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Unveiling the Magic: A Complete Guide to Tokyo Disneyland

April 7, 2024

Nestled within the Tokyo Disney Resort, Tokyo Disneyland brings Disney magic to life through intricately-themed areas, exciting attractions, and beloved characters. Opened in 1983, it was the first Disney park to be built outside of the United States. While similar to other Disney parks worldwide, Tokyo Disneyland has its own unique flair and charm.

Adjacent to the park lies Tokyo DisneySea, distinguished by its nautical seaside themes and attractions based on exploration and adventure. Tokyo Disneyland focuses more heavily on classic Disney characters and fairy tales across its different themed lands.

Planning Your Trip

Getting There & Around

The Tokyo Disney Resort is conveniently located just outside downtown Tokyo, easily accessible by train. Direct trains on the JR Keiyo Line run from Tokyo Station to Maihama Station in around 15 minutes. The Resort also operates Disney Resort Line monorails and buses for transportation between the parks, hotels, and other areas.

Address & Opening Hours

Tokyo Disneyland is located at: 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0031, Japan

The park is open 365 days a year. Opening times vary by season, but generally 9:00am – 9:00pm.

Be sure to check the official website for specific opening hours on your desired travel dates.

Entrance Fees & Tickets

Tokyo Disneyland offers a range of ticket options depending on the dates of your visit:

• 1-Day Tickets: Starts from 7,400 yen for adults, 6,400 yen for youth age 12-17, and 4,800 yen for children age 4-11
• 2-Day Tickets: Starts from 13,200 yen for adults

Seasonal and after-6pm tickets are also available at discounted rates. Special promotions or packaged tickets with Tokyo DisneySea may also be offered.

Best Time to Visit

When planning your visit, it's important to consider the best time in terms of crowds, weather, and special events or festivals.

The peak crowd seasons at Tokyo Disneyland typically align with Japanese school holidays in late March-April during spring break and July-August during summer vacation. Expect very long lines and packed parks during these periods. If you don't mind large crowds, these can be great times to see the parks decorated for spring or summer themes.

For shorter wait times and fewer people, aim for off-peak seasons like May-June in late spring or September-November in the fall. With mild, comfortable weather and smaller crowds, these shoulder seasons provide an ideal environment. Do keep in mind that some facilities may be closed for maintenance and a handful of attractions might be under refurbishment.

Special events like the colorful Disney's Easter celebration in April or sparkly Christmas season from November-December add extra magic too. Live entertainment, holiday theming, food, and merchandise make these festivals stand out as fantastic times to visit.

Consider weighing factors like crowd levels, weather, and seasonal offerings when deciding on the best time for your unique needs. With strategic trip timing, you're sure to have a memorable, magical experience!

Must-See Attractions

Fantasyland

Fantasyland brings fairy tales and Disney characters to life through elaborate theming. Popular attractions include:

• Peter Pan's Flight: Fly over London to Neverland on this classic dark ride
• Haunted Mansion: Enter a creepy supernatural house with ghostly surprises
• Pooh's Hunny Hunt: Journey through an oversized storybook on this family dark ride

Don't miss character greetings with the likes of Mickey, Minnie, and Tinker Bell!

Adventureland

Adventureland takes guests on swashbuckling expeditions through jungles and pirates' hideouts. Top attractions include:

• Pirates of the Caribbean: Cruise through treacherous waters on this immersive indoor boat ride
• Jungle Cruise: See animatronic wildlife along a lighthearted riverboat journey
• The Enchanted Tiki Room: Witness a lively show starring singing birds and flowers

Tomorrowland

Blast off to the future in Tomorrowland with space-age attractions and intergalactic encounters. Must-sees include:

• Space Mountain: Hurtle through the cosmos on this thrill-packed indoor rollercoaster
• Buzz Lightyear's Astro Blasters: Put your laser shooting skills to the test on this fun dark ride
• Star Tours: Experience a wild 3D space flight adventure to different Star Wars destinations

Don't miss the chance for photos with heroes like Buzz Lightyear and Stitch!

Insider Tips

Maximize the magic with these handy insider tips:

• Download the app: The Tokyo Disney Resort app provides ride wait times, park maps and more handy features
• Use FastPass strategically: Skip long standby lines by reserving ride times in advance with FastPass
• Try single rider lines: For select rides, single rider lines can greatly reduce wait times
• Stay at a Disney hotel: Enjoy themed rooms, early park entry, and convenient transportation

Beyond the Park

After exploring Tokyo Disneyland, check out sister park Tokyo DisneySea with its nautical attractions based on exploration and adventure. Visitors can easily access both parks with a multiday ticket or Park Hopper.

Consider extending your Disney fun by visiting nearby attractions like Disney's shopping and dining complex Ikspiari or taking a short trip into Tokyo center.

FAQs: Tokyo Disneyland

What are the best times to visit tokyo disneyland, how do i get to tokyo disneyland from downtown tokyo, what ticket options are available for tokyo disneyland, which attractions are a must-see in fantasyland, how can i make the most of my visit with insider tips, unforgettable magic awaits.

With its fantasy-filled lands and spellbinding attractions, Tokyo Disneyland creates a world where Disney dreams spring to life. Ride rollercoasters, meet beloved characters, and watch dazzling parades – create magical memories at every turn.

As pixie dust brings your adventure to a close, you'll take home more than souvenirs. You'll have cherished stories and moments shared with family and friends that will live on for years. The Disney magic will continue to sparkle brightly in your heart.

So don't hesitate – start planning your Tokyo Disneyland getaway! Thrills, smiles, and everlasting memories await you at this one-of-a-kind park where magic transforms into unforgettable reality.

Tokyo Disneyland

• 1. Planning Your Trip
• 2. Best Time to Visit
• 3. Must-See Attractions
• 4. Insider Tips
• 5. Beyond the Park
• 6. Unforgettable Magic Awaits

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Travel for Theme Park Fans

TDR Explorer

Tokyo Disneyland Trip Planning Guide 2024

Planning your trip to Tokyo Disney Resort and its two parks, Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo DisneySea, is overwhelming. Not only are you planning a trip overseas, but you are also travelling to the beautiful country of Japan.

In this guide, I’ll help you plan your travel to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. I’ve lived in Japan for a decade and have been visiting these Parks for much longer. I use my experience to help you get the most out of the Disney Parks in Japan I’ve called home for years.

In addition, take your planning further with our Tokyo Disney Resort digital guidebook . It’ll help you plan your vacation from start to finish.

A lot has changed at Tokyo Disney Resort since COVID, so I recommend reading our in-depth article on the changes. Also, the Tokyo Disney Resort 40th anniversary event is on until March 31, 2024!

Table of Contents

What to know about tokyo disney resort, when should you visit, how many days to spend, how to buy park tickets, what does tokyo disneyland cost, flights to japan, transportation to tokyo disney resort, disney hotels, what to bring, how to pay for things, sim cards, wi-fi, and pocket wi-fi, japanese language, cultural differences, attractions, entertainment.

Tokyo Disney Resort has two parks: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. The resort is not in Tokyo but in Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture, east of Tokyo. These are the only Disney Parks that are not owned and operated by The Walt Disney Company but instead owned by the Oriental Land Company, which licenses the brand from The Walt Disney Company.

