The first-ever permanent Pokémon park will open to the public in just a few months, but the internet is already buzzing like a beedrill about one of the most controversial restrictions placed on guests at the park.
PokéPark Kanto, scheduled to open on February 5, 2026, inside Tokyo’s Yomiuriland theme park, will feature two main lands: Pokémon Forest and Sedge Town. More than 600 Pokémon statues, rides, souvenir shops, shows, and numerous Poké-themed attractions will be spread across the two regions – but it looks like not all Pokémon fans will be able to enjoy the full experience.
According to the theme park’s official website, guests who do not meet certain age and fitness/ability requirements will not be allowed to enter half of the Pokémon Forest at PokéPark Kanto.
The park’s official admission policy states that any guest planning to enter Pokémon Forest must be able to climb a staircase approximately 110 steps long without assistance. Entry will not be permitted for those who cannot climb stairs without assistance.
In addition, guests with high or low blood pressure, any heart conditions or simply pregnant will also not be allowed to enter Pokémon Forest. Perhaps most surprisingly, children under the age of 5 will not be able to enter “even if accompanied by an older guest” according to the park’s official restrictions.
Guests are also advised to wear “comfortable, non-restrictive clothing and shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty.”
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Strict restrictions are all in the name of safety. According to the PokéPark Kanto website, “The Pokémon Forest consists of natural forests, so visitors can expect grassy areas and uneven paths. Please be aware that there are entry restrictions in place to ensure visitor safety.”
Of course, these grassy sections, steps, tunnels, and elevation differences mean that it will be nearly impossible for people with disabilities or mobility challenges to traverse the jungle area safely, though it’s frustrating for many Pokémon fans that more inclusive accommodations aren’t taken into consideration for these guests.
Fortunately, fans who were unable to enter Pokémon Forest due to health restrictions can still enjoy the other half of the park, Sledge Town. Three different types of tickets will be available to guests: an Ace Trainer Pass to enter all areas of PokéPark Kanto at any time; A coach card to enter any area of the park during one visit; A Town Pass is for admission only to the Sledge Town area of the park. The latest ticket type is expected to be available by summer 2026.
If you’re planning to travel to Japan next year and are ready to live out your Ash Ketchum fantasies, tickets to PokéPark Kanto will soon be available for purchase via the lottery system starting November 21 at 1 a.m. PT. Just make sure your fitness is up to the challenge before you book; The park’s cute Pokemon Centers aren’t able to provide trainers with actual medical care, after all.
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