Japan To Open World’s First Pokémon-Themed Airport In Bid To Boost Tourism
Japan To Open World’s First Pokémon-Themed Airport In Bid To Boost Tourism
Tokyo, May 18, 2026: Japan is set to launch the world’s first officially themed Pokémon airport this summer, turning the regional Noto Satoyama Airport into a major attraction for anime and gaming fans from across the globe.
Beginning July 7, 2026, the airport in Japan’s Noto Peninsula will temporarily operate under the name Noto Satoyama Airport as part of a special Pokémon-themed transformation that will continue until September 30, 2029.
The initiative is a joint project between the Ishikawa Prefectural Government and the Pokémon With You Foundation, aimed at supporting tourism recovery and revitalising local communities affected by the devastating 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake.
Officials said the project has been designed to attract visitors while creating a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere for children and families impacted by the disaster.
The airport will feature large-scale Pokémon decorations throughout the premises, including themed entrances, redesigned signage and character displays inspired by the globally popular franchise. A new official logo blending iconic Pokémon imagery with the outline of the Noto Peninsula has also been introduced for the project.
One of the key attractions inside the airport will be a massive two-storey atrium featuring a giant Pikachu balloon designed as if flying aboard an airplane, surrounded by various Pokémon characters.
The themed airport is also expected to include exclusive merchandise, Pokémon-inspired food items and limited-edition collectables for visitors and fans.
Japan has previously launched Pokémon-themed trains and tourism campaigns, but this marks the first time an airport has been entirely dedicated to the franchise, further strengthening the country’s reputation for combining pop culture with tourism experiences.
