Pokémon manhole covers, or Poké Lids, showcase unique street art that fascinates both locals and tourists. Moreover, these covers highlight the charm of Japan’s diverse regions.
Each design features a Pokémon that reflects the local area’s character and culture. Therefore, they celebrate regional identity through creative visuals.
By July 2024, Japan offered over 300 “Poké Lids” for visitors to discover. In addition, new designs frequently join the collection, making each visit exciting.
What Are Poké Lids?
Special manhole covers called Poké Lids showcase Pokémon artwork and promote tourism through a collaboration with Japanese municipalities.
Artists design each lid with local scenery and unique Pokémon, turning every cover into a one-of-a-kind art piece.
These covers have represented iconic symbols for Pokémon fans visiting Japan since 2018.
Poké Lids in Kyoto
As of July 2024, Kyoto boasts eight unique Poké Lids, each featuring original Pokémon designs that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.
In Kyoto, there are a total of EIGHT Pokémon manhole covers. However, the following FIVE are conveniently located near popular tourist attractions and are easy to access.
Arashiyama Park
Located in a park near the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge.
It’s also close to the Bamboo Forest, making it an easy stop during your visit.
Okazaki Park
You’ll spot this cover just before entering the grounds of Heian Shrine.
Maruyama Park
Famous for its cherry blossoms, this park is a must-visit in late March to early April.
Look for the manhole cover featuring sakura while enjoying the blooms.
Kyoto Railway Museum
If you’re a railway enthusiast, this spot is perfect.
The manhole is located just in front of the museum.
Nintendo Museum
Opened in October 2024, the Nintendo Museum is a dream destination for gaming fans.
Don’t forget to reserve your spot in advance, as it’s very popular.
You might miss these manhole covers if you’re not paying close attention. It’s a good idea to check the latitude and longitude on the official Pokémon manhole cover site beforehand and save the locations on Google Maps for easy navigation.
FAQ
Pokémon manhole covers, or Poké Lids, feature Pokémon designs and can be found throughout Japan.
Yes, each Poké Lid is uniquely designed to reflect its local area, making each one a special work of art.
Poké Lids, Pokémon-themed manhole covers, are donated by The Pokémon Company to local governments to showcase the charm of different regions in Japan through Pokémon.
As of August 2023, Hokkaido has the most with 41 covers, followed by Miyagi with 35 and Iwate with 27. In Miyagi, Tottori, Kagawa, and Miyazaki, all municipalities have Poké Lids installed.
You can find a map of all locations on the official website Poke Lids
THE 10 EASIEST Pokelids to add to your Japan trip in TOKYO
| Name | Pokémon Manhole Covers (Poké Lids) |
|---|---|
| Address | Locations across Japan (Check individual coordinates on the official website) |
| Access |
|
| Hours | Accessible 24/7 (Outdoor installations) |
| Admission | Free |
| Social Media |
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| URL | Official Pokémon Manhole Covers Website |
| Map | Google Maps |
