Hidden Wonders

[Hidden Wonders of Japan] Pokémon Brings Popular Mascot Chancey to Fukushima

Pokémon brings the happiness of its character Chancey to Fukushima and the region devastated by the Great East Japan Earthquake.

Published

2 years ago

December 24, 2021

The Sankei Shimbun

Children playing in the Pokémon theme park in Namie, Fukushima Prefecture, on December 12, 2021.

Children in Fukushima enthusiastically greeted the arrival of the first of several new Pokémon- themed parks on December 12, 2021. Donated by Pokémon Co Ltd, the park is based on the company’s popular character Chancey.

With Pokémon-themed slides and swings for the playground, the parks aim to charm and entertain children of the area. Naturally, the children started playing enthusiastically at this first park in the town of Namie.

*Children playing in a Pokémon theme park in Namie, Fukushima Prefecture , December 12, 2021.*

Fukushima Prefecture and Pokémon Co. have signed an agreement to promote reconstruction and tourism for the areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, and Chancey has been chosen as a "Fukushima supporting Pokémon" mascot.

At the opening ceremony, company corporate officer Taku Kawamoto said, "Chancey is believed to bring happiness. I think we can bring more happiness to this town."

"I wanted a park where everyone could play,” said a sixth grade 12-year-old boy who loves the smartphone game Pokémon GO. Then smiling, he added, “I have been looking forward to this day.”