Top 10 Must-Visit New Attractions in Japan for 2026: A Comprehensive Guide to Pokémon Park, Luxury Prison Hotels, and Shopping Paradises

For friends from Hong Kong and Taiwan who love traveling to Japan, the country is always brimming with endless charm and surprises. No matter how many times you've visited, there are always unique experiences waiting to be discovered. As we approach 2026, Japan will soon unveil a wave of exciting new attractions across the nation! From the breathtaking Pokémon permanent theme park located near Tokyo to the luxurious prison hotel in Nara that blends rich history with top-notch experiences, as well as a brand-new complex shopping center infused with masterful aesthetics, each new landmark is sure to captivate your heart and is definitely worth planning a special trip to see.

Kinnso has meticulously curated a list of the top 10 most anticipated new attractions set to open in Japan in 2026. Whether you are a solo traveler seeking deep cultural experiences, a family planning to explore the world with your children, or a couple in search of romantic atmospheres and Instagram-worthy dining spots, this comprehensive guide is packed with inspiration for your next trip to Japan. Join us as we take a sneak peek at these soon-to-be-talked-about must-visit destinations, and be sure to add them to your personal travel wish list!

This highly anticipated Pokémon-themed attraction is located within Yomiuri Land, just outside of Tokyo. Spanning an impressive 2.6 hectares, the park beautifully recreates the Pokémon game world. The area is primarily divided into two enchanting zones: "Pokémon Forest" and "Grass Town." In the forest section, visitors can feel as if they are adventuring through a natural ecosystem, encountering a variety of Pokémon, witnessing their classic battles up close, and engaging in interactive experiences like berry-sharing. Meanwhile, Grass Town features a lively town square, complete with a Pokémon Center, themed shops, and exclusive Pikachu attractions. Daily parades and stage performances ensure that fans of all ages will have an unforgettable experience.

Useful Information: The facility is set to grandly open on February 5, 2026. Getting to Yomiuri Land is quite convenient; you can take the Keio Line from Shinjuku, Tokyo, to "Keio Yomiuri Land Station," and then transfer to the aerial tramway or bus for an easy ride. The journey takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Although the specific ticket prices have not yet been announced, it is advisable for readers to budget a few thousand yen (equivalent to several hundred Hong Kong dollars or over a thousand New Taiwan dollars) for ticket purchases, and to keep an eye on the official website for early bird pre-sale information.

Travel Tips: As an experienced player, it is highly recommended that you head straight to the "Grass Yarn Town" limited edition store as soon as the park opens to snag some merchandise before the popular items sell out. Additionally, the interactive scenes within the park are perfect for capturing memorable photos. Whether you are visiting with family or on a date, you can create precious memories filled with fun and whimsy here. This definitely should be a highlight of your spring 2026 trip to Tokyo.

Steeped in rich historical significance, Toei Kyoto Studio Park is undergoing a comprehensive transformation to mark its 50th anniversary. The renovation is centered around the theme of "Feeling Lost in Edo Period Kyoto," offering an unprecedented immersive experience that engages all five senses. The first phase of the renovation will introduce a stunning 360-degree surround stage and large-scale live performances, vividly recreating the everyday life of the Edo period. In addition to watching performances, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in traditional Japanese cultural activities such as tea ceremonies, flower arranging, and Noh theater. Perhaps the most surprising aspect is the introduction of exclusive nighttime adult events for those aged 18 and over. These include Edo-style "Chōban Bakuchi" gambling experiences and the thrilling "Tōmon Yashiki," showcasing a dramatically different and mysterious allure of the studio park at night.

Practical Information: The reopening date for Phase One is set for March 28, 2026. Located in the Ukyo Ward of Kyoto City, the Toei Kyoto Studio Park can be easily reached by taking the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to "Uzumasa Station," followed by a 5-minute walk. After the renovations, the park is expected to attract a large crowd, especially due to the highly popular adult events held exclusively at night, which are likely to sell out quickly. It is recommended that interested individuals purchase tickets online in advance to ensure their participation.

Travel Tips: If you're looking to capture the most atmospheric photos, consider renting a beautiful kimono or yukata at Kyoto Station or in the surrounding areas. Strolling through the renovated Edo-style streets in traditional attire will undoubtedly enhance your immersive experience! This not only serves as a fantastic Instagram-worthy spot but also allows you to deeply appreciate the enchanting charm of Japan's ancient capital.

