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THE WORLD’s number one intellectual property (IP), Pokémon, is never-ending. Now, Ishikawa Prefecture in Japan is preparing to launch the world’s first Pokémon-themed airport, scheduled to begin operations this summer.
The airport will be named Noto Satoyama Pokémon With You Airport and is scheduled to open on July 7, 2026. This project is part of Noto Satoyama Airport’s temporary rebranding, which will last until 2029.
Travelers will be able to enjoy various Pokémon-themed installations and decorations scattered throughout the airport. The first is a statue of Pikachu (the yellow mouse mascot of the Pokémon series) boarding a plane in the airport atrium.
Furthermore, visitors can find illustrations of Pokémon characters on the pillars on the first floor, while on the second floor, information boards are decorated with various iconic characters from the series.
This Pokémon-themed experience is also complemented by the culinary options offered. Visitors can enjoy menus ranging from pancakes to Pokémon-themed drinks. A variety of exclusive merchandise is also available, from clothing and key chains to luggage tags.
Interestingly, this project wasn’t just created to attract tourists. The initiative was created as part of the recovery efforts in the region following the 7.6 magnitude earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in 2024. The disaster killed hundreds, injured thousands more, and damaged the region’s infrastructure.
Noto stated that the Pokémon concept, including the updated airport logo with the theme “Sky of Hope,” is expected to bring smiles and renewed enthusiasm to children affected by the disaster.
The airport serves domestic flights to and from Tokyo, specifically through Haneda Airport. Tourists looking to continue their Pokémon-themed travel experience can also visit PokéPark Kanto, the world’s first Pokémon-themed theme park, which officially opened in February in Tokyo’s Yomiuriland area. [sources/photo special]
