Since the first Pokémon game was released in 1996, the franchise has grown far beyond the Game Boy screen — evolving into anime, card games, movies, and now smartphone apps loved worldwide.
As Pokémon nears its 30th anniversary, fans in Japan include not just children but also parents who grew up with Pikachu. One of the easiest ways to enjoy Pokémon today is through Pokémon GO, a free smartphone game that has taken the world by storm.
With over one billion downloads, Pokémon GO attracts players of all ages — from teenagers to seniors — with a nearly perfect 50:50 gender balance. The percentage of active daily players is double that of other mobile games, proving just how popular it remains.
Even if you don’t usually play Pokémon GO, try it when you visit Japan!
Japan is home to exclusive Pokémon and many exciting Pokémon GO hotspots that make sightseeing even more fun.
Pokémon Limited to Japan
Some Pokémon in Pokémon GO are region-exclusive, meaning you can only catch them in certain parts of the world. Japan has one that’s truly special — a Pokémon form you can’t find anywhere else!
Farfetch’d (Kamonegi)
This leek-wielding bird Pokémon is exclusive to East Asia, including Japan.
It’s a symbol of Japanese culture and can often be found in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Don’t forget to evolve it into Sirfetch’d once you collect enough candies!
Kabuki Trim Furfrou — Only in Japan!
The elegant Pokémon Furfrou can have different hairstyles (“Trims”) depending on the region.
And in Japan, you can only get the Kabuki Trim, inspired by the traditional Japanese performing art.
Furfrou doesn’t appear often, so if you’re planning to visit Japan, catch one beforehand and save up Furfrou Candy — you’ll need it to change forms once you arrive!
Requirements for Kabuki Trim:
- Furfrou Candy: 25
- Stardust: 10,000
It’s a fun and uniquely Japanese souvenir to add to your Pokémon GO collection!
Top Tourist Destinations Near Tokyo to Enjoy Pokémon GO
Pokémon GO is playable almost anywhere, but certain sightseeing spots in Japan are especially enjoyable for catching Pokémon while exploring. Here are a few favorites around Tokyo and nearby areas!
1. Odaiba (Tokyo)
Odaiba, a popular seaside district in Tokyo, is filled with shopping centers, parks, and PokéStops.
You can earn walking distance easily while strolling along the waterfront and enjoy the scenic views of Rainbow Bridge.
It’s also a great area for Pokémon GO events and raids thanks to its open spaces and strong signal coverage.
2. Tokyo Disney Resort
Surprisingly, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are also excellent Pokémon GO spots!
Even inside the parks, you’ll find plenty of PokéStops and Gyms, and many players hunt or battle while waiting in line.
With beautiful scenery and constant walking, it’s a perfect blend of theme park fun and Pokémon GO adventure.
3. Ashikaga Flower Park (Tochigi Prefecture)
Located about 90 minutes from Tokyo, Ashikaga Flower Park is famous for its spring wisteria flowers and winter illuminations.
Even though it’s outside the city, the park has a good number of PokéStops and Gyms — ideal for casual play between sightseeing.
For a full guide to this breathtaking park, check out this article:
Where to Play Pokémon GO on Rainy Days
During Community Days or special events, even bad weather can’t stop dedicated trainers.
If you’re in Japan when it rains, here are a few indoor-friendly Pokémon GO spots to enjoy without an umbrella!
1. Nakano (Tokyo)
Just a short ride from Shinjuku, Nakano Station is surrounded by a dense cluster of PokéStops and Gyms.
The covered Nakano Sun Mall shopping street lets you play comfortably even in the rain, and you can relax in cafés between raids.
Don’t miss Nakano Broadway, a paradise for anime and gaming fans — perfect for combining Pokémon GO with subculture shopping.
2. Haneda Airport (Tokyo)
Yes, Japan’s main international airport is also a Pokémon GO playground!
With plenty of PokéStops, wide walking areas, and shelter from the weather, it’s an ideal spot to play before your flight.
If sightseeing plans are disrupted by rain, head to Haneda Airport early and enjoy catching Pokémon in comfort.
Enjoy Pokémon GO to the Fullest in Japan!
Whether you’re chasing Kabuki Trim Furfrou or just exploring Japan’s vibrant cities, playing Pokémon GO in Japan is a fun and rewarding experience.
With region-exclusive Pokémon, safe streets, and countless scenic play areas, Japan is truly a paradise for Pokémon trainers of all ages.
So, don’t forget to open the app during your travels — your next rare catch might be waiting right around the corner!