Japan is one of those places that never sits still. Just when you think you have seen the highlights, something completely new appears. While 2025 was defined by the massive World Expo in Osaka, 2026 is shifting focus. We are calling it the year of “New Icons”.
You might feel like you have plenty of time, but the anticipation for these spots is already real. If you want to be at the front of the queue, you must plan ahead now. These places will fill up fast, so getting your dates locked in early is the best way to ensure you do not miss out.
It does not matter if you are a theme park fan looking for the next big thrill or a luxury traveller wanting a unique escape. Here is exactly what is new in Japan travel in 2026.
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1. PokéPark KANTO
If you grew up with Pokémon, this is the big one to look out for this year. Located inside Yomiuriland (about 30 minutes from Shinjuku), this is the first permanent outdoor Pokémon theme park in the Kanto region.
But let us be honest about the ticket situation. It is brutal. The first lottery round for the February and March dates closed back in early December. If you missed that window, you are already too late for the opening weeks.
From what we’ve gathered so far, this is not a typical theme park where you can just show up. Unlike an amusement park with roller coasters, it is designed as a “nature x Pokémon” experience. You can explore the “Pokémon Forest” to find over 600 kinds of Pokémon hiding in the bushes and trees, or visit “Kayatsuri Town” to buy exclusive gear. The “Pokémon Forest” area even has strict entry limits to keep the safari vibe immersive.
If you want to visit later in 2026, you need to be checking the website daily (no, we’re not exaggerating!) for the next lottery round. Good luck.
And here’s a massive heads-up for parents. The main “Pokémon Forest” area strictly prohibits entry for children under 5 years old. This is due to safety on the uneven terrain. If you are travelling with toddlers, you will be restricted to the “Kayatsuri Town” area. Do not promise your little ones a forest adventure unless they are old enough to actually get in.
A true-blue otaku? You need to read our guide to otaku culture in Japan:
- Location: Inagi City, Tokyo (Yomiuriland)
- Planned Opening: 5 February 2026
- Official Website: https://www.pokepark-kanto.co.jp/ppark/top/index
2. Hoshinoya Nara Prison
To clear up the confusion, this is actually two venues in one. It is primarily a luxury hotel, but it also houses a museum that is open to day visitors. This is great news because it means you can explore the historic red-brick architecture without paying the high nightly rate.
Now, for the hotel part. This is easily the most daring hotel concept we have seen in years. Hoshino Resorts has taken the former Nara Prison, a red-brick architectural marvel from 1908, and turned it into a luxury stay.
The hype for this is out of control. While the official museum tickets go on sale in February, early interest for the hotel rooms has been overwhelming. Getting a room here during the spring opening season will be nearly impossible for the average traveller.
If you manage to snag a reservation, you are staying in a literal Important Cultural Property where the old prison cells have been converted into high-end suites.
- Location: Nara City, Nara
- Planned Opening: 27 April 2026
- Official Website: https://hoshinoresorts.com/ja/brands/hoshinoya/sp/hoshinoyanaraprison/
3. Imperial Hotel Kyoto
After 30 years of waiting, the legendary Imperial Hotel is finally opening a spot in Kyoto. They did not settle for just any location. They have taken over the historic Yasaka Hall in Gion. This is significant because new builds in this district are incredibly rare.
Unlike their massive Tokyo property, this is intimate with only 55 rooms. Reservations officially opened back in November, so finding a room for the spring cherry blossom season might be tough.
But if you can get in, we highly recommend booking the “Imperial Suite”. It has a terrace that looks right out over the tiled rooftops of Gion and the Higashiyama mountains. That is a view usually reserved for locals. It feels less like a hotel and more like staying in a private guesthouse with five-star service.
Location: Gion, Kyoto
Planned Opening: 5 March 2026
Official Website: https://www.imperialhotel.co.jp/kyoto/
4. Edo-Tokyo Museum (Reopening)
We have really missed this place. It has been closed for nearly four years, but it is finally coming back in March.
If you have not been, this museum is famous for its massive, life-sized replicas of old Edo buildings. The renovation was overseen by architect Shohei Shigematsu and includes a new full-scale model of the Hattori Clock Tower. They have also upgraded the interactive zones. You can actually step inside the “yatai” (food stalls) to get a feel for the cramped, lively energy of old Tokyo. It is the best history lesson in the city, hands down.
Make sure to check out the new layout in the permanent exhibition zone before heading to Ryogoku for chanko nabe (sumo stew) nearby. Before going, check out our guide to the best things to do in Ryogoku:
- Location: Ryogoku, Tokyo Planned
- Opening: 31 March 2026 Official
- Website: https://www.edo-tokyo-museum.or.jp/en/
Step Into Japanese Traditions
There’s more to Japan than sightseeing. Imagine learning sumo moves from actual wrestlers, learning the secrets of Japanese cooking, or trying your hand at a traditional craft. These are the moments that bring your journey to life, and we can help you book them with ease.
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5. MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives
Takanawa Gateway City is the newest stop on the Yamanote Line, and honestly, the station itself is already an architectural destination. This new museum, designed by Kengo Kuma, anchors the whole area with a building that looks like a spiral of green parkland floating in the sky. It also has the “MoN Library”, a massive book-lined space that feels like a modern cathedral for readers.
