Pikachu Pothole Surprise: Seattle Manhole Makeover

Pikachu, the iconic Pokémon mascot, is making a unique appearance at the upcoming Nintendo Museum in Kyoto's Uji city. Discover the charming world of Poké Lids, Japan's delightful Pokémon-themed manhole covers.

Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid Debut

Pikachu's Playful Poké Lid Appearance

Prepare for a ground-level Pokémon adventure! The new Nintendo Museum boasts a special Pokémon manhole cover featuring 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 popularity.

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 have even inspired their own intriguing backstory. According to the Poké Lid website, their appearance is shrouded in mystery, with speculation about their origin and the possibility of Diglett's involvement.

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 Gyarados. These Poké Lids also serve as PokéStops in Pokémon GO, allowing players to collect postcards.

Poké Lids are part of Japan's Pokémon Local Acts campaign, which uses Pokémon to promote different regions. The campaign aims to boost local economies and highlight regional landscapes.

Poké Lids expand on this by adding unique, Pokémon-themed manhole covers. With over 250 installed, the campaign continues to grow.

The initiative started in December 2018 with an Eevee celebration in Kagoshima Prefecture. It expanded nationwide in July 2019, incorporating more Pokémon.

The Nintendo Museum opens October 2nd, celebrating Nintendo's history from its playing card beginnings. Visitors are challenged to locate the Pikachu Poké Lid.

Learn more about the Nintendo Museum in our related article!