KAWASAKI, Japan—Turn-based card games like Yu-Gi-Oh! and Pokémon boast an international following, offering a prime example of Japanese soft power.

As a Mexican American card games expert, I was excited for the opportunity to play Yu-Gi-Oh! in the land where it all started, Japan.

In Kawasaki, players can engage in pick-up games at venues like Tsutaya Bookstore, where the back of the store includes tables where players can enjoy a friendly game or two.

Despite a possible language barrier, the cards are the same internationally, allowing foreign players like me to engage in friendly games with local card game enthusiasts. During my visit, I found local players who were more than willing to play with me.

Near the play area, the store boasts an extensive—and beautiful—card collection that includes not only Yu-Gi-Oh! cards but also cards for games like Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, One Piece and a host of other card-based games.

To find the play area at the Kawasaki shop, head to the back of the store. The front of the store has an extensive collection of books covering a variety of genres