Hirose Entertainment Station
Tokyo's ultimate arcade destination in Akihabara, offering multiple floors of retro and modern games, from fighting to rhythm and shmups.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more game time
Hirose Entertainment Station
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more game time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tokyo's ultimate arcade destination in Akihabara, offering multiple floors of retro and modern games, from fighting to rhythm and shmups.
"The greatest arcade on the planet. If it's not here and worth playing, it doesn't exist."
Card System Clarity
The arcade card system can be confusing for non-Japanese speakers. Ask staff for help if you plan to play many games. :ticket:
UFO Catcher Wins
Don't be discouraged by UFO catchers; some are 100 yen and staff are helpful if you struggle. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fighting Game Mecca
Multiple Floors
From Street Fighter 2 to 6, Tekken, Guilty Gear, and Virtua Fighter, find every fighting game imaginable. Even obscure titles and multi-game cabinets are here.
Shmup and Rhythm Game Heaven
Dedicated Floors
An entire floor dedicated to shmups (shoot 'em ups) and a wide array of rhythm games like Taiko no Tatsujin await.
UFO Catcher Extravaganza
First Floor
The first floor is packed with UFO catchers (crane games), with some machines costing only 100 yen and offering a real chance to win prizes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Akihabara's Arcade Paradise
Navigating the Game Floors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Card System Clarity
The arcade card system can be confusing for non-Japanese speakers. Ask staff for help if you plan to play many games. :ticket:
UFO Catcher Wins
Don't be discouraged by UFO catchers; some are 100 yen and staff are helpful if you struggle. :moneybag:
Genre Exploration
Explore all floors to find your favorite games, from retro classics to the latest rhythm and fighting titles. :video_game:
Akihabara's Gaming Hub
Considered one of Tokyo's best arcades, it's a must-visit for any serious gamer. :star:
Looking for arcades with actual video games in Tokyo
Tips
from all over the internet
Card System Clarity
The arcade card system can be confusing for non-Japanese speakers. Ask staff for help if you plan to play many games. :ticket:
UFO Catcher Wins
Don't be discouraged by UFO catchers; some are 100 yen and staff are helpful if you struggle. :moneybag:
Genre Exploration
Explore all floors to find your favorite games, from retro classics to the latest rhythm and fighting titles. :video_game:
Akihabara's Gaming Hub
Considered one of Tokyo's best arcades, it's a must-visit for any serious gamer. :star:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hirose Entertainment Station is widely hailed as one of the greatest arcades on the planet, a true paradise for gamers with an unparalleled selection of titles across all genres. Visitors rave about the extensive fighting game library, dedicated shmup floors, and the surprisingly winnable UFO catchers. While the arcade card system can be a minor hurdle for some, the helpful staff and the sheer joy of playing make it an unforgettable experience.
"The greatest arcade on the planet. If it's not here and worth playing, it doesn't exist. An entire floor just for shmups, beat'em'ups, retro games, fighters, rhythm games, you name it. HEY has it all, it's heaven on earth."
cj
"Fighting games galore.
This arcade is great, it has pretty much anything you could want. A bunch of fighting games including all Street Fighters from 2 to even 6, Tekken, Guilty Gear, Virtua Fighter, SNK games, even some random obscure stuff and machines that have multiple games in them. Outside of that, they've got Mariokart Arcade, Taiko no Tatsujin, plenty of Rhythm games, SHMUP games, and so much more. Claw machines all over the first floor.
I do wish it was more clear how to get a card for the arcade, but it also may have helped if I could read Japanese...
Excellent arcade overall, you may even make some new friends here!"
C0Ie Guy
"Don’t be fooled, I just wanted to share it for the first timers: there is a panel right under it so you can’t take it easly."
Eda Berra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hirose Entertainment Station is located in Akihabara, Tokyo. The easiest way to get there is by taking the JR Yamanote Line or Keihin-Tohoku Line to Akihabara Station. From the station, it's a short walk. Many TikTok videos show the vibrant Akihabara streets leading to the arcade.
Yes, Akihabara is a major hub, and Hirose Entertainment Station is conveniently located near the station, making it very accessible via Tokyo's extensive train network.
