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A Pokémon-themed airport is officially opening in Japan this July
Noto Satoyama Airport in Ishikawa Prefecture will be renamed Noto Satoyama Pokémon With You Airport.
The collaboration will run from 7 July until September 2029, making it a long-term Pokémon takeover instead of just a temporary pop-up.
The airport will feature more than 111 Flying-type Pokémon, along with giant installations, themed food, and exclusive merchandise, making it one of Japan's most ambitious Pokémon attractions yet
Walls, signs, boarding bridges, and walkways will be covered with Pokémon, turning the airport into a giant real-life "find them all" game.
At the centre of the airport is a huge Pikachu-and-plane balloon display floating in the two-storey main hall.
Around it, Flying-type Pokémon are displayed in the sky-like space, making it look like they are flying alongside you on your journey.
Even the airport's exterior joins in on the fun, with Pikachu and friends greeting travellers before they even step inside
Inside the airport, you will also find large-scale installations designed to tell a story.
At the arrival hall, visitors will see 'Akarui Mirai' (Bright Future), an artwork transformed into 3D statues of Pikachu, Plusle, and Minun to welcome guests.
Another highlight is 'Sky of Hope', a colourful artwork featuring Pokémon flying across rainbow-filled skies. This design will also appear on souvenirs and transport designs.
Beyond the cute factor, the entire project serves a deeper purpose
It is part of efforts to help bring tourism to the Noto Peninsula, which was badly affected by the 2024 earthquake and flooding.
The Pokémon With You Foundation, which was formed after Japan's 2011 earthquake, is working with Ishikawa Prefecture to support affected communities.
The goal is to bring joy to visitors and help support the local community through tourism.
For food, restaurant Anon will serve Pokémon-themed pancakes and drinks, complete with special collectable placemats
Meanwhile, the airport gift shop will carry exclusive merchandise such as:
- T-shirts
- Keychains
- Luggage tags
- Travel accessories inspired by the 'Sky of Hope' artwork
Pokémon-themed sightseeing buses will also operate across the Noto Peninsula, connecting travellers to attractions like a Pokémon footbath and other themed installations scattered across the region
