Planning to explore Japan by car this summer? Your next rest stop could come with a surprise Pokémon encounter.
To celebrate Pokémon's 30th anniversary, Japan's major expressway operators are launching a nationwide collaboration that transforms highway rest areas into destinations for fans of the beloved franchise. Running from July 1st to September 30th, 2026, the "Let's Meet! A Pokémon Service Area Trip" campaign will span 234 locations across eastern, central, and western Japan.
At the heart of the event is a special stamp rally that encourages travelers to collect Pokémon-themed stamps as they journey around the country. Each participating location features a different Pokémon, including legendary and mythical favorites, adding an element of discovery to every stop. Collecting enough stamps allows participants to enter prize draws for exclusive 30th anniversary merchandise, including commemorative sticker books, medals, and travel-themed collectibles.
The fun doesn't end there. Select locations will feature exclusive Pokémon photo panels, giving visitors a chance to snap memorable road trip photos with their favorite characters. Limited-edition collaboration merchandise, including acrylic stands and keychains, will also be available for purchase during the campaign.
For travelers, the event offers another reason to embrace Japan's excellent road network. The country's service areas are already known for their regional food specialties, souvenir shops, and scenic viewpoints. This summer, many will also become miniature Pokémon destinations, turning routine breaks into part of the adventure.
Fans of Pokémon HOME can take part as well. At select locations, visitors can collect digital commemorative medals through the smartphone app, with different designs available depending on the region.
