Super Potato. 🥔
The most famous retro game store on earth. Located down a narrow alley, you have to squeeze into a tiny elevator to reach the 3rd floor. Once inside, you are surrounded by walls of Famicom, Super Nintendo, and Game Boy cartridges.
5F: Retro Arcade
Don't miss the top floor. It’s a small arcade with vintage cabinets and a shop selling old Japanese candy (dagashi).
The Throne
Look for the "Throne of Games"—a chair made entirely out of Famicom cartridges. A mandatory photo op.
The Arcade Scene. 🥊
Japanese arcade culture is alive and loud in Akihabara. These multi-story towers are filled with smoke, noise, and world-class players.
HEY (Hirose Entertainment Yard)
The hardcore gamer's choice. Famous for its massive collection of "Shooting Games" (STG/Shmups) and Fighting Games. The vibe is serious and dark.
GiGO (Building 1 & 3)
Formerly SEGA. These are brighter, louder, and focus on UFO catchers (claw machines) on the lower floors and rhythm games on the upper floors.
Junk Corner
Bargain Hunting
Trader & Surugaya. 💴
Super Potato is famous, but expensive. Real collectors go to **Trader** or **Surugaya** for better prices. These shops are less decorated but packed with "Junk" bins where you can find working cartridges for as low as ¥100.
What is "Junk"?
In Japan, "Junk" just means untested or slightly scratched. 90% of the time, the items work perfectly. It is the best way to build a collection on a budget.
eSports Stars. 🏆
Akihabara is evolving from retro to modern competitive gaming. The **eSports Galaxy** and various PC bangs offer high-end rigs for hourly rental.
Galleria esports Lounge
Located in the basement of the Dospara building. You can play on top-tier gaming PCs. Great if you miss your setup back home.
Events
Check the schedule at **UDX Akiba Square**. They often host major fighting game tournaments and game launch events.