What do Pokémon moves have in common with the techniques used by Olympic athletes? That's the idea behind a new special exhibition coming to the Japan Olympic Museum in Tokyo this autumn.
The "Pokémon and Athletes' Techniques Exhibition" runs from September 19 to November 23, 2026, bringing together 59 Pokémon selected to represent different sports. Visitors can compare the moves and abilities of Pokémon with the techniques athletes use in competition, with plenty of opportunities to get hands-on along the way.
The exhibition is divided into four sections. "Let's Compare Our Skills" explores similarities between Pokémon moves and athletic techniques, while "Intentional Posing" looks at the distinctive poses athletes make when performing their best moves. Visitors can even recreate poses from sports including weightlifting, surfing, skateboarding, and breakdancing.
Another section focuses on sporting equipment, with actual competition gear displayed so visitors can explore how athletes use different tools to perform their techniques. The final section lets visitors try out various sports through hands-on activities and simulators.
There will also be a Pokémon-themed quiz rally featuring Pikachu. Visitors can explore the exhibition while answering questions about the similarities and differences between sports techniques and Pokémon moves. Those who complete the quiz can receive an original certificate sticker, while supplies last.
