If you want to buy a Nintendo Switch 2 in Japan, you need to know that there are two main versions: a Japanese-language only system and a multi-language system. The Japanese-language version is much easier to find but comes with restrictions like only supporting Japanese and locking you to Japanese Nintendo accounts.
The multi-language version allows more language options and access to other region accounts but is much harder to get.
Most retailers in Japan sell the Japanese-language version through lotteries, making the buying process tricky, especially for short visits. If you don’t speak Japanese, the best choice is usually to buy the Switch 2 in your home country instead.
I will guide you through where and how to find each version, how these lotteries work, and what you should consider before buying.
How to Buy Switch 2 in Japan
Understanding Nintendo Switch 2 Availability in Japan
Buying a Nintendo Switch 2 console in Japan requires knowing how stock is managed, what model types exist, and how pricing works. These details affect how easy it is to get the console and what kind of system you will end up with.
Latest Release and Stock Updates
The Switch 2 launched recently in Japan, but its availability is limited. Most retailers hold lotteries for the console, so you often cannot buy it directly.
This system is in place due to high demand and limited supply. Lotteries can last several weeks, and winning one is uncertain.
Major retailers like Amazon Japan and Yodobashi Camera run these lotteries. Online stock updates are rare, so tracking availability requires patience.
At times, stock outside cities may be easier to get. Visiting stores in smaller towns could increase chances.
Still, most buyers should prepare for delays or limited options.
Differences Between Japanese and International Models
Nintendo Switch 2 consoles sold in Japan come in two main types: the Japanese-Language System and the Multi-Language System.
The Japanese-Language System costs about 20,000 yen less. However, it only supports Japanese as the system language.
You also must link accounts set to Japan, limiting access to the Japanese eShop only. The Multi-Language System has no language limits.
It supports multiple languages and allows accounts from other regions. In Japan, it sells mainly through the My Nintendo Store via lottery and is more expensive.
Pricing and Currency Conversion
Pricing varies between the two Nintendo Switch 2 models. The Japanese-Language System is priced around ¥49,980.
The Multi-Language System sells for about ¥69,980 on the official My Nintendo Store. Prices may seem low compared to other countries, partly because the yen has weakened recently.
After conversion and added taxes, the cost can be similar to buying in your home country. Taxes and import fees should be considered if purchasing outside Japan.
The cheaper Japanese version might not be worth the limits if you plan on using it abroad or linking non-Japanese accounts. Always check the latest exchange rates and fees before deciding where to buy your Switch 2 console.
Best Places to Buy Switch 2 in Japan
It’s Sunday in Japan, that means Nintendo Switch 2 launches NEXT WEEK pic.twitter.com/4sEE1M14Px
— Tokyo Game Life (@TokyoGameLife) May 25, 2025
When I look for a Switch 2 in Japan, I focus on key spots where stock is reliable and prices are clear. These include large retail stores, trusted online sites, and official Nintendo outlets.
Each option fits different needs, whether I want a quick pick-up or exclusive editions.
Major Retail Stores
Big electronics chains like Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera are my go-to places for buying a Switch 2. They have many locations in Tokyo, Osaka, and other cities.
Both stores offer tax-free shopping if you bring your passport, which is nice as a tourist. Bic Camera often has bundle deals with accessories.
Yodobashi Camera stands out for a wide selection and points you can collect for future use. I also check GEO for second-hand consoles if I want a cheaper option.
Don Quijote sometimes has discounted stock, especially at bigger stores in Tokyo parts like Shibuya. Staff at these stores can often help in English, which makes buying easier.
I usually try to arrive early to avoid sold-out situations.
Online Marketplaces
When I prefer shopping from my hotel or home, I use major online marketplaces such as Amazon Japan, Rakuten, and Yodobashi Online. These sites offer delivery across Japan, sometimes even to hotels, which makes it very convenient.
Amazon Japan frequently bundles the Switch 2 with games or accessories. Rakuten lets me earn points and offers seasonal discounts.
Yodobashi Online matches in-store stock and gives me tax-free options. Using online shopping means I can compare prices and availability quickly.
If I’m outside Japan, I rely on proxy shipping services to handle delivery.
Official Nintendo Stores
The Nintendo Official Store Japan is where I go for exclusive Switch 2 versions and limited editions. Pre-orders usually start here, and the store sometimes offers special bundles that you won’t find elsewhere.
This store is mainly online, and it requires a Japanese account for some products. The language settings on the Switch 2 can be changed to English, so buying here is easy even if you don’t speak Japanese.
I note that the official store sometimes sells multilingual versions via lotteries, so I keep an eye on announcements if I want one.
How to Purchase Switch 2 from Overseas
Nintendo released the first Switch 2 commercial in Japan! pic.twitter.com/U8ZlzdiHdw
— Stealth (@Stealth40k) April 18, 2025
Buying a Nintendo Switch 2 from Japan when you live abroad requires planning. You need to think about how to order, shipping methods, costs, and possible customs fees.
Choosing the right buying and shipping option can save you time and money.
Using Proxy Buying Services
I found that using a proxy buying service is the easiest way to get a Switch 2 from Japan. These services act as middlemen.
You order the console from Japanese stores, and the proxy handles payment and shipping. This is useful because some Japanese retailers only sell to local customers.
Popular proxy services like Sendico offer features like package consolidation. That means if you buy multiple items, they ship them together, which lowers shipping costs.
The proxy will give you tracking information and handle customs paperwork. With proxies, I can access Japan-exclusive Switch 2 bundles or limited editions.
