Japan’s love for pop culture and aviation merged in colorful fashion on December 19, 2020, with the launch of a Pokémon-themed airplane by Solaseed Air. This unique flight marked its inaugural journey from Miyazaki City to Tokyo’s Haneda Airport and was part of a broader campaign to boost tourism in regional Japan.
The initiative, spearheaded by The Pokémon Company in partnership with several Japanese prefectures, introduces custom aircraft designs that celebrate each region’s local culture. The idea is simple yet brilliant—assign each participating prefecture its own dedicated Pokémon plane, customized inside and out to reflect regional charm and identity.
For Miyazaki Prefecture, located on the eastern coast of Kyushu, the character of choice was Exeggutor. This tropical, palm tree-like Pokémon closely resembles the local phoenix palm, making it an ideal ambassador for the area’s natural aesthetic. The aircraft’s vibrant livery features Exeggutor prominently, while the interior is decked out with themed headrests, and passengers receive special edition items such as Exeggutor pens and stickers.
Hokkaido, known for its snow-covered landscapes, natural hot springs, and world-class ski resorts, received the Alolan Vulpix as its Pokémon representative. With its icy white fur, Alolan Vulpix is a perfect fit for the island’s wintry vibe.
But the campaign doesn’t stop at the skies. On the ground, Miyazaki is extending the fun with Exeggutor-themed buses serving key towns including Miyazaki City, Nobeoka, and Miyakonojo. These branded vehicles offer residents and visitors alike a playful way to get around town and are expected to remain in operation through at least the end of 2021.
The introduction of the Pokémon-themed airplane is part of a larger movement to reinvigorate domestic tourism in the wake of COVID-19’s impact on the travel industry. By combining beloved characters with regional pride, these flights aim to inspire travelers to explore lesser-known parts of Japan while celebrating the country’s iconic pop culture legacy.
Solaseed Air, a regional airline based on Kyushu, has seen a warm reception for its Pokémon project, with fans of all ages expressing excitement over the initiative. Plans for further expansion and new character designs are already being discussed, ensuring that the skies above Japan will continue to be as fun and imaginative as the lands below.
Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a Pokémon fan, or simply looking for a new kind of adventure, these themed flights offer a memorable way to experience Japan—one colorful aircraft at a time.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Solaseed Air