Pokémon and Starbucks Unite for a New Coffee Adventure

Starbucks Japan is joining forces with Pokémon for a new collaboration launching on September 30, bringing together the world of coffee and one of the most iconic franchises in gaming history. Built around the theme “Connection Over The Coffee Adventures”, the campaign will introduce exclusive drinks, merchandise and original artwork designed specifically for the occasion. At the heart of the project is Japanese illustrator Hikaru Ichijo, who created twelve unique visuals featuring Pokémon alongside Starbucks baristas in a colorful journey centered on discovery, teamwork and personal growth.

For Ichijo, the collaboration carries a particularly personal meaning. Pokémon has been part of her life since childhood, when Pokémon Red and Green first launched in Japan and the animated series began airing. She remembers drawing Pokémon with friends during elementary school before temporarily moving away from the franchise while focusing on her studies. As an adult, however, she rediscovered both the games and merchandise, developing an even greater appreciation for the franchise and its enormous roster of creatures. Starbucks is equally familiar territory for the artist, who has previously worked on two seasonal campaigns for the company and remains a frequent customer.

The new illustrations tell the story of five baristas who meet different Pokémon and gradually build partnerships with them while improving their coffee-making skills. Pikachu helps power an espresso machine, Bulbasaur assists with growing coffee plants, while Eevee becomes involved in drink customization. Ichijo also added subtle visual connections between the human characters and their Pokémon partners, including matching hairstyles, shapes and colors. Poké Balls, berries and other small references are hidden throughout the artwork, giving longtime fans additional details to discover. Her signature decision not to draw human faces also remains intact, allowing viewers to project their own emotions and experiences onto the characters.

One of the campaign's central visuals brings the five Pokémon and their baristas together in front of a large green circle, a design choice that emerged during discussions with the Starbucks team. The color reinforces the visual identity of the coffee brand while illustrating the collaborative process behind the project itself. The finished artwork will appear across Starbucks locations as well as on tumblers, mugs, posters and other merchandise. More than a simple crossover, the campaign presents Pokémon and Starbucks through a shared story about trust, individuality and the relationships that develop when partners grow together.