Saya Tsurata might be the sweetest name in Pokémon TCG art right now, and once you see her cards, you’ll get why. She has this soft, storybook style, all pastel colors and cozy little details, that makes every Pokémon look like it stepped out of a dream.
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Here’s the fun part too: she loves hiding a tiny Pokéball somewhere in almost every piece, just waiting for sharp eyed collectors to spot it. So look closely as we go, can you find all the hidden Poké Balls in these Pokémon cards?
10. Greedent V 257/264 – Fusion Strike
This Alternate Art Secret Rare shows a giant Greedent sprawled out happily on a huge pile of berries in a bright, colorful orchard. All around it, a bunch of tiny Skwovet scurry about grabbing even more snacks. Tsurata’s soft lines and gentle colors make the whole thing feel warm and snug. Somehow greed never looked this cute.
9. Eevee 101a/149
This alternate art promo brings back Eevee bouncing through a meadow full of dreamy, bright flowers. A sparkly sky stretches out above, adding just the right touch of magic. Tsurata’s careful shading really shows off Eevee’s fluffy fur and playful spirit. It feels less like a trading card and more like a page from a picture book.
8. Gengar 60/162 (Cosmos Holo)
This one first showed up in BREAKthrough, and this version shines with a sparkly Cosmos Holofoil finish. Instead of going spooky, Tsurata gives Gengar a silly grin with its tongue sticking out. Behind it swirls a purple, galaxy-like background that feels straight out of space. She really has a gift for turning creepy Pokémon into total cuties.
7. Blissey V 183/198 – Chilling Reign
This Alternate Art Ultra Rare skips the battle scenes for something much sweeter. Blissey V waddles happily toward a doorway, with a pair of tiny slipper-shoes sitting right beside it. The soft colors and homey little setting really capture Blissey’s caring side. Honestly, it might be one of the most heartwarming cards from the whole Sword & Shield era.
6. Mimikyu – SM163
This Sun & Moon promo surrounds Mimikyu with soft pastel flowers and leafy branches. Little whimsical mushrooms pop up here and there, adding an extra storybook feel. Mimikyu doesn’t look creepy at all here, just shy and sweet, peeking out timidly. That bright, cheerful setting shows just how good Tsurata is at making spooky Pokémon feel lovable.
5. Pikachu – SM162
This card was made as a match to the Mimikyu SM163 promo, and together they’re full of warmth. Pikachu turns around with a curious little look while Mimikyu hangs back shyly nearby. Soft lighting and delicate flowers wrap the whole scene in a comforting glow. It’s really the story of Mimikyu wanting to be friends with Pikachu, told in one sweet picture.
4. Mew 016/036
Pulled from the Japanese CP5 set, this card floats Mew calmly through a starry night sky. Tsurata paints Mew mid backflip, gliding through sparkling water and twinkling stars. Deep purple tones make Mew’s soft pink color and bright blue eyes really pop. Collectors love this one for its peaceful, fairytale like mood.
3. Litten, Chespin, Inkay Japanese Sun & Moon Promo
This rare Japanese promo, given out at Pokémon Card Station events, brings together an unlikely trio of friends. Chespin fumbles around the room carrying a book, startling both Litten and Inkay. Cozy details like plush armchairs and star garlands fill the background, making it feel lived in. The playful chaos and warmth between the three really show off Tsurata’s storytelling style.
2. Japanese Yokohama’s Pikachu (Sun & Moon Promo)
This one came out to celebrate Pokémon Center Yokohama opening back in 2018. Pikachu wears a sailor outfit, steering a cute little steamboat made to look like Lapras. Crisp maritime patterns and soft ocean waves give the whole card a fresh, breezy harbor feel. Its special event history and adorable outfit make it one of the most loved Japanese Pikachu promos out there.
1. Chinese Victini ex 114/SV-P
This exclusive Simplified Chinese promo is packed with character and energy from edge to edge. Victini ex stands front and center flashing a happy “V” sign, surrounded by Gengar, Koraidon, Miraidon, Plusle, and Minun. Every corner of the card is bursting with color, confetti, and celebration. It’s easy to see why this one lands at the top of so many lists, it’s just pure joy on cardstock.
If you’re just starting your collection, Saya Tsurata’s cards are a great place to begin, since they’re unique and there are plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from. And if you’re already a fan of her art, every single card she’s touched feels like a special find. Either way, there’s a whole world of pastel colors and hidden Poké Balls just waiting for you to discover.
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