Summer in Japan is all about the festivals. Warm evenings of traditional performances, fireworks, festival food and a 1500 strong Pikachu invasion.

Okay maybe that last one only applies specifically to this festival, the annual Pikachu Outbreak in Yokohama.

Yokohama Pikachu Outbreak 2018: The Cutest Invasion Ever?

The festival is getting bigger every year and consists of the Minato Mirai area being overrun with adorable Pikachu mascots. They are getting ready for a full-blown takeover in August 2018, over 1500 of them will storm Yokohama in possibly the cutest invasion ever.

The first details about this year have been revealed and the theme is ‘Science is Amazing’. As we know, Pikachu is a full on brainiac, so some scientific aspects to the festival lineup will probably be announced closer to the time.

Pikachu parades will take place during both the daytime and nighttime, with the night Pikachus getting flashy in light up costumes.

There will be a digital splash show including other Pokemon species (Pikachu doesn’t make it all about himself you know), and a Pikachu parade on the sea. Both will incorporate digital technology to create an awesome sight for Pokemon trainers.

If you’ve ever wanted to meet a Pikachu in person, this is surely your chance with plenty of Pikachus to hug and take selfies with. This video advertising last year’s surreal event gives an idea of what to expect.

This year’s festival will be from August 10th to 16th around the Minato Mirai area of Yokohama.

How To Get There

Minato Mirai station (Minato Mirai line)

Sakuragicho Station (JR Negishi line/Yokohama subway line)