Yokohama hosts a week long celebration for Pokémon fans!

Conclusion

If you love Pokémon, you absolutely should go!
The one-week summer Pokémon event in Yokohama is one of the most fun festivals I’ve ever attended. 🌟

General Information

Every summer, Yokohama hosts a large Pokémon-themed celebration such as “Pikachu Outbreak!” or Pokémon World Championships.
The entire city becomes a Pokémon paradise, filled with parades, live shows, stamp rallies, photo spots, and exclusive merchandise.
The event changes every year, but it’s always exciting and fun for all ages — from children to adults, even casual fans.

My Personal Experience & Opinion

You might think this is just for hardcore Pokémon fans, but actually, it’s like a free Disneyland-level event open to everyone! 🎉
If you know even a little about Pokémon, you will enjoy it. The performances are often more impressive and emotional than those at theme parks.
Children will love it, and if you are visiting Japan during the event period, I strongly recommend adding it to your itinerary!

Best Option Based on Your Interests

• For Pokémon lovers → Don’t miss the parades, stage events, and exclusive merchandise.
• For families with kids → Stamp rallies and photo spots with characters are perfect.
• For casual visitors → You can simply walk around the city and enjoy the decorated areas and surprise encounters.

Best Times to Visit

• Daytime (11:00–16:00) → Most events happen during this time, but it’s hot and crowded.
• Evening (17:00–20:00) → Cooler, and some shows use lights and sound for a magical experience.
• One-day visit → Focus on the main area like Minato Mirai.
• Multiple days → You can take time to explore stamp rallies and various locations across the city.

Budget Guide

• Event participation → Most are free 🎫
• Merchandise or cafés → ¥1,000–¥5,000 (~$7–$35)
• Transport and hotel → Staying in Yokohama costs around ¥10,000–¥20,000 per night (~$65–$130)

Seasonal Advice

• Held only in summer → Usually in early to mid-August
• Very hot weather → Bring a hat, sunshade, cooling towels, and drink plenty of water 🧃
• Outdoor-based → Some events may be canceled in case of rain, so check the weather

Tourist Feedback

• “It felt like a dream — Pokémon fans from all over the world!”
• “The Pikachu parade was so cute and emotional 😭”
• “Some activities required advance reservations, so check the official website.”

Surprising Points & Downsides

• Extremely hot → Heatstroke risk is real, especially if you’re walking or lining up outside
• Very crowded → Especially on weekends and during popular shows; arrive early and plan ahead

Extra Tips

• Official app and website → Get maps, schedules, and real-time updates
• Pokémon Café and Shop → Often require advance reservations
• Nearby attractions → Explore Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park, and more while you’re there