Look for the distinctive signage. Many visitors find it by following the crowds heading towards the entertainment district. Online maps and GPS on your phone are also reliable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the arcade itself is typically free. You pay per game, either with cash or an arcade card. Some visitors mention confusion about the card system, so be prepared to use cash initially.
Most games accept Japanese Yen coins directly. For a more seamless experience, you can purchase an arcade card, though understanding how to get and load it might require assistance.
Arcades in Akihabara generally operate from late morning until late at night. It's advisable to check their specific hours closer to your visit, as they can vary.
Generally, arcades are open to all ages, but some games might have content ratings. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming for most visitors.
🎫 🎮 Onsite Experience
Hirose Entertainment Station is renowned for its vast selection, including fighting games (Street Fighter, Tekken), shmups, rhythm games (Taiko no Tatsujin), retro classics, and a massive collection of UFO catchers.
Absolutely! The arcade has dedicated floors for retro games, offering a nostalgic trip for enthusiasts and a chance for newcomers to experience gaming history.
Yes, many games, especially fighting and rhythm games, are designed for multiplayer. You can often find cabinets where you can challenge friends or other players.
Its sheer scale, comprehensive collection across all popular genres, and the high concentration of dedicated cabinets for specific game types, like shmups, make it a standout destination.
Yes, staff are often present, especially on the UFO catcher floors, and are known to be helpful, particularly if you're struggling with a game or need assistance with the arcade card system.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography are allowed, especially for personal use. However, be mindful of other players' privacy and avoid obstructing gameplay. Some TikTok creators have shared their experiences.
The vibrant game screens, unique cabinets, and the sheer density of machines offer great photo opportunities. The UFO catcher area on the first floor is also visually striking.
While personal filming is usually fine, professional filming or recording extensive gameplay might require permission. Always be respectful of the space and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place to experience a unique aspect of Japanese pop culture together. Consider focusing on games that are visually engaging or have simple controls. While some fighting games might be intense, there are plenty of other options to keep younger visitors entertained. Remember to keep an eye on your children in the bustling environment, and be prepared for the sensory stimulation of lights and sounds.
💰 Budget Travelers
Prioritize the games that offer the most replayability or that you're most interested in. Instead of trying every game, select a few that truly appeal to you. The sheer variety means you can have a fantastic time exploring different genres without spending a fortune. It's an affordable way to immerse yourself in Tokyo's gaming scene.
🕹️ Retro Game Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore each level, as hidden gems and beloved classics are scattered throughout. The authentic arcade cabinets provide a true retro gaming experience that cannot be replicated on modern consoles. It’s a chance to play these games as they were originally intended, surrounded by the authentic arcade atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Akihabara Gaming
The arcade is particularly famous for its extensive fighting game library, featuring everything from the earliest Street Fighter iterations to the latest installments of Tekken and Guilty Gear. Beyond fighting games, visitors can lose themselves in the hypnotic beats of rhythm games or test their reflexes in the challenging shmup sections, which are often highlighted as a major draw for enthusiasts. The sheer variety and depth of the game selection are what truly set HEY apart, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the evolution and current state of arcade gaming.
Beyond the games themselves, the atmosphere at HEY is electric. The cacophony of game sounds, the flashing lights, and the focused energy of players create a unique sensory experience. While the primary focus is on the games, the first floor is also a popular spot for UFO catchers (crane games), offering a chance to win prizes. Visitors often note the helpfulness of the staff, especially for those unfamiliar with the arcade's payment systems or specific games.
Navigating the Game Floors and Payment
Payment is a key aspect of the arcade experience. While many machines accept Japanese Yen coins directly, a significant portion of the games, especially newer ones, utilize an IC card system. Purchasing and loading these cards can sometimes be a point of confusion for first-time visitors, as noted in some online discussions. It's recommended to observe how others use the machines or to seek assistance from the arcade staff if you're unsure. Despite this potential hurdle, the sheer volume of games available makes the effort worthwhile for dedicated players.
For those looking to maximize their playtime or try a variety of games, understanding the card system is beneficial. However, if you're on a shorter visit or prefer a simpler approach, sticking to coin-operated machines is still a viable and enjoyable option. The staff's willingness to help, as mentioned by many visitors, can alleviate any payment-related stress.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit