The Pikachu army has returned again this year for Pikachu Outbreak 2019 which is running from August 6 to 12 in Minato Mirai, Yokohama. This year, the event also features an evening show which takes advantage of Minato Mirai’s gorgeous nightscape and couples it with exciting lighting technology.
We visited the first day of the event with Chinese talent Etsuna and 7-year-old Yuugo-kun. Here’s our report!
Upon arrival at Minato Mirai Station we were immediately met by lots of Pikachu decorations and event advertisements. And when you go through the ticket gate it plays Pikachu’s cry! If you’re visiting the event this year then be sure to listen out.
There are lots of Pikachu to spot after leaving the ticket gates, so be sure to try finding them all.
We alighted at Minato Mirai Station and headed straight to Rinko Park.
When we hit the park we were greeted by a huge balloon Pikachu!
There’s lots of other Pokémon to catch too, such as Lapras, Psyduck, and many other popular names.
This tiny Pikachu was so cute.
There are food trucks set up by the Pokémon Cafe for the event at Rinko Park so you can get your hands on some food, drinks, and ice pops.
The Pikachu designs on the trucks are super kawaii♡
Pikachu Pineapple Ice Bar – ¥500 (Tax Included)
The ice pops they sell comes with one of four possible Pikachu facial expressions. They’re given randomly.
They’re so cute they seem a waste to eat!
Pikachu Orange Lemonade Soda – ¥500 (Tax Included)
The drink cups have Pikachu designs too, even the lids.
Wherever you look there’s a Pikachu, so you can take pictures literally everywhere.
After we had strolled around Rinko Park, we headed to Nippon Maru Memorial Park. Usually when you visit this park they have huge boats on display but for Pikachu Outbreak, the Pikachu have swarmed the area.
There are lots of walls with various Pokémon illustrations on them around Nippon Maru Memorial Park, such as Ho-Oh’s wings and a Pikachu balloon. They are scattered here and there, so make sure to find all of these too!
Below is where you can watch the Pikachu march wearing illuminating LED costumes.
Even the Ferris wheel at Yokohama Cosmo World was lit up with Pokémon motifs―the Pikachu and Poké Ball ones in particular were beautiful.
After a little while, several Pikachu arrived on a boat to greet everyone. And then…
…out came the LED Pikachu! Their synchronised pattering walk was beyond adorable. They even danced.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. If you head to Queen’s Square Yokohama right next to Nippon Maru Memorial Park then you’ll catch the Eevee march too. Their cute pattering walks too are enough to heal your soul♡
What we’ve shown you is just a snippet of the fun happening this year―there are many other exciting events happening for Pikachu Outbreak 2019.
Photos: CHIHIRO (＠chiicd5)
These last photos were taken at the show in Grand Mall Park at Yokohama Art Museum which makes stunning use of projection mapping. The Pikachu don their LED costumes and perform an incredible light show for the crowd.
For more details on each event check out the official website. Pikachu Outbreak is a fun day out for kids and adults alike, so enjoy this year’s event and be careful not to catch heatstroke.
Information
Pikachu Outbreak 2019
Running: August 6, 2019 – August 12, 2019
Location: Minato Mirai area
Event Page: https://www.pokemon.co.jp/ex/pika_event/
Drink & Ice Shop by Pokémon Cafe
Running: August 6, 2019 – August 12, 2019
Locations:
①Yokohama Red Break Warehouse (Open 12:00-20:00)
②Rinko Park (Open 12:00-20:00)
③Yamashita Park (Open 10:00-17:00)
RECOMMENDED ENTRIES
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More information has been released for this year's Pikachu Outbreak event which is set to take place in Yokohama's Minato Mirai area from August 6 to 12. The event has been held every summer since 2014 and sees countless Pikachu come together and put on shows, parades, performances and more. Over 2,000 Pikachu are scheduled to be released into the wild in Minato Mirai this year.
