Are you ready to embark on a journey to catch 'em all?

PokePark Kanto, Japan's first-ever permanent outdoor Pokemon theme park, has opened for an early preview. Situated within Yomiuriland, an amusement park nestled in Tokyo's lush Tama Hills, this 26,000 sqm attraction is divided into two themed zones: Sedge Town and the Pokemon Forest.

At Sedge Town, fans can immerse themselves in various familiar locations from the series. From a Pokemon Centre with healing machines to a Poke Mart offering exclusive merchandise like Pokemon headbands and plushies, visitors can also enjoy specialty drinks.

The fun doesn't stop there. Guests can hop on exhilarating rides such as the Pika Pika Paradise—a flying Pikachu ride—and Vee Vee Voyage, a merry-go-round featuring Ponyta, Rapidash, Eevee, and its evolutions.

Every Poke town needs a gym, and Sedge Town is no exception. It houses the Electric-type Sedge Gym, where daily stage shows like Pika Pika Sparks entertain visitors with performances featuring Pikachu and friends amid music, light, and stage effects.

If you want to get up close and personal with your favorite Pokemon, head to the Pokemon Playhouse for meet-and-greets with different Pokemon each day, including Clefairy, Vulpix, Psyduck, and more.

Pikachu and Eevee enthusiasts shouldn't miss the dedicated meet-and-greet location for these two fan-favorites—the Pikachu and Eevee Playroom at Sedge Condominiums. Visitors can interact with Pikachu and Eevee in carnival outfits, take photos, and bring home unforgettable souvenirs.

Aside from attractions and stage shows, Sedge Town will host the Pikachu and Eevee Bubble Carnival—a lively parade featuring a variety of Pokemon.

At the Pokemon Forest, spanning over 149 sqm, visitors can explore a wilderness with diverse terrains mirroring those in the series, such as hilly paths, tall grass, and rocky trails. Here, fans can observe Pokemon from Kanto and other regions, like Nidoran.

As the Pokemon Forest comprises natural terrain, children under five are not allowed to enter, even with adult supervision. Pregnant women and individuals with health conditions or under the influence of alcohol will also be denied entry.

PokePark Kanto officially opens its doors on Feb 5. For ticketing information, visit PokePark Kanto's official website.

carol.ong@asiaone.com