Like millions of adults and children around the world, Sy grew up with Nintendo.
Super Mario was (and still is) the undisputed favourite. Every console, from SNES through Wii to Switch, came with one non-negotiable: a Mario game.
If you grew up playing Nintendo, visiting Kyoto adds a completely different layer to your Japan trip. So when we found ourselves in Kyoto, adding a Nintendo Kyoto experience to our itinerary was not even a question.
We were going to the Nintendo Store.
What we did not expect was to walk straight into a slice of gaming history, one that explains why Kyoto is one of the best places in Japan for Nintendo fans, Super Mario lovers, and gaming travellers.
Because Kyoto is not just temples and geishas, it is the birthplace of Nintendo. And it is where Super Mario was imagined.
Planning a Japan trip? Save this guide for your Nintendo and Super Mario bucket list, and let Feet Do Travel show you how to channel your inner child with a visit to the Nintendo Store, Kyoto.
Super Mario was (and still is) the undisputed favourite. Every console, from SNES through Wii to Switch, came with one non-negotiable: a Mario game.
If you grew up playing Nintendo, visiting Kyoto adds a completely different layer to your Japan trip. So when we found ourselves in Kyoto, adding a Nintendo Kyoto experience to our itinerary was not even a question.
We were going to the Nintendo Store.
What we did not expect was to walk straight into a slice of gaming history, one that explains why Kyoto is one of the best places in Japan for Nintendo fans, Super Mario lovers, and gaming travellers.
Because Kyoto is not just temples and geishas, it is the birthplace of Nintendo. And it is where Super Mario was imagined.
Planning a Japan trip? Save this guide for your Nintendo and Super Mario bucket list, and let Feet Do Travel show you how to channel your inner child with a visit to the Nintendo Store, Kyoto.
Disclaimer: This post contains some affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, it won't cost you any extra; the small commission we may earn will help support the FeetDoTravel community.
Nintendo collectibles
Who Is This Guide For?
This guide is for:
This guide is for:
- Nintendo fans visiting Japan
- Super Mario lovers planning a Kyoto itinerary
- Gamers looking for real-life Nintendo locations
- Anyone wanting to get in touch with their inner child
Retro Super Nintendo game controller
Birthplace of Nintendo (Kyoto Gaming History)
Nintendo was founded in Kyoto, Japan, on 23 September 1889 by Fusajiro Yamauchi, long before video games, consoles, or Mario Kart.
Originally, Nintendo produced traditional Japanese playing cards called hanafuda. Over time, the company evolved into toys, then video games, and eventually one of the most recognisable gaming brands in the world.
What makes Kyoto unique for Nintendo fans is simple: Nintendo never left.
Even today, the company’s headquarters remain here, making Kyoto one of the most important destinations in the world for gaming history and Nintendo tourism in Japan.
Nintendo was founded in Kyoto, Japan, on 23 September 1889 by Fusajiro Yamauchi, long before video games, consoles, or Mario Kart.
Originally, Nintendo produced traditional Japanese playing cards called hanafuda. Over time, the company evolved into toys, then video games, and eventually one of the most recognisable gaming brands in the world.
What makes Kyoto unique for Nintendo fans is simple: Nintendo never left.
Even today, the company’s headquarters remain here, making Kyoto one of the most important destinations in the world for gaming history and Nintendo tourism in Japan.
Super Mario Inspiration: Real Places Behind the Game
The creator of Super Mario, Shigeru Miyamoto, grew up in Kyoto.
As a child, he explored forests, caves, and rural paths. Just like any other kid, he was climbing, exploring, wandering, getting lost, and discovering things along the way.
That exact feeling became the foundation of Super Mario.
And when you explore Kyoto, especially beyond the main streets, you start to see it. The winding paths of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or the endless gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha carry the same sense of “what is around the next corner?”
Super Mario Bros was released in Japan on 13 September 1985, and for Super Mario fans visiting Japan, this is as close as you get to stepping into the imagination behind the game.
The creator of Super Mario, Shigeru Miyamoto, grew up in Kyoto.
As a child, he explored forests, caves, and rural paths. Just like any other kid, he was climbing, exploring, wandering, getting lost, and discovering things along the way.
