Pikachu promo cards hold a special place in the Pokémon TCG world. Pikachu is the face of the franchise, and its popularity makes it the perfect choice for promotional releases that appeal to a wide range of fans. As the brand’s mascot, Pikachu often appears on cards celebrating store openings, limited campaigns, or exclusive product launches, many of which are distributed through Pokémon Centers or bundled with themed merchandise.
This consistent use of Pikachu not only builds excitement but also boosts collectability and long-term value. The list below highlights some of the most desirable Pikachu promo cards from the modern era, spanning XY, Sword & Shield, and Scarlet & Violet, with a strong focus on Sun & Moon era promos. These cards also share a consistent visual charm, using the classic yellow border that perfectly complements Pikachu’s iconic color and nostalgic appeal.
15. Pretend Comedian Pikachu – 407/SM-P
Distributed to commemorate the grand opening of Pokémon Center Osaka DX, Pretend Comedian Pikachu showcases Pikachu dressed as a stand-up performer holding a microphone. It ties directly to Osaka’s reputation as Japan’s comedy capital, making it a fun and regionally themed collectible.
14. Playing in the Sea Pikachu – 392/SM-P
Given to customers who purchased five booster packs at Pokémon Centers and Pokémon Stores beginning August 2, 2019, this promo was part of the Pokémon Surf campaign. The card features Pikachu joyfully playing in the sea, drawn by Kouki Saitou, with the Pokémon Center logo stamped on the artwork. Its vibrant summer theme captures the fun of Japan’s beach season.
13. Mega Tokyo’s Pikachu – 098/XY-P
Released to celebrate the relocation of Pokémon Center Tokyo to Ikebukuro as Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo, this promo features Pikachu wearing a Charizard costume, complete with wings, horns, and tail. It was handed out with any purchase between December 12, 2014 and January 16, 2015. The 098/XY-P print carries the Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo logo at the lower right of the artwork, while a separate 204/XY-P version was later distributed at a limited Mega Battle event. The Charizard costume and store connection make this one of the most iconic Pikachu promos of the XY era.
12. Kanazawa’s Pikachu – 144/S-P and 147/S-P
Both versions feature the same artwork of Pikachu in a colorful kimono surrounded by decorative temari balls. #144 was given during the Pokémon Center Kanazawa grand opening, while #147 was included in the Kanazawa Pokémon Center Special Box. The elegant design and watercolor aesthetic make it one of the most beautiful modern promos.
11. Team Japan’s Pikachu – 050/XY-P
Created to celebrate Japan’s participation in the 2014 Pokémon World Championships, this card shows Pikachu in a sporty red jacket, proudly holding a Poké Ball. It represents Japan’s national team spirit and remains a symbol of the country’s strong connection to the competitive Pokémon TCG scene.
10. Yokohama’s Pikachu – 282/SM-P and 283/SM-P
Illustrated by Saya Tsuruta, these two promos were released to celebrate the renewal opening of Pokémon Center Yokohama in 2018. Both cards feature Pikachu in adorable sailor outfits with the Pokémon Center Yokohama logo on the artwork. The first card, 282/SM-P, shows three Pikachu dressed as sailors and captains in a cheerful group pose. The second, 283/SM-P, depicts a single Pikachu riding a small ship while waving happily against a striped ocean background. Their nautical theme and bright design perfectly reflect Yokohama’s harbor identity, making them beloved regional exclusives among collectors.
9. Shibuya’s Pikachu – 002/S-P
This modern promo was distributed during the grand opening of Pokémon Center Shibuya in 2019. The card shows Pikachu wearing a graffiti-inspired hoodie designed by Japanese streetwear artist LAM. The result is one of the boldest and most contemporary Pikachu artworks ever printed.
8. Pretend Tea Ceremony Pikachu – 325/SM-P
Released during a cultural promotion event, this card shows Pikachu performing a traditional Japanese tea ceremony while dressed in a kimono. Its peaceful and graceful design celebrates Japan’s classic artistry, making it a must-have for collectors who appreciate Pokémon’s cultural crossover releases.
7. Tohoku’s Pikachu – 260/SV-P
Distributed to celebrate the reopening of Pokémon Center Tohoku in 2024, this promo symbolizes renewal and community spirit. Pikachu is surrounded by springtime motifs that reflect the region’s natural beauty and resilience, marking an optimistic new chapter in the Scarlet & Violet promo series.
6. Cherry Blossom Afro Pikachu – 211/SM-P
This adorable promo, given during the Pokémon Center Cherry Blossom Festival in 2018, shows Pikachu with a fluffy pink cherry blossom afro. It celebrates Japan’s hanami tradition and stands out as one of the most playful and distinctly Japanese Pikachu designs of the SM-P series.
5. Sapporo’s Pikachu – 005/SM-P
Illustrated by kawayoo, this promo was distributed beginning December 1, 2016, to commemorate the renewal of Pokémon Center Sapporo. It features Pikachu, Alolan Vulpix, and Popplio in a festive “Snow Party” winter scene, complete with the Pokémon Center Sapporo logo on the artwork. Its regional exclusivity and seasonal setting make it highly sought-after.
4. Firefighter Pikachu – 209/SM-P
Drawn by Kouki Saitou, this 2018 promo depicts Pikachu in an Edo-style firefighter outfit holding a matoi banner. It was part of a fire safety awareness campaign run in cooperation with local fire departments across Japan. The traditional theme and community-driven purpose make it one of the most meaningful Pikachu promos ever produced.
3. Easter’s Pikachu – 055/SM-P
Distributed at Pokémon Centers during a spring campaign, this promo features Pikachu surrounded by colorful Easter eggs and flowers. Its pastel tones and joyful atmosphere make it a standout seasonal card from the Sun & Moon era.
2. Pikachu – 369/SM-P
Released in July 2019 as part of the Mewtwo Strikes Back EVOLUTION movie promotion, this card was bundled with the “Together With the Wind” CD/DVD single. It features CGI Ash with Pikachu on his shoulder and a movie logo stamp on the front. Its tie to the film and limited retail distribution make it one of the rarest SM-P promos.
1. Pretend Boss Pikachu – Team Rainbow Rocket Campaign (January 2018)
The Pretend Boss Pikachu series stands as one of the most iconic Pikachu promo collections ever. Released as part of the “Team Rainbow Rocket’s Ambition” campaign, these seven SM-P cards each feature Pikachu dressed as a villainous team leader: Giovanni, Cyrus, Archie, Maxie, Lysandre, Ghetsis, and Guzma. Shoppers who purchased five booster packs at Pokémon Centers could select one of the designs. Their clever concept and connection to Pokémon’s most notorious villains make this set a true grail for collectors.
Japanese Pikachu promos tell the story of Pokémon’s culture through art, city pride, and celebration. Each card blends nostalgia with regional flavor, offering collectors a unique look at how Pokémon thrives as both a global brand and a piece of Japanese heritage.
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