Pikachu no Asa no Nikka [Episode 1]

Pikachu’s Morning Routine: A Whimsical Gem for Pokémon Fans

If you’ve ever wondered what goes through Pikachu’s mind when it’s not zapping Team Rocket or munching on berries, Pikachu no Asa no Nikka (Pikachu’s Morning Routine) answers that question with 2 minutes and 47 seconds of pure, unadulterated joy. Released as an ONA (Original Net Animation) on July 10, 2020, this short-form special from the Pokémon franchise is a love letter to the iconic Electric-type Pokémon, blending vibrant animation with a heartwarming story that feels like a cozy hug.

The episode follows Pikachu through a typical morning: stretching awake in a sunlit meadow, chasing a butterfly, and sharing a playful moment with a group of Pichu. The animation, while simple, is bursting with color—think bright greens, warm yellows, and Pikachu’s signature orange cheeks that glow like tiny suns. It’s the kind of visuals that make you want to reach through the screen and ruffle Pikachu’s fur.

What makes this episode stand out is its focus on Pikachu’s personality. We see the Pokémon’s mischievous side as it teases a Caterpie, its curious side as it investigates a dewdrop, and its gentle side when it helps a lost Pichu find its way back to the group. These small, relatable moments remind us why Pikachu has been a fan favorite for over two decades: it’s not just a powerful battler, but a friend.

Fans on MyAnimeList have praised the episode for its “nostalgic charm” and “perfect pacing.” One user wrote, “I smiled the entire time. It’s like watching a day in the life of my childhood companion.” Another noted, “The lack of dialogue lets the animation speak for itself—every movement tells a story.” Even critics of the Pokémon franchise might find themselves won over by the episode’s simplicity; it’s a reminder that sometimes, the best stories are the ones that don’t need words.

Of course, no Pokémon content is complete without a nod to the community. The episode’s lighthearted tone has sparked discussions online about Pikachu’s “real” morning habits. On Reddit, fans debated whether Pikachu would actually drink from a dewdrop (“Probably not, but it’s cute!”) or if the Pichu scene was a reference to Pikachu’s own evolution (“Maybe it’s a callback to when Ash’s Pikachu refused to evolve!”). These conversations highlight how deeply Pikachu is ingrained in pop culture—even a 2-minute short can inspire hours of debate.

For younger viewers, Pikachu’s Morning Routine is a perfect introduction to the Pokémon world. It’s free of intense battles or complex plots, focusing instead on friendship and adventure. Parents might appreciate the positive messages about kindness and curiosity, while kids will be captivated by Pikachu’s antics.

In a franchise that often leans into epic battles and world-saving quests, this episode is a refreshing change of pace. It’s a reminder that the Pokémon universe is full of small, beautiful moments—like a morning spent chasing butterflies or sharing a laugh with friends. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, Pikachu no Asa no Nikka is a must-watch. It’s not just an anime; it’s a celebration of what makes Pikachu, well, Pikachu.

So grab your favorite snack, sit back, and let Pikachu’s morning routine brighten your day. You won’t regret it. ⚡️

Pikachu no Asa no Nikka is available to stream on the official Pokémon Kids TV YouTube channel.