That exact feeling became the foundation of Super Mario.
And when you explore Kyoto, especially beyond the main streets, you start to see it. The winding paths of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or the endless gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha carry the same sense of “what is around the next corner?”
Super Mario Bros was released in Japan on 13 September 1985, and for Super Mario fans visiting Japan, this is as close as you get to stepping into the imagination behind the game.
Entrance to Nintendo Store, Kyoto
Nintendo Store Kyoto: What to Expect (Mario, Merch & Gameplay)
If you are searching for the Nintendo Store Kyoto location, you will find it inside Kyoto Takashimaya Shopping Centre, and yes, it is every bit as fun as we hoped it would be.
We walked in, and there it is.
A giant Mario face.
Sy immediately turned into an eight-year-old boy. Giggling, pointing, demanding photos. Any attempt at adult composure vanished instantly.
If you are searching for the Nintendo Store Kyoto location, you will find it inside Kyoto Takashimaya Shopping Centre, and yes, it is every bit as fun as we hoped it would be.
We walked in, and there it is.
A giant Mario face.
Sy immediately turned into an eight-year-old boy. Giggling, pointing, demanding photos. Any attempt at adult composure vanished instantly.
Up a couple of escalators, the store opens into a bright, immersive space filled with Nintendo merchandise, collectables, and gaming history, from Super Mario to Zelda, Animal Crossing, and beyond.
We wandered slowly.
Lots of nostalgia.
Lots of “I remember this.”
Lots of temptation to buy absolutely everything.
We wandered slowly.
Lots of nostalgia.
Lots of “I remember this.”
Lots of temptation to buy absolutely everything.
Right in the middle of the store was a live demo, showcasing Mario Kart World, a launch title developed for the Nintendo Switch 2. There was a buzz of excitement, as this is the first mainline Mario Kart entry for console since Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, released in 2017.
A queue had formed. Locals of all ages were waiting patiently, a reminder that Nintendo is not just for children here. It is part of everyday culture.
Naturally, Sy joined the queue.
A queue had formed. Locals of all ages were waiting patiently, a reminder that Nintendo is not just for children here. It is part of everyday culture.
Naturally, Sy joined the queue.
Playing Mario in Kyoto (and Losing Spectacularly)
We waited. Watched. Sy's excitement was growing.
Then it was our turn. Thankfully, instructions were in English, not just Japanese. The new game now has 24 racers, which is double the amount seen in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, triple from other entries, and quadruple from the arcade series.
The race began. Within seconds, Sy took the lead with ease, like he had been playing this game his whole life (well, he has!) I, meanwhile, appeared to be inventing an entirely new version of Mario Kart, one involving reversing off track, facing the wrong direction, and exploring areas clearly not intended for vehicles.
We waited. Watched. Sy's excitement was growing.
Then it was our turn. Thankfully, instructions were in English, not just Japanese. The new game now has 24 racers, which is double the amount seen in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, triple from other entries, and quadruple from the arcade series.
The race began. Within seconds, Sy took the lead with ease, like he had been playing this game his whole life (well, he has!) I, meanwhile, appeared to be inventing an entirely new version of Mario Kart, one involving reversing off track, facing the wrong direction, and exploring areas clearly not intended for vehicles.
Sy was 1st - top score on the board!
At one point, I knew I was driving nowhere, and I had no idea what I was doing. But I could not stop laughing.
Finish line crossed. My score: 22nd. Possibly out of 22.
Sy?
Number one. Not just our game — the top score on the board.
A proud moment. For him.
Finish line crossed. My score: 22nd. Possibly out of 22.
Sy?
Number one. Not just our game — the top score on the board.
A proud moment. For him.
Rooftop of Nintendo Store, Kyoto
Rooftop Fun (Super Mario Photo Spot in Kyoto)
Before leaving, we headed up to the rooftop, and this turned out to be one of the most unexpectedly fun parts of the visit.
At the top of Kyoto Takashimaya Shopping Centre, there is a small Super Mario-themed rooftop space. Not huge, but brilliantly done. A Mario-style flagpole, question-mark blocks, pipes, and playful details bring it to life, it’s more of an interactive photo spot than a full attraction, but that is exactly why it works.
