Nintendo has finally given fans a closer look at one of the most anticipated Pokémon experiences in recent memory. The company recently released an official trailer for PokéPark KANTO, a groundbreaking theme park that promises to bring the beloved Pokémon world to life in ways fans have only dreamed about.[1][4]
The announcement of PokéPark KANTO came back in July during a Pokémon Presents livestream event, though the initial reveal was somewhat underwhelming. The company described the park as a place “where Pokémon truly exist,” but the presentation featured only small fiberglass Pokémon toys on a cheap model, leaving many fans scratching their heads about what the actual park would look like.[1]
Now, with the official trailer released in November 2025, the Pokémon Company has provided a more detailed vision of what visitors can expect. However, the trailer itself is entirely animated, which means fans still don’t have concrete visual proof of what the physical park will actually look like when it opens.[1] The animated footage shows excited visitors encountering groups of Pokémon while wandering through a wooded park setting, with Pokémon appearing throughout the landscape. While the imagery is certainly appealing and captures the imagination, it’s important to note that this is a concept visualization rather than footage of the actual completed park.
The park is being built as part of Yomiuriland, an enormous amusement park located in Tokyo, Japan.[1] This partnership with an established amusement park means that PokéPark KANTO will have access to existing infrastructure and expertise in creating theme park experiences. The facility will stretch over 26,000 square meters, making it a substantial addition to the Tokyo entertainment landscape.[3]
PokéPark KANTO is being described as the first-ever permanent outdoor Pokémon facility of its kind.[1] This distinction is significant because it represents a major commitment from the Pokémon Company to create a lasting, dedicated space for fans to experience the franchise in person. Unlike temporary pop-up experiences or smaller attractions, this permanent facility signals that the company sees long-term value in this type of immersive experience.
The park will be divided into three distinct sections that visitors will explore during their visit. The first area is the PokéPark Entrance Plaza, where visitors will begin their adventure. The second section is Sedge Town, which will provide an urban environment within the park. The third area is Pokémon Forest, which will offer a more natural, wooded setting.[1] This three-part structure allows the park designers to create varied environments and experiences throughout the facility.
One of the interactive elements of the park involves choosing a starter Pokémon companion at the beginning of the visit. Visitors will have the choice between Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle, mirroring the classic choice that players make at the start of the original Pokémon games.[1] This design choice directly connects the physical park experience to the video game franchise that started it all, creating a sense of continuity and familiarity for longtime fans.
The website for PokéPark KANTO has provided some real-life images of certain facilities within the park, offering fans their first concrete glimpses of what to expect. These images show a Pokémon Center, a Poké Mart, and a Gym, all of which are iconic locations from the Pokémon universe.[1] These facilities will serve as functional spaces within the park where visitors can purchase merchandise, obtain information, and engage with Pokémon-themed activities.
The grand opening date for PokéPark KANTO has been officially announced as Thursday, February 5, 2026.[3] This date gives the Pokémon Company several months to complete construction and prepare the park for its debut. For fans who have been waiting to experience this unique attraction, the opening date marks a significant milestone in the franchise’s evolution from purely digital entertainment to a tangible, physical experience.
The park’s official website and mobile app have been relaunched to provide visitors with information about the facility. The app requires iOS 15.0 or newer or Android 9.0 or newer to run, and it’s designed specifically for smartphones rather than tablets.[4] This mobile-first approach suggests that the park will integrate digital technology with the physical experience, likely using the app to enhance visitor interactions and provide real-time information about activities and attractions.
The marketing campaign surrounding PokéPark KANTO has generated considerable discussion among fans and media outlets. Some observers have noted that the promotional materials, while visually appealing, have left certain questions unanswered about the specific attractions and experiences that will be available at the park.[1] This has created a sense of anticipation and mystery as fans await more detailed information about what they can actually do and see when they visit.
The concept of a permanent Pokémon theme park represents a significant evolution in how major entertainment franchises are bringing their worlds to life. Rather than relying solely on video games, trading cards, and animated series, the Pokémon Company is now investing in creating physical spaces where fans can immerse themselves in the franchise’s universe. This approach has proven successful for other major entertainment properties, and the Pokémon Company is betting that fans will embrace this new way of experiencing their favorite franchise.
The location within Yomiuriland is strategic, as it places PokéPark KANTO within one of Japan’s most visited amusement parks. This means that the Pokémon facility will benefit from the existing visitor traffic to Yomiuriland while also potentially attracting new visitors who come specifically for the Pokémon experience. The synergy between the two attractions could create a compelling reason for tourists and locals alike to visit the Tokyo area.
As the February 2026 opening date approaches, more details about specific attractions, dining options, and merchandise offerings will likely be revealed. The Pokémon Company has a track record of building excitement through staged announcements and reveals, so fans can expect additional information to be released in the coming months. Each new piece of information will help clarify what visitors can expect and build anticipation for the park’s debut.
The significance of PokéPark KANTO extends beyond just being another theme park attraction. It represents a validation of the Pokémon franchise’s enduring appeal and its ability to evolve and remain relevant across different media and experiences. For a franchise that began in 1996 with Game Boy games and has since expanded into one of the most successful entertainment properties in history, a permanent theme park is a natural progression that acknowledges the deep connection fans have with the Pokémon world.
