While Pokémon has been popular since the franchise was born in the early 90s, it has experienced a resurgence as of late. YouTubers such as Logan Paul have shone a light on card collecting, helping old Pokémon fans to get involved in their favorite childhood hobby again.
Of course, the Mecca of the Pokémon world is Japan, which is where the Pokémon’s story begins. We’re seeing Pokémon enthusiasts visit this part of the world purely to pick up items they cannot get in America or Europe. So, with that in mind, let’s explore Pokémon in Japan in further detail with this fan guide.
How did Pokémon start?
Pokémon is short for Pocket Monsters, which is the original Japanese name. The franchise has roots in Game Freak, which was a gaming magazine that was popular in the early ‘80s in Japan. Illustrator Ken Sugimori and writer Satoshi Tajiri started the magazine.
They soon discovered that the arcade scene wasn’t very hot anymore and so they decided to move forward and develop games together. They put forward the idea of Pokémon to Nintendo, yet they weren’t too sure about the idea. However, they were sure about Tajiri, as he had brought them successful titles before.
So, the duo created Pocket Monsters: Red and Green, a game that brought together the collection and trading of monsters. This was the birth of what would be the second-biggest gaming franchise ever, falling behind only Mario.
There’s no denying that Pokémon is popular all around the world. However, Japan has always led the way. In fact, Pokémon has its own TV channel in Japan – TV Tokyo – so locals can catch regular shows every Sunday. This is not the case in the likes of the US and UK.
Of course, it’s also part of the culture in this part of the world. Japan loves anime. You’ll find it on TV, on billboards, in newspaper adverts, and much more. It has such a wide appeal in this part of the world, and Pokémon fits into this perfectly.
Pokémon centres in Japan
Did you know that Japan is home to around 16 Pokémon centers? And, this number is growing all of the time! A Pokémon center is basically a large Pokémon shop that contains virtually everything and anything Pokémon-related.
The biggest Pokémon shop in Tokyo is Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo. You’ll find this inside the Sunshine City Mall in Ikebukuro. This shop contains items from the base set right up to the latest generation, so you should have no trouble finding what you’re looking for here.
The Pokémon merchandise is a real highlight as well. You’ll be able to pick up some plushies and special items that aren’t available anywhere else.
You can also stop for a bite to eat at the Pikachu cafe, which contains a wide range of Pokémon-themed drinks and snacks. Pretty cool, right?
However, one thing worth pointing out is that this is not the place for a bargain. Considering the branding, location, and rarity of the items, you can expect to pay a premium.
Some of the other Pokémon centers worth visiting include:
Pokémon Center Osaka – Japan’s second-oldest Pokémon center, which is based in the Daimaru Umeda Building.
Pokémon Center SkyTree Town – Not only do you get heaps of Pokémon products here, but you can enjoy iconic 360-degree views of Tokyo too!
Pokémon Center Kyoto – This Pokémon Center has been open since 2016, and you’ll find it in Kyoto on the second floor of the Takashimaya Department Store.
Pokémon Center Shibuya – Situated in central Tokyo at the popular Shibuya Parco shopping mall, this is one of the newer stores, and it showcases Pokémon in fascinating ways that use the latest technology.
Why not head to the Pokémon cafe in Nihonbashi?
Nihonbashi is a popular business district in Tokyo, and it’s also where you’ll find the first Pokémon-themed cafe in Japan. It opened in 2019, and it’s hugely popular amongst both locals and tourists.
When you enter the restaurant, you’ll be greeted by a member of the waiting staff dressed as Pikachu. The cooks, dressed as Eevee, even perform a little dance number with the waiting staff.
The menu is just as exciting, as it’s Pokémon-themed. You’ll find everything from Pikachu-shaped souffle pancakes to Snorlax lunch plates. You can also purchase merchandise in the cafe, including popular plushies.
Playing Pokémon GO in Japan
Pokémon GO was released back in 2016, and it’s still incredibly popular throughout Japan. So, if you’re a player of this game, you’ll definitely want to partake during your visit. You’ll come across an incredible number of gyms and PokéStops.
The best thing about playing this game in Japan is the sheer prevalence of unique and new Pokémon for your to catch. A lot of the Pokémon you meet can only be found in Japan!
Some of the best places to visit to catch Pokémon are as follows:
Meiji Jingu Shrine – As there is an immense number of bushes and trees here, you can expect to find well-known grass and flying Pokémon, such as Jifflypuff and Tangela. You’ll also find plenty of Pikachu, so this is the perfect spot if you want to level up quickly.
Akihabara Station – There is a dense cluster of Pokémon gyms around Akihabara Stadium. You’ll have no trouble finding someone to play with here, and you can take part in raids.
Disneyland Tokyo – Disneyland Tokyo is an excellent place to catch a broad range of Pokémon, such as Rhyhorn and Vulpix. Also, as you’ll be walking a lot, you’ll be able to hatch eggs easily too.
Pokémon Go Lab in Toshima, Tokyo
Situated in Ikebukuro, which is the commercial district of Toshima, Tokyo, is the Pokémon GO Lab. This is an entertainment venue that’s based fully on Pokémon GO. It’s modeled off the gyms that you find in the game itself, which is pretty cool.
Have you heard of Pokémon Wonder adventure park?
Yes, there’s even an outdoor adventure park that’s Pokémon-themed; Pokémon Wonder. This park is situated in Inagi, Tokyo. It consists of 50,000 square feet of forest. While you’re exploring, you’ll come across a number of different Pokémon, which have been hand-crafted from a variety of items, including tree wood and acorns.
The park gives you the ability to catch your favorite Pokémon in a realistic setting. It’s great for Pokémon fans of all ages, including young children. Plus, as it’s situated in Yomiuriland, one of the most famous and biggest theme parks in Japan, there are plenty of other rides and entertainment to enjoy while you’re there.
Visiting Japan as a Pokémon fan: the fun never ends!
As you can see, there is a lot to see and do if you’re visiting Japan and you’re a fan of Pokémon. There are lots of different places where you can buy Pokémon in Japan. However, the fun doesn’t end there, from outdoor adventure
