Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, a hidden sanctuary for die-hard Nintendo fans has been unveiled. '84 Hashi', originally a clandestine meeting place for gaming industry professionals, has opened its doors to the public. Here, visitors can become immersed in a rich trove of Nintendo history and engage with gaming artifacts usually reserved for industry insiders.
The origin of '84 Hashi' lies in its name, which pays homage to the final level of the original Super Mario Bros. game (eight-four) and its owner, Toru Hashimoto, a former Nintendo employee. For years, the cafe acted primarily as a members-only venue where titans of the gaming sphere would gather to socialize amid a backdrop of priceless Nintendo memorabilia. The buzz about this clandestine spot circulated mostly through hushed conversations among Japanese gaming enthusiasts, but all that has changed now.
'84 Hashi' opened its doors in 2015 but remained an enclosed club until Hashimoto introduced the '84tour,' a chance for tourists to enter this hidden world. After a three-year delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the cafe now welcomes gaming enthusiasts from around the globe. Reservations are a must to partake in this 90-minute intimate experience, with a fee of approximately 9999 yen—translating to just under £60 or $75 USD.
Upon entering '84 Hashi', one is instantly transported to a cozy, homelike setting replete with large sofas and intimate snapshots of the owner with his esteemed former colleagues. However, the true value of the cafe lies not in its unassuming ambiance but in its treasure trove of gaming history. Adorning the walls are one-of-a-kind artworks and autographs from influential figures in the Japanese gaming industry, including Nintendo veterans such as Eiji Aonuma, Koji Kondo, and Shigeru Miyamoto.
The walls of '84 Hashi' showcase autographed art of characters like Link, alongside sheet music from iconic games, and even signature-adorned copies of seminal titles. Among these, a particular piece by Miyamoto featuring Mario seated for a meal with Super Mario 84 scrawled across the top, resonates with visitors. Beyond Nintendo, the cafe boasts artifacts from other gaming legends like Fumito Ueda and Game Freak's Junichi Masuda.
Hashimoto's own journeys through the gaming world are encapsulated within a cabinet offering gaming souvenirs and rarities—highlights of which include the Panasonic Q, a Japan-exclusive DVD/GameCube console, and other collectibles such as a special Nintendo 64 branded lighter gifted at an E3 conference. These items orbit a plethora of autographed Pokémon cards and an unaffixed cartridge sticker for the Super Mario Bros. game.
As though the main space wasn't enigmatic enough, even the bathroom at '84 Hashi' is lined with artwork from famous artists. Conceivably less expected, guests can purchase exclusive cafe-themed merchandise, such as a unique '84 stamp book', while enjoying broadcasted retro gaming advertisements.
Toru Hashimoto himself is a walking history of Nintendo, having contributed to hits such as Yoshi’s Island and Pokémon Red and Green. His role with the Super Mario Club, Nintendo's internal debugging team, solidified his position within the gaming world. Despite his efforts often not being individually credited, Hashimoto cherishes his involvement anytime the Super Mario Club is recognized.
The essence of Hashimoto's journey is woven into every corner of '84 Hashi'. From his camaraderie with fellow Nintendo stalwarts to his shared meals and drinks with a circle of friends from the company, his café embodies the very culture of gaming collaboration and community.
The purpose of opening '84 Hashi' to public tours surpasses the display of memorabilia; it's a bridge connecting people through shared passions. Hashimoto believes games are a universal language capable of transcending barriers, and he hopes '84 Hashi' tours foster bonds between individuals from diverse backgrounds.
'84 Hashi' has now become more than a mere curiosity within Tokyo's gaming scene—it's an essential pilgrimage site for anyone devoted to Nintendo and the broader history of video games. This is a place where memories are stoked, conversations sparked, and the legacy of an industry celebrated, all within the confines of a simple yet extraordinary café. For enthusiasts heading to Tokyo, a visit to '84 Hashi' offers a chance to indulge in nostalgia and connect with the spirited heart of gaming's past.
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