The first generation of Pokémon games is beloved by fans all over the world, and part of what makes them so special are the iconic locations within the games. From Lavender Town to Viridian Forest, each place holds a unique charm for players to explore. One of the most famous locations is Pallet Town, where players begin their journey to become a Pokémon Master.
What many fans may not know is that Pallet Town is actually inspired by a real place – Machida, the hometown of Pokémon creator Satoshi Tajiri. Located within the Tokyo Metropolis, Machida may not be as well-known as other tourist spots in Japan, but it holds a special significance for Pokémon enthusiasts looking to experience a bit of the games in real life.
While some have debated whether Pallet Town is actually in Shizuoka, recent installations of six Poké Lids in Machida’s Serigaya Park have solidified the city as the likely inspiration. These Poké Lids are part of the Pokémon Local Acts project, which aims to promote tourism in lesser-known areas of Japan. Featuring classic Kanto Pokémon like Bulbasaur and Charmander, these lids have become popular spots for fans to visit and take photos.
Serigaya Park itself is a beautiful location, with sculptures, ponds, and lush greenery that evoke the same sense of adventure found in Pallet Town. The park was created in 1982, and while it may not have directly inspired Tajiri’s creation of Pokémon, its quiet beauty captures the essence of the early routes in the games.
In addition to Serigaya Park, Machida offers other attractions for visitors to enjoy. Machida Squirrel Garden is a petting zoo with over two hundred squirrels living in colourful houses, while Yakushiike Park features a stunning Japanese garden with arch bridges and wisteria. These locations may not be directly related to Pokémon, but they offer a unique experience that captures the spirit of exploration found in the games.
For those interested in shopping and gaming, Machida Station has a variety of restaurants, department stores, and arcades to explore. Hobby Off and Book Off are popular shops for retro game enthusiasts, with themed decorations and a selection of classic games to browse through. Machida’s evolving landscape, as described by Tajiri in a 1999 interview, reflects the changing nature of the city while still maintaining elements of its natural beauty.
Whether you’re a die-hard Pokémon fan or simply looking to explore a new area of Japan, Machida offers a unique experience that combines the magic of the games with the charm of a real-life adventure. As the Poké Lids continue to draw visitors to the city, the spirit of starting your journey in Pallet Town lives on in Machida’s picturesque streets and parks.