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-themed Poké Lid! These aren't your average manhole covers; Poké Lids, or Pokéfuta, are intricately designed manhole covers showcasing various Pokémon characters, transforming city sidewalks into charming works of art.

The museum's Poké Lid depicts Pikachu and a Pokéball emerging from a classic Game Boy, a nostalgic design referencing the franchise's origins. The pixelated style adds to the retro charm.

This isn't the first Poké Lid; the initiative, part of Japan's Pokémon Local Acts campaign, has seen over 250 unique designs installed across the country. Each design often features Pokémon associated with the specific region. These covers not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of cities but also serve as PokéStops in Pokémon GO, encouraging tourism and player interaction.

The Poké Lid phenomenon even has its own intriguing backstory. According to the Poké Lid website, the holes themselves may not all be man-made, hinting at a playful Diglett connection!

Examples of other Poké Lids include an Alolan Dugtrio design in Fukuoka and a Magikarp series in Ojiya City, featuring its shiny and evolved form, Gyarados.

The campaign, launched in December 2018 with Eevee-themed covers, has expanded nationwide since July 2019. The Nintendo Museum's Pikachu Poké Lid adds another exciting element to this unique initiative.

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