1997’s Life-Size Chonky Pikachu Plush Returns for Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary
Takara Tomy has announced a special nostalgic re-release to celebrate the monumental 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise.
The “Welcome Back! Pikachu 1/1 Plush” is a faithful reproduction of a classic item originally sold in 1997, shortly after the series began its global explosion in popularity.
This milestone event commemorates three decades since the release of Pocket Monsters Red and Green in Japan, a series that has evolved into the world’s highest-grossing media franchise.
To honor these humble beginnings, this plush features the rounder, stouter aesthetic of the late 1990s, often affectionately referred to by fans as “Chonky Pikachu.”
Standing at approximately 40cm tall, it adheres to the official Pokédex height of the Electric-type mouse, offering a true “life-size” experience that contrasts with the slimmer modern iterations.
This design choice serves as a physical counterpart to the nostalgic journey depicted in The Pokémon Company’s recent teaser video, which highlighted the visual evolution of the mascot from pixel art sprites to 3D models.
The release coincides with a broader wave of nostalgia in the Japanese pop culture industry, joining similar 30th-anniversary celebrations for major franchises like Persona and Mobile Suit Gundam Wing.
As a special bonus for collectors, orders placed through the official Takara Tomy online store will be delivered in a dedicated shipping box featuring a unique Pokémon 30th Anniversary design.
The “Welcome Back! Pikachu 1/1 Plush” is priced at 7,480 yen (approx. $52.00 USD / £41.00 GBP).
The product is scheduled for release on February 28, 2026, though purchases are strictly limited to one unit per customer due to high demand.
Sales will take place via a number of different retailers, including the official Takara Tomy online store and Amazon Japan.
This post may contain affiliate links, and Essential Japan may earn a commission if you purchase through them.
