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Tokyo: Game Boy Mod Workshop in Akihabara (Original/Advance)

2h5.0 / 5 · 168 reviews on Viator / Tripadvisor
Tokyo: Game Boy Mod Workshop in Akihabara (Original/Advance)
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Tokyo: Game Boy Mod Workshop in Akihabara (Original/Advance)

About this experience

1)Dive into the world of retro gaming in Tokyo's Akihabara district 2)Choose your console: the original Game Boy (DMG) or Game Boy Advance (GBA) 3)Mod and customize it with a backlit IPS screen, custom shell, and buttons 4)Learn about the history and technology behind Nintendo's handheld consoles 5)Take home your personalized Game Boy and enjoy classic cartridges on-site

What to expect

Customize and mod a classic Game Boy in this hands-on workshop in Akihabara, Tokyo's iconic gaming district. Choose your console when you book: the original Game Boy (DMG-01) or the Game Boy Advance (GBA). Guided by passionate English-speaking staff, you'll explore the history and craftsmanship behind Nintendo's legendary handhelds. No experience needed. Rather than building from scratch, you'll carefully mod a pre-tested console — installing a backlit IPS screen, swapping buttons, and choosing your own shell from a range of colors. The DMG session runs about 2 hours and the GBA session about 2.5 hours. The guides are true enthusiasts, sharing stories about rare cartridges, 90s classics, and the global Gameboy modding scene in a relaxed, small-group setting. After completing your build, test it on the spot with classic game cartridges — then take your one-of-a-kind console home as the best souvenir from Tokyo. 【BtoB welcome】 Corporate partnerships are welcome. We partner with travel agencies, hotels, and other agents.

    What’s included

    • Backlit IPS screen, installed during your session
    • Custom shell color of your choice
    • All parts, tools, and your console (Original Game Boy or Game Boy Advance) — yours to keep
    • Hands-on, step-by-step guidance from passionate, English-speaking staff
    • Classic game cartridges to play on-site during the workshop

    Not included

    • Public transportation

    Tour & ticket options

    Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.

    Tokyo: Original Game Boy mod

    Duration: 2 hours Original Game Boy and mod kit

    Tokyo: Game Boy Advance Mod

    Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes Game Boy Advance and mod kit

    Meeting & pickup

    • The workshop is located on the 7th floor of Le Nid Kanda. Please use the address provided to find the building. At the ground-floor entrance, enter 701 on the intercom keypad and press the call button. Our staff will unlock the door — then take the elevator to the 7th floor.

    End point

    • The workshop is located on the 7th floor of Le Nid Kanda. Please use the address provided to find the building. At the ground-floor entrance, enter 701 on the intercom keypad and press the call button. Our staff will unlock the door — then take the elevator to the 7th floor.

    Before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Cancellation policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.