Sega Arcade Akihabara Building 2 in Japan to close shop after 17 years

Sega has confirmed on its official website that the iconic Sega Arcade Akihabara Building 2 in Tokyo, Japan will be permanently closing its doors to its loyal patrons on August 30.

Although Sega did not disclose the reason behind the forthcoming closure of the iconic landmark in Tokyo, some are speculating that the cause might be because of the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to force thousands of people inside their homes.

Days before Sega's confirmation, however, news about its impending closure already made rounds on social media after a visitor of the arcade hub saw a sign inside the establishment informing its loyal customers that the building will permanently cease operations by the end of the month.

Despite its inevitable closure, the staff of Sega Arcade Akihabara Building 2 will be holding special events in the following weeks to celebrate the 17-year legacy of the iconic gaming hub with its loyal patrons.

The Sega Arcade Akihabara Building No. 2 (originally called Akihabara Kigo) became a tourist spot and a widely-popular gaming hub for players across Japan since it first opened in 2003.