The Streets of Minato Mirai x Pikachu The army of Pikachu will be dressed in outfits equipped with LED lights to put on colourful illuminated show in front of Yokohama Art Museum using projection mapping. Running: August 6, 2019 - August 12, 2019Time: ①19:10~ / ②20:35~*The show will run at 20:35 only on August 9 and 10Location: Grand Mall Park (in front of Yokohama Art Museum) The Seas of Minato Mirai x Pikachu Look forward to a magical evening performance of Pikachu and water fountains with Yokohama Bay and Bay Bridge providing the backdrop. Running: August 6, 2019 - August 12, 2019Time: ①18:55~ / ②19:50~ / ③20:45~Location: Red Brick Warehouse Park The Forests of Minato Mirai x Pikachu Enjoy an incredible performance featuring the biggest number of Pikachu to date against the backdrop of Minato Mirai's skyscraper nightscape inside a green space. Running: August 6, 2019 - August 12, 2019Time: ①18:55~ / ②19:50~ / ③20:45~Location: Rinko Park Pikachu Parade & Eevee Parade Don't miss the cute parades of Pikachu and Eevee as they march to the rhythm of the beat! Pikachu ParadeRunning: August 6, 2019 - August 12, 2019Time: ①18:55~ / ②19:50~ / ③20:45~Location: Nippon Maru Memorial Park Eevee ParadeRunning: August 6, 2019 - August 12, 2019Time: ①18:55~ / ②19:50~ / ③20:45~Location: Queen's Square YOKOHAMA Queen's Mall POKÉGENIC Dotted around the streets of Minato Mirai you will find hidden art and decorations. Catch 'em all and snap some photos! Running: August 6, 2019 - August 12, 2019Locations: Sail Training Ship Nippon Maru, MARK IS, Navios Yokohama, and elsewhere*Please be aware of your surroundings when taking photographs. Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield Digital Stamp Rally The event is hosting a digital stamp rally on the streets of Minato Mirai. There are nine rally points in total. Those who collect three or more stamps will receive an original phone wallpaper and those who collect all nine can enter a lottery for a chance to win a Pokémon Centre gift set. Running: August 6, 2019 - August 12, 2019 The menu for the Drink & Ice Shop by Pokémon Cafe has also been revealed where Pokémon Trainers can look forward to eating some ice candy and drinking lemonade amongst trying plenty of other summery treats. Pikachu's Pine Ice Bar - ¥500 (Tax Included) *4 designs available, all chosen randomly
Pikachu's Orange Lemonade Soda - ¥500 (Tax Included)
Pikachu's Mango & Pine Tapioca Drink - ¥600 (Tax Included)
If you return your cup after ordering a drink at the shop you'll receive an original sticker. There is lots to look forward to at this year's Pikachu Outbreak. Be sure to check the official website for more details. ©2019 Pokémon. ©1995-2019 Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.Pokémon, ポケットモンスター and ポケモン are registered trademarks of Nintendo and Creatures Inc.Information
Pikachu Outbreak 2019
Running: August 6, 2019 – August 12, 2019
(*Some event content began on July 6, 2019)
Location: Minato Mirai areaEvent Page: https://www.pokemon.co.jp/ex/pika_event/
Drink & Ice Shop by Pokémon Cafe
Running: August 6, 2019 – August 12, 2019
Locations:
Yokohama Red Break Warehouse (Open 12:00-20:00)
Rinko Park (Open 12:00-20:00)
Yamashita Park (Open 10:00-17:00)
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The Pokémon Cafe in Nihonbashi is introducing a new Snorlax plate―inspired by the huge Snorlax that is sitting outside Pokémon Center Tokyo DX―and Poké Ball dessert bowl to its menu on August 10. These will be served with certain dishes in the cafe and can also be bought as merchandise there too so you can use them at home.
Snorlax's Stomach-Filling Afternoon Nap Lunch Plate - ¥1,922 (Tax Included)
If you want a satisfied belly like Snorlax then you'll want to order the hearty lunch plate. And after that you can take a nice afternoon nap. Just make sure not to block any routes or anything!I Choose You!! Poké Ball Dessert Bowl - ¥1,706 (Tax Included)
What does it look like inside the Poké Ball? It's being kept a secret by the Pokémon Cafe so you can only know if you visit! What kind of Pokémon could be sleeping inside...? Ingredients: Berry flavoured jelly, strawberry spongecake, strawberries, wafers, whipped cream, crepe, mintPokémon Café Snorlax Plate - ¥2,160 (Tax Included)
Pokémon Café Poké Ball Donburi Bowl - ¥2,160 (Tax Included)
If you want your own Snorlax plate or Poké Ball bowl then keep in mind that supplies at the cafe are limited. And don't forget that you must make a reservation at the cafe if you want to dine there. © 2019 Pokémon.©1995-2019 Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.Pokémon, ポケットモンスター and ポケモン are registered trademarks of Nintendo, Creatures Inc. and GAME FREAK inc.Information
Pokémon Cafe
Address: 2-1-2 Nihombashi | Nihombashi Takashimaya SC East Bldg. 5F, Chuo 103-0027, Tokyo Prefecture
Business Hours: 10:30-22:00Access: 5-minutes on foot from Tokyo Station’s Yaesu North Exit via JR Line / 5-minutes on foot from Nihonbashi Station’s B2 Exit via Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Tozai Line / 4-minutes on foot from Nihonbashi Station via Toei Asakusa Line
TEL: 03-6262-3439
Reservations: https://reserve.pokemon-cafe.jp/
Official Website: https://www.pokemoncenter-online.com/cafe/
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The Pokémon Company has announced its plans to begin placing more Poké Lid manholes across Japan. To date there have been appearances of them in Ibusuki in Kagoshima Prefecture and within 13 towns and villages of Iwate Prefecture, but that number is about to skyrocket. Hokkaido, Fukushima Prefecture, Tottori Prefecture and Kanagawa Prefecture are all participating in the Pokémon Local Acts programme which will see an increase of Poké Lids this fall and winter. But it doesn't stop there as there are plans to expand the number even further going into 2020. This is the first nationwide manhole design project of its kind to ever hit Japan.