Transforming a historic prison into a top-tier luxury hotel is set to be one of Japan's most talked-about accommodation experiences in 2026! The "Old Nara Prison," built during the Meiji era, was one of Japan's five major prisons at the time and is currently the only cultural heritage site that has preserved its beautiful red brick architecture in its entirety. Thanks to the ingenious renovation by the renowned Hoshino Resorts brand, this site has been reborn as the sophisticated "Kaito Nara Prison" hotel and museum complex. The museum is divided into preservation and exhibition areas, featuring a thematic exhibition titled "Questions from the Beautiful Prison." This allows visitors to appreciate the century-old architectural beauty while also reflecting on profound questions about life and society in a tranquil setting.

Practical Information: The facility will officially open on April 27, 2026. If you are departing from Kansai International Airport, you can take the airport bus directly to Nara, and then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach Hannyaji Town. If you are coming from Osaka, taking the Kintetsu Nara Line is also quite convenient. Hoshino Group's room rates are generally positioned in the high-end luxury category (typically starting at around tens of thousands of yen per night, equivalent to several thousand Hong Kong dollars or over ten thousand Taiwan dollars). If your budget allows, it is definitely worth investing in a night to experience this unique tranquil atmosphere.

Travel Tips: This hotel, which perfectly blends historical significance with luxurious service, is ideal for discerning solo travelers or couples looking to celebrate a special anniversary. Given that the number of rooms in such unique, high-end hotels is often quite limited, it is highly recommended to secure your booking as soon as reservations open. For those who do not wish to stay overnight, don't be discouraged; purchasing a ticket to visit the museum separately will also allow you to deeply appreciate the grandeur and historical impact of this remarkable building.

Miyazaki Prefecture in Kyushu is renowned for its serene natural landscapes, and the new facility created by the famous shochu brand "Kirishima Shuzo" adds a rich cultural vibe to the area. This complex features a design by internationally acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, embodying the philosophy of "coexistence with the land, environment, and culture." It seamlessly integrates a botanical garden, rooftop garden, and grassy relaxation areas. Among its most striking features is the newly established Starbucks concept store located within the facility! The store boasts a unique sun-dried bamboo ceiling and a bar counter crafted with volcanic ash soil from southern Kyushu, allowing you to enjoy your coffee in a warm, wooden atmosphere while gazing out at the expansive greenery.

Practical Information: Set to grandly open on January 27, 2026, this is an excellent opportunity for readers planning to travel to Kyushu during the Lunar New Year. The facility is located in Miyazaki Prefecture's Tsuno City, and we recommend that travelers on a Kyushu road trip make this a key stop for a break and photo opportunity. If using public transportation, you can take a taxi or local bus from JR Tsuno Station to reach the site.

Travel Tips: When you visit this place, you absolutely cannot miss the architectural details masterfully crafted by Kengo Kuma, which beautifully utilize light and natural materials. You can grab a limited edition drink from Starbucks and head to the outdoor grassy relaxation area to enjoy a pure moment of tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This spot is not only a pilgrimage site for architecture enthusiasts, but its comfortable and accessible pathways are also very friendly for families visiting with elders or strollers.

Sanrio fans, get ready to scream with excitement! This museum, personally created by Sanrio's founder and honorary president, Shintaro Tsuji, is located in his beloved hometown of Yamanashi Prefecture. The entire museum is centered around his iconic character, the "Strawberry King," and meticulously showcases precious historical materials from the brand's inception, classic issues of the magazine "Ichigo Shimbun," and a plethora of previously unreleased character merchandise. Additionally, for the first time, the museum reveals Tsuji's personal office and selected collections, providing immense satisfaction not only for fans of cute characters but also for visitors interested in the history of Japanese pop culture development.

Useful Information: The memorial hall is set to warmly open its doors in April 2026. Located in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, visitors can take the JR Chuo Line express train from Shinjuku, Tokyo, to "Kofu Station," followed by a transfer to local transportation. The total travel time is approximately two hours. This destination is ideal for a day trip or can be combined with a visit to Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, making for an exciting two-day, one-night getaway in the nearby Kanto region.

