Manhole Mystery: Pikachu Makes Unlikely Underground Appearance

Pikachu, the iconic Pokémon mascot, is making a surprising appearance at the upcoming Nintendo Museum in Kyoto's Uji city – as a Poké Lid! Discover the charming world of these uniquely designed manhole covers found throughout Japan.

Nintendo Museum Unveils Unique Poké Lid

Pikachu's Playful Poké Lid Debut

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

These artistic manhole covers, known as Poké Lids or Pokéfuta, have become a popular attraction across Japan, showcasing Pokémon characters, often those associated with a specific region. The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid cleverly blends the museum's focus on Nintendo's history with the enduring appeal of Pokémon.

The design showcases Pikachu and a Poké Ball emerging from a classic Game Boy, surrounded by pixelated elements, perfectly capturing the nostalgic charm of early gaming.

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

The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid is part of a growing collection. Several Japanese cities have embraced Poké Lids as a way to enhance their appeal to tourists. Fukuoka, for example, features an Alolan Dugtrio Poké Lid, while Ojiya City showcases Magikarp, its shiny form, and its evolution, Gyarados. Adding to their appeal, many Poké Lids also serve as PokéStops in Pokémon GO, allowing players to collect and share digital postcards.

Poké Lids are part of Japan's Pokémon Local Acts campaign, using Pokémon as regional ambassadors to boost local economies and highlight regional features. With over 250 Poké Lids 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, featuring a diverse range of Pokémon.

The Nintendo Museum opens October 2nd, celebrating Nintendo's history from its playing card origins to its gaming empire. Visitors are challenged to find the museum's unique Pikachu Poké Lid!

For more details about the Nintendo Museum, check out our related article!