Pokémon has released the music video for “Okey dokey!”, a tie-up song between the online battle arena video game Pokémon Unite and the mysterious new five-piece band NovelUNITE. 

MV「Okey dokey!!」

Pokémon Unite is a free-to-play game (optional in-game purchases apply) that is compatible with both Nintendo Switch and smartphones, offering players the opportunity to enjoy Pokémon team strategy battles together regardless of which device they are using.

The members of NovelUNITE, are all wearing costumes inspired by Pokémon from “Pokémon Unite, the guitarist SOJIRO as SLOWBRO, the bassist KEIGO as LUCARIO, the vocalist YUDAI as LIZARDON, the drummer NEGI as GARDEVOIR, the guitarist KAITO as Aloan Ninetales.  Please check out their bright and pop song!

©2021 Pokémon. ©1995-2021 Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.
©2021 Tencent.
ポケットモンスター・ポケモン・Pokémonは任天堂・クリーチャーズ・ゲームフリークの登録商標です。
Nintendo Switchのロゴ・Nintendo Switchは任天堂の商標です。

On Pokemon Day, February 27, 2021, the music program P25 Music was launched with ‘P25 Music Presents: Post Malone Virtual Concert Experience.’ Last month, ‘Pokemon 25: The Album’ was released featuring top musical artists from around the world celebrating the anniversary of the beloved series. Now, two songs produced by Yaffle, who represented Japan in the project, have been released as downloadable singles. 

The single ‘Reconnect/Grown’ features four tracks and includes ‘Reconnect,’ sung in English by Daichi Yamamoto and AAAMYYY, and ‘Grown,’ sung in Japanese by sorane and Yama, as well as instrumental tracks. The two songs sample sounds from Pokemon games, including the opening music for Pokemon Red and Green. The songs Reconnect and Grown were also named with Red and Green in mind.

The Japanese version of the Pokemon 25th-anniversary album comes with a poster-type booklet and original Pikachu sticker in first-edition releases. Those buying the album can also get postcards at participating CD shops and clear folders from the online Universal Music Store. 

Those buying the CD from a Pokemon Center in Japan can get an original pin (4 varieties, random) while supplies last.

Comment from Yaffle

I’m from the Red and Green generation. I remember borrowing my aunt’s Game Boy and the first game I ever played was Pokemon. When the game came out it was super popular at school, and I made so many friends bonding over it. We used link cables to battle each other, and people would line up to ask the skilled players what strategies they used.

I was so happy and deeply moved when this offer came in. There were times when I would trip myself up worrying about how best to express my feelings, but I think the end result is amazing. I wanted to sample sounds from the original Pokemon game soundtrack, so I just listened to it over and over and let myself follow wherever it led. This was the first time for me to create two tracks with the same theme in two different languages. It was tough, but I think these are two of my best works.

I’m not a singer, so I had to think about how best to convey my emotions through sounds using other artists. Reconnect and Grown both have the same starting point and the same goal, but different stories. I hope you can listen to both while thinking about that. 

Ready to put your thinking caps on? Gather your best friends and head to Matsudo City in Chiba (about 40 minutes from Tokyo Station) for the real puzzle-solving game ‘The Little Wizard and Monsters ~Enter the Costume Contest, ya hear?~, taking place from December 4, 2021, until March 27, 2022. During the event, guests will have to search for clues in the area around Yabashira Station on the Shin Keisei Line, as well as the 21st Century Forest and Square Park. 

The 21st Century Forest and Square Park and Yabashira Station are both very familiar to those in their 20s and 30s who love pop culture, and this event was planned in the hopes that people would learn more about the area. While attempting to solve the puzzle, guests will find plenty of very Instagrammable spots and locations perfect for cherry blossom viewing as well!

For two days only, HAKU, a creative brand known for its underground art experience, will feature some of its unique works at Starts Otakanomori Hall in Nagareyama City, Chiba prefecture.

The inside of the Philharmonic Hall will be transformed with lights and sound to mirror the natural environment surrounding the city. Within this immersive space, images will be projected on the ceiling, walls, and floor, and visitors will be surrounded by the sounds of the river, insects, wind through the trees, and more.

Visitors will be given sensors to track them in real-time, allowing more interactivity with the digital environment. The water flowing through the venue changes its flow based on guest movement. What do you think of this bizarre experience?

On November 18 and November 25, national free broadcasting service BS12 will air ‘NEXT TRIP: A Luxury Resort Trip to Ise and Shima.’ The host for the excursion will be popular model Shibata Saki (nicknamed Shibasaki), who is a well-known figure to women of all ages.

NEXT TRIP is a new travel program that helps travelers figure out where to go next. The theme of the series is “Where should I go once the world settles down?” From visiting popular city spots to faraway resorts in Japan and abroad, the show aims to introduce people to locations they haven’t discovered yet, showcasing what the world has to offer. Those watching should keep a lookout for spectacular scenery, gourmet local food, outdoor activities, and so much more. 