Each lid features completely original Pokémon designs making each individual one the only one in the world. The Pokémon Company plans to make each one of them PokéStops for Pokémon GO in the future. In line with the upcoming Pikachu Outbreak event in the Minato Mirai area of Yokohama, which is taking place from August 6, five Pikachu manhole covers will be placed around Yokohama on August 5. Only one of the designs has been revealed as pictured above, and this one will be placed in front of Sakuragichō Station. The remaining four will only be placed for a limited time―until September 1 this year―around Minato Mirai. The locations will be announced on the official website. Most of the Poké Lids are cast iron and are carefully handcrafted by artisans in a factory in Saga Prefecture. The use of craft iron allows room for intricate detail from the thickness of the lines to the angles and colours. Make sure to be on the lookout for Poké Lids when visiting in Japan in the future. Their locations will be posted on the official website once they have been placed. ©2019 Pokémon. ©1995-2019 Nintendo/Creatures Inc. /GAME FREAK inc.Pokémon, ポケットモンスター and ポケモン are registered trademarks of Nintendo, Creatures Inc. and GAME FREAK inc. -
CASETiFY is a global lifestyle brand established in LA that has enjoyed hugely popularity with celebrities and influences around the world for their services that enable you to customise your digital devices from smartphones to Apple Watches and more. The company launched its “Day & Night” themed collaboration with Pokémon back in May. The third collection in the line has finally been unveiled which will be released worldwide on August 15 at 10:00pm (JST). 1st Collaboration: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/2065622nd Collaboration: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/229807
For the third collection, CASETiFY has New York and London-based artist duo Craig & Karl. Titled "The Icons by Craig & Karl," the new collection incorporates the two artist's signature style and shines the spotlight on four Pokémon―Pikachu, Charmander, Bulbasaur and Squirtle―and three Poké Balls. Pokémon Trainers out there can choose from CASETiFY's signature Impact Case, the DTLA Case, and for this third collaboration, the Floaty Glitter Case, and there's a bunch of cool tech accessories too with limited-edition designs. You also have the option to put your name on your case. Back when the second drop launched on July 10, CASETiFY set up a waiting list which gave people priority access to purchase these limited edition items before they sold out. The waiting list surpassed a whopping 90,000 people. The waiting list has returned for the third drop which you can sign up to right now. As a fan of the Pokémon franchise, Craig Redman of the artist duo spoke about how enjoyable it was to be able to collaborate with Pokémon on this project and implement their signature style. He also praised the customisable aspect of the collection which he said can bring you closer to Pokémon. This marks the final drop of the CASETiFY & Pokémon Day & Night collection which you can also catch at pop-up shops in Tokyo, London, Paris, Los Angeles, and the Landmark shopping mall in Hong Kong. ©2019 Pokémon. ©1995-2019 Nintendo/Creatures Inc. /GAME FREAK inc. Information
CASETiFY & Pokémon Collaboration – 3rd Drop
Release Date: August 15, 2019
Items: iPhone cases, Macbook cases, wireless charging pads, iPad cases, AirPods cases, card holders
Price: ¥2,700-¥7,800Official Website & Waiting List: https://www.casetify.com/pokemon
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Licaxxx Announces Tokyo Community Radio’s Second Event Series ‘communities’ to be Held in Tokyo and Osaka
Tokyo Community Radio (TCR), an online radio platform run by Licaxxx, has announced a new event titled communities. The event will be held at Daikanyama UNIT / Saloon in Tokyo on June 30 and at Osaka JOULE on July 1. The guest lineup includes re:ni and Laksa, two hot up-and-coming DJs and producers reshaping the UK music scene. The duo has a monthly program on NTS Radio titled re;lax, along with a party series of the same name. In February 2023, they released a new EP, Body Score, on their new label founded to explore music with faster tempos and to carry the torch of UK techno, jungle, dubstep, and grime. Each DJ is also active individually and the two have constantly been in the spotlight. Music fans are invited to partake in this stunning musical event led by Licaxxx and targeted at the current generation of music makers as they extend beyond Asia and take their activities around the world.
