A Pawsitively Charming Photo Opportunity
On January 24, 2026 (Saturday), travelers and fans alike will have a unique chance to meet Vulpix and Alolan Vulpix at the 2nd-floor departure lobby of Tancho Kushiro Airport. The highlight of the event is a special photo session, offering an unforgettable moment with these adorable Pokémon.
Participation in the photo session will be determined by a lottery. Lottery tickets will be distributed from 10:30 AM to 10:45 AM, with the lottery and subsequent photo session for winners taking place from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Even if not selected for the direct photo opportunity, attendees can still capture photos of Vulpix and Alolan Vulpix from the surrounding area.
As a delightful bonus, all participants in the lottery will receive a Vulpix or Alolan Vulpix sun visor as a gift, while supplies last. Pokémon fans, get your cameras ready for this enchanting encounter!
Please note that the event may be subject to sudden cancellation due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances.
Embark on the “Konkon Vulpix Kira Kira Kushiro Stamp Rally”
Coinciding with the airport event, the “Konkon Vulpix Kira Kira Kushiro Stamp Rally” will run from January 24 (Saturday) to March 8 (Sunday), 2026. This exciting stamp rally invites participants to explore the picturesque Kushiro region during its winter splendor, guided by the playful spirits of Alolan Vulpix and Vulpix. It’s an imaginative way to experience the beauty of Hokkaido’s colder months, turning a journey into a treasure hunt.
For more details on the stamp rally, visit: https://www.kushiro.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/ss/srk/kanko/kirakira2026.html
Further information about the airport photo session can be found here: https://www.kushiro.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/ss/srk/kanko/kirakira2026open.html
Vulpix and Alolan Vulpix: Hokkaido’s Beloved Ambassadors
Vulpix and Alolan Vulpix were appointed as the “Hokkaido Discovery Expedition Team” (北海道だいすき発見隊, Hokkaido Daisuki Hakken-tai) in October 2018. This initiative aims to promote Hokkaido both domestically and internationally. Through the Pokémon Local Acts project, the charm of Hokkaido and the appeal of Alolan Vulpix and Vulpix are simultaneously disseminated, contributing to the region’s vibrancy.
This event is organized by the Hokkaido Kushiro General Subprefectural Bureau and the Kushiro Tourism Federation, with planning cooperation from AIRDO. Additional support comes from Hokkaido Airports Inc., Hokkaido Railway Company Kushiro Branch, Kushiro Kizuna Project, and various towns and villages within the Kushiro region.
Learn more about the Pokémon Local Acts: https://local.pokemon.jp/
Discover the Hokkaido x Pokémon collaboration: https://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/ss/ckk/pokemon.html
The Future of Kawaii Culture in Travel
Events like the Vulpix and Alolan Vulpix appearance and stamp rally demonstrate a growing trend in Japan: leveraging beloved kawaii characters to boost local tourism. By blending popular culture with regional attractions, these initiatives create unique travel experiences that resonate with fans worldwide. This approach not only promotes local economies but also offers a fresh, engaging way for visitors to discover the hidden gems of Japan, ensuring that the magic of kawaii continues to charm audiences globally, one region at a time.
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