Ahead of Pokémon's 30th anniversary on 27 February, marking its original launch in Japan, the franchise is set to open PokéPark Kanto, the world’s first permanent outdoor Pokémon theme park.
Located about 30 minutes by train from Tokyo city, the 26,000 sqm themed area sits within the existing Yomiuriland amusement park in the Tama Hills.
PokéPark is split into two main areas.
The Pokémon Forest which features a 500m exploration trail will be filled with over 600 life-sized Pokémon replicas, while Sedge Town houses the Pokémon Centre, Poké Mart and Sedge Gym, alongside shows, themed F&B options and rides such as Pika Pika Paradise and Vee Vee Voyage.
A Bubble Carnival mini parade happens at select slots through the day, alongside character meet-and-greet experiences with Pikachu and Eevee. The latter requires tickets, which can be purchased on the PokéPark Kanto app.
Once daily, visitors can also receive a commemorative medal and Poke Lids through the Pokemon Home app.
Three ticket types are available, inclusive of admission to Yomiuri Land. The Ace Trainer’s Pass at 14,000 yen (US$91) for visitors aged 13 and older offers unlimited access to both areas, including reserved access to the Sedge Gym show, as well as access to priority lane and exclusive merchandise.
The Trainer’s Pass (7,900 yen) provides timed access to both areas, while the Town Pass grants access only to Sedge Town.
Tickets can only be purchased through the official website via a lottery system, with applications open between the first and twelth of each month, around three months in advance.
Alternatively, it is possible to get tickets two months prior to visit date, on a first-come, first-served basis.