Global interest in Japan has never been stronger. Between January and August 2025, more than 28.3 million visitors traveled to Japan, an 18.2% year-over-year increase, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. As more travelers are exploring the country’s rich traditions and scenic landscapes, Sony Interactive Entertainment is bringing a new way for travel enthusiasts, as well as the culturally curious, to experience the northern edge of 17th-century Japan through its new game Ghost of Yōtei, available now on PlayStation 5. Developed by Sucker Punch Productions, Ghost of Yōtei brings to life a reimagined version of the natural beauty, history, and cultural traditions of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island.
A Journey Through Hokkaido
Explore scenes from Ghost of Yōtei
Ghost of Yotei is set in 1600s rural Japan. Players can follow Atsu’s powerful tale of vengeance and redemption, while also exploring the vastness of Ezo, now modernly known as Hokkaido, in the breathtaking world the game offers. Through the game, travel enthusiasts wander through lush, vibrant landscapes including snowy ridges, fields of wildflowers, and Mount Yōtei itself.
“Ghost of Yōtei is a love letter to Japan’s cultural legacy,” said Brian Fleming, Co-Founder & Studio Head of Sucker Punch Productions. “Throughout development, we worked very closely with Japanese advisers, cultural experts, and performers whose perspectives helped shape everything from the narrative to the smallest details of the world.”
A Sensory Soundscape
Beyond its breathtaking visuals, Ghost of Yōtei offers a sensory journey. Composer Toma Otowa blends traditional Japanese instruments, including the shamisen, shakuhachi, and kokyū, with modern Western arrangements, as well as inspiration from Japanese folk to create a powerful soundtrack that leaves a lasting impression. Combined with cinematic 4K visuals1, Sucker Punch aims to create a world that gives a transportive feeling of being in Japan.
A New Standalone Chapter in the Acclaimed Series
Ghost of Yōtei builds on the legacy of its predecessor, Ghost of Tsushima, which earned critical acclaim for its respectful and grounded portrayal of feudal Japan. The predecessor’s impact extended into real-world tourism, and Sucker Punch Productions’ Game Director Nate Fox and Creative Director Jason Connell were formally recognized as permanent tourism ambassadors for the real-life island of Tsushima. Both Fox and Connell return as Creative Directors for Ghost of Yōtei, continuing the homage to Japanese heritage.
Warm Welcome from Hokkaido
The excitement for Ghost of Yōtei extends beyond global travelers. In Japan, local communities have expressed pride in seeing the natural and cultural beauty of the region showcased on a global stage. Aside from early feedback from the Japanese gaming communities that spotlight the game’s attention to regional detail (Japanese only) and inspired pilgrimages to local spots, local Hokkaido municipalities and businesses have launched collaborations in anticipation of increased tourism from fans of the game.
Trigger Your Wanderlust Now
Ghost of Yōtei is available now on PlayStation 5. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or dreaming of your first visit to Japan, the game is an invitation to all to appreciate the richness of Japan’s environment, even in the comfort of your living room.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source sonyinteractive.com ’
