Pikachu, the iconic Pokémon mascot, is making a unique appearance at the soon-to-open Nintendo Museum in Kyoto's Uji city. Discover the charming world of Poké Lids, Japan's delightful Pokémon-themed manhole covers.
Nintendo Museum's Unique Poké Lid
Pikachu's Pixelated Debut
Prepare for a ground-level Pokémon adventure! The new Nintendo Museum boasts a special Poké Lid featuring Pikachu, adding a playful touch to its exterior.
Poké Lids, or Pokéfuta, are beautifully designed manhole covers showcasing various Pokémon. These artistic street features, often depicting Pokémon associated with a specific region, have become a popular sight across Japan. The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid celebrates both Nintendo's history and Pokémon's enduring appeal.
The design cleverly incorporates Pikachu and a Pokéball emerging from a classic Game Boy, surrounded by pixelated graphics, evoking the nostalgic charm of early gaming.
The Poké Lids themselves have inspired a unique mythology. As the official Poké Lid website notes, the origin of some covers remains a mystery, with playful speculation about Diglett's potential involvement!
The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid is part of a growing collection. Cities across Japan are using these colorful manhole covers to enhance their appeal to tourists and locals alike. Fukuoka's Alolan Dugtrio Poké Lid and Ojiya City's Magikarp and Gyarados covers are just a few examples. Many Poké Lids also serve as PokéStops in Pokémon GO, allowing players to collect digital postcards.
Poké Lids are a key part of Japan's Pokémon Local Acts campaign, using Pokémon to promote regional tourism and highlight local landscapes.
These specially designed manhole covers, with over 250 installed, are a unique and expanding initiative.
The campaign began in December 2018 with an Eevee celebration in Kagoshima Prefecture. It expanded nationwide in July 2019, featuring a wider range of Pokémon.
Opening October 2nd, the Nintendo Museum celebrates Nintendo's rich history, from its playing card origins to its global gaming empire. Visitors are challenged to find the museum's hidden Pikachu Poké Lid!
For more details on the Nintendo Museum, see our related article!
