Since houses in Japan often don't have a number on show, it’s customary to have a plate with a name prominently displayed on the outside. These are called hyosatsu, and often they just show the family name of the family that lives in that abode, but sometimes full names are included too.

Just as Pokemon seals were released to add a bit of Pocket Monster flair when signing off something, the same company has now started offering Pokemon versions of these hyosatsu. The lineup is called ‘Pokemon Sign’, and names can be written in either Japanese, or English if you prefer.

If you want your favourite creature from the series to welcome guests to your house or help post workers quickly identify your residence, there’s thirty to choose from. The first step is choose which one you want, and they include plenty of first generation fan favourites like Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Gengar, Psyduck, Slowpoke, and of course, Pikachu.

The later generations feature too, with Togepi, Cyndaquil, Totodile and more. There’s even legendary Pokemon like Lugia if you want to go for a power move in front of the rest of the neighbourhood.

The signs are made of stainless steel and can be copped in silver or black.

Once you decide on how you want to stylise your name, there’s also various fonts to choose from.

These name plates can be ordered online from stores such as Rakuten and Yahoo Shopping.


By - grape Japan editorial staff.