Japan is home to numerous tourist attractions, but for Pokémon enthusiasts, one of the most exciting ones is “Poké Lids”—Pokémon-themed manhole covers. These unique covers are installed across the country, each featuring a different design depending on the location. I have personally visited several of these Poké Lids, and I was thrilled by the joy of discovering them and the adorable designs they showcase.
In this article, I will introduce three locations in the Kanto region—Ueno, Yokohama, and Machida—that are particularly easy to visit. Along with the Poké Lids in these areas, I will also highlight nearby attractions. Whether you’re a Pokémon fan or someone planning a trip to Japan, I hope this guide will be helpful and enjoyable!
Poké Lids | Pokémon Local Acts
１．Poké Lids in Ueno
Ueno is one of Tokyo’s most famous tourist destinations. It is home to Ueno Park, which houses a zoo, museums, and art galleries, attracting many visitors throughout the year. The Poké Lid in Ueno is conveniently located within walking distance of JR Ueno Station, making it easily accessible.
When I visited, I saw many tourists around the area. Since Poké Lids are embedded in the ground like regular manhole covers, searching for them is part of the fun. I walked around excitedly, wondering, “Where could it be?” The moment of discovery brought a special sense of accomplishment.
Beyond the Poké Lid, Ueno has many attractions worth visiting. The Ueno Zoo is particularly famous for its pandas, making it a great stop after your Poké Lid hunt. Additionally, Ameya-Yokocho (Ameyoko) shopping street offers a variety of street foods unique to Japan, allowing visitors to enjoy both sightseeing and culinary delights.
２．Poké Lids in Yokohama
Yokohama is Japan’s second-largest city after Tokyo, with many areas perfect for sightseeing and shopping. Among them, the Minato Mirai district is especially popular, featuring landmarks such as the Yokohama Landmark Tower and the Red Brick Warehouse. It is also known as a romantic date spot.
The Poké Lid in Yokohama features a design that blends seamlessly with the city’s atmosphere. There are several Poké Lids throughout Yokohama, but those located near popular tourist sites are the easiest to find.
I explored the Minato Mirai area while searching for Poké Lids. The Red Brick Warehouse often hosts seasonal events, so each visit feels fresh and exciting. In the evening, the beautifully illuminated nightscape adds to the experience, making it an ideal spot to visit after completing your Poké Lid hunt.
３．Poké Lids in Machida
Machida is located in western Tokyo, near the border with Kanagawa Prefecture. Unlike Ueno or Yokohama, Machida is not a major tourist destination, meaning your main goal here might be to find the Poké Lid. However, Machida holds special significance for Pokémon fans—it is the childhood home of Satoshi Tajiri, the creator of Pokémon.
The Poké Lid in Machida features a design that symbolizes the city’s connection to Pokémon’s origins.
For Pokémon fans, visiting Machida is like making a pilgrimage to the birthplace of Pokémon. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with the history of the beloved franchise.
Poké Lids are must-visit attractions for Pokémon enthusiasts traveling in Japan. Each one is unique to its location, offering visitors a fresh discovery every time they find a new one.
The three locations I introduced—Ueno, Yokohama, and Machida—are not only home to Poké Lids but also have plenty of sightseeing opportunities. These places make for a great starting point for your Poké Lid adventure. In addition to these spots, Poké Lids are also installed in more remote areas. If you are feeling adventurous, consider taking a journey to lesser-known places to search for more Poké Lids!
If you love Pokémon, I highly recommend making Poké Lid hunting part of your Japan trip. As you search for these unique manhole covers, you’ll also get to experience the charm of different cities and regions!
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