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A limited-time summer attraction inspired by Animal Crossing: New Horizons is set to turn part of New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido into an immersive fan experience celebrating the popular Nintendo franchise.

The event, officially titled “Gather ‘Round Hokkaido Airport Island – Animal Crossing Pop-Up Event in New Chitose Airport,” will recreate the laid-back island atmosphere of the game within a specially designed exhibition space.

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Animal Crossing: New Horizons gained worldwide popularity after launching on Nintendo Switch, offering players the chance to build personalized island communities, interact with charming animal villagers, and freely customize their surroundings.

The game continues to be one of Nintendo’s most successful releases, maintaining a strong fanbase thanks to its relaxing gameplay and creative possibilities.

As part of the event, a temporary version of the fictional “Hokkaido Airport Island” will be set up within the airport’s open central plaza area.

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A standout feature of the installation will be a large balloon modeled after the Dodo Airlines aircraft, the in-game airline used by players to travel between islands.

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Attendees will also have access to a themed retail space inspired by Nook’s Cranny, where exclusive collaboration merchandise between Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Hokkaido Airport will be available.

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The shop will further include early access to new items from Nintendo’s official store, along with a selection of licensed Animal Crossing goods.

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Various photo spots based on recognizable locations from the game will be placed throughout the venue for visitors to enjoy.

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Guests who complete a GPS check-in using the Nintendo Store app will receive a limited-edition commemorative sticker while supplies last.

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Special character appearances are scheduled, with Tom Nook set to greet visitors on August 22 and K.K. Slider appearing on August 23.

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An interactive activity themed around Hokkaido will also be offered, where participants use a pinball-style launcher to aim at balloon-mounted targets.

Successful hits will reward players with exclusive event-themed merchandise.

Participation in this activity, which is priced at ¥400 (approx. $3 USD/ £2 GBP), includes an original soft glider, which is provided as part of the entry package.

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The hands-on experience will take place on July 25 and July 26, August 8 through August 11, and August 29 and August 30.

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The “Gather ‘Round Hokkaido Airport Island – Animal Crossing Pop-Up Event in New Chitose Airport” will be held from July 25 through August 30, 2026, at the Center Plaza on the second floor of the Domestic Passenger Terminal Building at New Chitose Airport in Japan.