A New Era for Noto Satoyama Airport
In a unique blend of aviation and pop culture, Japan’s Noto Satoyama Airport is set to undergo a transformation that will delight Pokémon fans across the country. As part of an upcoming renovation, the airport will be renamed “Noto Satoyama Pokémon With You Airport,” marking a new chapter in its history.
The rebranding will officially take place on 7 July 2026, with a range of Pokémon-themed attractions and events planned until 30 September 2029. This initiative is expected to draw both local and international visitors eager to explore the world of Pokémon within the airport’s newly revamped four-storey premises.
Pokémon-Themed Attractions
One of the highlights of the redesign will be the central atrium, where a cheerful Pikachu perched atop an aeroplane will take center stage. Surrounding this iconic character will be a collection of flying-type Pokémon inspired by birds, insects, and even dragons. While mega evolutions and regional forms will not be included, the design aims to capture the essence of the Pokémon universe.
On the first floor, the arrivals lobby will feature a mural titled “A Bright Future,” celebrating the natural beauty of the Noto region. Outside, the pillars have been adorned with Pokémon characters, creating an exciting atmosphere that evokes the feeling of anticipation at the start of a journey.
A Symbol of Hope
Beyond its appeal to fans, the themed initiative has a deeper purpose. The airport’s redesign follows the devastating magnitude 7.6 Noto Peninsula earthquake in 2024, which claimed hundreds of lives and caused widespread damage. The theme, including a revamp of the airport’s logo, is intended to bring smiles and cheer to children affected by the disaster.
Experiencing the Pokémon Journey
For those looking to pass the time before their flight, the airport offers a variety of themed experiences. At the An-non Restaurant, travelers can enjoy specially designed pancakes and drinks served on placemats featuring Pokémon motifs. This is a perfect way to refuel and immerse oneself in the Pokémon world.
Visitors can also take home a piece of the experience from the Serendipity gift shop, located on the second floor. The shop will offer a limited range of merchandise, including T-shirts, keychains, suitcase belts, and luggage tags. Designs will include the new airport logo and a special “Sky of Hope” piece, depicting Pokémon flying through the sky alongside an aeroplane.
“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.
Exploring the Area
For those interested in sightseeing, a soon-to-launch tour bus service will provide an opportunity to explore Kanazawa City and surrounding areas. The service, operating on weekends, public holidays, and during the summer months, will run from mid-July with one daily departure in each direction. It will connect Kanazawa Station, the airport, and Wajima City.
The decorated bus will also make stops at the Wakura Pokémon Footbath and the Sylveon With LOVE monument in Suzu City, offering a unique blend of cultural and Pokémon experiences.
Expanding the Pokémon Experience
From Noto to Tokyo, and even further afield to Kyoto and Osaka, the Pokémon theme extends beyond the airport. Earlier this year, MIMARU, an apartment-style hotel brand, announced the expansion of its Pokémon Rooms. Featuring 100 characters adorning the walls, ceiling, and furniture, the updates transform each room into a vibrant space where Pokémon feel like they’ve leapt from their Poké Balls to join guests in daily life.
The apartment-style rooms provide spacious layouts with fully equipped kitchens, separate sleeping areas, and dining spaces, ideal for multigenerational families or groups.
In February, it was also announced that PokéPark Kanto, Pokémon’s first permanent theme park, had opened inside Yomiuriland in Tokyo. This marks another significant step in the global expansion of Pokémon-themed experiences.
