Discovering Kyoto's Pokémon Center: A Blend of Tradition and Charm
This marks our third visit to a Pokémon Center, and the Pokémon Center in Kyoto stands out for its exclusive merchandise. They offer Pikachu plushies dressed in traditional attire, such as kimonos and maiko outfits. It’s a truly unique store that highlights Japan's rich cultural heritage. Let’s go!
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Travel Tips
- For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
- For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.
- Organize your trips easily with a Travel Planner.
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Train Travel From Tokyo To Kyoto
Where to Stay in Kyoto
- Check-in: Seiki Kyoto Station Hotel
- Also called Hotel Seiki Kyoto Station
- Address: 24-5 Higashikujo Kitakarasumacho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8017, Japan
- 5 days 4 nights
- Price: 520 USD / 75,411 JPY (VAT included) for 1 unit with 2 bedrooms, accommodating 4 adults and 1 toddler.
- Take note: All guests staying in Kyoto City will be charged an accommodation tax of 200 JPY per person per night.
Pros
- Great for Budget Travelers
- Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families
- Just a 6-minute walk from Kyoto Station
- Within walking distance of two major shopping malls
- Experience traditional Japanese-style rooms with Tatami mat flooring
- Bonus: Washer-dryer combo inside the room
- Close proximity to most Kyoto attractions
I absolutely love the traditional Japanese-style rooms at Seiki Kyoto Hotel. The use of tatami mat flooring in the bedrooms enhances the authentic Japanese experience even more.
Read more: Budget-Friendly Place to Stay in Kyoto for Families - In this post, I will highlight our accommodation in Kyoto, along with nearby dining options, shopping spots, attractions, and much more.
October 21 - Pokémon Center and Yasaka Shrine Visit
Exploring the Pokémon Center in the heart of downtown Kyoto and the stunning Yasaka Shrine, which is situated in the historic Gion District of the city.
- 3 people: 19 USD
- Just a short walk from Seiki Kyoto Station Hotel and the Kyoto Station
- Ordering is easy with their electronic system.
This place offers a delicious and affordable meal that really hits the spot. A small ramen shop that makes fresh ramen right in front of you. The locals and the two staff members seemed a bit surprised to see us.
How to get to the Pokémon Center from Kyoto Station
From Kyoto Station to Shijo Station
- Pokémon Center
- Address: Japan, 〒600-8009 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Kankobokocho, 78 Kyoto Economic Center SUINA Muromachi 2F
- From Kyoto Station, we took the Karasuma Line train towards Kokusaikaikan. It's a short ride, and we got off at Shijo Station.
- Cost: 220 JPY
SUINA Muromachi Mall
2 options:
- Exit to Shijo Dori, and from the street level, walk towards SUINA Muromachi Mall. It's about a 5-minute walk, depending on how fast you walk. - We took this route as we wanted to see Downtown Kyoto.
- Alternatively, from the station, you can walk to SUINA Muromachi by finding Exit 26, which connects directly to the building's basement.
- Take the elevator to the 2nd Floor to the Pokémon Center
- We passed by Ogaki Bookstore, which has a nice atmosphere with relaxing music.
Welcome to Pokémon Center Kyoto!
The primary image at the top of this post features Pikachu riding the legendary Pokémon Ho-Oh, specifically designated for the Kyoto store.
Look at that huge Lugia Statue!
For Souvenirs: Exclusive Merchandise
- Kimono Pikachu sitting down
- Maiko Pikachu with a parasol
- Tea ceremony Pikachu
- Matcha Plushies
- Coin Medallions or a coin pressing machine featuring exclusive designs
- As always, they have keychains, trading card games, art prints, cute utensils, and much more.
We bought a fork-and-spoon set for our little one and a cute plushie for my brother, who just passed his board exam. Additionally, there's a corner with arcade game machines for those who wish to spend some extra time in the store.
If the Pikachu merchandise here exceeds your budget, there are other alternatives. For instance, we discovered a Pikachu umbrella for toddlers at the mall, which we carried all the way to California in our hand luggage. Additionally, I found several adorable Pikachu plushies at Don Quijote.
Maiko Pikachu: Celebrates Japanese Culture
The Pokémon Center is situated near the historic Kawaramachi streets, making it an ideal location where Pikachus don traditional attire, creating a perfect blend of culture and fun. For instance, this one is dressed as a Maiko, or Geisha Apprentice.
How to get from the Pokémon Center to Yasaka Shrine (Gion District)
- Across the street from the Pokémon Center or SUINA Mall, take bus 207 to the Gion District.
- Address: Yasaka Jinja Nishiromon Gate (Western Tower Gate), 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan
- Free Admission
The Yasaka Shrine is famous for the Gion Matsuri, a big and historic summer festival in Japan. We had a great time there, as the place makes you feel like you're in old Japan, where life was simple, and people enjoyed nature more. I created another post highlighting the Yasaka Shrine, as I captured a lot of photos during my visit. Read more: Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Yasaka Shrine: A 1,350-Year-Old Sanctuary
We also got the chance to visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest the day before, and took the alternative route to avoid the crowds. We enjoyed the Matcha Tea Making for 400 JPY, and had the opportunity to prepare matcha traditionally.
The following day, we went to Kyoto's Nishiki Market or "Kyoto's Kitchen", for a spectacular food adventure!
This is my ultimate secret to making travel hassle-free: I use a Travel Packing Checklist. This ensures I don’t forget essential items and prevents those frantic last-minute shopping trips for things I already own but left behind. I didn’t realize how much I needed this notebook; it truly keeps my journeys organized and stress-free. Check out Flying Starfish Studios for unique journals, notebooks, and planners.
Here's another special Packing checklist designed for families. It includes packing lists for babies and kids to ensure nothing is overlooked!
Have fun and be safe ^__^
Do you want more adventure in Japan?
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Tokyo Travel Tips
- Where to Stay in Tokyo: Budget-Friendly
- Which One To Get: Commuter Pass, IC Card or Welcome Suica Card For Tourist?
- How to Reach Narita Airport from Tokyo Station
- Narita Airport: What To Do while Waiting for Flight/Bus
- Pokémon Center Tokyo DX: Largest Pokémon store, with a Pokémon Café.
- Tokyo Station: Must-visit for Amazing Ramen, Anime, & Manga Stores
- Shibuya: Easy Itinerary, World's Busiest Pedestrian Crossing & Pokémon Centre
- Ueno: Simple Itinerary, Things To-Do and Delicious Eats at Ameyoko Market
Explore Kawaguchiko "Best Mt. Fuji Views"
Explore Kyoto
- Tokyo to Kyoto: The Fastest Way to Travel
- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: How to Avoid the Crowds
Explore Osaka
- For our next adventure, we're looking forward to Discovering the Beautiful Island of Hokkaido in Japan. I can't wait for this trip!
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