Everything We Know About PokéPark Kanto, Tokyo Opening in 2026

Tokyo is set to welcome a major new attraction next spring. In February 2026, the city will open PokéPark Kanto, Japan’s first permanent outdoor Pokémon theme park. The park will sit within Yomiuriland, a long-established amusement park in western Tokyo.

For travellers, this marks an important moment. Pokémon is one of Japan’s most successful cultural exports. It stretches across games, animation, films, and merchandise. Until now, however, fans have mainly encountered it through pop-ups, cafés, and indoor venues. PokéPark Kanto changes the experience entirely.

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Everything you need to know about PokePark Kanto

A New Kind of Pokémon Experience

Rather than focusing on high-speed rides, PokéPark Kanto puts exploration first. The park covers around 2.6 hectares and invites visitors to slow down, wander, and take it all in.

The design draws directly from the Kanto region, the setting of the original Pokémon games. As a result, long-time fans will recognise familiar references at every turn. At the same time, the park features Pokémon from across the wider franchise, which keeps the experience welcoming for newcomers.

Most importantly, PokéPark Kanto embraces the outdoors. Nature shapes the journey from start to finish. Expect open pathways, landscaped greenery, and scenery that changes with the seasons.

Explore the Pokémon Forest

At the heart of the park lies Pokémon Forest. This 500-metre walking trail winds through wooded areas, gentle slopes, and rocky sections.

Along the route, visitors can encounter more than 600 Pokémon. These encounters take many forms. Some Pokémon appear as sculptures hidden among trees. Others emerge through interactive elements or carefully staged moments. Many feel naturally woven into the landscape.

As a result, the forest rewards curiosity. Visitors are encouraged to slow down, look closely, and explore side paths. The trail is uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is a must. Overall, the forest feels adventurous rather than hurried.

Step Into Sedge Town

Once visitors leave the forest, the atmosphere shifts. Sedge Town provides a lively contrast, inspired by the towns of the Pokémon world.

This is where most facilities are concentrated. Visitors can browse a Pokémon Centre, explore themed retail stores, and shop at the Trainers’ Market, which will stock merchandise exclusive to the park. Nearby, food and drink outlets serve Pokémon-inspired menus.

Additionally, Sedge Town offers daily entertainment. Expect scheduled shows, character appearances, and colourful parades. At the centre sits the Primarina Fountain, which acts as a natural meeting point and a popular photo spot.

Designed for All Ages

PokéPark Kanto caters to a broad audience. Families will appreciate the open layout and interactive features. Meanwhile, adult fans can enjoy the nostalgic details and thoughtful design choices.

Crucially, visitors do not need deep knowledge of the franchise. Even casual fans can enjoy the visuals, atmosphere, and setting. In this way, the park serves as both a fan destination and a relaxing sightseeing stop. This suits mixed travel groups, even when not everyone shares the same level of Pokémon enthusiasm.

Where Is PokéPark Kanto?

PokéPark Kanto is located within Yomiuriland, in Tokyo’s Tama Hills area. While this lies outside the city centre, access remains simple. From central Tokyo, travellers can take a train to Keio-Yomiuriland Station or Yomiuriland-mae Station.

From there, shuttle buses run directly to the park. In most cases, the journey takes under an hour. As a result of this convenience, PokéPark Kanto works well as either a half-day or full-day trip.

Tickets and opening plans

PokéPark Kanto is scheduled to open on 5 February 2026. Ticket sales are expected to begin in late 2025. Early announcements point to several ticket tiers. These may include standard entry and premium options, with benefits such as priority access or reserved seating for shows.

Demand is likely to be strong, particularly during the opening period and school holidays. For that reason, travellers planning a 2026 Japan trip should keep a close eye on ticket updates and book early when sales begin.

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Why It Belongs on Your Tokyo Itinerary

PokéPark Kanto offers something Tokyo does not currently have. It blends pop culture with outdoor exploration. It pairs nostalgia with calm, considered design.

For returning visitors, it provides a fresh reason to come back. For first-time travellers, it offers an easy way to engage with a key part of modern Japanese culture.

Ultimately, PokéPark Kanto is more than a theme park. It is a carefully built world that invites visitors to step inside a global phenomenon. Come 2026, it is set to become one of Tokyo’s most talked-about new attractions.