Japan’s new 'Pokémon'-themed airport is ready for take-off

Forget catching Pokémon in tall grass - now you can catch them at the airport too.

In a move that feels straight out of the "Pokémon" universe, a regional airport in Japan is preparing for a colourful transformation that blends aviation, nostalgia and a dose of feel-good adventure.

The Noto Satoyama Airport, located in Japan’s Ishikawa Prefecture, is set to relaunch as the Noto Satoyama Pokémon With You Airport on July 7, as part of major renovation works tied to post-earthquake recovery efforts.

While the airport only operates flights between the Noto Peninsula and Tokyo Haneda International Airport, it is about to become a bucket-list destination for "Pokémon" enthusiasts from around the world.

A "Pokémon" paradise takes flight

Described as a world first, the revamped domestic airport will feature "Pokémon"-themed attractions and events running until September 30, 2029.

Visitors can look forward to spotting 111 flying-type Pokémon characters spread across the airport’s newly redesigned four-storey terminal.

From birds and insects to dragon-inspired favourites, the airport promises a playful experience that turns every journey into an adventure.

At the heart of the atrium, travellers will find a cheerful Pikachu perched atop an aeroplane, surrounded by flying Pokémon species in an installation designed to spark joy from the moment visitors arrive.

However, devoted "Pokémon" fans should note that mega evolutions and regional forms will not be included in the displays.

Designed to bring hope after disaster

Beyond the excitement and tourism appeal, the project carries a deeper emotional purpose.

The "Pokémon"-themed initiative forms part of the region’s recovery efforts following the devastating magnitude 7.6 Noto Peninsula earthquake in 2024, which claimed hundreds of lives, injured thousands and caused severe infrastructure damage across the area.

Airport officials said the makeover - including a refreshed logo and themed artwork - was created to bring smiles and comfort to children and families affected by the disaster.

One of the standout artworks, titled “A Bright Future”, will welcome visitors in the arrivals lobby and pays tribute to Noto’s natural beauty and resilience.

“The imagery, featuring numerous Pokémon flying through the sky, dazzling light, and sparkling rainbows, expresses a longing for the sky, the joy of flying freely, and the ‘hope’ of embarking on a new journey,” the airport said.

Pokémon everywhere you look

The "Pokémon" magic extends far beyond the atrium.

Outside the airport, pillars have been decorated with colourful "Pokémon" characters to create what officials describe as “an exciting atmosphere that evokes the feeling of anticipation at the start of a journey”.

On the second floor, walls and information signposts will continue the aviation-inspired "Pokémon" theme, featuring beloved characters in airport settings.

Travellers waiting for flights can also enjoy themed pancakes and specialty drinks served on custom-designed placemats.

Meanwhile, collectors and fans can browse limited-edition souvenirs including T-shirts, keychains, luggage tags and suitcase belts featuring the airport’s new branding and a specially commissioned artwork called Sky of Hope.

The commemorative design depicts Pokémon soaring through the sky alongside an aeroplane - a fitting tribute to travel, imagination and new beginnings.

With "Pokémon" remaining one of Japan’s biggest global cultural exports, the airport’s transformation is expected to attract both domestic and international visitors eager to experience the themed attraction firsthand.

For fans, it may just be the closest thing yet to stepping inside a real-life "Pokémon" adventure - boarding pass included.