Playing card games in Japan as a visitor
Japanese card shops are also places to play. Many have a play space, and thousands hold official events every week. Here is how to join in.
Play spaces
- Many card shops have tables for playing, called a duel space (デュエルスペース) or play space. Some are free, some charge a small fee, and some ask you to buy something first.
- Large tournament centers, such as Hareruya's in Takadanobaba (Tokyo) and Umeda (Osaka) and the Batoroco tournament centers, have hundreds of seats.
- Bring your own sleeves and dice. Ask staff before sitting down if you are not sure about the rules of the space.
Official events
| Game | Events at shops | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Pokémon | Shops marked "Pokémon Card Gym" on our map hold official gym battles | An account on the official Pokémon Card Game Players Club site, where events are listed and entered |
| ONE PIECE | Official shops and many card shops hold Bandai events | The BANDAI TCG+ app, which is used to find events, apply, register decks and check in (its guide site is also in English) |
| Yu-Gi-Oh! | Card shops hold OCG events | The Yu-Gi-Oh! Neuron app with a Card Game ID. You reserve, check in at the shop by scanning a QR code, and a draw is held if too many people apply. Only Japanese OCG cards can be used |
Registration screens are mostly in Japanese, and some events have limited places or are for children only. Read the event details, and set up accounts before your trip.
Manners
- Arrive before the check-in time. Events start on time.
- Japanese players are generally quiet during games. Learn a few phrases: よろしくお願いします (yoroshiku onegaishimasu) before a game and ありがとうございました (arigatō gozaimashita) after.
- Card language rules differ by game. Bring the version of your deck the event allows.
Find shops with a Pokémon Card Gym badge on the card shop map.
Last updated 2026-10-06.