Pikachu Sewer Surprise Stuns Residents

Pikachu Manhole Cover: A Unique Addition to Kyoto's Nintendo Museum

The upcoming Nintendo Museum in Kyoto's Uji city will feature a delightful surprise for Pokémon fans: a Pikachu Poké Lid! This isn't your average manhole cover; it's part of a larger initiative bringing artistic Pokémon-themed manhole covers, known as Poké Lids or Pokéfuta, to cities across Japan.

The museum's Poké Lid showcases Pikachu and a Pokéball emerging from a retro Game Boy, a design that perfectly captures the nostalgic charm of early gaming. This charming addition complements the museum's focus on Nintendo's history.

Poké Lids are more than just eye-catching street art. They often depict Pokémon associated with a specific region, and the Nintendo Museum's Pikachu design is no exception. The Poké Lid website even suggests a playful backstory, hinting at Diglett's possible involvement in creating these unique holes!

This isn't the first Poké Lid; many Japanese cities utilize them to boost tourism and local economies. Fukuoka features an Alolan Dugtrio Poké Lid, while Ojiya City showcases Magikarp, its shiny form, and Gyarados. Many Poké Lids also serve as PokéStops in Pokémon GO, allowing players to collect postcards.

The Poké Lid initiative is part of Japan's Pokémon Local Acts campaign, using Pokémon to promote regional tourism and topography. With over 250 Poké Lids installed, the campaign continues to grow, starting with an Eevee celebration in Kagoshima Prefecture in December 2018 and expanding nationwide in July 2019.

Opening October 2nd, the Nintendo Museum celebrates Nintendo's history, from playing cards to global gaming dominance. Visitors are challenged to find the museum's special Pikachu Poké Lid – a fun addition to a trip exploring Nintendo's legacy.