Before leaving, we headed up to the rooftop, and this turned out to be one of the most unexpectedly fun parts of the visit.
At the top of Kyoto Takashimaya Shopping Centre, there is a small Super Mario-themed rooftop space. Not huge, but brilliantly done. A Mario-style flagpole, question-mark blocks, pipes, and playful details bring it to life, it’s more of an interactive photo spot than a full attraction, but that is exactly why it works.
Sy, unsurprisingly, was in his element; he was like a kid in a candy store. Photos were taken. Laughter followed. Any trace of adulthood disappeared. This is exactly how it should be; to feel like a child again, even for a short time, is a special experience.
After nearly two hours in the store (and resisting the urge to buy everything), it was finally time to leave. Reluctantly.
Planning Tip for Nintendo Fans
After nearly two hours in the store (and resisting the urge to buy everything), it was finally time to leave. Reluctantly.
Planning Tip for Nintendo Fans
- Go early — the store gets busy
- Weekdays are quieter than weekends
- Combine with nearby shopping and a river walk
- Pair with Super Nintendo World for the full experience
Inside of 8bit Cafe Kyoto
8bit Café Kyoto (Retro Gaming Bar)
Keeping the retro theme going, we sought out a gaming café for dinner.
8bit Cafe is tucked away and easy to miss; it’s part museum, part living room.
Inside, you will find classic consoles, old-school cartridges, and a collection of games that instantly pull you back to childhood; NES, Super Famicom, early PlayStation.
Keeping the retro theme going, we sought out a gaming café for dinner.
8bit Cafe is tucked away and easy to miss; it’s part museum, part living room.
Inside, you will find classic consoles, old-school cartridges, and a collection of games that instantly pull you back to childhood; NES, Super Famicom, early PlayStation.
It is not flashy, but that is the charm.
We grabbed a drink and ordered omurice, a popular dish in cafes and anime, which is a Japanese comfort food made from rice wrapped inside a fluffy omelette.
We picked up our controllers. Within minutes, we were back in the 90s, and that's when I got my own back on Sy.
Street Fighter. Button bashing. No real idea what I was doing.
We grabbed a drink and ordered omurice, a popular dish in cafes and anime, which is a Japanese comfort food made from rice wrapped inside a fluffy omelette.
We picked up our controllers. Within minutes, we were back in the 90s, and that's when I got my own back on Sy.
Street Fighter. Button bashing. No real idea what I was doing.
Street Fighter retro game
I beat him. Best out of three? I beat him again. And again. Then he was out… and I beat the computer.
Revenge, as it turns out, is a dish best served with absolutely no skill whatsoever.
For anyone building a Nintendo Kyoto itinerary, this is a brilliant evening stop.
Revenge, as it turns out, is a dish best served with absolutely no skill whatsoever.
For anyone building a Nintendo Kyoto itinerary, this is a brilliant evening stop.
 |  |
Other Nintendo & Super Mario Places to Visit in Japan
If you are planning a Nintendo-themed trip to Japan, Kyoto is just the beginning.
Nintendo Original Headquarters (Kyoto)
The original building where Nintendo began in 1889. Not open to the public, but a meaningful stop for gaming history lovers.
Nintendo Museum (Uji, Kyoto)
A newer attraction showcasing over 130 years of Nintendo history, from playing cards to modern gaming.
Super Nintendo World (Osaka)
The ultimate Super Mario theme park experience, immersive, busy, and completely worth it.
Nintendo Stores (Tokyo & Osaka)
Official stores across Japan with exclusive merchandise and slightly different layouts, ideal for a full Nintendo travel itinerary.
If you are planning a Nintendo-themed trip to Japan, Kyoto is just the beginning.
Nintendo Original Headquarters (Kyoto)
The original building where Nintendo began in 1889. Not open to the public, but a meaningful stop for gaming history lovers.
Nintendo Museum (Uji, Kyoto)
A newer attraction showcasing over 130 years of Nintendo history, from playing cards to modern gaming.
Super Nintendo World (Osaka)
The ultimate Super Mario theme park experience, immersive, busy, and completely worth it.
Nintendo Stores (Tokyo & Osaka)
Official stores across Japan with exclusive merchandise and slightly different layouts, ideal for a full Nintendo travel itinerary.
