While Pokémon GO attempts to bring the Pokémon universe into the “real” world through augmented reality, Tokyo amusement park Yomiuriland is creating a physical location where intricate Pokémon models hide amidst nature, waiting to be discovered. This special event is called “Pokémon Wonder”. It will run from 17th July 2021 to 3rd April 2022.
Image adapted from: Pokémon Wonder
This summer, Yomiuriland will be transforming a 4,500 sq m natural forest, which has been untouched for approximately 20 years, into a Pokémon hunting ground.
Image credit: Pokémon Wonder
The forest will be split into 3 special areas. Within those areas, there are over 50 different Pokémon to be discovered. These Pokémon are presented as intricate models, and many of them are made from materials found in nature.
However, this also means that finding these creatures would be tricky as the Pokémon are essentially camouflaged within the rich foliage.
Camouflaged Seedot
Image credit: PR Times
If you don’t look hard enough, it’s easy to overlook the Seedot hiding amidst a pile of acorns, or the wood-carved Rowlet perching on a tree.
Camouflaged Rowlet
Image credit: PR Times
But there’s no need to worry as the exploration process isn’t completely unguided. There are 2 main trails for you to follow so that you won’t get lost in the forest.
Bamboo grove trail
Image credit: Pokémon Wonder
1 trail runs through an area called the “Whispering Bamboo Grove”, while the other trail passes through an ancient stone wall.
Ancient stone wall trail
Image credit: Pokémon Wonder
You can only choose 1 of the 2 trails available to embark on, however.
Image credit: Pokémon Wonder
You can take part in Pokémon Wonder individually or in groups of up to 6 people. Do note that if you choose to take part individually, you’d still have to pay ¥9,800 (~USD87.83), which is the same price for 2 participating individuals. If you’re participating in a group, certain discounts may be applicable depending on the makeup of the group.
Check the exact prices, select your desired trail, and book your tickets here. The tickets cover the entry fees into Yomiuriland.
Clues given to participants
Image credit: Pokémon Wonder
On the day of your visit, you’ll be given a briefing and a set of special equipment. Each group will only get 1 set of equipment. It includes a special camera and some clues to aid you in your exploration.
Oddish found in the wild
Image credit: Pokémon Wonder
Afterwards, the event begins. Within 90 minutes, you’re challenged to discover as many Pokémon hiding in the wilderness as possible. When you find a Pokémon, use the special camera you were given to take a photo of it. This is similar to how trainers would use their Pokédex to record new Pokémon in the fictional Pokémon universe.
Yomiuriland is making all Pokémon fans’ dreams come true this summer with Pokémon Wonder. Don’t miss out on this rare chance to step into Ash Ketchum’s shoes and traverse the forest to find ‘em all. Do bookmark the official Pokémon Wonder site for future updates too.
Address: 4015-1 Yanokuchi, Inagi, 206-8566 Tokyo
Opening hours: Mon – Wed & Fri 10AM-5PM | Sat 10AM-6PM | Sun 9AM-6PM (Closed on Thursdays & on irregular dates, so do check their schedule)
Telephone: 044-966-1111
Website
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Cover image adapted from: Pokémon Wonder and Pokémon Wonder
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