Summary
APokemonfan has spotted an incredible Growlithe train that’s covered in representations of the Pokemon both inside and out. The train would be a charming sight for any fans of the Gen 1 Pokemon, but for those who can’t see it in-person, thisPokemonfan’s detailed photography is the next-best thing.
SincePokemonoriginated in Japan, it’s not surprising that the country has plenty ofPokemonpartnerships.Pokemoncafes, manhole covers, planes, and other trains have all featured Pokemon over the years, making them memorable for residents and visitors alike.
Now, Reddit user Iovefries has shared the incredible Growlithe train they spotted in real-life and were lucky enough to explore. The outside of the train is absolutely covered in cute pictures of Growlithe, as well as flowers and Poke Balls. That would be more than enough to make thePokemontraineye-catching and memorable, but the interior is also completely decorated with Growlithe designs. The doors, banners, walls, and even the handrail rings are dotted with illustrations of Growlithe. The train is quite adorable, and a number of fans have shared their envy of Iovefries at getting to see it in-person.
Why is There a Growlithe Train in Japan?
WhilePokemontrains have been around in the past, this particular one choseGrowlitheto be its representative for a good reason. Back in 2024, The Pokemon Company signed a partnership agreement with the Okinawa Prefecture, becoming the eleventh such collaboration. Okinawa was granted Growlithe as a “support Pokemon” to excite travelers and inspire tourism to the region. Over all the possible Pokemon in the series, Growlithe was chosen due to its similarities to an iconic folklore creature called a Shisa. Imagery of Shisa can be found all over Okinawa, as they’re seen as good luck. Shisa are similar to Chinese guardian lions, depicted as a cross between a lion and a dog, and bear a similarity to how Growlithe looks, making it a perfect pick.
While Growlithe is perfect for Okinawa, Growlithe’s train isn’t the only thing celebrating thePokemonin the Okinawa Prefecture right now. There are also four buses sporting imagery of the Pokemon, and there are numerous promotional products celebrating Growlithe and Okinawa available to buy as souvenirs. Outside of Okinawa, there are alsoongoingPokemonpromotional tie-inswith prefectures across Japan. For example, an Oshawott-themed express train began service in February 2025. Oshawott is the support Pokemon of the Mie Prefecture in Japan, which the train runs through. Oshawott was chosen due to being a Water-type Pokemon with a shell on its belly, which brought to mind the Mie Prefecture’s access to shellfish and oysters.
