Excitement is building as PokéPark Kanto, a new permanent Pokémon theme park, is set to debut in Japan next February. This immersive park invites visitors to step into the shoes of Pokémon Trainers, navigating a town and forest that brings beloved anime and game elements to life. However, potential visitors eager to embrace their inner Ash Ketchum might find themselves limited by the park’s stringent access guidelines.
Explore the World of Pokémon in Tokyo
Located within Yomiuriland, Tokyo’s largest theme park, PokéPark Kanto is divided into the verdant Pokémon Forest and the lively Sedge Town. Sedge Town offers an array of attractions, including stores, rides, and the Sedge Gym, where Pokémon stage shows will captivate audiences. More details on these attractions have been highlighted in recent reports.
『ポケパーク カントー』が、2026年2月5日（木） に開業決定！
オープンに先駆けて、『ポケパーク カントー』の楽しさをギュッとまとめたオフィシャルトレーラーをお届けするよ！
くわしくは公式サイトをチェックしてね。https://t.co/ahldUwjQv1 #ポケパークカントー pic.twitter.com/CNrcjznT2V— ポケモン公式 (@Pokemon_cojp) November 11, 2025
The Pokémon Forest Experience
The Pokémon Forest offers a 500-meter nature trail, complete with steep hills, tunnels, and stairs where visitors can admire Pokémon statues in various natural settings. However, the park has implemented numerous restrictions to ensure safety. Visitors who cannot walk 110 steps unassisted will be unable to access the Forest, impacting many with mobility concerns. This restriction extends to those who use wheelchairs, children under five, individuals who are pregnant, have heart conditions, blood pressure issues, have consumed alcohol, or are simply feeling unwell.
The park’s commitment to safety is commendable, but these limitations mean some visitors may not fully experience all the park has to offer. Ticket options include the Ace Trainer’s Pass (14,000 yen) and the Trainer’s Pass (7,900 yen), both providing access to the Pokémon Forest. While the Ace Trainer’s Pass includes perks like priority access, reserved seating, and exclusive merchandise, the Trainer’s Pass offers a timeslot for Forest access.
Accessibility and Future Plans
To address accessibility concerns, PokéPark Kanto has tiered pricing, offering reduced rates for children aged 3-12, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Despite these efforts, the restrictions have sparked debate on social media, with users questioning the fairness of pricing for younger children who cannot enter the Forest, and the lack of wheelchair accessibility. The park plans to introduce a Town-only pass by summer 2026, making Sedge Town available for 4,700 yen for adults, 4,200 yen for seniors, and 2,800 yen for children and those with disabilities.
Visitors should note that recording inside the park is prohibited, aimed at preserving the experience’s integrity. Bags will be checked at the entrance, and items like suitcases, drones, and selfie sticks, along with pets (except service dogs), are not allowed. Additionally, the park enforces a strict ‘No Outside Food’ policy, albeit with exceptions for small children and those with dietary needs.