[Part 1] November 18, 2021, 9:00 – ‘NEXT TRIP: A Journey to Ise’

In this episode, Saki Shibata travels to Ise, Mie Prefecture, first visiting Ise Shrine to pay her respects. The shrine is one of the holiest and important sites in the Shinto faith and was said to be established in the year 4 BCE. After visiting the Inner Shrine on a bright and sunny morning, Shibata travels to the ancient Okage Yokocho street to find some souvenirs and enjoy a local cafe to enjoy Ise’s famous rice cakes and traditional Japanese sweets. For lunch, she visits a very retro western-style building. At the nearby Ise Ninja Kingdom, guests can wear ninja costumes, and Shibata does just that! As the day comes to an end, Shibata opts to stay at a luxurious ryokan, Ikyuu, and highlights the incredible dinner and other services the lodging offers.

Air Date: November 18, 2021 / 9:00-10:00

[Part 2] November 25, 2021, 9:00 – ‘NEXT TRIP: A Luxury Resort Trip to Ise and Shima’ 

The second part of the trip begins with cycling. Visiting the famous Married Couple Rocks on the coast of Futami, Shibata sets out for Shima. After enjoying the breathtaking view from the ‘Mailbox in the Sky’ on the Ise-Shima Skyline, she stays at a resort overlooking the Shima coast. Guests are welcome to take a leisurely stroll around the grounds and enjoy a luxury cruise or dinner. The sunset is something Saki Shibata will surely never forget.

Air Date: November 25, 2021 / 9:00-10:00

Where do you want to travel in Japan once the world settles down?

On November 5, 2021, Tokorozawa in Saitama prefecture received three Pokemon-themed manhole covers as part of the ongoing Poke Lids project. 

The new installations feature Dragonite, Dratini, Corviknight, Dragonair, and Skarmory. Each cover was designed to highlight Tokorozawa’s scenery, and these three are the first to be installed inside Saitama prefecture. 

The Poke Lids project features completely original art, and each serves as a PokeStop in the mobile game Pokemon GO. Many are located in smaller towns and areas, and this has brought more tourism and attention to some of Japan’s more charming hidden gems. 

The next time you’re in Japan, try to find ‘em all!

Poke Lid Locations in Tokorozawa

1. Dragonite Poke Lid: 1-13 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama
2. Dratini and Corviknight Poke Lid: 143-3 Matsugo, Tokorozawa, Saitama
3. Dragonair and Skarmory Poke Lid: 1 Hiyoshicho, Tokorozawa, Saitama

©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.
ポケットモンスター・ポケモン・Pokémonは任天堂・クリーチャーズ・ゲームフリークの登録商標です。

Popular Japanese donut chain Mister Donut is teaming up with Pokemon for the fourth year in a row! Lots of new themed sweets and merchandise will be available for a limited time starting November 12. 

Together Again This Year Collection

Pikachu Donut

Eevee Donut

Turning-Back Pikachu Donut

Turning-Back Eevee Donut

Pokemon Turning-Back Donut

Christmas Donuts

Pon de Ring Chocolate

Pon de Ring Pudding Flavor

Pon de Ring White

Christmas Set

Donut Set

Drink Set

Merchandise

Mister Donut x Pokemon Blanket

Mister Donut x Pokemon Plate

Mister Donut x Pokemon Mug

This year, guests can enjoy not only Eevee and Pikachu themed donuts, but other adorable Pokemon too! The Pokemon Turning-Back Donuts show these cute characters looking over their shoulder. Adults will fondly look at these designs and remember their childhoods, while children are currently in the midst of becoming Pokemon masters. These are perfect to bring people together during the holiday season.

The Christmas Set comes with three pieces of merchandise: a blanket, a plate, and a mug, all featuring this year’s Mister Donut x Pokemon design. How would you like to have this as a gift this Christmas?

©2021 Pokémon. ©1995-2021 Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.
『ポケットモンスター ブリリアントダイヤモンド』
『ポケットモンスター シャイニングパール』 are developed by ILCA,Inc.
ポケットモンスター・ポケモン・Pokémonは任天堂・クリーチャーズ・ゲームフリークの登録商標です。
Nintendo Switchは任天堂の商標です。

Fashion brand JEANASIS is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and the company has begun a number of exciting new projects under the theme of ‘togetherness.’ The SYNERGY PROJECT was recently launched as a way to collaborate with popular companies, services, and cultural ventures around Japan. The popular Pikachu collection has made a comeback after becoming hugely popular the first time around and is currently available at the official web store and participating shops around Japan. 

The new collection was based around the concept of wearing what you like and shedding everything ‘normal.’ Each piece is made from material perfect for fall and winter, with Pikachu making both bold and secretive appearances on the garment’s lining. The poncho features Pikachu’s signature lightning bolts, while the bead bag will let the world know that you’re a master trainer. A total of 14 items appear in the new collection. 

Pokemon fans will find something to love here, so don’t miss out!

This year has been filled with events and releases to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Pokemon franchise. Now, Pokemon 25: The Album is available to stream worldwide! The album is the culmination of P25 Music, a global music program to celebrate the series. Big artists from around the world who love Pokemon have contributed original songs and cover songs, including Katy Perry and Post Malone from the United States, J Balvin from Columbia, and Louane from France. From Japan, popular producer Yaffle teamed up with Daichi Yamamoto and AAAMYYY for the track Reconnect.

