Pokémon and Japanese Boy Scouts Launch Official Pokémon Trainer Program for Kids

Pokémon and Japanese Boy Scouts Collaborate for Unique 'Become a Pokémon Trainer!' Program in Japan The Pokémon franchise, developed by The Pokémon Company and published globally by Nintendo, has enchanted multiple generations since its debut in the late 1990s.

Known for its iconic characters and expansive universe, the series has cultivated a global community of fans eager to immerse themselves in the world of Pokémon, whether through video games on Nintendo Switch, trading card games, or animated series.

Now, a dream long held by many fans is one step closer to reality as Pokémon partners with the Japanese Boy Scouts to launch the official 'Become a Pokémon Trainer!' program, offering children across Japan a chance to step into the shoes of a real Pokémon Trainer. The 'Become a Pokémon Trainer!' program was announced as a collaborative initiative designed to teach core values to aspiring Trainers.

Participants will tackle a series of missions and activities crafted to foster teamwork, respect, and discipline—skills that go beyond the traditional concept of simply catching Pokémon.

The program aims to bring the ethos of Pokémon to life, enriching children’s growth with lessons that mirror the dedication and spirit embodied by Trainers in the game. According to the organizers, events will be held in various regions throughout Japan, ensuring widespread access for youth interested in participating.

Enrollment is offered on a limited basis, with registration opportunities extending from the upcoming month all the way into Spring 2026.

This broad scheduling window provides ample opportunity for interested Scouts and families nationwide to take part in this exclusive experience. A representative from the Japanese Boy Scouts stated that the program was developed to "combine beloved elements of the Pokémon brand with the organization’s commitment to nurturing important life skills in young people." They emphasized that while children won’t be handling real Pokémon, the initiative delivers an equally rewarding journey focused on personal development and camaraderie—a sentiment echoed by Pokémon Company officials. For fans who grew up captivated by Pokémon adventures on Nintendo consoles, this partnership reflects a new chapter in the franchise’s cultural influence.

By merging interactive, game-inspired challenges with the established values of the Boy Scouts, the program offers an authentic taste of becoming a Pokémon Trainer in the real world. With spots quickly filling up, the 'Become a Pokémon Trainer!' program represents an exciting union of pop culture and character-building education, demonstrating Pokémon’s enduring appeal and the innovative ways its developers and partners keep the spirit of the franchise alive for future generations.

Pokémon Japan Pokémon Trainer Japanese Boy Scouts Nintendo