Pokémon’s New Real World Puzzle Game Invites Fans to Search for Legendaries This Fall
Pokémon fans will soon have the chance to step into a real-world adventure that combines exploration, puzzle solving and encounters with more than 100 Pokémon across one of Tokyo’s most famous districts.
The upcoming “Pokémon Legend Research in Nihonbashi & Yaesu” event is set to transform the Nihonbashi and Yaesu areas into a giant interactive experience where 19 Legendary Pokémon will appear as large statues across the city, while more than 100 different Pokémon will be hidden throughout the streets, shopping centers and public spaces for visitors to discover.
Pokémon has grown into one of the world’s most recognizable entertainment franchises since its debut in 1996, with its games, anime, trading cards and merchandise introducing hundreds of creatures that continue to captivate fans of all ages across the globe.
A core part of the event will be an original city-wide mystery puzzle created by RIDDLER, the puzzle design group led by renowned creator Ryogo Matsumaru, that fans can take part in.
The story begins after participants discover an old Pokédex and a mysterious research file filled with encrypted reports linked to Legendary Pokémon, with each puzzle sending you across Nihonbashi and Yaesu to investigate statues, landmarks and hidden clues.
Designed to be accessible for both newcomers and experienced puzzle fans, the adventure combines exploration, observation and Pokémon knowledge while guiding you through some of Tokyo’s best-known shopping and entertainment destinations.
An exclusive merchandise store will also open inside Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, offering event-only collectibles created with newly illustrated key artwork.
The lineup includes T-shirts, tote bags, acrylic stands, acrylic keychains, mugs, folding fans, drawstring bags and other merchandise featuring Pikachu, Charizard, Venusaur, Blastoise and a selection of Legendary Pokémon.
The merchandise area can be visited even if you do not purchase a puzzle ticket, although many items will only be available while supplies last and purchase limits may apply.
The puzzle experience is priced at ¥3,300 (approx. $22 USD / £17 GBP), with tickets available through Mitsui Shopping Park Ticket and Ticket Pia.
Puzzle ticket sales begin on August 4, 2026, with participants collecting their event kit from Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower before starting the experience.
Even if you choose not to take part in the puzzle experience, all of the Pokémon statues and themed displays can be enjoyed free of charge, making the event worth visiting simply to experience the atmosphere.
The event will run from September 9 through November 29, 2026, across Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower, COREDO Muromachi 1, 2 and 3, COREDO Muromachi Terrace, Tokyo Midtown Yaesu and surrounding locations throughout the Nihonbashi and Yaesu districts.
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