History of Pokémon Center in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 27, 2026

Pokémon Center is a chain of retail stores specializing in merchandise related to the Pokémon franchise. Primarily located in Japan, with the first store opening in Tokyo in 1998, Pokémon Centers also exist in Singapore, the United States, and Taiwan. These stores offer a wide array of products, catering to Pokémon fans and collectors. They serve as a key point of sale for official Pokémon goods, solidifying the brand's presence and appeal.

1998: First Pokémon Center opened in Tokyo

In 1998, the first Pokémon Center, a specialty store selling Pokémon merchandise, opened in Tokyo, Japan, marking the beginning of the chain.

November 16, 2001: Pokémon Center opened in New York City

On November 16, 2001, Nintendo opened a Pokémon Center store in Rockefeller Center, New York City.

2005: Pokémon Center in New York City closed

In 2005, the Pokémon Center in Rockefeller Center, New York City closed. It was replaced by the Nintendo World Store.

2010: Pokémon Center Osaka opened

In 2010, Pokémon Center Osaka opened. It is one of the larger locations in Japan at 830 square meters, and the seventh Pokémon Center location in the country.

2014: Online Pokémon Center store launched

In 2014, The Pokémon Company International launched an online Pokémon Center store.

2016: Nintendo World Store rebranded to Nintendo New York

In 2016, the Nintendo World Store, which replaced the Pokémon Center, was renovated and rebranded as Nintendo New York.

December 2023: Second Permanent Pokémon Center opened in Taipei

On 8th December 2023, the second permanent Pokémon Center outside of Japan opened in Taipei at the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store near Taipei 101.