Since the Walt Disney Company doesn’t own and operate Tokyo Disney Resort, it’s best to throw away almost everything you know about planning a trip to a Disney Park as much of it won’t apply here. This guide makes sure you learn everything you need to know. I tell you this to save you frustration and confusion.

Tokyo Disneyland Park is the first Disney Park built outside the US, opening on April 15, 1983. Modelled after the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Park in California, this park is most familiar to those who’ve visited American resorts. The most noticeable difference is the World Bazaar, which is essentially a covered Main Street USA.

Tokyo DisneySea is the second park at the resort. It opened on September 4, 2001, for 335 billion yen (approx US$2.7 billion). Often referred to as the crown jewel of Disney Parks , Tokyo DisneySea is the world’s 4th most visited theme park. Consisting of seven themed ports of call (or lands), this ambitious theme park displays what is possible when Imagineers are free to explore their creativity.

The biggest challenge is deciding when you want to visit the resort. You’ll need to consider many factors: Japanese Holidays, weather, and the school calendar. Public holidays in Japan are vastly different from other parts of the world.

Our updated guide tells you the best and worst times to visit , along with my recommendations for 2024 based on refurbishments, celebrations, and construction.

Here’s a quick summary:

• Fantasy Springs opens on June 6, 2024; expect high crowds from June through the summer.
• The best time to visit is the end of May and October into November for ideal weather and crowds.
• The worst times are Golden Week (the Beginning of May), New Year, and the month of March (Spring Break) into April (cherry blossoms).
• The best days to visit, in general, are Tuesday through Thursday.
• Use the Tokyo Disneyland Crowd Calendar to check your dates.
• Check ride closures to see if you need to change your dates.

You may have heard the stories about weekends at Tokyo Disney Resort — that the parks are busy and crowded, and you wait for everything. The majority of this is true. Generally, you are best off avoiding the weekends. Not all hope is lost if you find yourself visiting on the weekend.

• Our Weekend Survival Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort
• What I Learned Visiting Tokyo Disneyland on the Weekend
• 4 Reasons to Visit on the Weekend

Seasonal Events

The resort is a local park, resulting in OLC constantly offering guests something new (or updated). Events at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea change with the seasons and sometimes in between. Visiting in December versus May gives you a different experience. All the more reason to visit multiple times! Here’s a list of events at the resort over a given year.

• New Year  (First week of January)
• Winter Events (January to March)
• Easter (March to June)
• Summer (July to August)
• Halloween (September to October)
• Christmas  (November to December)

These limited-time events bring a variety of offerings for guests to enjoy. Live shows, parades, merchandise , and seasonal menus. Check the event calendar for 2024.

If it’s your first time, I recommend three days to take everything the parks and hotels offer. You can get away with two days, one day for each park. Since only one-day tickets are sold currently, you’ll have to buy multiple one-day tickets for your visit.

Please read our full blog post to help decide how many days are best for you.

If you only have one day for Tokyo Disney Resort, I recommend choosing Tokyo DisneySea over Tokyo Disneyland, but that’s a personal preference. I have an in-depth article to help you decide what’s best for you!

After deciding how many days you wish to visit, purchasing your park tickets is next! Park tickets start at ¥7,900 for a 1-day adult passport (about $55). Tickets are available 60 days in advance, and I always recommend buying them in advance so you don’t waste time or potentially have them sell out.

If you’re staying at the Disney Hotels, you have guaranteed park admission — even if the park is at capacity — and you can buy them at the hotel. The quickest and easiest way to buy Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea tickets is through our trusted affiliate, Klook .

For more details on park tickets for Tokyo Disneyland, read our comprehensive ticket guide . 

Coming to Japan is pricey, depending on where you live. You must consider flights, hotels, food, transportation, and how many more suitcases you must buy to hold all your exclusive Disney merchandise!

• What does a Tokyo Disney Resort Vacation cost?

Here’s a list of average costs for various items at the resort. Keep in mind that prices do vary and are subject to change. Use xe.com to convert into your currency:

• Small Soft Drink or Coffee – ¥240
• Set Meal at Counter Service Restaurant (Entree, drink, dessert) – ¥920 to ¥1500
• Entree Only Meal – ¥600 to ¥900
• Children’s Meal – ¥900
• Snack (Churro, Popcorn, etc.) – ¥310

Merchandise

• Character Stuffed Keychain (Badge) – ¥2000
• Pins – ¥1000
• T-Shirt – ¥2000
• Duffy the Disney Bear Outfit – ¥5000
• Character Plush – ¥3800

Transportation

• One-Day Monorail Pass (on Resort) – ¥650
• One-way JR Ticket from Tokyo Station – ¥220
• One-Day Car Parking – ¥2,500 (weekdays) and ¥3000 (weekends)

This is one of your most significant expenses when travelling to Japan, no matter where you are. There are some ways to cut this cost. Follow our detailed guide for more details. I also recommend setting up alerts with Google Flights with your dates. On average, the best time to book a flight is about 3 months in advance.

There are two airports you can fly to:

• Narita Airport (just outside of Tokyo)
• Haneda Airport (within Tokyo)

Each airport has shuttle buses that will get you to Tokyo Disney Resort if you stay there. If Tokyo Disney Resort is part of a more extensive trip and you stay off-site, you can get to the resort. Japan is well-known for its world-renowned public transportation.

As mentioned, Japan is world-famous for its excellent transportation system. English-language information is readily available at most major stations in Tokyo, so figuring out where to go is not impossible. Getting to the resort from Narita or Haneda Airport is intimidating, though.

Our complete guide gives you all the details on how to get to Tokyo Disney Resort from the airport by various means and budgets.

JR Rail Pass

If you’re staying in Japan longer than seven days and plan on visiting other parts of the country, I recommend buying the JR Rail Pass. Which gives you unlimited use of certain trains in Japan for different periods. For example, the cost of a bullet train (shinkansen) ride round-trip to Tokyo is just under the cost of a 7-day pass. To see if this is right for you, our  informative blog post gives you a price breakdown .

You have a variety of choices for hotels. All of these depend on your budget and time in Japan. A list of hotels in and near the resort is available in English on the official Tokyo Disney Resort website .

Read our Tokyo Disney Resort Hotel reviews and recommendations to help you decide what’s best. We cover both Disney and non-Disney hotels. Be sure to read our complete guide to Disney Hotels for further details. We also have a guide on how to book Disney and Non-Disney Hotels .

Here is a summary of your hotel options (in order of cheapest to most expensive):

• Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel (Discover & Wish)
• Toy Story Hotel
• Disney Ambassador Hotel
• Tokyo Disneyland Hotel
• Hotel MiraCosta

Guests staying at the Disney Hotels receive the following benefits:

• You can buy your tickets in person instead of online.
• This is currently the only way to get a physical ticket with a cute design.
• This means that even if park tickets are sold out online, you can buy tickets for everyone on your reservation while staying at the Disney Hotel.
• Entrance to the parks 15 minutes before regular guests with the Happy Entry

Tokyo Disney Resort Official Hotels

These hotels are right on the monorail loop at Tokyo Disney Resort. This gives you quick access to the Parks. The two most popular non-Disney hotels are the Hilton Tokyo Bay and the Sheraton Grande Hotel .

