A Farewell to a Gaming Landmark
After more than 30 years as an iconic fixture in Tokyo’s Akihabara district, GiGO Akihabara Building 1 is set to close on August 31, 2025. The closure comes as its fixed-term lease expires, ending the run of this beloved red-bricked arcade.
A Storied History
This building first opened in October 1992 as High‑Tech Land Sega Shintoku, later rebranding over time to Club Sega Akihabara and Sega Akihabara Building 1 before adopting the GiGO name following Genda’s acquisition of Sega’s amusement business in 2022.
Its vibrant red facade has long been a visual landmark, welcoming gaming and pop culture fans from Japan and abroad.
Why the Closure?
According to Genda GiGO Entertainment’s statement, the closure is purely due to the expiration of the building’s lease. There’s no indication that renewal negotiations were ongoing.
What Comes Next?
Matahari Entertainment, known for operating the Silk Hat arcade chain, will take over the location and open another amusement facility on the same site.
Meanwhile, Genda will continue running its other Akihabara arcades—GiGO Buildings 2, 3, and 5.
A New Beginning Elsewhere
Coinciding with the closure, Genda is opening a brand-new, three-story arcade in Fuchu, Tokyo. The GiGO Fuchu arcade launched mid-July 2025, featuring crane games, experience games, purikura booths, music and medal games—a modern take on the classic arcade experience.
Why This Matters to Fans
- The closure marks the end of Akihabara’s last full‑building Sega‑originated arcade — a tangible piece of gaming and Otaku history.
- Yet, the district lives on. The legacy continues through other nearby arcades—especially GiGO Building 3—still a favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts.
- The transformation of the site into a new entertainment venue ensures that Akihabara’s vibrant spirit remains, even as landmarks evolve.
While the closure of GiGO Building 1 marks the end of a nostalgic chapter, it also signals transformation and renewal—both for Genda with its Fuchu expansion and for Akihabara’s ever-evolving landscape. Fans are encouraged to experience one last visit before August 31, and then explore the refreshed arcade, entertainment future at that iconic site.
PADDYLAST INC. 