By Daniel de Bomford and Cian O Neil
There’s nothing quite like the magic of going to an amusement park for the first time. The cheerful melodies drift through the air, blending in with the distant rush of roller coaster screams and the smells of a park’s often delectable treats. It’s a sensory symphony stirring something childlike: an invitation to wonder, to adventure.
Yomiuriland is such a place. Nestled in the lush hills of Inagi, Tokyo, the beloved institution has welcomed over 70 million visitors since 1964 – the same year Japan hosted its first Olympics. Legendary coasters thrill global visitors, while a water park, tranquil onsen, and cherry blossom gardens offer seasonal escapes. Immersive worlds, built on iconic Japanese IPs, merge cutting-edge design with nostalgia. At Yomiuriland, each visit ends in an unforgettable adventure.
Now, Yomiuriland is preparing its next chapter. Slated to open in 2027, Tokyo Giant’s Town will rise around the Tokyo Giants Baseball Stadium, offering an aquarium, dining, and more. President Takeshi Mizoguchi envisions a space where Tokyo’s dynamic energy meets natural serenity. Hosting 60 professional games a year alongside university, high school, and community matches, the stadium will anchor a one-of-a-kind sports and entertainment hub.
In parallel, the park is teaming up with The Pokémon Company and the Yomiuri Shimbun to create PokéPark KANTO, a project which, in Mizoguchi’s words, “fully embraces Pokémon’s core philosophy of fostering global connection.”
Yomiuriland is also investing in digital innovation. A new multilingual map, integrated with the Inagi tourism bureau, offers real-time updates, route planning, and local exploration through digital stamp rallies. The platform not only reduces paper waste but also strengthens ties with the surrounding community by guiding visitors to nearby attractions.
As it continues to evolve, Yomiuriland remains rooted in its mission: to spark the same wonder as a child’s first theme park visit. With every attraction and initiative, it invites guests to rediscover joy—and deepen their connection to the Inagi community. As Mizoguchi puts it, “Yomiuriland is a place that aspires to deliver the world’s best hospitality.”