re:lax (re:ni & Laksa)Licaxxx Information
■Tokyo
Tokyo Community Radio presents ‘communities’ with re;lax
Date: June 20, 2023
Time: 22:00
Venue: Daikanyama UNIT / SALOON
Admission: ¥2,000 (Early Discount) / ¥3,000 (ADV) / ¥3,500 (At the door)
Buy Tickets: https://tokyocommunityradio.zaiko.io/item/356159LINEUP:
Licaxxx
Temple Ov Subsonic Youth (a.k.a Mars89) – Live
Romy Matsand more..
[Starring]
Special Guest:
re:lax (re:ni & Laksa)Lineup:
LicaxxxTemple Ov Subsonic Youth (a.k.a Mars89) – Live
Romy Matsand more!
■Osaka
Tokyo Community Radio presents ‘communities’ with re;lax in OSAKA
Date: July 1, 2023
Time: 22:00
Venue: Osaka JOULE
Admission: ¥2,000 (Early Discount) / ¥3,000 (ADV) / ¥3,500 (At the door)
Buy Tickets: https://peatix.com/event/3590421/view[Starring]
SPECIAL GUEST:
re:lax (re:ni & Laksa)LINEUP:
Licaxxx
kotsu(CYK)
Romy Matsand more..
■Attention
Guests under the age of 20 will not be allowed entry.
All guests will be subject to an ID check prior to entry. Please bring a photo ID showing date of birth. (Photocopies will not be accepted.)
If we are unable to confirm your identity, you may be denied admission.<About Tokyo Community Radio>
TCR is a distribution platform based in Tokyo that focuses on introducing both local DJs and up-and-coming DJs from around Japan. The program features all musical genres and showcases both DJ mixes and live performances. In featured podcasts, DJs talk about their music, hobbies, and interests, allowing fans the rare chance to learn more about their favorite creators. The station also cooperates with community radio stations in other Asian cities and supports DJs and artists from Asia and beyond when they visit Japan. In addition to regular DJ sessions and podcasts, TCR also collaborates with corporate events, produces music events, and matches DJs to places and brands -
ZEROTOKYO, an entertainment mecca known for heating up Tokyo nights, is teaming up with ASOBISYSTEM to create an exciting new party! ASOBIZA, named after the origin of Kabukicho, will be held on April 28. The lineup includes music artists as well as charismatic figures at the top of their fields in fashion, beauty, and art. Transcending musical genres and generations, this night will embody ZEROTOKYO's concept of being a true “Entertainment Junction.” Additional performers may be announced in the future.
Information
ASOBIZA
Date: April 28, 2023
Venue: ASOBIZA (Tokyo)
Time: 21:00
Admission: ¥3,000 (Presale) / ¥3,500 (Day-of)Buy Tickets
https://zerotokyo.zaiko.io/e/ASOBIZA-230428Event Details
https://asobisystem.com/schedule/43726/ -
Pokemon GO Launches Second Hills Campaign in Japan, New CM Set in Fukiya, Okayama and Starring Mitsuki Takahata Airing Nationwide
A new commercial for Pokemon GO’s second ‘Let’s GO to the Hills’ campaign is now airing nationwide, calling on all players of the smartphone game to work up a sweat while exploring new scenery around Japan. Set in the Fukiya district of Takahashi, Okayama, the ad stars the popular actress Mitsuki Takahata. The ‘Let’s GO to the Hills’ campaign focuses on hills and slopes, and players might find some fun new Pokemon on their travels. The new commercial began airing nationwide on January 20, and its setting–the Fukiya district of Takahashi, Okayama–has flourished since the Edo period as a leading copper and red ocher producer. Red ocher is a byproduct of copper production and is used in many traditional Japanese crafts, even called Japan Red by some.Several popular Pokemon appear alongside Takahata in the ad, including Chimchar, Fletchling, Hisuian Voltorb, Nyabby, Darumaka, and Charizard. Be sure to listen out for Takahata’s Okayama accent!
