The highly anticipated PokéPark Kanto theme park in Japan has updated its official website with important information regarding accessibility for the Pokémon Forest attraction.
As the Pokémon franchise continues to expand beyond video games on the Nintendo Switch and eShop into real-world experiences, it is crucial for fans and families to understand what to expect when planning a visit.
Developed by The Pokémon Company, PokéPark Kanto blends interactive outdoor attractions with beloved Pokémon themes, but recent updates highlight significant access restrictions for certain guests. The Pokémon Forest trek, one of the park’s main attractions, is a 500-meter trail featuring steep hills, a series of stairways totaling 110 steps, and uneven terrain.
According to the official PokéPark Kanto website—recently noted by sources including IGN—the design and landscape have made it unfeasible to accommodate visitors with limited mobility or certain health conditions without a substantial redesign of the area.
As a result, several restrictions are now in place. According to the revised guidelines, entry to the Pokémon Forest will not be permitted for individuals who fall into any of the following categories: those who are under the influence of alcohol, have existing heart conditions, are pregnant, have high or low blood pressure, are feeling unwell, are unable to climb 110 steps independently, or have conditions or symptoms that may worsen as a result of traversing the park’s challenging path.
The Japanese version of the website further clarifies that people using wheelchairs and children aged five years or younger will also be restricted from accessing the forest area.
The primary reason cited for these restrictions is visitor safety, as the trail’s demanding layout poses genuine risks. These measures have drawn significant attention and criticism on Japanese social media platforms, where users have voiced concerns regarding the lack of inclusivity and inconsistent ticket pricing.
Many lament that greater consideration for disabled guests was not included during the design phase, especially given Pokémon's broad, multigenerational appeal.
Some also questioned the policy of denying access to young children, even with parental supervision. For those with accessibility concerns, it is important to note that such restrictions do not apply to Sedge Town, another area of PokéPark Kanto with less physically intensive attractions.
To further accommodate diverse needs, The Pokémon Company will offer tickets specifically for Sedge Town beginning in summer 2026—allowing guests with disabilities to enjoy accessible portions of the park without purchasing entry to the restricted forest area. PokéPark Kanto represents The Pokémon Company’s ongoing efforts to create immersive real-world experiences for fans, a trend that echoes across Nintendo’s broader entertainment brand.
As the park approaches completion, guests are encouraged to consult the latest information and ticketing options on the official website to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit tailored to their abilities.
As the Pokémon franchise continues to expand beyond video games on the Nintendo Switch and eShop into real-world experiences, it is crucial for fans and families to understand what to expect when planning a visit.
Developed by The Pokémon Company, PokéPark Kanto blends interactive outdoor attractions with beloved Pokémon themes, but recent updates highlight significant access restrictions for certain guests. The Pokémon Forest trek, one of the park’s main attractions, is a 500-meter trail featuring steep hills, a series of stairways totaling 110 steps, and uneven terrain.
According to the official PokéPark Kanto website—recently noted by sources including IGN—the design and landscape have made it unfeasible to accommodate visitors with limited mobility or certain health conditions without a substantial redesign of the area.
As a result, several restrictions are now in place. According to the revised guidelines, entry to the Pokémon Forest will not be permitted for individuals who fall into any of the following categories: those who are under the influence of alcohol, have existing heart conditions, are pregnant, have high or low blood pressure, are feeling unwell, are unable to climb 110 steps independently, or have conditions or symptoms that may worsen as a result of traversing the park’s challenging path.
The Japanese version of the website further clarifies that people using wheelchairs and children aged five years or younger will also be restricted from accessing the forest area.
The primary reason cited for these restrictions is visitor safety, as the trail’s demanding layout poses genuine risks. These measures have drawn significant attention and criticism on Japanese social media platforms, where users have voiced concerns regarding the lack of inclusivity and inconsistent ticket pricing.
Many lament that greater consideration for disabled guests was not included during the design phase, especially given Pokémon's broad, multigenerational appeal.
Some also questioned the policy of denying access to young children, even with parental supervision. For those with accessibility concerns, it is important to note that such restrictions do not apply to Sedge Town, another area of PokéPark Kanto with less physically intensive attractions.
To further accommodate diverse needs, The Pokémon Company will offer tickets specifically for Sedge Town beginning in summer 2026—allowing guests with disabilities to enjoy accessible portions of the park without purchasing entry to the restricted forest area. PokéPark Kanto represents The Pokémon Company’s ongoing efforts to create immersive real-world experiences for fans, a trend that echoes across Nintendo’s broader entertainment brand.
As the park approaches completion, guests are encouraged to consult the latest information and ticketing options on the official website to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit tailored to their abilities.