The music video for J Balvin’s song Ten Cuidado has also been released. Shot in New York, the singer plays with Pikachu, Charizard, and some of his other favorite Pokemon. 

Ten Cuidado Music Video

Details regarding the Japan-exclusive CD have also been unveiled. The physical album will be released on November 17, 2021, and will include another Yaffle-produced track Grown ft. sorane & yama. Sorane is an up-and-coming hip-hop artist, and yama is known as one of the leading artists of his generation. This song will be included as a bonus track and features samples from Pokemon Red/Green for the Gameboy.

The CD will also come with a poster-type booklet, with an original Pikachu sticker included with early copies. 

After a year on hiatus, Universal Studios Japan will be bringing back the daytime parade with the  ‘NO LIMIT! PARADE,’ scheduled to be held for a year starting in Spring 2022.

The ‘NO LIMIT! PARADE’ is like a dance party, unifying each guest as one with the power of dance. The energetic entertainment turns everybody into “the protagonist.”

In addition to well-known 

park characters like the Minions and Hello Kitty, Mario and his Nintendo friends will also be joining the parade from their home in the super popular Super Nintendo World™, bringing some Pokémon buddies along for the ride. The various worlds will collide to a range of party tracks, from 60’s rock to modern EDM, with each character performing a representative dance.

By dancing with these iconic characters and entertainers, everybody can become “The Protagonist” – young or old! The grand finale of each parade truly pushes the meaning of NO LIMITS, with production exceeding all expectations. Each visitor will feel their mind and body growing “Super Energetic” from all the fun with this all-new entertainment experience!

Become one with the all-star cast at the ‘NO LIMIT! PARADE!’

 WIZARDING WORLD and all related trademarks, characters, names, and indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s21)
Minions and all related elements and indicia TM & © 2021 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.
© Nintendo
TM & © 2021 Sesame Workshop
© 2021 Peanuts Worldwide LLC
© 2021 SANRIO CO., LTD.　APPROVAL NO. EJ1100402
TM & © Universal Studios & Amblin Entertainment
© 2021 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
©2021 Pokémon. ©1995-2021 Nintendo/Creatures Inc. /GAME FREAK inc.
TM & © Universal Studios. All rights reserved.

Senbonzakura continues to be one of Hatsune Miku’s most popular songs, even ten years after its initial release. To celebrate an entire decade of the song, a special live performance will be held in Chiba featuring a number of popular performers who have performed Senbonzakura sometime over the past ten years. 

The first round of acts have just been announced, and the event will take place at the Maihama Amphitheater in Chiba on November 21, 2021. 

Performers include Vocaloid producer and bassist of Wagakki Band Asa, talented female vocalist +α/Alfakyun., violinist and cosplayer Ayasa, and massively popular YouTuber UMI☆KUUN. Also appearing is Sachiko Kobayashi, an enka singer who performed Senbonzakura at the 66th Kouhaku Uta Gassen New Year special in 2015, and Marasy, a pianist who performed the song in a 2013 Toyota Prius commercial. The MCs for the show include streamer-turned-pro host Hyakka Ryoran and voice actress Saki Fujita, who performs the character voice for Hatsune Miku. 

Those who purchase a ¥30,000 (Tax Included) ticket will receive a commemorative golden happi coat and will guarantee a seat in the first five rows of the venue. The ¥15,000 (Tax Included) ticket will include a pink happi coat. General admission will cost ¥8,500 (Tax Included). 

More information regarding the second round of performers will be released soon, along with more details on exclusive merchandise to be sold at the venue. 

The limited-time ‘BEAUTY EXPANSION’ exhibition is being held at ‘Shiseido Global Innovation Center S/Park’ between October 15 and 20 2021. 

For the event, Shiseido’s beauty artists have collaborated with ‘Pokémon Shirt,’ the personalized Pokémon shirt service. The special exhibition relives the visual collaboration between Shiseido’s top hair and makeup artist Harada Tadashi and ‘Pokémon Shirt,’ with behind the scenes footage and more.

From the inspiration for the Harada Tadashi and ‘Pokémon Shirts’ collaboration to the three key visuals,  the exhibition has been split into sections to show how the visuals were created. With drawings, crocheted hair parts, and more, you’ll learn about the order of production, how visuals are created, and even how new ideas about beauty are formed. 

Not only can you relive the creation process of a top creator, but you will also experience the ever-changing and evolving expression of “beauty.” The music used for the promotional video was inspired by the key visuals and produced by Conisch, a music writer and producer who has worked for many animated TV shows and has even previously written the theme song for Pokémon. The hair and makeup fashion show held on October 20 will be broadcast on YouTube, with guest appearances from Harada Tadashi and Conisch themselves. The incredible show will combine the world of Pokémon, the key visuals, and all kinds of motifs to match the space, so be sure to check it out! 

©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.
ポケットモンスター・ポケモン・Pokémonは任天堂・クリーチャーズ・ゲームフリークの登録商標です。