Tokyo Celebrates Pokemon's 30th Anniversary with Citywide Events
Tokyo is hosting special events to mark the 30th anniversary of the Pokemon franchise, which originated from a concept by Satoshi Tajiri. The city features various themed attractions for fans.
)
According to the South China Morning Post, Tokyo is hosting special events to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Pokemon franchise, in addition to its usual Pokemon attractions.
Thirty years ago, Japanese video game designer Satoshi Tajiri developed a virtual world where players could explore, catch, and trade creatures with unique powers by merging his childhood interest in collecting bugs with round Gashapon capsules from coin-operated toy vending machines.
A global phenomenon was established when he released Pocket Monsters Red and Pocket Monsters Green for the Game Boy handheld game console in February 1996.
Since then, the franchise, which was officially renamed Pokemon in 1998 for its North American and Western distribution, has grown across various gaming platforms, alongside films, anime series, collectible merchandise, and the mobile game Pokemon Go, which triggered a significant second wave of global interest.
As 2026 is set to be Pokemon's 30th anniversary, Tokyo, which is noted as Tajiri's childhood residence, is celebrating this milestone with numerous citywide activities. The capital serves as a major destination for enthusiasts, featuring dedicated neighborhoods, flagship stores, themed cafes, and high-concept lounges immersed in all things Pokemon.
)
)
)