We suggest visiting the “Tatami & Moon Viewing Terrace” after an exhibition. It is a rare spot where you can experience traditional Japanese flooring while looking out at a futuristic cityscape. It is a perfect break if you are travelling on the busy Yamanote loop.
- Location: Takanawa Gateway Station, Tokyo
- Planned Opening: 28 March 2026
- Official Website: https://montakanawa.jp/
6. BASEGATE Yokohama Kannai
Yokohama is transforming the old city hall area into a massive travel hub. For us, the highlight is actually the food. The new “Stadium Side Bar District” is a laneway-style zone with 34 different small eateries. It is perfect for bar-hopping without the confusion of navigating random backstreets.
The new “OMO7 Yokohama” hotel will also open here (officially on 21 April, a month after the complex). We love OMO hotels because of their “OMO Ranger” service. These are staff members who offer daily guided tours to take you out into the city. Most of the walking tours are free for guests, but you need to book your slot at check-in as they fill up fast.
Also, try their “OMO Bakery”. It serves a curry bread that nods to Yokohama’s history as the gateway for Western spices.
- Location: Kannai Station, Yokohama
- Planned Opening: 19 March 2026
- Official Website: https://basegate-yokohama-kannai.com/
7. TOKYO DREAM PARK
If you are heading to the Odaiba or Ariake bay area (maybe for TeamLabs or the Big Sight), this is your new entertainment anchor. TV Asahi is opening this complex with a focus on live performance.
The opening event is a huge deal. They are launching with a “100% Doraemon & Friends” exhibition featuring a 12-metre balloon and 100 different Doraemon figures. It is a fantastic photo op for families.
For theatre lovers, the new “EX THEATER ARIAKE” has been designed specifically so you can hear every lyric and line of dialogue perfectly. That is a game-changer for musicals.
- Location: Ariake, Tokyo
- Planned Opening: 27 March 2026
- Official Website: https://tdp.tv-asahi.co.jp/
8. Shibuya Marui (Reopening)
As we locals like to joke, Shibuya is always under construction! That said, this project is genuinely different. They tore down the old Marui department store and are rebuilding it as Japan’s first major commercial facility made primarily of wood.
Designed by Foster+Partners, they are saying that it would completely unlike the cold glass-and-steel towers surrounding it. It is warm, sustainable, and filled with eco-conscious brands.
We think this is going to be a much-needed “breathing space” in the middle of the chaos of Shibuya Crossing.
- Location: Shibuya, Tokyo
- Planned Opening: 2026
- Official Website: https://www.0101.co.jp/013/
9. Yurakucho Park
This is a bit of a “watch this space” situation. The old office buildings in front of Yurakucho Station have been cleared to make way for a one-hectare open park. While the massive “JAPA VALLEY” sake project (collaborating with Pharrell Williams and NIGO) does not fully land until 2027, the park itself opens in 2026.
According to what we’ve heard, people should keep an eye out for the giant “Companion” sculpture by artist KAWS. It is rare to find this much open sky and green space right in the middle of the Marunouchi business district, so we think it would make for a perfect pitstop between Ginza shopping and the Imperial Palace.
- Location: Yurakucho Station, Tokyo
- Planned Opening: 2026 (Park Area)
- Article: https://www.mec.co.jp/news/detail/2025/07/28_mec250728_yurakucho_park
10. Shibuya LOVEZ
Bandai Namco is opening this new venue in the summer, and we think it is filling a specific gap in Tokyo’s music scene. It is a mid-sized hall with about a 2,000-person capacity. That is the sweet spot for fan events and intimate concerts.
If you are into anime songs, gaming events, or pop culture talk shows, you will likely end up here. It is also right in Udagawacho, so you are in the heart of Shibuya’s nightlife.
We expect this to become a major hub for “cool Japan” events. Check the schedule if you are visiting in the second half of the year to see if your favourite voice actor or artist is performing.
- Location: Shibuya, Tokyo
- Planned Opening: Summer 2026
- Official Website: https://shibuyalovez.jp
Japan 2026 Openings FAQs
Do I really need to book tickets months in advance?
Yes. For the big names like PokéPark and Hoshinoya, you cannot just turn up. The lotteries and reservations open months ahead. If you want to go, set a calendar reminder on your phone right now.
Are these opening dates guaranteed?
Honest answer? No. Construction delays happen. “Spring 2026” can easily slide to summer. Always check the official website before you book your flights specifically for one event.
Which of these is best for families?
PokéPark KANTO is the obvious draw, but it comes with a major catch. The main “Pokémon Forest” area does not allow children under 5. If you have toddlers, you might actually have a better time at TOKYO DREAM PARK. Their massive Doraemon opening event is completely friendly for all ages and makes for great photos without the hiking restrictions.
Will these places be incredibly crowded?
Expect chaos at least for the first three months. If you hate crowds, we would even say wait until late 2026. If you must go early, aim for a Tuesday or Wednesday to dodge the domestic weekend travellers.
Are they easy to fit into a standard trip?
Mostly, yes. The Tokyo spots (Shibuya, Takanawa, Ariake) are all on major train lines. Nara and Kyoto are standard stops on the Golden Route.
