Nintendo, the legendary gaming company with roots dating back to 1889 when it was known as Yamauchi Nintendo and produced hanafuda playing cards, is taking a nostalgic leap into the future with the opening of its very own museum. Since rebranding to simply Nintendo in 1963, the company has grown into one of Japan’s most beloved and iconic brands, operating from its headquarter in Kyoto.
With a workforce of over 7,700 employees, the company boasted a net income of $3.156 billion and generated revenue of $13.923 billion in 2023. Now, Nintendo fans have a new destination to add to their travel bucket list: a museum dedicated to the company’s rich history and innovative contributions to the gaming world. This new cultural landmark is strategically located on the southern outskirts of Kyoto, in Uji, making it an eagerly anticipated addition to the region.
Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary creator of Super Mario and a key Nintendo executive, shared a deeper insight into the museum’s mission. He expressed that the museum is designed to deepen the public’s understanding of the company’s philosophy. “If making products while protecting concepts such as family, fun, and ease of understanding is rooted in our employees then the new Nintendo will continue to grow,” Miyamoto emphasized to reporters.
For those eager to visit, the museum’s online presence provides more details, although it’s important to note that tickets for the inaugural two months have already been snapped up. Fans can, however, enter a drawing for a chance to visit in December, provided they have a free Nintendo account. Winners of the draw will then be eligible to purchase tickets. Remember, the deadline for this drawing is September 30th, so interested visitors should act quickly. Additionally, there is a separate fee for workshops, which require same-day reservations.
The museum promises to be a treasure trove of gaming nostalgia and history. Visitors can expect to see iconic devices like the Game Boy and the Wii console, but also have the chance to explore some of Nintendo’s lesser-known products. These include unique hardware such as the Mamaberica baby stroller and the Copilas printer. For a truly immersive experience, guests can enjoy hands-on opportunities, like playing Super Mario Bros. on a giant Family Computer controller.
For those looking to bring a piece of Nintendo magic into their homes, the Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy-Con is currently available at a 5% discount on Amazon, bringing the price down to $284.99 from $299.99.
This new museum is not just a celebration of Nintendo’s storied past but also a testament to its ongoing commitment to innovation, family fun, and imaginative play. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of Nintendo, this museum is poised to offer an engaging and enlightening experience for all.
