The world’s first Pokémon park opens in Tokyo
The "Pokémon Company" is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and is making every effort to make more fun with these iconic characters.
Pokémon Park, another name for it “PokéPark Kanto,” is set to open its doors on Thursday in western Tokyo, a new tourism attraction that is expected to draw in visitors at home and abroad. It has already gained popularity – all advance tickets valid until the beginning of April have been sold out.
Located in Tokyo’s Yomiuriland, this permanent installation kicked off the franchise’s 30th anniversary celebrations by bringing the 8-bit landscapes of childhood into the physical world. While many expected a high-tech competitor to Super Nintendo World, the experience is much more down-to-earth and atmospheric.
The park covers 26,000 square meters and features two distinct atmospheres. First, there’s Sedge Town, which feels like a cozy hub straight out of the games. It’s home to a Pokémon Center and a Poké Mart, full of pixel art-inspired items that will satisfy any collector’s taste. This area is the social heart of the park, where you can find themed food stalls and gather around the Primarina Fountain.
On the other side is the Pokémon Forest, a massive nature trail that serves as the park’s adventure section. Forget any thoughts of a simple, level walk through the forest. It’s a winding, hilly trail that features over 600 life-sized Pokémon statues hidden in their natural habitats.
You might spot a Beetle-type Pokémon hanging from a branch or a Water-type Pokémon poking out of a stream. It’s worth noting that the forest has some steep steps and uneven terrain, so it might be a bit of a strenuous hike for some visitors. Due to those 110 steps and the rugged landscape, the forest area is off-limits to children under five, those in wheelchairs or strollers, and anyone who can’t climb without assistance.
If you’re looking for a roller coaster that you can eat your lunch on, you won’t find it here. The current rides are much more subdued, with the Eevee-themed “Vee Vee Voyage” and a “Pikachu ride” for younger fans. The park’s designers prioritized world-building over adrenaline.
That focus on atmosphere is evident in the Sedge Gym, which will host live performances and character encounters. Early visitors have mentioned that even without a constant soundtrack or flashing lights, the size of the statues and attention to detail create a real sense of wonder.
The consensus so far is that PokéPark Kanto is a love letter to the original 151 and the fans who grew up with them. It feels more like a living museum of the Kanto region than a traditional theme park. For those who want to slow down and literally hunt for Pokémon in the wild, it’s a dream destination. For everyone else, it’s a beautiful, nostalgic stroll through one of the most iconic worlds in gaming history.
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