Pikachu and Manholes: An Unexpected Pairing at the 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 are elaborately designed, Pokémon-themed versions that have become a popular attraction 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 adds a nostalgic touch, perfectly complementing the museum's focus on Nintendo's history.
Poké Lids, or Pokéfuta, are more than just eye-catching street art. They're part of a broader Pokémon Local Acts campaign, designed to boost local tourism and economies by showcasing regional Pokémon. The covers often depict Pokémon associated with the specific area. Some even suggest a playful mystery, hinting at Diglett's possible involvement in their creation!
The Nintendo Museum's Poké Lid is just one example of this unique initiative. Other cities boast their own Poké Lids, featuring Pokémon like Alolan Dugtrio in Fukuoka and Magikarp in Ojiya City. Many of these Poké Lids also serve as PokéStops in Pokémon GO, adding another layer of interactive fun.
The Poké Lid campaign began in 2018 with Eevee-themed covers and has since expanded nationwide, featuring over 250 unique designs.
With the Nintendo Museum opening on October 2nd, visitors can explore the museum's rich history and embark on a fun scavenger hunt to discover the Pikachu Poké Lid. It's a perfect blend of gaming nostalgia and charming local artistry.
