Yes, it is true, Anata no Warehouse, legendary dystopian Japanese Arcade is closing down!
It comes as a shock to many, but on the 17. of November this sci-fi themed replica of the Walled City of Kowloon will shut its doors forever. There has not been a lot of communication as to why they are closing, only a sign at the Arcade saying there were “various reasons”. We guess, either way, this is a huge loss, as this Iconic Arcade has been well-loved by many and has been attracting people for the past 14 years.
We recommend if you have not been yet, go visit! It truly is an experience, wheater you are into video games or not. But this is not for Children, 18 Years and over only. Even just walking around exploring the space imitating this abandoned city is amazing!
How to get there?
Make your way to Kawasaki Station, easily accessible from Shinagawa via the “Tokaido Line”. Once you arrive at Kawasaki station take the central east exit. Turn right and walk for about 8min. You will see a 7eleven on your left and just after that you will see rusty giant five-story arcade Anata no Warehouse.
There is really no way you can miss it….
What to expect?
It’s awesome! We mean even if you are not mad into game arcades Anata no Warehouse is definitely worth a visit!
Spanning over 5 floors, you enter in the most Instagram worthy part of the building. Inspired by the Walled City of Kowloon, former Chinese military fort, with a densely populated, famous for its maze-like structure, stairs, ladders and accessible rooftops with screaming Neon lights. It has been credited to be the inspiration behind many dystopian movies such as Blade Runner or Ghost in the Shell. And no effort has been spared to create the same feeling here. Rusty drains and staircases, stained walls, Propaganda Posters, and grimy surfaces. The attention to the detail is really amazing!
1st Floor
Here you can find the red tunnel and the fluorescent pond. This is probably the most photographed and also one of the more difficult ones, as it’s part entrance/exit with a lot of footfall. But patience is key we think and well worth that picture!
2nd Floor
Up on the 2nd floor, we found more Blade Runner like set design. It really transports you into this cyberpunk location. It’s surreal with all the lights from the games competing with this dark grungy background alley.
You can find the dance machines here as well as claw machines. Some filled with rather unusual prices. Fancy some apple juice or crisps? But also high price tag figurines such as dragon ball and one piece.
3rd Floor
On this floor is where the slot machines are and it’s equally a bit noisier. Fascinating to see and busy with customers. Sure, Japanese people do love their pachinko. You also get a second chance to take pictures from the balcony of the downstairs set, another popular photo spot.
4th Floor
Heading up to the 4th floor you will find the most amazing pool and table tennis area. We were in awe! Velvet red tables and the old school black and white flooring made it look like a scene from an old gangster movie!
5th Floor
And last but not least the top floor of this amazing Arcade, reminded us of a scary Hotel lobby, something about that carpet, the shining maybe?
You can grab more substantial cafe-style food here or play dart. Probably the most unspectacular floor compared to the others.
What else?
If you speak Japanese, you can take part in a treasure hunt around the building for 1500¥. But we were told all the answers have to also be written in Japanese so unless you are JLPT N2 or above it would not be worth the money. It did look like a lot of fun though…
Also bonus points for who finds the sleeping lady!
Was it worth the visit?
Totally! It’s one of those surreal places you must visit! And it pains us that they will be closing down on the 17th of November. So if you want to experience the best arcade in the world (yes we love it that much), then make your way to Kawasaki before by the middle of November. Bring coins and your camera and enjoy this unique dystopian space before it shuts its doors forever!
Web
https://www.warehousenet.jp/store/storeinfo.php?id=210
Address
3-7 Nisshincho, Kawasaki Ward, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 210-0024
Important Info
Children are not allowed, 18 Years and over only
Opening hours
| Thursday | 9AM–11:45PM |
| Friday | 9AM–11:45PM |
| Saturday | 7AM–11:45PM |
| Sunday | 7AM–11:45PM |
| Monday | 9AM–11:45PM |
| Tuesday | 9AM–11:45PM |
| Wednesday | 9AM–11:45PM |
