Ikebukuro’s Adores Sunshine Arcade to Close After 40 Years
The Adores Sunshine game center in Ikebukuro, run by Wide Leisure, announced on October 14 that it will close after 40 years in business, citing various circumstances. Its final day of operation will be January 18, 2026.
The arcade sits just a few minutes from the east exit of JR Ikebukuro station, in the former Cinema Sunshine building. Fans of the chain can take some comfort in knowing that the nearby Adores Wako and Adores Shibuya locations will keep running.
The closure is part of a broader trend. Many Japanese arcades have struggled in recent years, with foot traffic falling sharply during the pandemic and a string of well known venues shutting their doors.
Akihabara alone has seen major changes, with several long standing Sega and GiGO arcades closing since 2020. Some sites have found new life, such as the former Sega Akihabara location that reopened as GiGO Akihabara, while others have closed for good as their leases expired.
In the case of the Adores Sunshine building, Matahari Entertainment is reported to be planning a new amusement facility for the space.
My take: It is always a little sad to see a beloved arcade go after so many years. These places hold so many memories, so I hope longtime regulars get to enjoy a few last visits before it closes.
