Skip to main content

Universal Studios Japan developing Pokémon-themed attractions

News
universal japan

Universal Studios Japan and Pokémon Company are developing innovative Pokémon-themed attractions.

Universal Studios Japan (USJ) and the Pokémon Company have teamed up to develop innovative and interactive Pokémon-themed attractions for the theme park in Osaka.

Universal Studios Japan’s Pokémon offerings will feature innovative technology, fusing virtual worlds with real life to provide groundbreaking entertainment as early as 2022.

“Pokémon is beloved by fans around the world,” said J.L. Bonnier, president and CEO of USJ.

“We are honoured to have a long-term partnership with the Pokémon Company while developing groundbreaking Pokémon entertainment at Universal Studios Japan for both Pokémon fans and our guests.”

Pokémon coming to USJ in 2022

super nintendo world universal studios japan grand opening

“The globally popular Pokémon characters combined with Universal’s innovative approach to creating authentic and one-of-a-kind theme park entertainment promise excitement for the entire family,” he added.

“Our efforts to develop new guest experiences will continue to help reinvigorate the tourism market.”

Pokémon launched in Japan in 1996. Since then, the video game franchise and has grown into one of the world’s biggest entertainment properties, offering mobile apps, movies, attractions and exhibits.

“The incredible team at USJ have the creative vision and leading expertise in world-class theme park technology to imagine a uniquely Pokémon experience,” said Tsunekazu Ishihara, president and CEO of the Pokémon Company.

“For 25 years, Pokémon has curated a legacy of trendsetting innovation while becoming one of the most beloved entertainment brands in the world through video games, animation, and more.”

Super Nintendo World at Universal

super nintendo world yoshis adventure

“This strategic alliance with Universal Studios Japan reflects our commitment to continue delivering the joy of Pokémon in ever evolving ways for years to come,” Ishihara added.

“We are looking forward to the day when we can welcome fans from around the world to all enjoy it together.”

USJ is investing heavily in gaming-themed attractions. The park is already expanding its Super Nintendo World land to include the world’s first Donkey Kong-themed area, set to open in 2024.

Super Nintendo World opened at Universal Studios Japan earlier this year, an immersive space for innovative technology, themed rides, interactive entertainment and Nintendo characters.

Images: USJ

Share this

Bea Mitchell

Bea is a journalist specialising in entertainment, attractions and tech with 10 years' experience. She has written and edited for publications including CNET, BuzzFeed, Digital Spy, Evening Standard and BBC. Bea graduated from King's College London and has an MA in journalism.

More from this author

More from this author

Related content

Your web browser is out of date. Update your browser for more security, speed and the best experience on this site.

Find out how to update