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Buying Nintendo Consoles from Japan

Buy rare and exclusive Nintendo consoles direct from Japan. Explore Famicom, N64 Pikachu, Game Boy Advance SP AGS-101, 3DS LL, and Switch bundles.

Why buy Nintendo consoles from Japan?

  • Exclusive Japanese Editions – Japan gets limited colorways, bundles, and special editions (e.g., Pikachu N64, Famicom Mini).
  • Cheaper Prices – Pre-owned Japanese listings are often much more affordable than overseas markets.
  • Complete Sets – It’s common in Japan to find listings with the original box, manuals, and inserts.
  • Better Availability – Japan’s robust second-hand market ensures wide availability for even older systems.

Top Nintendo consoles worth importing from Japan

When it comes to Nintendo consoles, Japan offers some of the most collectible, well-maintained, and affordable hardware on the market.

The Super Famicom (SHVC-001) is a must-have for retro gaming fans, with access to many classic titles never released abroad.

Search term to use:

スーパーファミコン SHVC-001


The Nintendo 64 Pikachu Edition (especially the orange or blue variants) is a popular Japan-exclusive among collectors.

Search term to use:

ニンテンドウ64 ピカチュウ 本体



The Game Boy Advance SP AGS-101 with a backlit screen is easier to find in good condition in Japan than elsewhere.

Search term to use:

ゲームボーイアドバンスSP AGS-101


Meanwhile, the New Nintendo 3DS LL (XL) offers Japan-only themed designs like Monster Hunter, One Piece, or Pokémon.

Search terms to use:

ワンピース 3DS LL 本体
ポケモン 3DS LL 本体
モンスターハンター 3DS LL 本体

Best online shops and marketplaces in Japan

Here are the top websites to search for Nintendo consoles and accessories:


Yahoo! Auctions Japan (ヤフオク)

Great for: Bidding on used consoles, rare editions, game bundles.



Direct links for finding specific items on Yahoo! Auctions Japan:

Famicom

Super Famicom

Nintendo 64

GameCube

Wii

Wii U

Switch

Portable Consoles (Game Boy Series, DS, 3DS)


Rakuten Japan (楽天市場)

Great for: New or refurbished PlayStation hardware from trusted stores.



Direct links for finding specific items on Rakuten:

Famicom

Super Famicom

Nintendo 64

GameCube

Wii

Wii U

Switch

Portable Consoles (Game Boy Series, DS, 3DS)


Suruga-ya (駿河屋)

Great for: Retro consoles, games, and collector’s items.



Direct links for finding specific items on Suruga-ya:

Famicom

Super Famicom

Nintendo 64

GameCube

Wii

Wii U

Switch

Portable Consoles (Game Boy Series, DS, 3DS)

Popular search phrases in Japanese

Here are more useful keywords to help you navigate:

English termJapanese term
Famicomファミコン
Super Famicomスーパーファミコン
Nintendo 64ニンテンドー64
GameCubeゲームキューブ
WiiWii
Wii UWii U
Nintendo Switchニンテンドースイッチ
Game Boyゲームボーイ
Nintendo DSニンテンドーDS
Nintendo 3DSニンテンドー3DS
Used中古
Console本体
Accessories周辺機器
Gamesソフト / ゲームソフト
Boxed箱付き

What to watch out for when buying Nintendo consoles in Japan

  • Region Locking: Consoles like the 3DS, Wii, and Wii U are region-locked. Be aware that Japanese games won’t work on non-Japanese units.
  • Language Settings: Not all older systems allow changing the language. The Famicom, SNES, and GameCube default to Japanese menus.
  • Voltage Compatibility: Most Japanese consoles work on 100V. Use a voltage converter to avoid damage.
  • Condition Descriptions: Look for these keywords:
    • 動作確認済み (dōsa kakunin-zumi) = Operation Confirmed
    • 箱付き (hako-tsuki) = Includes Box
    • ジャンク (junk) = Non-working, for parts only
  • Yellowing & Aging: Famicoms and Super Famicoms are known to discolor. Read item descriptions for “日焼け (sunburn)” or “変色 (discoloration).”

Cover Photo by Lander Denys on Unsplash

Buying Nintendo Consoles from Japan
Alex August 12, 2025
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