Did you know that some of Japan’s manhole covers feature Pokémon?
Across Japan, local governments are working together with The Pokémon Company to promote tourism and revitalize regional communities — and one of the cutest results of this collaboration is the Poké Lids (Pokéfuta) project.
What Are Poké Lids?
Japan is famous for its artistic manhole covers, but Poké Lids take that creativity to a whole new level. These colorful utility hole covers feature different Pokémon designs unique to each area — making them must-see spots for Pokémon fans and travelers alike!
The official Pokémon site even jokes that not all these holes are man-made… maybe Diglett had something to do with them!
Who knows where the next “mark” will appear?
👉 Poké Lids Official Website (English)
Ambassadorial Pokémon and Their Regions
To promote local charm, several prefectures across Japan have appointed “Ambassadorial Pokémon” to represent their area. These Pokémon appear on Poké Lids, in local events, and even on regional souvenirs!
🦊 Hokkaido – Vulpix & Alolan Vulpix
Perfect for snowy Hokkaido, these fox Pokémon are as cute as they are fitting!
🪨 Iwate Prefecture – Geodude & Alolan Geodude
“Iwate” means “rock” in Japanese, making Geodude the perfect local representative.
🐚 Miyagi Prefecture – Lapras
Lapras played an important role in post-earthquake reconstruction events, and now Poké Lids can be found in every city, town, and village of Miyagi.
💕 Fukushima Prefecture – Chansey
Known as the “bringer of happiness,” Chansey spreads cheer throughout Fukushima. You can even visit Chansey Park here!
🦦 Mie Prefecture – Oshawott
Chosen because “Mijumaru,” Oshawott’s Japanese name, sounds similar to “Mie.”
🐌 Kagawa Prefecture – Slowpoke
Nicknamed “Udon Prefecture,” Kagawa’s Slowpoke (“Yadon” in Japanese) became the perfect pun-based mascot. The area even opened Slowpoke Park in 2023!
🏜 Tottori Prefecture – Sandshrew & Alolan Sandshrew
Famous for its vast sand dunes, Tottori selected Sandshrew as its supporting Pokémon. Poké Lids are now installed throughout the prefecture.
🌴 Miyazaki Prefecture – Exeggutor & Alolan Exeggutor
Known for its tropical climate, Miyazaki chose the palm-tree-like Exeggutor as its ambassador.
🐉 Fukui Prefecture – Dragonite
Fukui is known for its dinosaur exhibits and prehistoric themes, and Dragonite — with its majestic, dragon-like presence — serves as a fitting, bold ambassador for the prefecture.
⚡ Nagasaki Prefecture – Ampharos
Nagasaki chose Ampharos, a bright, lighthouse-like Pokémon — a lovely symbolic fit for the prefecture’s coastal and port heritage.
🔥 Okinawa Prefecture – Growlithe
Sunny, warm Okinawa is represented by Growlithe, whose fiery, loyal, and energetic image matches the island’s lively, tropical vibe.
How to See Poké Lids Around Japan
Collecting Poké Lids is a fun way to explore Japan, but visiting all of them will take some serious dedication!
Some locations are in remote areas, so renting a car can make your journey easier. For travelers with limited time, it’s best to focus on regions that are easy to access.
Poké Lids in Tokyo
If you’re staying in Tokyo, don’t worry — you can still see Poké Lids without going far!
Two Poké Lids are located near Ueno Park, right in front of:
- The National Museum of Nature and Science
- The Tokyo National Museum
They’re just a five-minute walk from Ueno Station’s Park Exit — and no admission ticket is needed to see them.
Would you like to start your own Poké Lid adventure across Japan?
It’s the perfect mix of travel, local charm, and Pokémon magic! 🌏✨