Pokémon coming to Universal theme parks globally
“Pokémon” theme park attractions, seemingly of a large scale, will debut at multiple Universal parks globally, beginning with Universal Studios Japan.
Universal Destinations & Experiences and The Pokémon Company jointly announced the endeavor on Jan. 22, 2026.
Notably, the announcement did not reveal an attraction name, or even mention the word “ride.” Instead, the press release and executive remarks describe the venture as including:
- “innovative, immersive, world-class ‘Pokémon’ experiences”
- “unique ‘Pokémon’ experiences”
- “unprecedented and innovative experiences”
- “a global collaboration”
- “a bold, new global project”
Images courtesy of The Pokémon Company
Since 2021, “Pokémon” characters have been featured in parades and shows at Universal Studios Japan. While still remaining vague, today’s announcement positions its verbiage as grander than what is already in the park. Without committing to specifics, Universal and The Pokémon Company imply that guests’ expectations should be high.
Following its rollout at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, the in-development “Pokémon” project, or a project of similar scale, will debut in other Universal destinations, though the company didn’t say where. In addition to Japan, Universal parks exist in Florida, California, China, and Singapore, with additional parks on the way in the U.K. and Saudi Arabia.
‘Shatter guest expectations’
“Collaborating with imaginative and inventive storytellers fuels our ability to create and deliver mind-blowing attractions and experiences that shatter guest expectations,” said Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences. “The Pokémon Company is one of the most beloved interactive franchises in the world, and through our ongoing partnership, we will continue bringing its vibrant world to life in new and innovative ways for years to come.”
Photo by Blake Taylor
“We believe this global project will transcend traditional entertainment and contribute meaningfully to society,” said Tak Murayama, executive VP and general manager of Universal Studios Japan, “embodying the very spirit of ‘NO LIMIT!’”
“NO LIMIT!” is a slogan often used in Universal Studios Japan’s promotional campaigns to describe the infinite possibilities that await guests at the park.
PokéPark Kanto
Completely separate from any Universal project, a “Pokémon” theme park land named PokéPark Kanto will open in 2026 at the Yomiuriland park near Tokyo, Japan. PokéPark Kanto will feature at least two outdoor rides: a carousel and a Dumbo-style Pikachu ride.
See our separate coverage for a more detailed look at what’s to come at PokéPark Kanto.
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I really hope they do NOT bring this to Orlando 🙏🏻
Pokemon needs to stop leeching as small add-ons to existing parks and make their own theme parks that would rival Disney’s parks. They have the largest media franchise on the planet yet they are still so cowardly and conservative about obvious things that it hurts.