Retro Nintendo Game Boy handheld console
More Nintendo & Gaming Experiences in Kyoto
If the Nintendo store leaves you wanting more (it will), Kyoto has a few extra gaming spots worth seeking out.
Retro Arcades
While not Nintendo-exclusive, arcades are still a huge part of gaming culture in Japan.
Look out for chains like Taito - bright, noisy, and impossible to walk past without “just one go”.
Nintendo-Themed Cafés & Gaming Spots Across Japan
Kirby Café (Tokyo & Fukuoka): A playful, themed dining experience firmly rooted in the Nintendo universe.
Pokémon Centre Kyoto: Interactive, energetic, and surprisingly fun — even if you are not a hardcore fan.
If the Nintendo store leaves you wanting more (it will), Kyoto has a few extra gaming spots worth seeking out.
Retro Arcades
While not Nintendo-exclusive, arcades are still a huge part of gaming culture in Japan.
Look out for chains like Taito - bright, noisy, and impossible to walk past without “just one go”.
Nintendo-Themed Cafés & Gaming Spots Across Japan
Kirby Café (Tokyo & Fukuoka): A playful, themed dining experience firmly rooted in the Nintendo universe.
Pokémon Centre Kyoto: Interactive, energetic, and surprisingly fun — even if you are not a hardcore fan.
Inside 8bit Cafe, Kyoto
A Slightly Nerdy but Worth-It Tip
If you are building a Nintendo-focused Japan itinerary, do not cram everything into one day.
Spread it out:
Kyoto → history, Nintendo roots, store, retro cafés
Osaka → Super Nintendo World + arcades
Tokyo → themed cafés + flagship stores
If you are building a Nintendo-focused Japan itinerary, do not cram everything into one day.
Spread it out:
Kyoto → history, Nintendo roots, store, retro cafés
Osaka → Super Nintendo World + arcades
Tokyo → themed cafés + flagship stores
 | This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Kyoto |
Nintendo Kyoto FAQ
Where is the Nintendo Store in Kyoto?
Inside Kyoto Takashimaya Shopping Centre in the Shijo Kawaramachi area.
Is the Nintendo Store Kyoto worth visiting?
Yes, especially for Super Mario fans and gamers.
Is there a Super Mario theme park in Kyoto?
No, it is located at Super Nintendo World.
What Nintendo attractions are in Kyoto?
The store, original headquarters (view only), and Nintendo Museum.
Can you visit the original Nintendo building?
You can see the exterior, but it is not open to the public.
Where is the Nintendo Store in Kyoto?
Inside Kyoto Takashimaya Shopping Centre in the Shijo Kawaramachi area.
Is the Nintendo Store Kyoto worth visiting?
Yes, especially for Super Mario fans and gamers.
Is there a Super Mario theme park in Kyoto?
No, it is located at Super Nintendo World.
What Nintendo attractions are in Kyoto?
The store, original headquarters (view only), and Nintendo Museum.
Can you visit the original Nintendo building?
You can see the exterior, but it is not open to the public.
Final Thoughts: Is Kyoto Worth Visiting for Nintendo Fans?
Yes, and not just for the store.
Kyoto connects the dots in a way you do not expect.
You come for temples, shrines, and tradition, and somewhere in between, you find the birthplace of Nintendo, retro gaming bars, and a nostalgic link to the games you grew up with.
From the origins of Nintendo…
To the imagination of Shigeru Miyamoto…
To the games you still play today…
This is where it all began, and surprisingly, it will be one of the most memorable parts of visiting Japan.
Yes, and not just for the store.
Kyoto connects the dots in a way you do not expect.
You come for temples, shrines, and tradition, and somewhere in between, you find the birthplace of Nintendo, retro gaming bars, and a nostalgic link to the games you grew up with.
From the origins of Nintendo…
To the imagination of Shigeru Miyamoto…
To the games you still play today…
This is where it all began, and surprisingly, it will be one of the most memorable parts of visiting Japan.
Inspiring Japan articles to help you plan your trip
Lake Biwa - Day Trip from Kyoto or Osaka
Nara Day Trip Guide: Cycling, Deer and Temples
