Pokémon HOME Introduces Collectible PokéLid Medals Inspired by Japan’s Iconic Manhole Covers

Pokémon HOME Introduces Collectible PokéLid Medals Inspired by Japan’s Iconic Manhole Covers The Pokémon Company, known globally for its consistent innovation and community engagement, has unveiled an exciting new feature for Pokémon HOME users.

Starting June 21, 2025, fans will have the opportunity to collect a unique set of PokéLid medals—an initiative that brings together digital collecting and real-world Pokémon culture.

The update comes as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance the Pokémon HOME experience on platforms such as the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices, as well as to celebrate the brand’s cultural ties with Japan. PokéLids—colorful, Pokémon-themed manhole covers—have become a well-loved sight across Japan, with each cover featuring beloved Pokémon characters and artistic designs specific to their location.

Now, Pokémon enthusiasts using Pokémon HOME can begin collecting virtual medals that mirror these physical PokéLids.

The campaign will launch with the first set of five medals, all inspired by actual PokéLid designs found in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.

Unlike previous digital medals, these new collectibles rely on the application’s GPS functionality, allowing fans to unlock them exclusively when they are in proximity to the corresponding real-world PokéLids. In a statement released by The Pokémon Company, officials clarified that the PokéLid medal feature extends the connection between Pokémon fans and the various regions of Japan where these unique manhole covers are installed.

The initial phase targets Yokohama, a city renowned for its deep history with Pokémon, further solidifying its status as a cultural hub for the franchise. Collecting medals has long been a popular aspect of Pokémon HOME, which serves as the official Pokémon cloud storage system, allowing players to transfer, trade, and collect Pokémon across different games and platforms, including the Nintendo Switch and the eShop.

By leveraging geolocation technology, The Pokémon Company is adding a new layer of interactivity and regional immersion to the app. Future expansions are already planned, as the company confirmed that additional PokéLid medals will be introduced to Pokémon HOME in the months ahead.

This rollout promises to provide even more reasons for fans to explore Japan’s PokéLid locations and extend their digital collections within the app. Since launching in 2020, Pokémon HOME has garnered millions of downloads worldwide, further cementing its role as a central hub for Pokémon trainers.

The integration of PokéLid medals not only incentivizes travel and exploration for enthusiasts within Japan but also reinforces the synergy between digital gaming achievements and real-world experiences.

Pokémon fans interested in participating in this event should ensure their Pokémon HOME app is updated and that their device’s GPS is enabled to take full advantage of this novel collecting opportunity. Stay tuned to the official Pokémon HOME channels for more updates regarding additional PokéLid medals and future features as The Pokémon Company continues to expand the interactive possibilities for players around the globe.

Pokémon Japan The Pokémon Company Pokémon Company Pokémon HOME PokéLid medals Nintendo Switch Yokohama Kanagawa