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

Pikachu Manhole Cover: A Unique Addition to the Nintendo Museum

The upcoming Nintendo Museum in Kyoto's Uji city will feature a delightful surprise for Pokémon fans: a Pikachu Poké Lid! These aren't your average manhole covers; Poké Lids are elaborately designed, Pokémon-themed covers that have become a popular sight across Japan.

The museum's Poké Lid showcases Pikachu and a Pokéball emerging from a classic Game Boy, a charming nod to the franchise's origins. The pixelated design evokes the nostalgia of early gaming.

This isn't the first Poké Lid; the initiative, known as Pokéfuta, has seen numerous designs installed across Japan, each often featuring Pokémon associated with the local area. These artistic covers serve to revitalize communities and attract tourists, acting as PokéStops in Pokémon GO, allowing players to collect postcards.

The Poké Lids are part of Japan's Pokémon Local Acts campaign, using Pokémon to promote regional tourism and highlight local geography. With over 250 installed, the campaign continues to grow, having started in 2018 with Eevee-themed lids in Kagoshima Prefecture.

Examples of other Poké Lids include an Alolan Dugtrio design in Fukuoka and a Magikarp series in Ojiya City.

The Nintendo Museum, opening October 2nd, celebrates Nintendo's history, from playing cards to gaming dominance. Visitors are challenged to locate the museum's unique Pikachu Poké Lid.

For more details on the Nintendo Museum, further reading is recommended.