Starbucks Japan Announces First Pokémon Collaboration
Starbucks Coffee Japan has announced a new collaboration with Pokémon, bringing a special beverage and a large collection of limited-edition merchandise to customers across Japan.
The collaboration will begin on September 30, 2026, under the theme “Connection Over The Coffee Adventures.” Starbucks said the project will explore the connection between coffee, Pokémon and shared experiences.
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Pikachu Honey Cream Latte Takes Centre Stage
The main beverage of the collaboration is the Pikachu Honey Cream Latte, an iced Tall-size drink inspired by Pikachu’s yellow colour and red cheeks.
The drink combines espresso with honey and caramel flavours and is topped with honey-flavoured whipped cream and a heart-shaped topping inspired by Pikachu’s red cheeks.
The drink will be available at Starbucks stores across Japan, excluding some locations, from September 30 to October 8, while supplies last.
Customers purchasing the collaboration beverage will also receive an original Pokémon × Starbucks sticker while supplies last.
Recipe Came From Starbucks Baristas
The Pikachu drink has a connection to Starbucks Japan’s internal Pokémon + Starbucks Barista Battle.
More than 700 entries were submitted by Starbucks employees nationwide. The winning idea came from Junko Nitta, a barista at Starbucks Coffee Koriyama Asaka store in Fukushima Prefecture.
Her Pikachu-inspired recipe was selected to become the collaboration’s nationwide beverage.
41 Pokémon-Themed Merchandise Items
The collaboration will also introduce 41 Pokémon × Starbucks merchandise items.
The collection features original artwork involving Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle and Eevee alongside Starbucks baristas.
Products include:
● Reusable cups
● Stainless-steel bottles
● Tumblers
● Cups and holders
● Aprons
● A stainless-steel kettle
● Glass coffee equipment
● PVC pouches
● Art posters
● Starbucks Card gift sets
Some products will be sold at Starbucks stores, while others will be available through the official Starbucks online store.
Merchandise Goes on Sale September 30
The merchandise launch will also begin on September 30.
For the first three days, from September 30 to October 2, customers at participating stores will generally be limited to one of each collaboration item per person, excluding beverages. Supplies are limited.
Online merchandise sales are also scheduled to begin on September 30, with the online store expected to open sales from around 6 a.m. Japan time.
Pokémon Characters Featured Across the Collection
The original collaboration artwork brings several well-known Pokémon into the Starbucks setting.
Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle and Eevee appear across different products, with designs showing the characters alongside Starbucks baristas and coffee-themed scenes.
The collection uses earthy and neutral tones on several items, giving the Pokémon designs a style intended for everyday use.
Why This Matters
1. First Pokémon and Starbucks Collaboration in Japan
Starbucks Japan described the launch as its first collaboration with Pokémon, combining two globally recognised brands in a new coffee-themed campaign.
2. A Drink Created Through a Barista Competition
The featured Pikachu beverage originated from an internal competition that attracted more than 700 entries from Starbucks employees.
3. Large Merchandise Collection
With 41 collaboration items, the campaign extends beyond the limited-time beverage into reusable drinkware, accessories, cards and other products.
4. Limited-Time Launch
The beverage and merchandise are being released in limited quantities, with the latte scheduled for September 30 to October 8 and other products available while supplies last.
Final Word
Starbucks Japan is bringing Pokémon into its coffee shops with a new collaboration launching on September 30, 2026.
The campaign will feature the Pikachu Honey Cream Latte, original Pokémon-themed artwork and 41 collaboration merchandise items, giving fans a new way to experience the characters through Starbucks’ coffee culture.
