“Pocket Monsters,” affectionately known as Pokémon, boasts immense popularity even beyond the borders of Japan. Drawing inspiration from this phenomenon, there exist two captivating locales known as Pokémon Café, situated in Tokyo’s Nihonbashi and Osaka’s Shinsaibashi districts.
At Pokémon Café, enthusiasts can relish both delectable, intricately themed dishes inspired by Pokémon characters and delightful greetings from beloved figures like Pikachu. It’s a haven that Pokémon aficionados can’t afford to miss, offering an enchanting atmosphere that brings the Pokémon universe to life.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the essence of Pokémon Café, elucidating its store details, the reservation process for international visitors, and offer tips and precautions for securing your cherished spot. Let’s embark on this Pokémon-filled journey!
Pokémon Café: A Wonderland of Pokémon Delights
The inaugural Pokémon Café opened its doors on March 14, 2018, in Tokyo’s Nihonbashi district. Following its resounding success, a second establishment emerged in Osaka’s Shinsaibashi on September 20, 2019. Both venues share an unchanging concept: a sophisticated wooden interior adorned with Pokémon characters, creating an immersive experience akin to stepping into the vibrant world of Pokémon.
Surrounded by cherished Pokémon companions, patrons can savor a tantalizing menu of café and dessert treats, ensuring a delightful experience for both adults and children alike. Notably, a specialized outlet, “Pikachu Sweets,” opened its doors on December 19, 2019, at Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo. This take-out café, characterized by its pink-themed décor, offers an assortment of Pokémon-themed sweets and beverages, ensuring you can enjoy these delectables anytime, anywhere.
Access Details:
- Pokémon Café (Tokyo/Nihonbashi):
Address: 5th Floor, Nihonbashi Takashimaya S.C. East Building, 2-11-2 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027
Access: 5-minute walk from Yaesu North Exit of Tokyo Station, Exit B2 of Nihonbashi Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Tozai Line), 4-minute walk from Nihonbashi Station (Toei Asakusa Line)
Contact: Email: pokemon-cafe-cs@sld-inc.com, Phone: 03-6262-3439 - Pokémon Café (Osaka/Shinsaibashi):
Address: 9th Floor, Daimaru Shinsaibashi Main Building, 1-7-1 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-8501
Access: Direct connection from Exit 4 of Shinsaibashi Station (Osaka Metro Midosuji Line)
Contact: Phone: 06-4256-1160, Email: pokemon-cafe-osaka-cs@sld-inc.com - Pikachu Sweets by Pokémon Café:
Address: 2F Sunshine City Alpa, 3-1-2 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-8630
Access: Approximately 3-minute walk from Higashi-Ikebukuro Station (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line), Approximately 8-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station (JR Lines / Tokyo Metro Lines / Seibu Lines / Tobu Lines), Approximately 4-minute walk from Higashi-Ikebukuro Yon-chome Stop (Toden Arakawa Line)
Contact: Phone: 03-6709-0707, Email: pikachu-sweets@doutor.co.jp
Operating Hours:
- Pokémon Café (Tokyo):
10:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Last Order: Food/Sweets 9:00 PM, Drinks 9:30 PM)
10:00 AM – 9:30 PM (Last Order: Food/Sweets/Drinks 8:50 PM) - Pokémon Café (Osaka):
10:00 AM – 9:30 PM (Last Order: Food/Sweets/Drinks 8:50 PM) - Pikachu Sweets:
10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Reservation Essentials:
Pokémon Café operates exclusively on a reservation basis. Typically, without a prior reservation, entry is not permitted. However, it’s important to note that the phrase “generally” implies that last-minute cancellations may occasionally create vacancies.
Reserving your spot at Pokémon Café is remarkably straightforward. The process can be completed via the official website, and reservations are both free of charge and exempt from cancellation fees.
In the following sections, we’ll provide a detailed breakdown of the reservation process, including key points to consider and step-by-step instructions.
Step 1: Selecting the Number of Guests
Begin by choosing the number of guests in your party. Reservations can accommodate up to 8 individuals, including preschoolers. Please be aware that changes to the number of guests after confirming your reservation are not possible. If you have a group of 9 or more, you can split your reservation into two.
Step 2: Choosing the Desired Date
Next, pick your preferred date. Available dates will be presented in a calendar format, with white slots indicating availability and gray slots representing full or unavailable days. As of today (August 11, 2023), reservations are fully booked up to one month in advance.
Step 3: Selecting Seating and Time Slot
Now, proceed to choose your preferred seating area and time slot. The café’s seating is divided into the following zones:
- Area A: Pikachu & Jigglypuff (Window-side tables)
- Area B: Snorlax (Rear table seats)
- Area C: Eevee (Front table seats)
- Area D: Lapras (Central counter seats)
Select your desired seating and time slot from these options. Here are some seating considerations:
- Area A offers a picturesque view by the window.
- Area D, the central counter, allows for capturing showtime photos easily.
- All areas provide close encounters with Pikachu and Eevee.
- Area D, being central, offers an optimal view of the entire show.
- For families, Areas B and C are recommended.
- The choice of seating doesn’t significantly impact the experience.
Step 4: Entering Personal Information
As you proceed with the reservation process, you’ll be prompted to enter your name, phone number, and email address. While this step is relatively straightforward, ensure that your email address is accurately entered since the reservation confirmation email will be sent to this address.
Step 5: Reservation Perks
After completing the necessary details, you’ll transition to the exclusive “Goods Selection” page. Here, you can explore and purchase limited-edition items available exclusively during the reservation process. If you’re interested, be sure to complete your purchase alongside your reservation. Each person can purchase up to three items. Payment for these exclusive items is made in advance (credit cards only). Upon selecting your items,
you’ll be directed to enter your credit card information. Accepted cards include Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, and Discover.
Step 6: Confirmation Email
Congratulations! Your reservation process is now complete. A confirmation email will be sent to the email address you provided.
Summary
Given the immense popularity of Pokémon Café, it’s advisable to secure your reservation well in advance. This guide has provided an in-depth understanding of the reservation process and recommended seating options. While reservations can be effortlessly made online, keep in mind that during peak times, the waiting period may exceed two months. To ensure your unforgettable Pokémon experience, we recommend making your reservation as early as possible.
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