How to get Nintendo Museum tickets in 2026

The Nintendo Museum in Uji, Kyoto sells tickets through a monthly lottery rather than a first-come sale. You cannot simply buy them the moment they drop, and you cannot buy them at the door.

Understanding the lottery calendar — and the leftover-ticket sale that follows it — is the key to actually getting in.

When it opens in your timezone

There is no on-sale rush minute for the lottery itself. The times that matter are the results announcement on the 1st and the payment deadline at 23:59 JST on the 7th of the month before your visit. Note both in your own timezone: a won ticket is forfeited if you miss the payment window, which can fall on an awkward hour outside Japan.

Step by step

1. 1
   Create a free Nintendo Account

   You need one to apply, and it requires a mobile number for verification. Set it up before applications open.
2. 2
   Apply during the window

   Applications open about three months ahead. You can pick up to three preferred dates and time slots to improve your odds.
3. 3
   Check results on the 1st

   The draw happens on the 1st of the month before your visit. Winners are notified by email and must pay by 23:59 on the 7th.
4. 4
   If you lose, watch for the leftover sale

   Unclaimed and cancelled tickets go on first-come general sale roughly two weeks after results. Check the ticketing site regularly.

Watch out for

• •It is a lottery — applying early does not help your odds, but missing the window means no entry at all.
• •Winners who miss the payment deadline lose the ticket; set a reminder for the 7th.

Official site: Nintendo Museum (Uji)

Frequently asked questions

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