ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Water-type Pokémon characters appear in renovated seaside footbath in Japan

architecture-design · 2026-05-15

The newly renovated Wakura Pokémon Footbath at Yuttari Park in Wakura Onsen, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, has officially opened. This facility features installations of water-type Pokémon such as Gyarados, Poliwag, and Politoed, created by the Pokémon With You Foundation. The project enhances the existing lakeside footbath, providing a family-friendly environment while preserving the traditional onsen vibe. Visitors can enjoy warm wooden interiors, open-air walkways, and long benches offering views of Noto Island, complemented by vibrant character installations. Gyarados dramatically emerges from a steaming channel, accompanied by Poliwag and Politoed. Illustrated graphics on shoji-style window panels add a splash of color. The initiative is linked to Japan's Poké-lids program, showcasing Pokémon-themed manhole covers in Nanao City. A dedication ceremony took place, allowing local nursery school children to experience the footbath prior to its public opening.

Key facts

  • Renovated public footbath at Yuttari Park in Wakura Onsen, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
  • Features water-type Pokémon: Gyarados, Poliwag, Politoed
  • Developed by Pokémon With You Foundation
  • Overlooks Nanao Bay with views of Noto Island
  • Includes shoji-inspired window panels with Pokémon graphics
  • Part of Japan's Poké-lids manhole cover initiative
  • Dedication ceremony held with local nursery school children
  • Opened in May 2026

Entities

Institutions

  • Pokémon With You Foundation
  • Wakura Pokémon Footbath
  • Wakura Onsen
  • designboom

Locations

  • Wakura Onsen
  • Nanao City
  • Ishikawa Prefecture
  • Japan
  • Nanao Bay
  • Noto Island
  • Yuttari Park

Sources