Pikachu Pops Up in Unexpected Place

Pikachu Manhole Cover: A Unique Addition to the Nintendo Museum

The upcoming Nintendo Museum in Kyoto's Uji city will feature a surprising attraction: a Pikachu-themed manhole cover! This isn't just any manhole; it's a Poké Lid, part of a nationwide initiative in Japan.

The Poké Lids, or Pokéfuta, are elaborately designed manhole covers showcasing various Pokémon characters. They've become a popular sight across Japan, often featuring Pokémon associated with a specific region. The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid cleverly incorporates Pikachu and a Pokéball emerging from a Game Boy, a nostalgic nod to the company's history.

The Poké Lid phenomenon has even inspired its own intriguing backstory. According to the Poké Lid website, the covers might not all be human-made, hinting at a playful Diglett connection!

The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid isn't the first of its kind. Other cities, like Fukuoka (featuring Alolan Dugtrio) and Ojiya City (showcasing Magikarp, its shiny form, and Gyarados), also boast these eye-catching manhole covers. Adding to their appeal, many Poké Lids serve as PokéStops in Pokémon GO, allowing players to collect digital postcards.

This initiative is part of Japan's Pokémon Local Acts campaign, using Pokémon to promote regional tourism and economies. With over 250 Poké Lids installed, the project continues to expand. It began in 2018 with Eevee-themed covers in Kagoshima Prefecture and went nationwide in 2019.

Opening October 2nd, the Nintendo Museum celebrates Nintendo's history, from playing cards to gaming dominance. Visitors are challenged to find the Pikachu Poké Lid during their visit. For more details on the museum, further information can be found in a related article (not included here).