Pikachu Tairyou Hasse Chu, or The “Pikachu Outbreak” returned for the second year to Yokohama, Japan’s second largest city, and it was spectacular. This adorable festival is on its way to becoming a popular annual tradition.
A week-long festival dedicated to all things Pikachu, this festival had over 1000 life-sized Pikachus invadedΒ 14 different locations around Yokohama including Minatomirai Station, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, Sakuragi-cho Station and Marine Tower. It began last year to celebrate the release of the latest Pokemon movie in Japan,Β PikachΕ«, kore nan no kagi? (Pikachu, What’s This Key For?)
(Image Courtesy:Β http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/)
Between 8th and 16th of this month, the city was covered with Pikachu artwork, promotional items, as well as multiple themed stages for the different Pikachu. There was a whole lot of dancing and parading, with Sailor Pikachus, Snapback Pikachus and even Hawaiian Pikachus!
(Images Courtesy:Β http://i.ytimg.com/)
Pokemon fans in Japan were obviously completely in their element. Here’s hoping this festival returns next year too. Keep an eye on The Sherp for updates.