Pikachu, the beloved Pokémon mascot, is making a surprising appearance at the soon-to-open Nintendo Museum in Kyoto's Uji city. Discover the charming world of Poké Lids, adorning streets across Japan.
Nintendo Museum Unveils Unique Poké Lid
Pikachu's Playful Poké Lid Debut
Prepare for a unique Pokémon discovery! The new Nintendo Museum in Kyoto boasts a special Pokémon manhole cover featuring Pikachu.
These artistic manhole covers, affectionately known as Poké Lids or Pokéfuta, are a nationwide phenomenon, adding a touch of Pokémon charm to city sidewalks. Many depict Pokémon associated with specific regions. The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid celebrates both Nintendo's legacy and the enduring popularity of Pokémon.
The design cleverly incorporates Pikachu and a Pokéball emerging from a classic Game Boy, surrounded by pixel art, evoking the nostalgia of early gaming.
The Poké Lids even have their own intriguing backstory. According to the Poké Lid website, their appearance is shrouded in mystery: "Rumor has it that Diglett might be responsible for digging some of the holes, and artists are marking the covers to distinguish them from ordinary ones."
The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid is part of a growing trend. Many Japanese cities use these colorful covers to enhance their appeal to tourists and locals alike. Fukuoka features an Alolan Dugtrio Poké Lid, while Ojiya City showcases Magikarp, its shiny form, and its evolution, Gyarados. Adding to the fun, many Poké Lids are also Pokémon GO PokéStops, allowing players to collect postcards.
This initiative is part of Japan's Pokémon Local Acts campaign, using Pokémon to promote regional tourism and highlight local landscapes. Poké Lids take this further, creating unique and eye-catching utility covers. With over 250 installed, the campaign continues to grow.
The campaign began in December 2018 with an Eevee celebration in Kagoshima Prefecture. It expanded nationwide in July 2019, featuring a diverse range of Pokémon.
The Nintendo Museum opens October 2nd, celebrating Nintendo's history from playing cards to gaming giant. Visitors are challenged to locate the Pikachu Poké Lid!
For more on the Nintendo Museum, see our related article!
