When I check the app description, Lid Quest presents an interesting concept: a mobile application designed to help users discover and track decorative manhole covers throughout Japan. It essentially acts as a digital guide to these often-overlooked pieces of public art, turning a simple walk into a treasure hunt.
The app's main function is to map and catalog these decorated manhole covers. It allows users to explore registered covers on a map, filter them by prefecture, city, or region (like Kanto, Kansai, or Hokkaido), and access official details such as location, links, and descriptions. The inclusion of exclusive images of the covers is a definite plus, allowing users to preview what they're looking for. The ability to create a personalized list of visited covers and transform the experience into a collection game adds a layer of engagement and encourages repeat use.
Lid Quest would be particularly useful for tourists seeking unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Japan. Instead of just visiting the typical tourist spots, users can use this app to discover hidden gems within cities. It's also a great resource for fans of Japanese culture, especially those interested in the intersection of art, design, and everyday life. The app specifically mentions Poké Lids (Pokémon-themed manhole covers), making it an ideal tool for Pokémon enthusiasts and collectors. Finally, even locals might find the app useful for rediscovering their own city and appreciating the artistic details they might have previously overlooked.
However, the app's 0/5 rating on the Google Play Store is a significant red flag. While the concept is appealing, a zero-star rating usually indicates serious issues with functionality, stability, or user experience. It's impossible to give a truly positive assessment without actually using the app, but this rating suggests that the app may be buggy, incomplete, or even non-functional. Potential users should proceed with caution and perhaps look for reviews or feedback from other users before downloading. The developer, KennedyCreative, needs to address the issues causing the low rating to make this promising concept a worthwhile app. The idea has merit, but execution is clearly lacking at the moment.
Review published on November 6, 2025