Pikachu, the beloved Pokémon mascot, is making a surprising appearance at the upcoming Nintendo Museum in Kyoto's Uji city. Discover the charming world of Poké Lids, unique manhole covers showcasing Pokémon characters across Japan.

Nintendo Museum Unveils a Poké Lid Masterpiece

Pikachu's Playful Poké Lid Debut

Prepare for a unique Pokémon hunt—beneath your feet! The new Nintendo Museum boasts a special Pokémon manhole cover featuring Pikachu.

These artistic Poké Lids (or Pokéfuta), adorned with Pokémon, are a popular sight in Japanese cities. Often depicting local Pokémon, they're now a part of the Nintendo Museum's charm, blending its historical focus with Pokémon's enduring appeal.

The design cleverly incorporates Pikachu and a Pokéball emerging from a retro Game Boy, surrounded by pixelated graphics, evoking the nostalgia of early gaming.

The Poké Lids have even inspired their own intriguing backstory. According to the Poké Lid website, the covers' origins are shrouded in mystery, hinting at possible Diglett involvement!

The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid isn't the first. Many Japanese cities use these colorful covers to boost tourism and revitalize areas. Fukuoka showcases an Alolan Dugtrio Poké Lid, while Ojiya City features Magikarp and its evolutions. Adding to the fun, these Poké Lids often serve as PokéStops in Pokémon GO, allowing players to collect and share postcards.

Poké Lids are part of Japan's Pokémon Local Acts campaign, using Pokémon to promote regional tourism and highlight local landscapes.

With over 250 Poké Lids installed, the initiative continues to grow.

Launched in December 2018 with Eevee-themed lids in Kagoshima Prefecture, the campaign expanded nationwide in July 2019.

Opening October 2nd, the Nintendo Museum celebrates Nintendo's history, from playing cards to gaming giant. If you visit, be sure to seek out the Pikachu Poké Lid! For more on the museum, see our related article.