Note: As of 2020, the Official Hotels require reservations for Tokyo Disney Park tickets. Each hotel does them differently, so check the hotels directly.

Tokyo Disney Resort Partner Hotels

These hotels are located in and around the Tokyo Disney Resort area. These include park ticket sales and free shuttle service to and from the Resort.

Tokyo Disney Resort Good Neighbor Hotels

If Tokyo Disney Resort is part of a more significant trip to Japan, staying at one of these hotels is an option. All of which include shuttle services to and from the Resort. Note that they do not offer park ticket sales nor guarantee admission into the park. It is best to buy tickets ahead of time.

Japan has four distinct seasons, which means what you bring to the parks will vary depending on the weather. Do not worry if you think you are bringing too much. Lockers are available at various locations throughout the resort for use.

As a general rule, the following items are essential for you to bring:

• Battery Charger
• Comfortable Walking Shoes
• Tote Bag or Backpack
• Refillable Water Bottle
• Duffy , ShellieMay , or Gelatoni

Please read our full article on what to pack for Tokyo Disney Resort !

A concern for many overseas guests is what to expect from food offerings at the resort. While the focus is on local tastes, there are plenty of food choices for those who are not as adventurous. Burgers, fried chicken, and chicken nuggets are options.

There is no shortage of options for those who want to try something different. Japan takes its cuisine seriously, and Tokyo Disney Resort does everything to cater to local tastes and expectations. All menu items are displayed as plastic food near the front of the restaurant to help you decide your choice.  (How convenient is that?!)

Seasonal menu items are rotated yearly as a “special set.” We recommend trying these dishes, which usually offer an entrée, dessert, and drink. Another option is the Souvenir Set, which includes merchandise only available by purchasing that set. Check the food display cases to see these!

Counter Service

These are the “fast food” restaurants where you order at the counter. Your typical burgers, fries, and pizza are found at some of these locations. Other locations also serve more than your fast food, such as sandwiches, curry, Japanese udon, and seafood. The quality of most counter service restaurants at both parks outshines that of other Disney Parks in terms of both theming and quality. Read my top 10 counter service restaurants for more details.

Table Service

Looking for an experience that goes beyond simple counter service? Table service restaurants range from mid-end (¥3000 per plate) to high-end (¥8000 per plate). Disney Hotel guests may book their reservations online ahead of time. If you are not a Disney Hotel guest, you can book a table in the park for that day. We recommend getting your reservation early in the day to guarantee your table.

As mentioned earlier, Tokyo Disney Resort caters primarily to local Japanese guests, and the service at these restaurants is second to none. No other Disney Park comes close to Japanese hospitality. While there can be language difficulties (see our section on language), the experience is lovely and crucial to your experience at Tokyo Disney Resort.

• Top 7 Table Service Restaurants

You have seen the photos on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Photos of the various cute, adorable, and ever-changing snacks at the Resort. One could easily survive off snacks alone during their entire visit! While we do not recommend trying that, trying some delectable choices is fun.  With all the cute, delicious, and Instagram-worthy deliciousness, it is hard not to open your wallet.

While some snacks are available year-round, some are seasonal (much like the special sets at Counter Service restaurants). Grab a Japanese Park map and take a look inside. They list all the seasonal snacks (with pictures) and their locations. While it is in Japanese, take it to a Cast Member, and they will point you in the right direction.

• “Where is this?”
• ko-re wa doh-ko de-su-ka?

Use that simple Japanese above, and the Cast Members will know precisely what you are discussing. Just make sure you are pointing to the item on the map.

• Top 10 Awesome Snacks

Technically, it’s a snack, but it deserves its section. Popcorn is one of the most popular snacks at the resort. Given the number of flavours (limited and regular) and the many souvenir buckets to buy, it is no secret that everyone loves it. If you only have one snack, ensure it is the delicious popcorn from Tokyo Disney Resort. See our guide to popcorn and popcorn buckets for more .

Hotel Restaurants

Each of the Disney Hotels has a variety of restaurants to choose from. From table service to buffets to character dining.

Character Dining

A few character dining options are available to guests—one at each park and one at the Disney Ambassador Hotel.

• Chef Mickey at Disney Ambassador Hotel
• Duffy and Friend’s Wonderful Friendship at Cape Cod Cook-Off in Tokyo DisneySea
• The Diamond Variety Master at the Diamond Horseshoe in Tokyo Disneyland
• Mickey’s Rainbow Luau at the Polynesian Terrace Restaurant in Tokyo Disneyland

Japan is a cash-based society, and by always having Japanese yen on hand, you guarantee not running into problems. However, sometimes having to use your credit card is unavoidable. Tokyo Disney Resort accepts major credit cards. There are a few points to keep in mind:

• Most locations at the resort take credit cards, including snack carts.
• Your card must have a signature on the back.
• If your credit card is a debit card, they may or may not take it even though it may be a credit card with debit functionality.
• Bring a backup credit card for when yours does not swipe or work.
• Some purchases (hotel charges, etc.) have taken up to one month to appear on your statement.
• Call your bank to tell them you use it in Japan to avoid locking your card.
• Cast Members ask you how many payments you want your purchase split across, which is not something done in North America. They will default to asking if you wish to do it as one payment. They will make the hand motion for one. Say “Yes.”

Now, what about cash? 7-11 ATMs are your best option for taking Japanese yen directly from your home bank account. Only one 7-11 ATM exists in the Resort and is in Ikspiari (Tokyo Disney Resort’s version of Downtown Disney). Menus are available in English and other languages. Remember to tell your bank before you head on your trip.

How much money should you take out? It would depend on your banking fees – the higher the fees per transaction, the more you should take out to avoid paying more fees.

• Budget at least ¥10,000 per person (about $100) for one full day at the parks. This includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, drinks, and merchandise. ¥10,000 is one note, which makes it easier to carry around.

In May 2019, Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo DisneySea began to offer free Wi-Fi in the Parks. Recently, Japan has made it easier for visitors to get SIM cards and mobile hotspots. Wi-Fi is free at Disney Hotels (for the other hotels, you need to check their website).

A SIM card is your best choice if you have an unlocked phone. For those with a carrier-locked phone, there are mobile hotspots for rental.

• Recommended: Mobal Japan Unlimited 4G Data SIM Card  ( Review )
• Recommended : Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot (7GB)
• Guide to Staying Connected in Japan
• Best SIM Cards for Japan

While out and about in Japan, various locations offer free Wi-Fi hotspots:

• Starbucks Japan
• Family Mart (Japanese Only)

You do not have to speak Japanese to enjoy your time at the parks. All the essential signs and food menus are in English; if you need assistance in English, a Cast Member will find someone for you. Someone who speaks a level of English is always available in the hotels and guest relations.

While many shows have English lyrics, many of the story elements are in Japanese. The stories are simple enough that you can get the gist of what’s happening. Shows in the Mediterranean Harbour are more challenging to follow story-wise for non-Japanese-speaking guests, but they look fantastic, so sit back and enjoy!

Knowing the basics and key phrases in Japanese will help you immensely. Cast Members and people generally appreciate you attempting to speak their language. We have two simple guides which give you some basic Japanese phrases specific to the parks. If you are uncomfortable speaking, you can print out the sheet too!

