In Pictures: 30 years on, Pokémon fever brings Hong Kong hobbyists and world champs together

On a sweltering July weekend, Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui shopping district buzzed with the excitement of thousands flocking to hunt down a rare Pokémon known as Mewtwo. This legendary creature, first introduced in the Japanese video game and animation series in 1996, was only visible through the screens of smartphones as part of the augmented reality mobile game Pokémon Go.

The event, which took place from July 11-12, 2026, drew attendees from all walks of life, including a doctor, civil servant, social worker, risk consultant, and former world champion Cheng Yip-kai, also known as Yekai0904 in the game.

The beloved franchise, which has spanned animated series, films, trading cards, and merchandise, has maintained its popularity over thirty years. Pokémon GO player Cheng Yip-kai, an 18-year-old university student, made history by becoming the first Hongkonger to win the title in 2024. The classic Pokémon trio of Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle appeared on mobile screens alongside Mewtwo during the event.

Pokémon’s enduring appeal is evident in the fact that an 80-year-old grandmother and a child of three or four would both recognize Pikachu. Card collector Anthony Cheung remarked on the franchise's universal recognition, noting that certain intellectual properties fail to achieve such widespread familiarity. The demand for Pokémon merchandise, particularly rare trading cards in pristine condition, has led to astronomical price increases in recent years.