Pikachu Manhole Cover: Unexpected Find

The Nintendo Museum in Kyoto's Uji city is adding a surprising new attraction: a Pikachu-themed manhole cover! These aren't your ordinary sewer grates; they're part of a delightful Japanese phenomenon called "Poké Lids" (Pokéfuta).

Poké Lids are elaborately designed manhole covers featuring various Pokémon characters, brightening sidewalks across Japan. Often showcasing Pokémon native to the area, they've become a popular tourist attraction and a testament to creative urban design. The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid showcases Pikachu emerging from a classic Game Boy, a charming nod to the franchise's origins and the museum's focus on Nintendo history.

The design is more than just cute; it's part of a larger story. According to the Poké Lid website, some suggest Diglett's digging might be responsible for some of these unusually large holes, prompting artists to create unique covers. This whimsical backstory adds to the charm.

This isn't the first Poké Lid; cities like Fukuoka (featuring Alolan Dugtrio) and Ojiya City (showcasing Magikarp, its shiny form, and Gyarados) also boast these colorful additions. Many Poké Lids even serve as PokéStops in Pokémon GO, encouraging players to explore and collect digital postcards.

The Poké Lid initiative is part of Japan's Pokémon Local Acts campaign, aiming to boost local economies and highlight regional topography. With over 250 Poké Lids already installed, this creative campaign continues to expand, beginning with an Eevee celebration in Kagoshima Prefecture in December 2018 and expanding nationwide in July 2019.

The Nintendo Museum, opening October 2nd, celebrates Nintendo's rich history. A visit promises a nostalgic journey, and a fun challenge: find the Pikachu Poké Lid! More details on the museum can be found in a related article.