• 17 Basic Japanese Phrases
• 20 Japanese Phrases for Dining
• 50 Easy Japanese Words to Learn in a Day

Travelling to a foreign country comes with experiencing first-hand cultural differences. Even if you are a Disney veteran, some things are done differently at Tokyo Disney Resort. Here are a few cultural differences you will notice immediately:

• Smaller portion sizes for most food items. Overall, the Japanese eat smaller portions than Western countries. You may find yourself eating more often simply because of this.
• Guests are typically quiet at attractions. This includes thrill rides. While guests will scream out in laughter and enjoyment, do not be alarmed if most guests in your car are as quiet as a mouse.
• Sitting for parades is the norm; you must sit for the entire show for some spots. Bring your leisure sheet, snacks, and favourite distractions, and get cozy while you wait for the next parade!
• When paying for an item or after a meal, do not hand the cash (or credit card) over directly to the cashier unless they put their hand out. There is a small dish to place your cash or credit card in. The cashier will put your change, card, and receipt into the dish for you to pick up. This not only applies to the resort but also to Japan.
• Customizing your food is uncommon at the resort and around Japan. If the cheeseburger comes with tomato, that is what you will receive. Asking for customization can cause unneeded confusion. Unless you have an allergy, it is easier to alter your order yourself after sitting at your table.

Both parks offer unique attractions not found at any other Disney Park, along with slightly altered versions of their US counterparts. Make it a priority to ride these attractions to experience the best of Tokyo Disney Resort! The following lists include unique and popular attractions at the parks.

Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea no longer offer FastPass. Instead, FastPass has been changed to Disney Premier Access , StandbyPass, and Entry Request. Learn how to download the official Tokyo Disney Resort App to make your day easier.

Please read our complete attractions guide for Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea , where we thoroughly explain which attractions to ride.

Remember to check ride closures to see if any attractions on your list are closed for refurbishment.

Tokyo Disneyland Must Ride Attractions

• Enchanted Tales of Beauty and the Beast
• Pooh’s Hunny Hunt
• Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek!
• Jungle Cruise: Wildlife Expeditions
• The Enchanted Tiki Room: Stitch Presents “Aloha E Komo Mai!”
• Stitch Encounter
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Splash Mountain
• Haunted Mansion
• Space Mountain (closing in 2024 )

Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast is the most popular attraction at Tokyo Disneyland. Make this ride the first one you do in the morning. Afterward, head to Pooh’s Hunny Hunt. These are both trackless dark rides and are worth your time.

Tokyo DisneySea Must Ride Attractions

• Journey to the Center of the Earth
• Soaring: Fantastic Flight
• Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage
• Nemo & Friends SeaRider
• Toy Story Mania!
• Tower of Terror
• 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
• Raging Spirits
• Indiana Jones® Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull
• Venetian Gondolas
• DisneySea Transit Steamer Line

While not unique to Tokyo DisneySea, Toy Story Mania! is the most popular attraction at the park. Wait times quickly go over 3 hours on weekends and busy days. FastPasses run out relatively fast. If you have experienced this attraction at other Disney Parks, you can easily skip this and not miss too much if you have never had the pleasure of experiencing Toy Story Mania! Then make this your first attraction in the morning.

Journey to the Center of the Earth is the best thrill ride at the park. The meticulous detail in the queue and the attraction make it worth waiting for. The waits get long on this one, so if you skip Toy Story Mania! Make this your first choice of the day.

Not all rides have thrilling drops and over-the-top special effects. If you want to take it easy and relax, the Venetian Gondolas and the DisneySea Transit Steamer Line are the tickets. Experience it for yourself to see what we mean.

Spending your entire day riding attractions and waiting in lines is easy. Jot down which attractions you must ride ahead of time and make your day that much easier.

Arguably, Tokyo Disney Resort has some of the best live entertainment ranging from an over-the-top swinging jazz show to seasonal entertainment in which Mickey Mouse hoses down guests. If you are a parade and live entertainment fan, you have no shortage of options. Here are our recommendations for entertainment at Tokyo Disney Resort!

Please read our complete entertainment guides for Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea .

Tokyo Disneyland

• Disney Harmony in Color
• Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights

Tokyo DisneySea

• Believe! Sea of Dreams
• Big Band Beat

This is a living, breathing guide to offer the best and most up-to-date information on planning for Tokyo Disney Resort. Please let us know in the comments if you have any suggestions or comments!

Select photos provided by  Duy Phan Photography .

More Things to Do in Tokyo

My recommendations for things to do in and around Tokyo! Plan a day at the Hello Kitty theme park, Sanrio Puroland , and an afternoon at the popular TeamLab Planets TOKYO . Take a tour around Tokyo with the convenient hop-on and-off bus . Spend a rainy afternoon inside Japan’s largest indoor theme park, Tokyo Joyoplis , near Tokyo Disney!

More on Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo disney resort guidebook.

Are you planning a trip to Tokyo Disney Resort? If so, you need our digital guidebook! Our guidebook is the most comprehensive resource available, covering everything you need to know about the park, including tickets, hotels, restaurants, attractions, shows, seasonal events, and more! With our guidebook, you’ll be an expert on Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea before you even set foot in the Parks. You’ll know what to expect, where to go, and what to do. You’ll also be able to avoid the crowds and make the most of your time.

Get tickets for Tokyo Disney Resort

Buying your tickets for Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea ahead of time is vital. Read our comprehensive guide on tickets to learn how to purchase tickets. For recommendations on SIM cards, portable Wi-Fi devices, travel insurance, cheap flights, and hotel bookings, read our travel resources page .

Learn more about Tokyo Disney Resort

Want more Tokyo Disney content? Browse our dedicated page for everything about Tokyo Disney Resort!

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215 Comments

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[…] Check out our full guide for when to visit specific for events happening in 2016. Afterwards, read our Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort. […]

Let me start by saying how much I love the site and this guide! I read all the parts that apply to me (since I live in Japan ?).

I would like to ask though, since you’ve been there more than I have. I’m going to DisneySea in a couple of weeks. The Indiana Jones ride is closed and I don’t really enjoy Tower of Terror or Journey 🙁 I’ll be doing Toy story instead and definitely Stormrider (while it’s not my favorite, it’ll be closed soon). Besides that, what do you recommend doing? 🙂 I’m looking forward to reading your suggestions! 🙂

Thanks in advance!

[…] Resort Guide […]

Hello Keicchan! That sounds like a really solid plan. I would add Big Band Beat to the list too, before it goes away for a renewal. Also Sindbad is always a fun ride with almost no wait time!

Also, as always try and have a drink at the Teddy Roosevelt Lounge. I love that place!

Great advice. As far as hotels go there is a slight correction. The Ambassador no longer offers a Monorail Ticket with your stay. ( http://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/hotel/compare.html ). Also a great way to save on resorts is using Disney Vacation Club. You can use your membership to stay at any of the 3 resorts and make reservations with Disney Vacation Club Member Services.

