Takamatsu Pokemon Center: Kagawa's Quirky Slowpoke Paradise

Hey there, fellow travelers!

It's your travel chronicler, Susukkotdari, here to share another adventure.

With various events celebrating Pokémon's 30th anniversary happening this year, I recently posted about them. But during my trip to Takamatsu, I also made sure to visit the Pokémon Center there. There's just something about Pokémon that has the power to bring out the kid in all of us!

So, as a top recommendation for things to do in Takamatsu, let me share my experience at the Kagawa Pokémon Center!

Wait, Slowpoke is the star here?

Slowpoke and Udon

Kagawa Prefecture, where Takamatsu is located, is famously known as 'Udon Prefecture' because of its deep love for udon noodles. So, why is Slowpoke (Yadon in Japanese) the main character at this Pokémon Center? The reason is incredibly witty!

It's all because the Japanese pronunciation of Slowpoke (Yadon) is very similar to Udon!

Kagawa Prefecture has even appointed Slowpoke as its official ambassador, launching 'Slowpoke Udon' and even operating a Slowpoke Park and a Slowpoke Ferry. Throughout the Pokémon Center store, you'll find an abundance of Slowpoke merchandise, really driving home that you're in Takamatsu!

Takamatsu Pokémon Center Highlights

As soon as you step into the store, you're greeted by giant pink Slowpokes and Pikachu. With Slowpoke sculptures at the entrance and artwork everywhere centered around Slowpoke, you immediately realize this is truly Slowpoke's city!

Seeing Slowpoke with Psyduck, and Slowpoke with Wooper, made me feel giddy like a child – their adorable appearances are just too much!

I definitely remember grabbing Slowpoke's tail for a photo, but it seems I can't find the picture now, haha!

Since the Takamatsu location is the only Pokémon Center in Kagawa Prefecture, it's definitely worth a visit to browse around. The plushies were a bit pricey for me, so I was happy just enjoying the window shopping!

For any Pokémon enthusiasts, there are a few must-see things:

▶️ Shikoku-Exclusive Merchandise: You'll find limited-edition plushies and stationery sold only in the Shikoku region, where Takamatsu is located. For a traveler, is there any word more captivating than 'limited edition'?

▶️​ Card Game Corner: This area lets you feel the excitement of real Pokémon card battles. It was fascinating to get a glimpse into local Japanese hobby culture.

▶️​ Diverse Daily Essentials: From kitchenware to hand creams and pouches, there's a huge variety of practical items adorned with Pokémon characters.

I ended up buying a pair of these socks. I loved how the accent colors were different on the right and left, and there was a cute Pikachu on the back, so I happily picked them out.

Since I've always had a soft spot for cute socks, I headed straight for that section without hesitation.

They're so adorable, I still haven't worn them yet!

The simple joy of choosing a pair of socks! It was a small gift to myself, but it brought me so much happiness.

Wrapping Up

I stumbled upon the Pokémon Center while wandering through the arcade. For me, it was even more exciting than a Don Quijote or a drugstore. I completely fell in love with Slowpoke's cuteness!

It's truly fascinating how a simple similarity in pronunciation between 'Yadon' (Slowpoke) and 'Udon' sparked the brilliant idea to make Takamatsu the city of Slowpoke. I think such playful creativity is what makes a city truly memorable.

If you're heading to Takamatsu, you absolutely must visit the Pokémon Center!

And don't miss out on exploring Pokémon events in Seoul!

🔻🔻🔻

Recommended Places for Kids! Exploring Pokemon Events in Seoulm.blog.naver.com

#TakamatsuTravel

#PokemonCenterKagawa

#PokemonCenter