The iconic Sega Arcade in Akihabara will be closing for good on August 30, 2020. Also known as the Sega Building 2, this iconic landmark has been featured in numerous video game backgrounds set in modern day Japan. While Sega has issued a notice of closure, the reason for the permanent closing of the building has not been disclosed. [Thanks, SoraNews24!]
Update: The article image has been changed to reflect the correct Sega arcade building.
セガ秋葉原2号館（旧GiGO）8/30をもって閉店。#艦これ アーケードの広告が印象的だった秋葉原セガ5店舗のうちのひとつ pic.twitter.com/5AoMS434Hf
— ﾂﾙﾐﾛﾎﾞ (@kaztsu) August 1, 2020
Closure of the Sega Building 2 had been announced on August 1, 2020. However, the information had come via a sign posted on the door of the building. A Japanese Twitter user posted an image of said notice, which Japanese news website SoraNews24 translated. You can read the translation below.
“Notice of closure
Thank you for your continued patronage. We are sorry to announce that this branch, Sega Akihabara Building 2, will be closing.
Our last day of operations will be Sunday, August 30.
The entire staff wishes to express, from the bottom of our hearts, our sincere gratitude at the loving support you have given our establishment for so many years.”
It is important to note that while the Sega Building 2 is something of a notable landmark for many tourists, it isn’t the only Sega Arcade in Akihabara. So if you have your heart set on visiting a Sega Arcade in Akihabara, you’ll still be able to fulfill your wish. It just won’t be at the Sega Building 2.
The Sega Arcade in Akihabara first opened its doors in 2003. Since its opening the building has become something of an iconic landmark, featuring various advertisements over the years. Additionally, the Sega Building 2 has been a featured location in various games as a backdrop or even as a visible location. So even those who haven’t been to the arcade in person, may have experienced it tangentially. Either way, that may be the only way to visit this iconic Sega Arcade in Akihabara after its closing.
