Photo: Yujir Ramparsad
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If you’re the kind of traveller who still hums the Pokémon theme song every time you hear the word “adventure”, or if you’re still an avid Pokémon Go player catching them all wherever you go, then this one’s for you!
Tucked away in the buzzing heart of Tokyo’s Nihonbashi district is a place where childhood dreams and Instagram aesthetics collide – the Pokémon Café. This café isn’t just a spot to grab lunch – it’s a full-blown immersive experience that feels like stepping into a real-life Poké Ball, and yes, it’s as cute and quirky as you’re imagining.
Where is the Pokémon Café in Tokyo?
You’ll find the Pokémon Café on the 5th floor of the Nihombashi Takashimaya S.C. East Building, just a few minutes from the Nihombashi Station, connected via Tokyo Metro’s Ginza, Tozai, and Asakusa lines. This is a prime location and easy access if you’re exploring the capital on your Contiki trip through Japan.
Hot Tip: you will need a reservation. Walk-ins are basically non-existent, so plan ahead and book via the official site.
Image source:Yujir Ramparsad
What to expect (besides the cutest-meal-ever vibes)
Themed dishes are the star of the show here. You can order Pikachu Soufflé Pancakes, a Poké Ball rice bowl, or a dessert platter that looks like it walked out of a Nintendo fever dream. Drinks are decked out with character designs and collectible coasters. It’s all very “for the ‘gram,” and rightfully so.
But the Pokémon Café isn’t just about the food – it’s the immersive vibe. Expect pop-ups from costumed Pikachu, custom tableware, and a playlist that’ll spark maximum nostalgia.
Don’t forget to pop next door to the Pokémon Center Tokyo DX – a next-level gift shop packed with rare and exclusive merch. For anyone hunting for the best Japanese souvenirs, this place is gold.
How much does it cost?
Prices are pretty standard for themed cafés in Tokyo. Expect:
- ¥2,090 for Pikachu Pancakes
- Around ¥1,800–¥2,500 for mains
- ¥1,000–¥1,500 for themed drinks or desserts
All in, you’re looking at ¥3,000–¥4,000 per person for a satisfying, photogenic Pokémon-themed meal.
Image source:Yujir Ramparsad
When to go
The café runs daily from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM, with final food orders at 9:00 PM and last drink orders at 9:30 PM. It’s the perfect pitstop before a night out exploring the best nightlife Tokyo has to offer.
A bit of backstory
Originally opened in 2018 alongside the Pokémon Center Tokyo DX, this was Japan’s first permanent Pokémon Café. Prior to that, Pokémon cafés popped up as temporary installations around the country.
What makes this one special is its seasonally rotating menu, themed to match game releases, events, or the time of year. You could go multiple times a year and still have new Pokémon dishes to try.
Image source:Yujir Ramparsad
Nearby attractions
Already in the area? Extend your Tokyo day with these must-visits:
- Pokémon Center Tokyo DX (next door)
- Coredo Muromachi – for a stylish mix of shopping and traditional crafts
- Nihonbashi Bridge – a photogenic landmark steeped in history
- Tokyo Character Street – an underground wonderland for anime, manga, and robot cafés
If you’re planning your Tokyo adventure, make sure the Pokémon Café is part of your must-visit list. And if you’re hunting down even more magic across Japan, check out this list of 18 epic spots you can’t miss.
Whether you’re a lifelong trainer or just in it for the pancakes, the Pokémon Café is a wild, kawaii ride through the heart of pop culture – and a perfect slice of Tokyo’s eccentric charm.