[…] Tokyo Disneyland […]

Hi TDR explorer! Do you have a character guide on this site? I see photos of rare characters we do not get in the states all the time on instagram etc, but on the official website it does not seem to show many meet and greets. If you do not have a character guide can you recommend a site that does? Thank you!!! Characters are very very important to me and my favorite park experience next to parades =) =)

Also, my sister and I are both vegetarians and are nervous about the food. Is it easy to eat veggie there? TIA !!!! Love your site !

[…] you planning a trip to Tokyo Disneyland in 2017? Then you will want to read/bookmark The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort by […]

My partner is Vegan so like you but a bit more extreme. Most places will have fries, salads and fruit salads. Bread rolls and croissants are a good alternative for breakfast to mix up the selection. East side Cafe at Tokyo Disneyland offers a vegan 3 course option that is amazing if you are feeling underwhelmed by the other options ( you have to ask for the allergy set). Food options are similar at DisneySea with “Ristorante di Canaletto” also doing a vegetarian and Vegan selection, although a bit on the pricey side. You shouldn’t have too much trouble. Besides the options above its easy to make vegetarian meals buy ordering all the different sides if you get stuck in a place that doesn’t offer full vegetarian meals. I’m not from TDR but if you count all the days I have spent in either park I’ve been there almost two months. PS – SIDE NOTE: All flavours of popcorn are VEGAN! Including butter or chocolate 🙂

[…] credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, […]

how did you find out about the popcorn! I’ve been trying to confirm that this is vegan and it’s been so hard!

Man, it would be NICE if the face characters speak Japanese at Tokyo Disney Resort…Don’t you agree?

Another awesome post, thank you so much for helping me plan my trip to Tokyo Disney! ^.^ I was wondering regarding the disney monorail, I’m planning on using my suica card. Do we have to use the machines at the monorail station to get the monorail tickets on our suica cards? Or can we top up our cards beforehand at any general station in Tokyo, and still get through the monorail gates? Thank you!

IIRC just tap your card on the Monorail gates and the proper fare is deducted from the cash balance on the card

Awesome, thank you very much!

[…] planning your trip to Tokyo Disneyland with our Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort. It covers everything from tickets, hotels, and how to score […]

[…] planning your trip to Tokyo Disneyland with our Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort. It covers everything from tickets, hotels, and how to score […]

Thank you so much for all the information you put in your posts! It was so nice going into the parks knowing a lot of tips and tricks from all your pages. My husband and I had a wonderful trip!

I went with my grand children, and they really enjoyed the little green dumplings. I have to say, I enjoyed them too! ha ha ha

[…] Get started with your trip planning to Tokyo Disneyland with our best articles. Decide where to stay with our hotel reviews and recommendations. Figure out what and where to eat with our list of restaurant reviews. Learn how to buy your park tickets (see how you can save $4USD), then sink your teeth into our Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort. […]

My partner and I are going to visit Tokyo Disneyland on April 2018, but the time schedule for the parades and shows are only available for December. Now we are struggling with the restaurant reservations. Do you recommend us to wait and check the timetable for the parades, or should we book the restaurants now? Do you have any strategic time for reserving a restaurant table?

Best Regards,

I would check what the current times are and go based off that. They usually follow the same pattern. Seasonal shows are usually around the same time (not always the case but a good idea). Then the normal shows are almost always at the same time (or close to it).

Check out our dining guide for how to make reservations 🙂

https://tdrexplorer.com/dining-guide-to-tokyo-disney-resort/

[…] planning a trip to Osaka to visit Universal Studios Japan? Be sure to read our guides on booking flights to Japan, buying a Japan Rail Pass, and buying your tickets […]

[…] Get started with your trip planning to Tokyo Disneyland with our best articles. Decide where to stay with our hotel reviews and recommendations. Figure out what and where to eat with our list of restaurant reviews. Learn how to buy your park tickets (see how you can save $4 USD), then sink your teeth into our Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort. […]

I’m so excited! Thanks for sharing all these great tips! This is my first time going to Japan so your site has been very helpful. We’re going from May 2 to May 11, 2018 and of course we didn’t know we booked during golden week. Oh well, we’ll just have to deal with it.

[…] Get started with your trip planning to Tokyo Disneyland with our best articles. Decide where to stay with our hotel reviews and recommendations. Figure out what and where to eat with our list of restaurant reviews. Learn how to buy your park tickets (see how you can save $4 USD), then sink your teeth into our Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort. […]

[…] Learn how to buy your park tickets (see how you can save $4 USD), then sink your teeth into our Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || […]

[…] Get started with your trip planning to Tokyo Disneyland with our best articles. Decide where to stay with our hotel reviews and recommendations. Figure out what and where to eat with our list of restaurant reviews. Learn how to buy your Park tickets (see how you can save $4 USD), then sink your teeth into our Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort. […]

[…] Get started with your trip planning to Tokyo Disneyland with our best articles. Decide where to stay with our hotel reviews and recommendations. Figure out what and where to eat with our list of restaurant reviews. Learn how to buy your park tickets (see how you can save $5 USD), then sink your teeth into our Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort. […]

I am finding TDR EXPLORER to be a super resource while we plan our trip for April 2019. One question; I know the resort takes major credit cards, does that include Discover? It’s my best travel rewards card…

[…] All information and Soaring images from the OLC press release. Don’t forget to also plan your trip with our free trip planning guide to Tokyo Disney Resort. […]

[…] There’s a ton to know about Tokyo Disney Resort, so I cannot recommend our premium e-book travel guide enough. You’ll learn everything from what to eat, what to do, how FastPass works, the best rides & entertainment, and even a detailed 4-day itinerary. We also have a free travel guide too. […]

Thank you so much for your helpful tips.. i have been watching your YouTube channel as well.. One question though, does the disney hotel or park give complimentary thingie if you visit the park or check in on one of the hotels on your birthday? (Well not mine, it’s for our littleman) i know Disneyland in hongkong have complimentary cakes balloons et al when we visited on a birthday. Thank you in advance.

[…] tdrexplorer.com […]

[…] Tokyo DisneySea is a park which is unique to Japan and is a must-visit. It’s referred to by some as the best Disney Park in the world. With that type of recognition, then it needs to be on your list. There’s a lot to know about these two parks, so it’s best to plan ahead of time. […]

[…] you’re a long time reader (aka Explorer) you’re familiar with my muses on Tokyo Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland, Shanghai Disneyland, and Universal Studios […]

[…] but I would be remiss to skip this entirely because it is as much fun as the shows and attractions. TDR Explorer does a great job covering the resort but does an especially great job with the food and the […]

now that there’s no fast pass anymore, do we have to queue for every single ride?

Those haven’t reopened the last time I checked.

Can you stay in a Disney hotel like Tokyo Disneyland Hotel or Hotel MiraCosta without park tickets for that day?

Hello, I’m looking at booking a Disney Vacation Package at Miracosts for 2 nights, 3 days.

The package allows for Attraction Tickets (basically Fast Pass) for 3 days.

I understand you can use those tickets with timed entry (which means you book your timeslot) or untimed entry – I think you show your ticket at the line.

Unfortunately, due to timing of flights, I will not be able to enter the Parks on the 3rd day.

Are the Attraction Tickets time stamped? Or are you given a bundle of paper tickets which you can use all on Days 1 and 2 if you want to?

Appreciate any help.