Travel Tips: The souvenir shop inside is definitely a super dangerous area where your wallet can take a significant hit (laughs)! Here, you'll find a wide range of limited edition Strawberry King merchandise and classic Sanrio character items. It's recommended that fans set aside a good budget and allocate at least two hours to leisurely explore. The adorably charming scenes and exhibits here will have you snapping photos non-stop, leaving with a heart full of nostalgia and a bounty of treasures.

The Japanese lifestyle brand niko and ..., popular among today's youth and creative individuals, is making a significant move into the park leisure industry. They have established a brand new facility in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, which seamlessly integrates lifestyle with nature. This space features a professional-grade sauna, a café, a BBQ area, and a trendy pickleball court. The most anticipated feature is the sauna, which has been expertly curated by the renowned industry expert Mr. Noda. Crafted from fragrant Akigumi wood, it is complemented by an outdoor cold water pool and a relaxation terrace, allowing you to fully unwind in the ultimate experience of alternating hot and cold, enjoying the latest trend of "Finnish bath" therapy.

Useful Information: The facilities are scheduled to open at the end of April 2026, perfectly timed to welcome the outdoor activity boom of early summer. Located in Chiba Prefecture, in the town of Senba, it takes just a little over an hour to travel from Tokyo's Ueno Station to Mito Station via the JR Joban Line express train, making the transportation quite intuitive and convenient. This destination is highly recommended for travelers looking to temporarily escape the crowded hustle and bustle of Tokyo, seeking a peaceful and relaxing space.

Travel Tips: This facility perfectly embodies the highly praised natural lifestyle aesthetics that have gained popularity in recent years, making it an ideal destination for a weekend visit with a few friends or a partner. You can start your morning with a refreshing sauna experience, enjoy a leisurely BBQ lunch along with specially designed light meals from the brand, and then spend your afternoon unwinding with a good book in an elegant wooden café. You can easily enjoy a high-quality outdoor lifestyle without the need to carry heavy equipment.

For shopping enthusiasts from Hong Kong and Taiwan, Osaka's Shinsaibashi is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for both culinary delights and retail therapy! The newly established "Shinsaibashi Plaza Building," located at the connection point of Shinsaibashi Station, is designed with a stunning crystal-like "Quartz" exterior, poised to become the most dazzling new landmark in the area. Spanning from the second basement level to the sixth floor, the building will house several international quality brands and exquisite dining options; meanwhile, the upper floors will be operated by the renowned Hulic Group, featuring "THE GATE HOTEL." This upscale hotel boasts over 220 guest rooms and has a specially designed rooftop bar on the 120-meter high top floor, offering guests breathtaking panoramic views of the vibrant Osaka skyline.

Practical Information: The hotel is set to open its doors on June 15, 2026, with the commercial facilities' opening dates to be announced subsequently. It is located in the Minamisenba area of Chuo Ward, Osaka, offering excellent transportation access with direct connections to Shinsaibashi Subway Station. For avid shoppers who prefer to use their hotel as a base and conveniently drop off their purchases in their rooms, staying here is undoubtedly the perfect choice.

Travel Tips: Shinsaibashi is always bustling with crowds, and after a full day of exploring, your legs are bound to feel sore. If you choose to stay at THE GATE HOTEL, you can save a significant amount of time on transportation and walking. In the evening, you can take the elevator directly to the rooftop bar, where you can enjoy a classic cocktail while taking in the stunning views of the illuminated Dotonbori and the urban jungle of Shinsaibashi. This experience offers the ultimate romance for adults. It’s definitely a secret to enhancing the quality of your trip to Osaka!

In recent years, Nagoya has made waves in urban planning and commercial development. The soon-to-open facility "HAERA," located in a landmark area, has been meticulously planned by major groups such as PARCO and Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Store. This shopping center features a unique design concept dubbed "PUBLIC MUSEUM," showcasing around 65 carefully curated stores that offer a blend of luxurious fashion boutiques, lifestyle proposals, and a diverse range of high-end and casual dining options. Here, shopping transcends mere consumerism; it transforms into an inspiring and aesthetically pleasing art exhibition experience, infusing Nagoya's urban landscape with a fresh, chic, and elegant vitality.

