Japan is a paradise for retro gaming fans. Whether you grew up playing on the Famicom, Super Nintendo, or Sega Saturn, you’ll find plenty of treasures hidden in shops across the country. Here’s a guide to the best places to buy retro games during your trip to Japan!

1. Super Potato (スーパーポテト) – A Retro Game Wonderland

What You’ll Find:
Super Potato is legendary among retro game lovers. The shelves are packed with vintage consoles, cartridges, and accessories from the 80s and 90s. You can find everything from Famicom and Super Famicom games to Nintendo 64, Game Boy, Neo Geo, Sega Saturn, and even classic gaming magazines and memorabilia.

Where to Go:

• Akihabara, Tokyo – The most famous Super Potato branch is in Akihabara, just a few minutes from the station. The top floor even has a mini retro arcade!
• Osaka (Nipponbashi) – A second major location in Osaka’s Den Den Town, another haven for gamers and tech lovers.

Why Visit:
It’s not just a store — it’s an experience. Perfect for nostalgia and photo ops!

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2. Surugaya (駿河屋) – A Hidden Gem for Serious Collectors

What You’ll Find:
Surugaya specializes in used and vintage goods, including a wide selection of retro video games. Their stores often stock rare or obscure items that collectors dream of — from imported consoles to unopened original game boxes.

Where to Go:

• Akihabara, Tokyo – Several Surugaya branches scattered around Akihabara.
• Shizuoka (Headquarters) – The original location is in Shizuoka, but they have stores in many major cities including Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka.

Why Visit:
If you’re hunting for specific titles or want to find a good deal on classic games, Surugaya is one of the best places to check.

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3. Book Off (ブックオフ) – More Than Just Books

What You’ll Find:
Book Off is a large secondhand chain known for used books, but many locations also carry games and consoles — especially the “Book Off Plus” and “Book Off Super Bazaar” branches. Their retro selection is smaller than Super Potato, but prices can be lower, and hidden gems can be found.

Where to Go:

• Locations in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and most major cities.
• Popular branches include Shinjuku Kabukicho, Ikebukuro, and Yokohama.

Why Visit:
Affordable prices and the possibility of finding retro games while browsing other items like manga, CDs, and DVDs.

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4. Hard Off (ハードオフ) – Treasure Hunting for Tech Lovers

What You’ll Find:
Hard Off (no relation to Book Off, despite the name) specializes in used electronics and tech. The “Hobby Off” or “Off House” sections often include retro consoles and games. Expect to see used Famicoms, Sega hardware, controllers, and lots of random accessories.

Where to Go:

• Found all over Japan, especially in suburban areas.
• Hard Off Akihabara recently opened and is foreigner-friendly.

Why Visit:
The ultimate place for bargain hunters — you never know what you might find!

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Pro Tips for Retro Game Shopping in Japan:

• Bring cash – While many stores accept credit cards, smaller or secondhand shops may be cash-only.
• Test before you buy – Some stores allow you to test consoles or games before purchase.
• Region Locking – Japanese retro consoles and games are usually region-locked, so double-check compatibility before buying.
• Language – Most games are in Japanese, but many classics are still playable without understanding the text.

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Conclusion

From the nostalgic shelves of Super Potato to the bargain bins of Book Off and Hard Off, Japan is full of opportunities to relive your childhood through retro games. Whether you’re a serious collector or just looking for a cool souvenir, don’t miss the chance to explore these unique stores during your visit!

Retro game shopping in Japan is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience — you never know what hidden gem you’ll find. That moment of discovery might just be the highlight of your trip.

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