I think it’s become pretty apparent by now that one of my favorite subjects for Japan Envy posts is the Pokémon-related merchandise that never makes it out of Japan. Well, I’m happy (or unhappy, depending on how you look at it) to report that I continue to have reasons to envy Japan’s awesome Pokémon merchandise, as two of my favorite Pokémon goods series are getting new lines in the upcoming months.
First is the Pokémon Tōchi, or Regional Pokémon (literally “Local Pokémon”) series. These are designs that are limited to specific areas of Japan, and as such can only be found certain Pokémon Centers. I really like regional goods and am always interested in the unique “local flavor” each city of Japan has, so aside from that creepy Pikachu whose head is far too big for his body, I’m generally all for this kind of series. Here are the newly-released designs:
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From the left to right, the prefectures represented are Kyoto, Nara, Hyogo, and Okinawa. As I mentioned before, something about that Pikachu really doesn’t jive with me, but I think the Meowth and Oshawott designs in particular are very cute. I personally have a special place in my heart for Hyogo prefecture, as that’s where I spent a year when I studied abroad in Japan, so the “weathervane-raiding sailor man” Oshawott (that’s a direct translation of the description! I can’t make this stuff up) definitely speaks to me, but my favorite overall would have to be the pineapple Meowth. Too bad it’s only available in Okinawa.
The new Regional Pokémon goods will be available at the Osaka and Okinawa Pokémon Centers from the end of April, with no end date specified. Available merchandise will include keychains, pens, and hand towels (pictured above), as well as socks, which apparently will go on sale in May.
Next we have the second line in the Pokémomo series, which is a collaboration with illustrator Momo Okada. While it’s hard to beat the first Pokémomo series, as it featured not only Snorlax, but Plusle, Minon, and Gengar, Momo Okada’s weirdly charming Pokémon interpretations just can’t be ignored, regardless of the Pokémon she’s drawing.
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The second Pokémomo series will be available at Pokémon Centers nationwide starting from the 11th of May. I hope they make adult-sized socks, because I know I could totally rock a pair or two!
Yay, another Envy post so soon. Oh how you spoil me, Anne! Your Pokemon related posts are always cute and fun to read, loves it!
Q. Why is it that girls always get the cutest bags? It makes me so sad inside :'(. Guys need cute bags too!
RE: “how are things with you?”
Well, there’s some stuff that’s getting me down lately, illness in my immediate family and stuffffff. But on a positive note I now have an amazing girlfriend from Michigan, America who makes things just about bearable for me. She came over to the UK to study at university and will be here for the next 3 years least and she wishes to live here permanently post uni :). Woohoo! Life!
Hey, I think that Pokemomo backpack would suit a girl or a guy!
And that sounds really exciting! I’m sorry to hear there’s been illness in your family, but having someone special in your life always makes things worth it <3
Do you think I’m obsessed? I do gush over Pokemon stuff a lot, but it’s funny, as I don’t feel super attached to the series or anything… Well, maybe I should just own my obsession, anyway! 😉
As for my thoughts on the new 3DS XL… Well, I’d have to see it first to judge, but I’ve never been a big Eevee fan, myself! I think it’s going to be the same limited release deal they did with the Charazard one, which is too bad… But at least everyone got the Pikachu 3DS XL in the end!
Yes, t’is very exciting indeed – American girls rawk! ;). How’s things with you and your guy Anne? Going strong I hope? 😀 x.
Well, I/we only have your blog posts to go by, don’t we? Based on those, I’d say you at least have a sizable interest in the series. There’s obviously nothing wrong with that, though!
RE: the Eevee 3DS XL: yeah, it’s supposed to be a really limited release again. Grrrrr! I’m not a big Eevee fan either, to tell you the truth. Should they ever make a Clefairy XL, though, I may be in trouble 😉
I love your Poke-obsession, Anne 🙂 Even if I’m not as obsessed with this series as you are, I can still see the appeal. I especially like the Pokemomo products, by the way, although I find the regional Pokemon stuff to be pretty cute, too.
Oh, and speaking of Pokemon: what are your thoughts on the third Pokemon-themed 3DS XL that’s supposed to be revealed in Japan soon? I believe it’s supposed to have an Eevee design on it. Sadly, it’s also supposed to be overwhelmingly limited in its release 😐