Practical Information: The facility is set to unveil its secrets in early summer 2026. The building is directly connected to Sakae Station on Nagoya's Higashiyama and Meijo subway lines, offering exceptional transportation convenience. It is located in the heart of Nagoya, the city's most bustling area. Travelers can easily navigate between Nagoya Station and the Sakae shopping district via the subway, making it the ideal hub for a day trip in Nagoya and a primary battleground for shopping.

Travel Tips: The area surrounding the Sakae shopping district is already home to numerous renowned culinary delights and shopping attractions, such as the Nagoya TV Tower and Oasis 21. The opening of HAERA undoubtedly adds a richer artistic atmosphere to this locale. It is highly recommended to plan your itinerary by first visiting HAERA in the afternoon to enjoy a stylish shopping experience and afternoon tea, and then take a leisurely stroll in the evening to admire the stunning night views of Hisaya Odori Park. This itinerary perfectly encapsulates the dual charm of Nagoya, both day and night.

Located in the heart of Shibuya, a trendsetting hub, the old Marui Department Store holds nearly half a century's worth of memories for countless people. After undergoing demolition, it is set to emerge with a stunning new look! This brand-new commercial facility has enlisted the renowned international architectural firm Foster + Partners as the chief designer, boldly utilizing up to 60% advanced fire-resistant timber in its structure. This makes it Japan's first large-scale urban commercial facility that truly centers around wood in a sustainable manner. From the released concept images, it's clear that the building's exterior and interior spaces radiate a warm and gentle wooden atmosphere, standing out refreshingly and uniquely amid the concrete and steel of Shibuya's streets. It is destined to become a new pilgrimage site for architecture enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike.

Useful Information: The official announcement is expected to reveal more details and the exact opening date in 2026. The facility is still located in the bustling area of Jinnan 1-chome, Shibuya, Tokyo. For travelers frequently taking the JR Yamanote Line or Tokyo Metro to visit Shibuya, this will undoubtedly be a striking and unmissable new landmark on the way to Harajuku or Omotesando from Shibuya Station.

Travel Tips: This department store, which strongly emphasizes "sustainability" and "natural aesthetics," is set to introduce a variety of innovative brands that embody high quality and eco-friendly principles. If you are a discerning traveler who values lifestyle and is concerned about environmental issues, this place will undoubtedly offer you a shopping experience that is completely different from the past. When planning your itinerary, it is recommended to include the nearby Miyashita Park, allowing you to experience the ever-evolving urban charm of Shibuya.

The area around Tokyo Station and Yurakucho has long served as a hub for high-end commerce and cultural exchange. The upcoming "YURAKUCHO PARK" project, which will span over one hectare, is undoubtedly one of the most ambitious urban development initiatives set for 2026. The standout feature of this project is "JAPA VALLEY," an exquisite space crafted by cultural innovators Pharrell Williams and NIGO. Drawing inspiration from the wine culture of California's Napa Valley, this venue successfully transforms that essence into a cultural focal point celebrating the craftsmanship of Japanese sake. Additionally, it features a collaboration with the world-renowned artist KAWS, aimed at elevating Japanese cuisine, fashion, and art to new international heights.

Practical Information: The entire park is expected to be gradually completed in the second half of 2026, while JAPA VALLEY TOKYO plans to officially open for business in 2027 (other facilities in the park will open ahead of schedule in 2026). The location is in the heart of Tokyo, in the Marunouchi area of Chiyoda Ward, near the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station, making it a highly developed transportation hub in a safe and upscale area.

Travel Tips: This destination is undoubtedly tailored for travelers seeking the ultimate in taste and top-tier lifestyle experiences. Even if your budget doesn't allow for an overnight stay, it is highly recommended to visit and witness how renowned musicians and artists create a perfect fusion of contemporary culture and traditional Japanese sake craftsmanship. The high-end restaurants and art performance spaces here will certainly provide you with a unique and internationally acclaimed cultural experience during your trip to Tokyo.

In 2026, Japan will undoubtedly be a traveler's paradise, where traditional culture intertwines with modern innovation, offering limitless possibilities! These 10 newly opened attractions showcase a captivating array of experiences, from natural healing and historical heritage to top-tier luxury and anime fandom. Whether you are planning an extensive global exploration or a quick getaway for relaxation, securing visits to these upcoming dream landmarks will undoubtedly enhance your itinerary. Start discussing with family and friends now to brainstorm your perfect Japanese holiday in 2026!