pokemon sun pikachu location

Find Pikachu in Pokemon Sun: Early Game Location

By Jessica LeeDecember 6, 2025

Embarking on a captivating journey in the tropical Alola region, Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon players are eager to encounter the electrifying Pikachu, everyone's favorite adorable Electric-type Pokémon. This comprehensive guide walks you through the exciting adventure of finding Pikachu in Pokémon Sun.

Unlike previous games, Pikachu isn't accessible at the start of Pokémon Sun. However, Nintendo has made it possible to obtain this beloved Pokémon through a unique event. Here's how you can add Pikachu to your team:

Obtaining a Pikachu

To begin your quest for Pikachu, you'll need to transfer a Pokémon from the Pokémon GO app to your Pokémon Sun game. This process, known as the Poké Transfer, allows you to send a Pokémon that has been caught in Pokémon GO to the Poké Bank in Pokémon Sun or Moon.

a pikachu flying over the top of a wave in front of a sun

a pikachu sitting in the grass with its mouth open

Once the Pokémon is in the Poké Bank, you can access your Boxes through any Pokémon Center in Alola and receive a special Pikachu as a gift from Professor Oak. This unique Pikachu knows the move Zippy Zap, an exciting Electric-type Z-Move that configures Pikachu as a formidable battler.

Pokémon GO to Pokémon Sun Transfer

To initiate the transfer process, ensure you have both Pokémon GO and Pokémon Sun installed on your Nintendo 3DS or 2DS system. Open Pokémon GO and tap on the supplied avatar icon on the main screen. A menu will appear; select the button labeled 'Pokémon'.

a pokemon pikachu sitting on top of a sandy beach

a cartoon pikachu is in the water with rocks and grass around it,

In the ensuing menu, locate and press the 'Transfer' option followed by the 'Transfer to Nintendo Switch/Other devices' choice. A list of compatible games, including Pokémon Sun and Moon, will then appear. Select your game, verify the connection, and tap on the 'Transfer' button next to any Pokémon you wish to send to your preferred game. Keep in mind that the transferred Pokémon will be level 25.

Receiving Pikachu in Pokémon Sun

After completing the transfer process in Pokémon GO, load your Pokémon Sun save file and proceed to any Pokémon Center to communicate with Professor Oak using the PC. You'll find a new Box called 'Poké Transfer', where the Pokémon you transferred from Pokémon GO will await you.

Talk to the nurse at the Pokémon Center, and she'll inform you about a special gift from Professor Oak. Open your Bag and navigate to the 'Mystery Gift' option. Select 'Receive Gift', and Professor Oak will bestow upon you a level 50 Pikachu with the previously mentioned Z-Move.

the pokemon movie poster with pikachu and eena flying in front of a house

the silhouette of a child walking in front of an orange sky with trees and clouds

Pikachu's Role in Pokémon Sun

Pikachu is an excellent Electric-type Pokémon, with a unique appearance and ample attack power. This iconic character boasts a wide move pool, providing players with countless strategy options. Pikachu's flexibility allows it to act as an offensive force in both single and double battles, or as a support character, using moves like Nuzzle and plong to weaken and confuse opponents.

Moreover, Pikachu's compatibility with the Electric-type Z-Crystal enhances its power with exciting Z-Moves like Dazzling Gleam and Sparkling Aria. Trainers can also utilize Pikachu's adaptability to run item-based sets, such as utilizing the Light Ball to increase its special offense or the Thunder Stone to evolve it into Raichu.

In conclusion, obtaining Pikachu in Pokémon Sun presents a thrilling experience, blending the real world with the enchanting Alola region. Whether you're a nostalgic fan or a Pokémon newcomer, Pikachu's addition to your team offers a unique and memorable adventure.