Pikachu Manhole Was Not an Expected Combination of Words, But Here We Are

Pikachu, the iconic Pokémon, is making a unique appearance at the soon-to-open Nintendo Museum in Kyoto's Uji city. This isn't your typical Pokémon sighting; discover the charming world of Poké Lids in Japan.

Nintendo Museum Unveils a Special Poké Lid

Pikachu's Playful Poké Lid Debut

Prepare for a ground-level Pokémon adventure! The new Nintendo Museum in Kyoto features a special Pokémon manhole cover starring Pikachu.

Poké Lids, or Pokéfuta, are beautifully designed manhole covers showcasing various Pokémon. These artistic additions grace sidewalks across Japan, often featuring Pokémon associated with the local area. The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid celebrates Nintendo's history and Pokémon's enduring appeal.

The design cleverly incorporates Pikachu and a Poké Ball emerging from a classic Game Boy, surrounded by pixelated graphics, capturing the nostalgia of early gaming.

The Poké Lids themselves have inspired intriguing stories. According to the Poké Lid website, "These artistic utility hole covers have recently appeared in several cities. Are they of Pokémonopolistic origin? Legend whispers that Diglett might be responsible for some of the holes, leading artists to 'mark' these covers to distinguish them."

The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid isn't the first. Many Japanese cities use these colorful covers to enhance their areas and draw tourists. Fukuoka features an Alolan Dugtrio Poké Lid, while Ojiya City showcases Magikarp, its Shiny form, and Gyarados. Adding to the fun, many Poké Lids serve as PokéStops in Pokémon GO, letting players collect and share postcards.

Poké Lids are part of Japan's Pokémon Local Acts campaign, using Pokémon to represent different regions and boost local economies while highlighting regional geography.

Each Poké Lid boasts a unique Pokémon design. With over 250 installed, the campaign continues to grow.

The initiative started in December 2018 with an Eevee celebration in Kagoshima Prefecture. In July 2019, it expanded nationwide, featuring a wider range of Pokémon.

The Nintendo Museum opens October 2nd, celebrating Nintendo's century-long history, from its playing card origins to its gaming empire. Visitors have a special challenge: find the Pikachu Poké Lid!

Learn more about the Nintendo Museum in our related article!