offering a deep dive of the company’s groundbreaking moments, like the release of the 8-bit Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Wii. On top of the exhibits, the museum will also host workshops, events, and other collaborations with game developers and artists, solidifying Kyoto’s reputation as a cultural hub for gaming. It will be a commemoration of Nintendo’s ongoing influence on gaming and pop culture globally.
The Nintendo Museum is set to be a multisensory experience for all, regardless if you have been a lifelong fan of the brand or a new player just now discovering the joy of the Nintendo Switch. It is evident that Nintendo’s story is far from over, and if anything, inspires us to keep dreaming, playing, and pushing boundaries, particularly in the world of gaming, though it also applies to life itself.
For more details like opening hours and ticketing information, visit the Nintendo Museum’s official website, especially before you plan your next trip to Japan.
Photos courtesy of Nintendo Museum
