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:
Rakuten Japan (楽天市場)
Great for: New or refurbished PlayStation hardware from trusted stores.
Direct links for finding specific items on Rakuten:
Suruga-ya (駿河屋)
Great for: Retro consoles, games, and collector’s items.
Direct links for finding specific items on Suruga-ya:
Popular search phrases in Japanese
Here are more useful keywords to help you navigate:
| English term | Japanese 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 |
| Wii | Wii |
| Wii U | Wii 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).”