Skip to content

Questions about Pokémon Center

Short answers, pulled from the story.

When did the first Pokémon Center open in Tokyo?

The first Pokémon Center opened its doors in Tokyo during April 1998. This original location eventually closed and reopened at a different address within the city.

Who operates the Pokémon Center stores globally?

The company behind these shops is known as The Pokémon Company. Nintendo operated the specific shop in New York City until it closed in 2005.

Where are permanent international Pokémon Centers located outside Japan?

Permanent international locations now exist in Singapore and Taiwan. A second permanent center outside Japan opened in Taipei on the 8th of December 2023 near the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store.

How many Pokémon Centers remained open during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan?

Only four Pokémon Centers remained open during the height of that global health crisis. The branch located in Okayama closed permanently during this period despite more than twenty locations existing in Japan as of 2023.

What merchandise do real-world Pokémon Center stores sell to customers?

Real-world stores sell items such as action figures and plush toys to customers. Shoppers can also find cereal boxes, clothing, backpacks, and badges within these specialty shops.