Love your site! Another cultural difference you might note on your site is clothing sizes. My wife was just visiting Tokyo Disney Sea and bought me a Hawaiian shirt in my typical size Large (for the U.S.) However, when I tried it on here in Colorado, it doesn’t fit and I probably need an XL. If you have any ideas on how I could get the XL version of this shirt, please contact me. My wife is really bummed that this carefully selected gift won’t ever get worn. Thx! (Tokyo Disney Resort 2023 Hawaiian Aloha Shirt Park Icon Motif XL)

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• Tokyo Disneyland
• Tokyo DisneySea
• Reservations & Tickets
• Park Tickets
• Getting Here
• Barrier Free

Ticket prices are based on variable pricing. Please check the ticket price, which may vary depending on the day, before purchasing your fixed-date tickets.

Search Park tickets

（Unit: Yen）

- As of 2:35 a.m., June 14, 2024.

Information about Park Tickets available for Advanced Purchase

開園時間：9:00-20:00

- Please note the change in Park operating hours.

◯: Tickets available　△: Few tickets remaining　X: Tickets unavailable　ー: Not available for purchase online

･ The amount shown below the calendar dates is the price of a 1-Day Passport for an adult that day. ･ To find out the prices of other types of Park tickets that are not available for purchase yet, click on one of the selectable dates indicating the same amount as that of the date you wish to visit the Park. X: Tickets unavailable　-: Not available for purchase online　Closed: Park closed

Tickets that are sold out may become available for purchase again without notice.

By ticket type

Ticket prices are subject to change without notice. Please check the latest ticket prices from below before making your purchase.

Tickets for single-day use

Fixed date and time passports, park tickets for guests staying at tokyo disneysea fantasy springs hotel.

Adult: ages 18 & over / Junior: ages 12-17 / Child: ages 4-11 - Children ages 3 & under are admitted for free.

1-Day Passport Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea can be enjoyed for one day from Park opening time with this ticket designating the date of visit and Park.

• Adult 7,900 yen - 10,900 yen
• Junior 6,600 yen - 9,000 yen
• Child 4,700 yen - 5,600 yen

1-Day Passport (for Guests with Disabilities) Guests with an applicable disability certificate and the accompanying guest can enjoy either Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea for one day from Park opening time with this ticket.

• Adult 6,500 yen - 8,700 yen
• Junior 5,300 yen - 7,200 yen
• Child 3,800 yen - 4,400 yen

Early Evening Passport Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea can be enjoyed from 3:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays with this ticket.

Weeknight passport tokyo disneyland or tokyo disneysea can be enjoyed from 5:00 p.m. on weekdays (excluding holidays) with this ticket..

• Adult 4,500 yen - 6,200 yen
• Junior 4,500 yen - 6,200 yen
• Child 4,500 yen - 6,200 yen

1-Day Passport: Fantasy Springs Magic This ticket may be purchased exclusively by guests staying at Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel for an even more enjoyable experience at Fantasy Springs (Not available for purchase online).

• Adult 22,900 yen - 25,900 yen
• Junior 21,600 yen - 24,000 yen
• Child 19,700 yen - 20,600 yen

1-Day Passport: Fantasy Springs Magic (for Guests with Disabilities) Guests with an applicable disability certificate and the accompanying guest, who are staying at Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel, can purchase this ticket for an even more enjoyable experience at Fantasy Springs (Not available for purchase online).

• Adult 21,500 yen - 23,700 yen
• Junior 20,300 yen - 22,200 yen
• Child 18,800 yen - 19,400 yen

Tickets Currently Not Available

• Fixed Date and Time Passport (from 10:30 a.m.)
• Fixed Date and Time Passport (from 12 noon)
• Senior Passport
• Gift Passport
• 2-Day Passport
• 3-Day Magic Passport
• 4-Day Magic Passport
• 2-Park Annual Passport
• Tokyo Disneyland Annual Passport
• Tokyo DisneySea Annual Passport
• Refund requests for Annual Passports, Vouchers, and Receipts from the web contact form or at the Park ticket booths are no longer accepted. Guests holding an Annual Passport who have not yet received a refund (a guardian for guests ages 18 and under) are requested to contact us through the form below.

Using your Park ticket after admission

Your Park ticket will be required at the Park to use various services that are offered.

How to Enter Fantasy Springs

• Disney Premier Access and Standby Pass are available in limited numbers.

Please read below about your Park tickets

• There are limitations on purchasing Park tickets for guests staying at a Disney Hotel or a hotel affiliated with Tokyo Disney Resort. If you are staying at a Disney Hotel, please see here , and if you are staying at a hotel affiliated with Tokyo Disney Resort, please contact the hotel directly for details.
• The Parks may close or Park operating hours may change if Park operations are, or potentially may be, interrupted due to earthquakes, blackouts, other natural disasters, or other circumstances beyond our control. Please note that we will not be liable for any compensation in such cases.
• Measures to Address Unauthorized Reselling of Park Tickets
• How to Purchase Park Tickets (Online)
• How to Use Park Tickets
• Making changes to Park tickets
• Reservations for Park admission (Park tickets without a designated date or Park)

• PLAN A TRIP
• WHERE TO STAY
• DISNEY CRUISE LINE
• DISNEYLAND PARIS
• ADVENTURES BY DISNEY
• HONG KONG | SHANGHAI | TOKYO

Hong Kong, Shanghai & Tokyo

• HONG KONG | Hong Kong Disneyland Park + 3 Hotels
• CHINA | Shanghai Disneyland Park + 3 Hotels
• JAPAN | Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea + 6 Hotels 

How many of Disney’s twelve different theme parks have you seen? Die-hard fans know that if you want to visit Disney’s most beautiful and innovative parks, you’ll need a passport! 

Tokyo Disney Resort is home to the 3rd and 4th most visited theme parks in the world. Many Disney experts consider Tokyo DisneySea the greatest Disney park on Earth, and Disney’s newest castle is now charming guests in the adorable Hong Kong Disneyland.  With Shanghai Disneyland’s innovative new attractions, all of Disney’s Asian international parks set a high bar for creative enchantment.

But coming out of the pandemic, visiting Japan and China has become extra tricky. When is the best time to go? Can international guests easily access the Disney parks? What kind of reservations or visas are required?

We know Japan & China.

Chris from Wishful Thinking studied abroad in China and has visited Japan many times. He recently visited all four Asian Disney parks in December 2023.

For 2024 and 2025, we’ve got up-to-date information on the international travel & visa requirements to visit Asia. Post-pandemic international travel to Japan and China has more than rebounded — it’s thriving. Now more than ever, it’s wise to start planning as early as possible. 

We’re happy to help. For free.

Thankfully, Wishful Thinking is more than merely an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. We’re experts about Disney destinations around the world, and we’ve planned detailed trips to Asia for dozens of clients for more than a decade. 

As soon as you’ve got travel dates in mind, it’s smart to start planning. Asia’s Disney destinations sell out months in advance. To learn more, visit our FAQ articles below.

TOKYO DISNEY RESORT

Shanghai disneyland resort, hong kong disneyland resort, tokyo disney resort.

Updated: May, 2024

For over a decade, Chris from Wishful Thinking has made regular visits to Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo DisneySea; most recently in December of 2023.

