Inside Bar 84: Tokyo’s Exclusive Nintendo-Themed Hideout for Video Game Legends

In the heart of Tokyo’s bustling cityscape lies Bar 84, a discreet and highly exclusive venue that has garnered a cult following among Nintendo fans and industry professionals alike.

Known informally as Hashi (the number 84 in Japanese), this establishment is famed for its unique blend of secrecy and nostalgia, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the world of iconic video game memorabilia and a chance to walk in the footsteps of gaming legends. Bar 84 operates with a strict membership system designed to preserve its mystique.

According to a feature by Tofugu, access to the bar is so limited that only current members can bring a guest.

Achieving membership is itself a rite of passage: a patron must visit Bar 84 five separate times, and during the process, meet with the bar’s owner on two occasions to ensure a personal connection is established. Inside, the bar is a veritable museum for Nintendo enthusiasts.

The walls are adorned with an extensive collection of rare Nintendo and video game collectibles.

Of particular note are original artworks signed by some of the industry’s most influential creators, including Shigeru Miyamoto—the mastermind behind the Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda series—Ken Sugimori, celebrated for his work on Pokémon character design, and Masahiro Sakurai, known for developing the Super Smash Bros.

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Each piece signifies a story in gaming history, cementing Bar 84’s status as a cornerstone of Japan’s broader gaming culture. The allure of Bar 84 extends far beyond its Nintendo memorabilia.

The venue has become a nexus for creative minds across multiple industries, frequently welcoming not only Nintendo employees but also notable manga artists, musicians, and passionate fans.

These gatherings, often shrouded in secrecy, add to the bar’s enigmatic reputation and contribute to its rich atmosphere. Bar 84 has thus established itself as more than just a bar—it is a hidden cultural landmark that celebrates the enduring legacy of Nintendo and Japan’s pivotal role in shaping the global gaming industry.

For those seeking an authentic connection to gaming history, Bar 84 remains one of Tokyo’s best-kept secrets.

For more in-depth insights and photographs, Tofugu provides an excellent resource showcasing the bar’s unique interior and renowned memorabilia collection.

Nintendo Shigeru Miyamoto Tokyo Ken Inside Miyamoto Bar 84 Ken Sugimori Masahiro Sakurai Tofugu