11 of the best Pokémon experiences around the world

From themed cafés and immersive attractions to live events, these are the 11 best Pokémon experiences around the world.  

From shouting “I choose you!” on the playground to laughing at Team Rocket’s inevitable defeat, Pokémon has evolved from a beloved video game into one of the world’s most enduring pop culture phenomena. Whether you still remember the excitement of encountering a ‘wild’ Pokémon or you’ve shared the iconic ‘Surprised Pikachu meme, chances are you’ve crossed paths with the franchise at some point over the past three decades. On 27 February 2026, Pokémon officially celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking exactly 30 years since Pocket Monsters Red and Green first launched in Japan in 1996. Today, that legacy extends beyond Nintendo consoles, with themed cafés, immersive attractions, live events and experiences around the world giving fans the chance to step into the Pokémon universe. 

PokéXciting! 30th Anniversary Tour

To mark Pokémon’s 30th anniversary, The Pokémon Company is taking the celebration on the road with PokéXciting!, a massive city tour spanning Asia. Designed as a two-day festival for fans of all ages, these Pokémon experiences combine live entertainment, interactive activities, themed attractions, exclusive merchandise and special Pokémon Trading Card Game celebrations as part of the franchise’s biggest anniversary yet.

The tour visits Kuala Lumpur (12–13 September 2026), Taipei (10–11 October 2026), Singapore (7–8 November 2026), Manila (23–24 January 2027) and Bangkok (13–14 February 2027). One of the biggest highlights is the Kuala Lumpur event, which will feature Malaysia’s first-ever Pokémon drone show, transforming the night sky with spectacular 3D formations of beloved Pokémon.

Pokémon Centre Stores (Japan)

A visit to a Pokémon Centre is a must for any fan, with more than 20 stores across Japan packed with exclusive merchandise, life-sized Pokémon displays and themed photo spots. These Pokémon experiences become even more exciting around Pokémon Day on 27 February, when many stores host special giveaways, stamp rallies and limited-time events.

Pokémon GO Fest (Global)

If you’re a Pokémon GO player, there’s no better event than Pokémon GO Fest, where Trainers from around the world come together for exclusive gameplay, rare Pokémon and community meet-ups. These Pokémon experiences take place in different host cities each year (virtual activations, too) and in 2026 Tokyo, Chicago and Copenhagen are hosting events.

PokéLids (Japan)

Keep an eye on the footpath as you travel around Japan because you might discover a colourful PokéLid. Known as Pokéfuta, they turn ordinary manhole covers into a nationwide treasure hunt, with hundreds of unique Pokémon designs inspired by the local area.

PokéPark KANTO (Tokyo)

Step into the Pokémon world at PokéPark KANTO, the first permanent outdoor Pokémon attraction, located inside Yomiuriland in Tokyo. These Pokémon experiences bring the games to life with immersive areas, interactive attractions and plenty of opportunities to meet your favourite Pokémon.

Pokémon Cafés (Tokyo & Osaka)

Enjoy a meal surrounded by your favourite Pokémon at Japan’s official Pokémon Cafés in Tokyo and Osaka. These Pokémon experiences serve adorable character-themed food, drinks and desserts in a fun setting that’s perfect for fans of all ages.

Pokémon Fossil Museum (USA)

See where Pokémon and prehistoric life collide at the travelling Pokémon Fossil Museum, which pairs life-sized Fossil Pokémon models with real dinosaur and animal fossils. Originally launched as a travelling exhibition in Japan, the Pokémon Fossil Museum is making its first international stop at Chicago’s Field Museum, where it will run from 22 May 2026 to 11 April 2027, after having toured Japan over the past few years.

Pokémon Observatory (Japan)

Blast off on a space-themed adventure at the Pokémon Observatory, where astronomy and Pokémon come together through interactive exhibits and hands-on learning. These Pokémon experiences combine science, space exploration and beloved Pokémon characters, making them a fun outing for curious Trainers of all ages. The Pokémon Observatory is currently on display at Kakuda Rural Hall in Kakuda City, Miyagi Prefecture, where it is running from 5 July to 15 September 2026. 

MIMARU Pokémon Rooms (Japan)

MIMARU’s Pokémon Rooms return as a fully refreshed hotel experience across Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, with 10 participating locations relaunching from 1 July 2025. These Pokémon experiences transform a stay into an immersive overnight adventure, where guests are surrounded by over 100 Pokémon hidden throughout themed interiors.

From a life-sized Snorlax resting on the bed to Pokémon-themed kitchens, bathrooms and custom tableware, every detail is designed to bring the Pokémon world into everyday life. The result is a playful, family-friendly stay that turns a simple hotel night into a fully themed Pokémon journey.

Pokémon x Natural History Museum (UK)

The Natural History Museum in London hosts a special Pokémon pop-up shop in its Earth Hall, featuring exclusive merchandise created for the collaboration. These Pokémon experiences also include a small exhibition that blends real-world science with the Pokémon universe, exploring how Pokémon might live, move and adapt across different environments, with fun comparisons to real animals and their abilities.

Coming soon… (Europe)

The Pokémon Company is launching a global immersive event that lets fans step directly into the role of a Pokémon Trainer, blending real-world exploration with interactive technology and storytelling. Kicking off its European debut in Spring 2027 before expanding worldwide, these Pokémon experiences are designed to bring the Pokémon universe to life, transforming attendees into ‘real-life Trainers’ as they take part in hands-on adventures inspired by the franchise.

This article is a Holidays with Kids digital exclusive.

Keep reading:

• Read the latest travel news
• Feeling lucky? Check out our latest competitions
• Things to do in Japan with kids
• Best theme parks in Tokyo
• Best theme parks in the World

Family accommodation