Tokyo’s Fantasy Springs expansion at DisneySea is inspiring Disney fans across the planet. 

Wondering which hotel is best? How many days for sightseeing in Tokyo? How to include visits to Kyoto, Osaka, or Universal Studios Japan? Scroll down for some expert advice.

Fantasy Springs has dramatically raised the bar. Disney’s most exciting, new, state-of-the-art attractions are inspired by Tangled, Frozen and Peter Pan. 

Now’s the time to plan your visit to the Land of the Rising Sun!

Tokyo Disney Resort | FAQ

Curious about Tokyo’s two spectacular theme parks, their five Disney-owned resort hotels, and some of the most creative Imagineering on Earth? Tokyo Disney Resort is preparing to launch Disney’s latest innovations to Tokyo DisneySea at the deeply imaginative new Fantasy Springs.  Disney fans are thrilled to finally see these sights with their own eyes. 

But when we compare it to Disneyland (in California) and Walt Disney World (in Florida), what’s different about Tokyo Disney Resort?  Let’s answer some of the most common questions:

• TIMING | When is the best time to visit Tokyo Disney Resort? How many days do I need? What holidays or days of the week should I avoid? Should I visit Disney before or after some sightseeing in Tokyo? Should I wait for the new Fantasy Springs  buzz to die down? | Get the answers ▸

• FANTASY SPRINGS | What’s required in order to experience the new Tangled, Frozen, and Peter Pan -themed areas at TokyoDisneySea? What attractions & restaurants are best? Fantasy Springs opens on June 6, 2024 — what can we expect? | Get the answers ▸

• HOTELS | What are the best hotels at Tokyo Disney Resort? The Disneyland Hotel, the Hotel MiraCosta, the Toy Story hotel, the Ambassador hotel, or the Celebration hotel? What about the other hotels along the monorail? When will the new Fantasy Springs Hotel open for bookings? | Get the answers  ▸

• TICKETS | How do I get theme park tickets for Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo DisneySea?  Can I get single-day tickets without a hotel stay? Will North American credit cards work? | Get the answers ▸

• PACKAGES | Is a Package a good value? Is Fantasy Springs access guaranteed for everyone? What are Attraction Tickets? If are packages only available for one or two nights, how can I extend my stay? | Get the answers ▸

• TOURISM | What should I see & do in Tokyo? How many days do I need for sightseeing? How should I get around? What’s the most essential etiquette? | Get the answers  ▸

• TOKYO + SHANGHAI + HONG KONG | What’s the best way to visit all three Asian Disney destinations?  Which should I visit first? How many days do I really need in each location? What’s the best way to schedule this kind of trip? 

These are just the first batch of questions you’re likely to have. Thankfully, we’re experts on travel to Asia, and we’re ready to help you plan every detail of your trip — for free.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TOKYO DISNEY RESORT?

The weather’s different, the holidays are different, and the local traffic patterns are very different from North American Disney parks. You won’t want to arrive in Japan and question if you’ve timed it right. How many days do you need to see everything? Is it best to wait to visit after Fantasy Springs opens at Tokyo DisneySea?

When you think about planning your visit, keep these guidelines in mind:

You’ll probably want four days to see the parks. | If you’re a major Disney fan — like many Wishful Thinking clients — you’ll probably want at least four days to properly explore Tokyo Disney’s parks.

Tokyo Disneyland’s shows, restaurants, parades, and shops are completely unique. You’ll want to see them all. Other one-of-a-kind attractions — like their new Beauty & the Beast attraction, Pooh’s Hunny Hunt, Monsters Inc. Ride & Go Seek, and others — are so cool that you’ll want to ride them more than once to notice new details! 

Tokyo DisneySea is Disney’s best theme park. You could easily spend an entire day exploring the astonishing theming without getting on a single ride. Nearly all the attractions at DisneySea are unique to Tokyo; you’ll want more than one ride. Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage, The Journey to the Center of the Earth, and Nemo & Friends SeaRider are all originals. Even the Tower of Terror has an entirely unique story.  

On June 6 2024, Fantasy Springs will open at DisneySea. | As you’ll see below, entry for this new state-of-the-art land and its attractions will be limited — especially in the opening months. If seeing Fantasy Springs is a priority for you, be sure to read the next section, below.

Plan for intense jet lag. | If you’re arriving from North or South America, It isn’t wise to visit Disney immediately upon arrival. Why? Because you’ll be dealing with intense jet lag symptoms. For the first two or three days, you’ll feel like you’re sleepwalking. Your body will be saying, “Cannot do this right now. Must. Lie. Down. Immediately.” You’ll be foggy-brained and exhausted. 

Plan for Tokyo sightseeing first. | At the start of your trip, give yourself a few full days in Tokyo. Fill your itinerary with flexible sightseeing plans. Book a comfy, centrally-located hotel where you can sleep in or take mid-day breaks without fearing that you’re wasting the precious time you’re supposed to be in the parks. Save your Disney days until after your body has had some time to adjust. | See our expert tourism tips ▸

Expect massive crowds. | 38 million people live in Tokyo Disney Resort’s backyard. On Saturdays and Sundays — all year long — you’ll see an influx of local families with kids and huge groups of teenagers who crowd the parks. If there’s any way to visit during the week — at least before June — it’s a bit more chill. However, when Fantasy Springs opens, you should expect sold-out peak capacity days every day of the week until the fall. 

Prepare to wait in lines. | At Disney, there are no VIP Tours, and FastPass was discontinued. If you cannot handle waiting in queues, do not go to Tokyo. It’s that simple. The Japanese queue up for everything in Tokyo, even beyond Disney, from train stations to restrooms to ramen shops. That’s how things are in the world’s largest city.

Avoid Japan & China’s major holidays. |  The parks’ busiest periods are during  Golden Week (late April into early May), Obon (August), and the New Year (Dec 31 through early January). Hotel rates are higher throughout the country. historically Chinese New Year brings many vacationers to Japan, and Chinese tourists love Tokyo Disney Resort. The Western holidays of Christmas, Easter, & Halloween don’t bring major crowds — they do, however, bring delightful decorations to the parks.

Tokyo’s weather is similar to Washington, D.C. | Tokyo has four distinct seasons. Summer is hot and humid, fall is cooler and dry. Winter sees frigid temperatures & occasional frozen rain / snow. Spring tends to arrive a bit early, with warm sunshine and springtime showers. Tokyo’s Disney parks are designed for this weather, with more indoor queues than you’ll find in Florida or California. But even sub-zero temperatures don’t drive away crowds — guests show up in their warm winter coats & fuzzy character hats, and make it a fun day with hot cocoa and warm hugs. Extended rainy days — like during a fall typhoon — do tend to inspire the locals to stay home. 

Tell us about your travel dates & let’s start planning ▸   

WHAT IS FANTASY SPRINGS AT TOKYO DISNEYSEA?

Curious about the enchanting additions coming to Tokyo Disney Resort’s Fantasy Springs,  opening on  June 6, 2024? If you’ve ever wondered what it’d be like to see Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival or sail up into the sky on pirate ship with Peter Pan, get ready for an adventure like no other. Disney’s just announced all new details for Fantasy Springs, its captivating attractions, dining, and more!

