The dream of becoming a real-life Pokémon Trainer is one step closer to reality.
The Pokémon Company has officially announced PokéPark KANTO, a brand-new outdoor theme park set to open in early 2026. Nestled within Yomiuriland in Tokyo’s scenic Tama Hills, this permanent attraction will span an impressive 26,000 square meters and serve as the first outdoor Pokémon park of its kind.
PokéPark KANTO is designed to be a full-sensory journey for Pokémon fans of all ages. Featuring over 600 Pokémon from Kanto and beyond, the park is split into two immersive zones—Pokémon Forest and Sedge Town—each offering wildly different experiences, yet perfectly capturing the heart of the Pokémon universe.
Pokémon Forest: A Living Pokédex
Get ready to explore the Pokémon world like never before.
The Pokémon Forest is a nearly 500-meter-long natural landscape that serves as the beating heart of PokéPark KANTO. With hilly terrain, tall grass, rocky paths, hidden tunnels, and berry trees, it’s designed to recreate the thrill of the wild routes seen in the games and anime. Guests can observe life-sized Pokémon in action—battling, foraging, hiding, and even surprising Trainers from behind the foliage.
From towering creatures like Charizard to burrowers like Diglett, fans will have to stay alert to spot their favorites. The environment encourages curiosity and exploration—just like every young Trainer’s first steps into the world of Pokémon.
Sedge Town: Where Trainers Gather
Once you’ve trekked through the wild, head to Sedge Town—a bustling hub where Pokémon and Trainers from around the world connect.
Sedge Town includes the Pokémon Center, Poké Mart, Sedge Gym, and a vibrant Pokémon Trainers’ Market. The park promises interactive experiences, shopping, and opportunities to learn more about the bond between Pokémon and people. Guests can also catch a spectacular Pokémon parade or gather at the central Primarina Fountain, a picturesque setting that makes for the perfect memory (or selfie) spot.
While two additional attractions have yet to be revealed, the blend of themed entertainment and lifestyle elements already sets Sedge Town apart as a must-visit location for any fan.
Tickets and Opening Timeline
PokéPark KANTO is scheduled to open in early 2026, with advance ticket sales expected to begin in late 2025. More information, including pricing and ticketing options, will be shared closer to the launch. With its location inside the already-popular Yomiuriland, accessibility and guest convenience are top priorities.
Personal Thoughts
As amazing as this sounds, I can’t help but still hope that a permanent Pokémon experience finds its way to Universal Studios parks someday—especially in the U.S. With the Universal and Pokémon partnership already blossoming at Universal Studios Japan, it only makes sense to bring something similar stateside. A dedicated area or even a seasonal Pokémon event could draw huge crowds and fresh energy to the parks, just like how Super Nintendo World has been a game-changer.
It’s hard not to dream about what that would look like—interactive gym battles, real-world PokéStops, themed snacks, and maybe even annual events that mirror in-game Pokémon celebrations. If Universal wants to continue expanding their appeal to families and fans of all generations, Pokémon would be a massive win.
For now, PokéPark KANTO looks like it’s going to be the destination for Pokémon fans—and it’s exciting to see what other surprises The Pokémon Company has in store.
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