Top Arcades in Tokyo
Curated by Hypemaps Team
Tokyo is known for its vibrant arcade scene, where gamers of all ages and skill levels can come together for both casual and competitive fun. Tokyo has something to offer every type of gamer and for those looking to score prizes from the extensive selection that is always changing. In this list, we'll be taking a look at some of the best arcades in Tokyo, each with its own unique atmosphere, games, and attractions.
Namco TOKYO was opened in response to the closure of many arcades throughout Tokyo and provides a multifaceted space that features gaming amusement and a bar with both food and drinks. The nightlife spot is located in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho nightlife and occupies the third floor of the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, the city’s largest hotel and entertainment complex. Bandai Namco has loaded the 1,400 sqm space with both arcade machines, crane games, gachapon dispensers, and a space to enjoy AI DJ performances.
Taito HEY (Hirose Entertainment Yard) serves as a staple of Akihabara boasting a full offering of fighting games that garners a competitive crowd throughout the day and night. For those looking for even more excitement, adrenaline-pumping shooting games with immersive elements can be found on another floor.
Namco Nakano is directly connected to the Broadway Mall and stands as the largest arcade in the Nakano district. The arcade itself is well equipped with a variety of games and a sizeable selection of crane machines, making it a perfect place to take a break from shopping in the area.
Gigo Shinjuku Kabukicho is perfect for serious gamers looking for tournaments and beta tests for the latest games. Standing as one of the largest arcades in Tokyo, those looking for some fun entertainment can also find something to jump into.
SEGA Ikebukuro GIGO serves as a popular destination in the area catching the attention of crane machine fanatics with its multiple floors of entertainment. Despite its general setup, the arcade also attracts some serious competition in its fighting games section, though skill level tends to vary. Also, make sure to check out the taiyaki stall on the side of the building.
Differing from other arcades in Tokyo, GiGO Akihabara 5 features an interesting selection of retro arcade games. The machines on hand offer a taste of arcades from a bygone era and notably a lineup of pinball machines that are quite uncommon in Japanese arcades.
TAITO Station Shibuya stands out as a convenient option near Tokyo's famed Shibuya scramble. Complete with all the usual crane machines expected at Japanese arcades, the location is known for its fighting games and being a place where beta tests for new titles. The multiple floors stocked with entertainment also help make it an excellent place to pop into.
This arcade features six floors and 11,656 square feet of arcade machines, crane games, gashapon, and card tables. Setting up in an iconic Akihabara location, namco Akihabara by Bandai Namco is quite possibly one of the most impressive arcades in Tokyo now. Though it might not have the widest variety of games, namco Akihabara is assisted by the intellectual properties tied to Bandai Namco that are often celebrated with special events.
Standing out amongst all of the arcades in Ikebukuro is Adores East Ikebukuro. Aside from its close vicinity to the train station, the two-floor location is well stocked with some of the best prizes found in claw machines. Though games are still available, the claw machines and helpful staff are definitely the draw of this arcade.
Despite its modest entrance, High Tech Land Sega is a one-stop location for entertainment. The seven floors of this arcade provide the usual claw machines and gaming, along with billiards, bowling, and more. The first floor is conveniently laid out and stocked with great claw machine prizes from the latest anime and classic titles.