Every year on Feb 27, fans around the globe celebrate Pokemon Day, commemorating the 1996 debut of the original Pokemon Red and Pokemon Green games in Japan.
Since then, Pokemon has become one of the most successful entertainment franchises in the world, with products ranging from card collectibles, video games and even films.
This year, Pokemon turns 30 – a milestone anniversary indeed – and you can expect there will be celebrations and special events happening. There are already digital collectibles in the form of unique logos featuring different Pokemon available from The Pokemon Company. Apparently, there are over 1,000 of these available.
In Tokyo, Japan, visitors can explore the newly-opened PokePark Kanto, located within Yomiuriland and recognised as the world's first permanent outdoor Pokemon theme park.
Spanning 2.6ha, the attraction comprises the immersive Pokemon Forest and the lively Sedege Town. Visitors will come across life-sized Pokemon statues as they explore the grounds. The replica town features themed rides, food outlets and exclusive merchandise.
Universal Studios Japan, meanwhile, has announced plans for a large-scale permanent Pokemon experience in Osaka, which will later expand to other locations globally.
Created in collaboration with The Pokemon Company and Universal Destinations & Experiences, the upcoming interactive attraction uses advanceed technology and storytelling to bring Pokemon world to life.
Besides theme parks, Pokemon experiences can be found in the skies and on the rails as well.
Through the Pokemon Air Adventures initiative, the company has teamed up with carriers including All Nippon Airways (ANA), Scoot, China Airlines and T'way Air to launch specially-themed aircraft.
ANA's Pikachu Jet and Eevee Jet, for example, feature vibrant character artwork on the aircraft exterior and fun Pokemon-themed touches inside.
On the ground, the Pokemon with YOU Train travels along the JR Ofunato Line in Japan's Tohoku region. The train includes brightly decorated carriages, a dedicated play space for kids and keepsakes for passengers.
Japan is also home to numerous Pokemon Centre stores in cities such as Tokyo, Sapporo and Fukuoka, where fans can shop limited-edition merchandise and attend seasonal events. There's one in Singapore, too.
