17. GAME CENTERS AND PURIKURA

Game Center’s & Purikura

Game centers (ge-sen, ゲーセン) and purikura booths are iconic parts of Japanese entertainment culture. Whether you're a casual visitor or a dedicated gamer, these spots offer fun, technology, and nostalgia in a way that’s uniquely Japanese.

Game Centers (Arcades) 🎮✨

Japanese game centers are multi-level entertainment hubs filled with arcade machines, claw games, and interactive attractions. They cater to all skill levels, from casual players to competitive pros. These places are not just about gaming—they are about skill, social interaction, and pure excitement.

🎵 My Favorite Arcade Games:

• 🎶 MaiMai → A futuristic rhythm game with a circular touchscreen and colorful visuals.

• 🏎️ Mario Kart Arcade GP → Classic Nintendo racing with real steering wheels & pedals.

• 🚗 Initial D Arcade Stage → Perfect for drift racing on legendary Japanese mountain roads.

• 🥁 Taiko no Tatsujin → Traditional taiko drumming turned into an addictive music game!

🕹️ Beyond Video Games:

• UFO Catchers (claw machines) → Win plushies, anime figures & collectibles.

• Virtual reality zones, basketball hoops, air hockey & more!

🏆 Best Game Centers in Japan:
✅ ROUND 1 (Tokyo DiverCity, Osaka Umeda) → Huge complexes with arcades, bowling, darts, and sports simulators.
✅ SEGA Akihabara (Tokyo) → Multi-floor arcade heaven in the heart of the gaming district.
✅ Taito Station → A mix of classic & modern arcade experiences.

Spo-Cha at ROUND 1: The Ultimate Indoor Fun Zone 🏀🎳🏓

Spo-Cha (スポチャ) is a "Sports Challenge" area inside select ROUND 1 locations. It's more than just an arcade—it’s a massive indoor sports and recreation center where you can move, play, and compete!

🏃‍♂️ What’s Inside Spo-Cha?

• Trampolines, basketball courts, indoor soccer fields

• Batting cages, bowling, table tennis, and even roller skating

• VR games, obstacle courses & more

💰 Unlimited Play Packages:

• 90 minutes, 3 hours, or all-day passes

• Affordable pricing for unlimited access

📍 Best Spo-Cha Locations:
🏙️ Tokyo:

• ROUND 1 Tokyo DiverCity(Spo-Cha)

• Round 1 IKEBUKURO

🏙️ Osaka:

• Round 1 Sennichimae (Spo-Cha)

• ROUND 1 Osaka Umeda

Purikura (Photo Booths) 📸✨

Purikura (プリクラ, short for Print Club) are high-tech photo booths that allow you to take fun, customizable pictures. Extremely popular among teens and young adults, Purikura is a must-try activity for visitors in Japan!

🌟 Why Try Purikura?
✅ Instant beauty filters (bigger eyes, smoother skin)
✅ Add quirky stickers, effects, and creative backgrounds
✅ A fun souvenir to print or download to your phone

🎭 Themes & Variations:

• Some booths feature seasonal designs or anime collaborations.

• After taking your pictures, you can edit them by adding graphics and text.

📌 Where to Find Purikura?

• Inside game centers like ROUND 1, SEGA, and Taito Station

• Dedicated Purikura shops (e.g., Purikura no Mecca in Shibuya, Tokyo)

• On the top floors of department stores (e.g., HEP FIVE in Osaka)

• In Harajuku near Takeshita Street, where Purikura booths are extra stylish and trendy.

🎭 Tip: Purikura is even more fun with friends or as a couple—get creative and enjoy the experience!