The Japan Olympic Museum in Tokyo has announced an exciting collaboration with Pokémon for a new event: the "Pokémon and Athletes' Moves Exhibition." This exhibition aims to get kids closer to sports in a fun way, hoping to spark a lifelong love for physical activity.
Pokémon has officially been appointed as the "JOC Children's Sports Ambassador" for this initiative. The exhibition is set to run from September 19 to November 23, 2026.
The goal of this exhibition is to use Pokémon to convey the thrill of sports in an easy-to-understand and entertaining way. It hopes to let every child experience the joy of moving their bodies and further cultivate their interest in various sports.
Pokémon learn all sorts of "moves" to battle, while athletes constantly hone their skills to conquer various sports. This exhibition will draw parallels between Pokémon's "moves" and athletes' techniques, allowing visitors to interact with actual equipment and gear used in sports competitions. It's a fun and engaging way to learn about the "moves" of both Pokémon and athletes.
Marking Pokémon's 30th anniversary in 2026, the beloved franchise has officially been named the "JOC Children's Sports Ambassador." Based on the sports and events Japan's national team will compete in at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, 59 "Cheering Pokémon" have been selected from over 1,000 species, each matching the characteristics of a specific sport.
At the exhibition, these diverse "Cheering Pokémon" will guide visitors to experience the unique charm of both Pokémon and sports.
▼ A look at all 59 Cheering Pokémon
To celebrate the special exhibition, there will be a quiz and stamp rally where visitors can join Pikachu as it takes on various sports challenges. Explore the exhibition with Pikachu to discover the similarities and differences between sports and Pokémon moves. Complete the quiz and stamp rally to receive an original design award sticker!
※Quiz booklets and prizes are available while supplies last.
In conjunction with the exhibition, The Pokémon Company has launched a special website, "Pokémon Sports Park (ポケモンスポーツパーク)." On the website, you can search for "Cheering Pokémon" for various sports while easily learning about sports and Pokémon.
What's more, all 59 Pokémon from this JOC collaboration project are hidden within the "Sports Park." Explore the different sports venues and find the Cheering Pokémon for each sport!
"Pokémon and Athletes' Moves Exhibition" Information
Venue: Japan Olympic Museum, 1F "Welcome Salon"
Organizer: Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC)
In Cooperation With: The Pokémon Company
Exhibition Period: September 19 – November 23, 2026
Admission: Free
During the special exhibition, the 1st floor, where the exhibition is held, will be open for free admission. However, access to the 2nd-floor exhibition area will still require the standard admission fee.