Some services also help you buy Japanese eShop cards, which you need for digital downloads if your console is linked to the Japanese store.
International Shipping Considerations
When shipping a Switch 2 internationally, I pay close attention to shipping costs and delivery times. Japan-based retailers and proxies offer various shipping methods, from fast courier services to slower, cheaper options.
I choose based on urgency and budget. Customs duties and taxes may also apply depending on my country's import rules.
I always check beforehand to avoid unexpected fees. Another thing is power adapters.
The Switch 2 uses a USB-C charger that generally works worldwide, but I confirm voltage compatibility just in case. I also verify the console’s region settings.
The Switch 2 is region-free for games, so software works anywhere. But one version sold in Japan may limit language options or Nintendo eShop access, so I make sure to buy the global version if I want full English support.
Region Locking and Compatibility
The Japan-only version of the Nintendo Switch 2 only costs around $343 USD
— Dexerto (@Dexerto) April 5, 2025
That makes it over $100 cheaper than the U.S. version pic.twitter.com/Uj0UeEJMOQ
When buying the Nintendo Switch 2 in Japan, understanding region locking and language options is crucial. These details affect what games you can play and how the console works outside Japan.
Region-Locked vs Region-Free Models
The Japanese Nintendo Switch 2 is mostly region-locked. This means it generally supports only games and content made for the Japanese market.
If you buy a Japanese Switch 2, games from other regions may not work properly or at all. Nintendo has not fully confirmed whether some foreign game cards might work, but the safest bet is that the Japanese version will only run Japanese game cards.
This also applies to downloadable content (DLC), which usually must match the game’s region to function correctly. The move to region lock the Japanese model aims to stop people from buying cheaper consoles in Japan and reselling them abroad.
In contrast, some other versions of the Nintendo Switch 2 sold globally might be region-free, allowing games from multiple regions. Always check the console details before buying.
Language Options and Console Features
The Japanese Switch 2 console comes with Japanese as the only official system language. This means the menus, settings, and system-wide features are designed for Japanese users.
Playing games from other regions with different language settings can cause compatibility issues. To use the Japanese Switch 2 properly, you also need a Japanese Nintendo account.
This account ties into the eShop and online services, and switching regions could be difficult. If you want to use digital content, you’ll need Japanese eShop cards or payment methods.
Buying a controller or other accessories is straightforward, but some exclusive content might only be available in Japan.
Before buying a Japanese model, I recommend confirming your language needs and compatibility with the games you plan to play.
Setting Up and Using the Nintendo eShop in Japan
Nintendo Switch 2 units are hitting stores in Japan! Wild to finally see one up close after all this time! pic.twitter.com/tTS2uKhgqi
— Tokyo Game Life (@TokyoGameLife) May 18, 2025
To use the Nintendo eShop in Japan, you need a Japanese Nintendo Account and ways to add funds. This lets you buy games and content designed for the Japanese market on your Nintendo Switch 2.
Setting up your account and understanding how to purchase eShop cards are key steps.
Creating a Japanese Nintendo Account
First, I create a new Nintendo Account with its country region set to Japan. This must be done on the official Nintendo website and cannot be done from the Switch console itself.
Changing the region requires no unspent balance on your current account, so clearing your funds is necessary before switching. After setting up the account, I add it to my Nintendo Switch 2 as a new user profile.
Linking the Japanese account allows me to access the Japanese eShop and buy region-specific games. It’s important that the console is activated as the primary unit for that account, so the games will be playable on any profile on the switch.
Purchasing and Redeeming Nintendo eShop Cards
To fund purchases, I get Japanese Nintendo eShop cards. These cards are sold online or at various Japanese stores.
Adding funds from these cards avoids issues with Japanese payment methods like credit cards or PayPal, which often require a Japanese billing address. Redeeming the card is simple.
I enter the code in the Japanese eShop under “Redeem code.” Once redeemed, the funds are added to my Japanese account, giving me instant access to the full range of digital content in Japan’s eShop.
This method is fast and reliable for buying games on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Exclusive Games and Bundles Only in Japan
Nintendo’s efforts to prevent Switch 2 scalping in Japan:
— Tokyo Game Life (@TokyoGameLife) May 27, 2025
+ Japan language only models
+ Multilanguage model at a higher price and only available online
+ Lottery system for preorders
+ Teaming up with auction sites to hamper resales
Pretty effective methods I gotta say pic.twitter.com/STApmBPf0X
When buying a Switch 2 in Japan, you get access to special game bundles and titles that aren't available elsewhere. These include limited edition packs and unique versions of popular games tailored for the Japanese market.
Mario Kart World Bundle
One standout exclusive is the Mario Kart World Bundle. This bundle includes the latest Mario Kart release specially designed for the Switch 2.
It often comes with themed accessories like unique Joy-Con colors and a matching carrying case. The bundle is priced competitively and offers extras not sold internationally, such as in-game content only unlocked with this pack.
You’ll find this bundle mainly in big stores like Bic Camera or Yodobashi, and sometimes on the Nintendo official store in Japan.
Other Japanese Exclusive Titles
Japan also has exclusive Switch 2 games that you won’t find outside the country.
These include local indie games and special editions of major titles.
Some games are only released with Japanese language support and unique artwork.
These titles often include collaborations with local franchises or events.
If you like collecting rare or limited games, stores like Sofmap and GEO carry these exclusives.
Online stores such as Amazon Japan and Rakuten also provide access but may not always ship internationally without a proxy.
