If you love Pokémon and are planning a trip to Japan, you may wonder: Is Pokémon GO worth playing during your visit?
My answer is yes!
Japan offers more than just Pokémon catching. You can enjoy special stamp rallies, visit Pokémon-related locations, and discover local events that offer unique Pokémon encounters.
Here are some ways to enjoy Pokémon GO during your trip to Japan.
1. Enjoy Pokémon GO Stamp Rallies
One of the fun things about playing Pokémon GO in Japan is participating in stamp rallies.
For example, you can enjoy the Poké Lid Stamp Rally by visiting PokéStops featuring Pokémon-themed manhole covers called "Poké Lids."
There are also stamp rallies at Pokémon Centers across Japan. Depending on the event, collecting stamps can lead to special Pokémon encounters with location backgrounds.
Special stamp rallies may also be held for a limited time. The 2025 Osaka Expo, for example, had its own Pokémon GO stamp rally.
These activities give you another reason to explore different places in Japan.
2. Look for Local Pokémon GO Events
Don't just check major Pokémon GO events. Local exhibitions and regional collaborations can also offer special experiences.
For example, the Pokémon Observatory exhibition had a collaboration with Pokémon GO. Visitors could encounter a Clefairy with a special location background through event-related Field Research.
These local events may not be widely known outside Japan, so it is worth checking for them before and during your trip.
You might discover a special Pokémon that you wouldn't normally encounter!
3. Meet Pokémon GO Players from Around the World
Another attraction is meeting other Trainers.
At a Pokémon GO event in Japan, I saw many players from different countries. Some were trading Pokémon and communicating with players they had just met.
I usually don't approach strangers when playing Pokémon GO, but the event atmosphere made it easier to say hello.
Meeting people who share your hobby can become a special travel memory.
4. Explore Japan Through Pokémon GO
Pokémon GO also makes ordinary sightseeing more interesting.
You can catch Pokémon, visit PokéStops, battle at Gyms, and collect postcards while exploring Japanese cities.
Some PokéStops are located at local landmarks, statues, and interesting buildings. You may discover places you wouldn't normally visit.
If you are traveling with children, looking for Pokémon along the way can make walking around a city more exciting.
Summary
Is Pokémon GO worth playing in Japan?
I think it definitely is, especially if you enjoy exploring new places.
Before your trip, check not only major Pokémon GO events but also local exhibitions, stamp rallies, and regional collaborations.
Event dates and rewards change, so checking the latest information is important.
You may find more than just Pokémon during your trip. You may discover new places, meet other Trainers, and enjoy experiences that are unique to Japan.
Japan is a great place to explore through Pokémon GO!
