The world's first Pokémon airport will open in Japan on July 7, 2026: the Noto Satoyama Airport in Ishikawa Prefecture will officially transform into the "Noto Satoyama Pokémon With You Airport." Travelers will encounter over 100 artworks and murals featuring flying Pokémon, a giant Pikachu balloon in the departure hall, and unique dishes in the restaurant. This unusual airport experience sets a new standard for imagination and travel culture, and is likely to attract both international visitors and fans alike.

The most important things at a glance

• The airport will officially become the world's first Pokémon airport on July 7, 2026.
• 111 flying Pokémon are presented as works of art and wall murals throughout the building.
• In the restaurant, there are specially created dishes centered around the Pokémon theme.

A journey between Pikachu and art

Upon arriving at the new Noto Satoyama Pokémon With You Airport in Ishikawa, one enters a world that combines fantasy and everyday life. Impressive artworks of flying Pokémon adorn the terminals, and an oversized Pikachu balloon greets passengers in the waiting area. The elaborately designed environment is aimed not only at children but particularly speaks to the generations that grew up with Pokémon. The developers of this concept airport blend their commitment to modern hospitality with a tribute to a global phenomenon.

Experiences for travelers and collectors

In addition to the visual design, the gastronomic offerings make the visit unique: The main restaurant serves creative menus inspired by Pikachu, Charizard, and co.—an experience for both the eyes and the palate. Those who have enough time before boarding can also purchase official Pokémon merchandise on-site or take selfies with the murals. The airport combines everyday life and adventure and is expected to become a tourist attraction with its theming.

"Nowhere in the world has there been an airport experience like this," said the chief airport manager at the presentation of the concept.

Background: The new generation of theme airports

Thematic airports are a growing trend worldwide. While the Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Martin is famous for low-flying spotters, or Changi Airport in Singapore stands out with its indoor rainforest, Japan emphasizes pop culture and intricate design. The Pokémon Airport marks a new chapter: an airport as part of cultural identity and a showcase for innovation in the travel destination of Japan.

Important questions on the topic

Why was the Ishikawa location chosen?Ishikawa is located in a rural area and is intended to become a destination for international visitors through the new concept.

Who is behind the Pokémon airport?The project was developed in close cooperation with The Pokémon Company, regional authorities, and the airport management.

Do travelers have to pay extra admission fees?Access to the airport is regular; special exhibitions or offers may require additional fees.

With the opening of the Pokémon Airport in 2026 in Japan, international attention for quirky airports is likely to increase. It remains exciting to see if other countries will follow suit with themed airports—the idea of combining travel with fantasy is just beginning.