From January 20 until July 19, a 4-meter-high real-world PokeStop will appear at the former Fukiya Elementary School in Fukiya Furusato Village. Yes, it will be linked to the game as well!
Curtains and tapestries featuring Pokemon silhouettes and dyed Japan Red will also appear in the village, and each will point the way to real PokeStops. While it might be a little off the beaten path, come enjoy Fukiya and see what kinds of Pokemon you can find!
©2023 Niantic, Inc.©2023 Pokémon. ©1995-2023 Nintendo/Creatures Inc. /GAME FREAK inc.ポケモン・Pokémon は任天堂・クリーチャーズ・ゲームフリークの登録商標です。Information
’Let’s GO to the Hills’ – Fukiya Furusato Village, Okayama Ver.
CM Broadcast Start Date: January 20, 2023
Broadcasting Area: Nationwide
Official Site: https://www.pokemongo.jp/ -
For four days only starting in February 2023, fans of Hatsune Miku will want to take an incredible night cruise around Tokyo Bay. The virtual singer will collaborate with the popular Tokyo Bay Night Cruise which travels between Yokohama and Tokyo. The event will include special tickets, exclusive bonuses for guests, collaborative goods, and onboard decorations. Collaborative goods will be available to purchase on the ship or from the Shimapochi online store. OutlineDates: February 19, February 26, March 5, March 12Night Cruise Itinerary:Osanbashi, Yokohama / Check-in 16:00-18:00Osanbashi, Yokohama / Departure 18:10, Enjoy the night view from the shipTakeshiba Wharf, Tokyo / Arrival 19:45*Guests will be led by a special MC narrating the night scenery. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase.
Special Ticket Fare:Adults ¥2,000 / Children ¥1,500 (Includes consumption tax and fuel price adjusted for inflation)[Includes Hatsune Miku Collaboration Sticker and Postcard (6 varieties, random)] Special tickets featuring Hatsune Miku will only be available to those reserving their spot online. Reservations can be made two months prior to the boarding date. Space is extremely limited, so grab a spot while you can! Those not interested in bonuses can also enjoy a night cruise during this period, with adult tickets costing ¥1,000 and children’s tickets costing ¥500. More details will be released at a later date. Information
Hatsune Miku x Tokyo Bay Night Cruise
Dates: February 19, February 26, March 5, March 12
Details/Tickets: https://www.tokaikisen.co.jp/news/392932/
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The Mine City Tourism Association has announced a Christmas & Valentine’s Day event at Akiyoshido Cave, one of the largest limestone caves in Japan. The event will see the natural wonder illuminated by a number of colorful lights. The Christmas event will run from December 21 to 25, 2022, while the Valentine’s Day event will run from February 10 to 14, 2023. Akiyoshido Cave is one of Yamaguchi Prefecture’s most popular tourist attractions. The interior will be decorated with colorful lights and unique soundscapes, creating a once-in-a-lifetime setting for visitors. These illuminations and sounds were directed by world-renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii, known for her work on Tokyo Tower and the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge.
Information
Christmas & Valentine Theater ~ Akiyoshido Cave ‘Fantasy of Light and Echoes’
Dates:
Christmas Theater: December 21 – December 25, 2022
Valentine Theater: February 10 – February 14, 2023
Times: (1) 10:00-11:00 (2) 12:00-13:00 (3) 14:00-15:00
3 events per dayVenue:
Akiyoshido Cave, Shuhocho Akiyoshi, Mine, YamaguchiTickets/Details: https://karusuto.com/event/christmas-valentine-theater-2022/
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U-Treasure, a company offering proper jewelry inspired by pop culture, has announced a Pikachu engagement ring! The item was made available on December 13 and can hold large diamonds from 1-1.999 carats. Each ring features a male and female Pikachu, perfect for the Pokemon master in your life. Along with this, a silver version made from cubic zirconia featuring the same design is available to pre-order until January 31, 2023. [Pokemon] Pikachu Carat Solitaire Ring
Information
U-Treasure Pokemon Series
Solitaire Ring
Release Date: December 13, 2022
*Orders for silver rings are open until January 31, 2023
https://u-treasure.jp/lp/pocketmonsters_1ct