After 20 years, the Pokémon Center has reopened in Nihonbashi.

Nihonbashi is the "birthplace" where the first Pokémon Center opened in 1998. Returning to this location after 20 years, the new store is said to be the largest ever. While limited-time cafes have been attached to Centers in the past, this is the first permanent café where visitors can enjoy Pokémon-themed food and drinks.

A ceremony and preview event were held the day before the opening.
Yorimoto Kamigō, President of Pokémon Center, which operates the store, stated: "Pokémon Center currently operates 11 stores nationwide, along with 13 smaller Pokémon Stores, totaling 24 locations. Business is thriving, with increasing customers not only domestically but also from overseas. We are opening this new store to provide 'hospitality' through products and services that bring joy to a wide audience."

He added, "Reservations for our café, which features enhanced menu quality, are already 93% full for the first month after opening, demonstrating the high level of anticipation. While it will be reservation-only for the time being, we plan to offer walk-in seating in the future. Opening in Nihonbashi is also expected to attract more international visitors from nearby areas like Ginza and Harumi. We aim to collaborate with Chuo Ward to establish this location as a key hub for attracting overseas tourists."

Guest star Ami Kikuchi, a talent, shared, "I've watched Pokémon since I was a child, so I'm very happy. It reminded me how much I loved the game 'Pokémon Stadium.'" She also revealed her favorite character is Pudding, commenting on her relationship with Pokémon: "Pokémon isn't just about liking it. It's something that's been naturally close to me since I was little."
Regarding the new store, she said, "The Snorlax in front of the elevator is so cute; I took lots of pictures. Also, seeing old games displayed inside brought back so many memories. Since many people come to Japan specifically for Pokémon, if asked about tourist spots, I'd definitely recommend this place."

When Pikachu made a surprise appearance to celebrate newlywed Kikuchi, she exclaimed, "Wow! I never thought I'd meet Pikachu! I wish I could tell my younger self!" She then dug into a special pancake menu featuring a congratulatory message, saying, "I felt bad cutting into Pikachu's face, so I just cut the edge, but it's so fluffy and delicious I could eat it forever. The cookie tail is cute too," she raved. "Pokémon is something people of all generations can connect with their own memories. I hope Pokémon fans enjoy delicious food and have a wonderful time at this new spot," she added in a message to fans.

Official Website:
http://www.pokemon.co.jp/info/2017/11/171130_p01.html