Hunting for Poké Lids in Japan

Japan is already known for the artistic and colourful manhole covers that adorn its streets, which came into fashion in the 1980’s and frequently feature each town’s native flora and scenery.

But back in 2018, Pokémon fans got a special treat – Pokémon-themed manholes (known as Pokéfuta) were introduced all across Japan as part of ‘Pokémon Local Acts’, designed to highlight various municipalities with ‘Ambassadorial Pokémon’ whose characteristics match those of their respective localities.

Now in 2023, there are over 200 ‘Poké Lids’ to go hunting for, each one completely unique and featuring one or more Pokémon depicted in different backgrounds. They are hand-painted with coloured acrylic resin, giving them bright and beautiful covers.

Machida | Serigaya Park

If you’re only in Japan for a short time, then the best place to go to find a few Poké Lids in one go is Serigaya Park in Machida. There are six manholes here, featuring the Gen-1 starters Charmander, Squirtle and Bulbasaur, as well as fan favourites Pidgey, Rattata, Poliwag, Weedle, Caterpie and Oddish.

Serigaya Park is a special place to visit for another reason. Machida is the hometown of Pokémon creator Satoshi Tajiri, and growing up, he enjoyed collecting insects in the park as a hobby, which became part of his inspiration for the Pokémon games.

To reach Serigaya Park, take a 1-hour train from Tokyo to Machida station, where the park is a short walk away.

Other Poké Lid Locations

Eight localities have each been given a special ‘Ambassador Pokémon’, which appear on a number of Poké Lids in their designated area. Click on each Pokémon Manhole to see all of their locations!

Hokkaido

Vulpix & Alolan Vulpix

Iwate

Geodude

Miyagi

Lapras

Fukushima

Chansey

Mie

Oshawott

Tottori

Sandshrew & Alolan Sandshrew

Kagawa

Slowpoke

Miyazaki

Exeggutor & Alolan Exeggutor

For a complete guide to all of the Pokémon Manhole locations across Japan, check out the official website here.

Official Poké Lid Merch

Currently, you can only buy official Poké Lid merchandise at Village Vanguard stores in Japan.

Not heading to Japan anytime soon? Sharla (@sharlainjapan) has uploaded a fun vlog where she goes Pokémon Manhole hunting by car, hitting fourteen in one day! She also has a few other videos where she goes Poké Lid hunting, so make sure to check out her channel:

Check out where I’ve been in Japan!

Fukushima