Noto Airport Becomes World’s First ‘Pokemon’ Branded Airport to Aid Ishikawa Recovery
Noto Airport in Wajima, Ishikawa Prefecture, has officially adopted the nickname “Noto Satoyama Pokemon with You Airport,” making it the first airport globally to incorporate “Pokemon” into its name. According to the Ishikawa Prefectural Government, the branding initiative aims to accelerate regional reconstruction following the devastating earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in January 2024.
Why did Noto Airport adopt Pokemon branding?
The Ishikawa Prefectural Government launched the nickname project in cooperation with a Tokyo-based foundation that engages in activities contributing to society through Pokemon. Yukiyoshi Yamano stated during the Tuesday ceremony at the terminal building that the “Pokemon airport” is expected to speed up the area’s recovery. Yamano noted his intention to convert the excitement generated by the branding into momentum for reconstruction efforts.
The airport itself suffered physical damage during the January 2024 earthquake, including visible cracks on its runway. By partnering with a Tokyo-based foundation dedicated to social contribution through Pokemon, the prefecture is leveraging global pop-culture appeal to draw visitors back to the Noto Peninsula.
What changes are visible at the airport?
The facility has undergone a thematic transformation featuring over 100 Pokemon characters. Key installations include:
- The Atrium: A large airplane-shaped balloon featuring Pikachu is suspended from the second-floor ceiling.
- Arrival Lobby: A painting of many Pokemon characters relaxing in the natural scenery of the peninsula is located in the arrival lobby of the first floor as an encouragement for the reconstruction efforts.
- Retail and Dining: Airport shops and restaurants now offer limited-edition Pokemon merchandise and themed meals.
How long will the Pokemon nickname last?
The “Noto Satoyama Pokemon with You Airport” designation is a temporary branding measure. According to official statements from the Ishikawa Prefectural Government, the airport will retain this nickname until the end of September 2029.
Quick Facts: Noto Airport Pokemon Project
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Nickname | Noto Satoyama Pokemon with You Airport |
| Location | Wajima, Ishikawa Prefecture |
| Duration | Until September 2029 |
| Primary Goal | Regional earthquake recovery |
| Key Feature | 100+ Pokemon characters integrated into terminal |
What is the impact on the Noto Peninsula?
The project intends to help speed up the region’s recovery from the earthquake where infrastructure, including the airport’s own runway, was compromised. By associating the region with Pokemon, the prefecture intends to attract travelers to the disaster-affected zone.
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