Where to Buy Nintendo Switch 2 in Japan: Essential Guide for Tourists and Residents

Where to Buy Nintendo Switch 2 in Japan: Essential Guide for Tourists and Residents The Nintendo Switch 2 continues Nintendo's legacy of innovative gaming hardware, capturing the attention of fans worldwide.

As demand surges in Japan, both residents and foreign visitors are searching for reliable ways to buy the Nintendo Switch 2.

With multiple versions of the console available and unique purchasing systems in place, it's crucial to understand your options before making a purchase. Understanding Nintendo Switch 2 Console Types in Japan Japan offers two main types of Nintendo Switch 2 systems: the Japanese-Language System (exclusive to Japan) and the Multi-Language System.

The Japanese-Language System is generally available at a lower cost—priced at approximately 20,000 yen less than its multi-language counterpart—but it comes with key restrictions.

Users can only switch the interface language to Japanese, and only Nintendo Accounts set to Japan are eligible for linkage, limiting access exclusively to the Japanese Nintendo eShop. In contrast, the Multi-Language System, functionally identical to models sold outside of Japan, allows users to choose from multiple system languages and link Nintendo Accounts from any region.

This version also grants access to the Japanese eShop, making it a more versatile choice for many gamers. Purchasing for Foreign Tourists: What You Need to Know For foreign tourists visiting Japan, Nintendo's purchasing system poses several challenges.

The Japanese-Language System is widely available at major retailers, but given its language and account region restrictions, tourists unable to read Japanese are advised to purchase their Nintendo Switch 2 console in their country of residence.

Buying the Multi-Language System in Japan is not straightforward: it is sold exclusively through the official My Nintendo Store, demanding advance application and compliance with strict requirements.

At the time of writing, travelers face limited availability and arduous eligibility conditions. Additionally, the cost of the Multi-Language System in Japan may exceed international prices due to local taxes.

For short-term visits, the purchase process—often reliant on lottery systems and extensive wait times—can be impractical. Advice for Japanese Residents: Eligibility and Lottery System Japanese residents interested in the Multi-Language System must apply through the My Nintendo Store.

Applicants are selected by lottery, with recurring rounds held every few weeks.

To apply, you must: - Hold a Nintendo Switch Online membership for at least one year - Have an active, paid membership (family group applicants must be the paying member) - Log at least 50 cumulative hours of playtime (excluding demos and free software) as of February 28, 2025 - Set your Nintendo Account region to Japan Eligible applicants are notified of lottery results via email; unsuccessful participants are automatically entered into subsequent rounds, improving future chances of success. For those willing to accept the language and account limitations, the Japanese-Language System is also accessible via official retailers, including Amazon Japan, Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, and Rakuten Books.

Most online and brick-and-mortar stores run lotteries, with requirements and odds varying.

Outlets in less populous areas may provide better chances of securing a console.

Frequent locations running such lotteries include Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, GEO, Don Quijote, Toys R Us, Joshin, Yamada Denki, TSUTAYA, Sofmap, and WonderGOO. Final Recommendations For most Japanese residents, the Multi-Language System provides broader flexibility and fewer limitations, especially for those with Nintendo Accounts tied to regions outside Japan.

Tourists are strongly urged to purchase the Nintendo Switch 2 in their home countries.

Although the Japanese-Language System offers potential cost savings, its restrictions on language and account access—as well as high demand and limited supply—make it less ideal for non-Japanese speakers and short-term visitors. Stay updated by visiting the official My Nintendo Store and reputable Japanese retailers for the most current availability and eligibility details.

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