WHAT IS FANTASY SPRINGS?

A whole new world of Disney magic is now welcoming guests to all-new state-of-the-art attractions, restaurants & entertainment inspired by Tangled, Frozen, and Peter Pan. The eighth themed port at Tokyo DisneySea promises a paradise of enchantment, featuring three waterfront areas: Rapunzel’s Forest, Peter Pan’s Never Land, and Frozen Kingdom.

At last — you’ll see the light! Join  Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival as you sail away on a romantic boat ride, reliving the heartwarming tale of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider.  Head to The Snuggly Duckling  for a delicious meal in a brand new restaurant that’s ready to refresh all your ruffians.

Never-grow-up adventures unfold in Peter Pan’s Never Land.  Explore a swashbuckling pirate ship playground, then chow down at Lookout Cookout, the hideout for the Lost Kids.  Peter Pan hosts an all-new one-of-a-kind attraction that soars far beyond Peter Pan’s Flight. Little ones are sure to giggle as they help Tinker Bell deliver packages in Pixie Hollow on the Fairy Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies .

Frozen Kingdom beckons you into the unknown on Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey . You’ll relive the heartwarming sisters’ story and enjoy captivating views of fjord cliffs at the  Royal Banquet of Arendelle restaurant. The park’s newest snacks will tempt your tastebuds at Oaken’s OK Foods.

WHAT WILL I NEED IN ORDER TO VISIT FANTASY SPRINGS?

All guests who want to see Fantasy Springs will need a valid park ticket for Tokyo Disney Sea plus at least one of the following:

• A Standby Pass, which is essentially just like one of Disneyland / WDW’s Virtual Queues — it’s free. You’ll request one in the Tokyo Disney app on the day of your visit after you pass through the turnstiles to the park.
• Disney Premier Access — which is just like an Individual Lightning Lane — is available for purchase. You may purchase Premier Access for the top attractions inside Fantasy Springs within the app on the day of your visit after you enter the park — or — receive one as a perk of booking a specific Tokyo Disney Resort Vacation Package. As of now, the price is 2,000 JPY per attraction. View the latest updates on Premier Access ▸ 

TDR has announced that guests will only be able to obtain these entry methods after they have passed through the turnstiles. This is one reason why Early Park Entry is being restricted to Tokyo DisneySea; after June 6, only the guests of the Hotel Miracosta and the Fantasy Springs Hotel will have early park entry at DisneySea. (Disney’s said that this is subject to change.) It’s reasonable to assume that not everyone who enters Tokyo DisneySea on a given day will gain access to Fantasy Springs. (If everyone did, guests would lack a strong incentive to purchase Disney’s Premier Access for entry.)

WHAT IS THE NEW 1-DAY PASSPORT – FANTASY SPRINGS MAGIC?

It’s a new type of 1-day ticket that bundles together Tokyo DisneySea theme park entry with a Disney Premier Access pass for Fantasy Springs. It guarantees that you’ll gain entry to the land. Currently, they’re only available to those who book new type of Disney Vacation Package — although they may become available to regular ticket buyers. We’re awaiting details.

WHAT IS THE FANTASY SPRINGS HOTEL?

Built right into the perimeter of the park, the elegant new Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel brings enchanting luxury accommodations and Art Nouveau to Fantasy Springs. With rooms and restaurants that gaze directly into the land, the Fantasy Springs Restaurant will offering buffet-style dining, La Libellule serves gourmet French cuisine, and Grand Paradis Lounge offers a relaxing salon with wide open windows and one-of-a-kind views. Read on below for more info about Disney’s resort hotels.

Complete this form and we’ll keep you up to date on all the news from Tokyo ▸

WHAT ARE THE BEST HOTELS AT TOKYO DISNEY RESORT?

If this is your only chance to visit, you’ll want to be comfortable. Let’s explore the Disney resort hotels — plus the hotels along the Disney resort monorail line. And, let’s discuss why you shouldn’t stay in central Tokyo for your Disney days.

THE LAY OF THE LAND

Before you think about where to stay, let’s cover some navigational basics:

Tokyo is huge. | You can easily spend two hours traveling from one side of the city to the other. That’s why you’ll want to stay right near Tokyo Disney Resort during your theme park days. Stay in central Tokyo when you’re sightseeing.

Tokyo Disney Resort is located on the distant southeastern waterfront. | It’s about as far from central Tokyo as Disneyland is from central Los Angeles. It’s in the neighborhood of Urayasu, along the shores of Tokyo Bay. Technically, Urayasu is not in Tokyo — it’s in the neighboring Shiba prefecture. The train station nearest to Tokyo Disney Resort is Maihama .

View the location on Google Maps ▸

Traveling to Tokyo Disney Resort can be a hike. | Depending on which train you catch (and the time of day), reaching Urayasu can take 30 minutes from Tokyo Station, 35 minutes from Shinagawa Station, and 45 minutes (to an hour) from Shinjuku Station, Shibuya Station, and Ikebukuro Station. Like any major city, there are rush hour delays. If you’re traveling here directly from either international airport —  Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) — trains and shared shuttles are your best transfer options. The Airport Limousine Bus is arguably the easiest, most carefree way to travel, but its schedule is limited — the last departure from Narita can depart as early as 6:00 PM. 

More on traveling from HND  Airport ▸ | More on traveling from NRT Airport ▸

The resort area includes five Disney-owned hotels and six Official Hotels (aka ‘Good Neighbor’ hotels) | All but one of them are accessible along Tokyo Disney Resort’s monorail line. Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel is a quick shuttle ride away.

View the resort hotel map* ▸    * the new Toy Story Hotel is located between map markers 4 and 5

DISNEY-THEMED HOTELS AT TOKYO DISNEY RESORT

The official owner of Tokyo Disney Resort is the Oriental Land Company (OLC) , which owns and manages the following Disney-themed hotels.

HELPFUL TIP: At each link, scroll all the way to the bottom of the page and you’ll be able to view a simple calendar that reveals which dates have rooms remaining and the nightly rate (in Japanese Yen) of the lowest-price available room. As of today, hotel rates and booking are only available 120 days in advance. We’ve got expert tips and advice about how to start planning now; complete this form and we’ll send you three very helpful FAQ guides. Be sure to also see our information about Disney Travel Packages below.

• Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel | Luxury / Deluxe |  Disney’s newest luxury hotel experience is divided into two areas: the Grand Chateau offers Luxury accommodations and amenities (including line-skipping privileges) , while the Fantasy Chateau is classified as a Deluxe hotel. Its three new restaurants will offer beautiful views of the park, and this hotel benefits with unique ticketed access to Fantasy Springs plus the 15-minute early park entry directly into Tokyo DisneySea. | View more details about the hotel ▸ 

• Tokyo Disneyland Hotel | Deluxe | Luxurious, classical, elegant. Similar Victorian-era design as Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in Orlando, but nicer (if you can believe it) . Located just outside the monorail station entrance to Disneyland park. Some rooms feature views of Cinderella Castle; you may see fireworks in the distance. You’ll find art inspired by Alice in Wonderland, beautifully appointed rooms with subtle theme details, themed suites, and a gorgeous lobby with high-end restaurants and cafes. | View the room availability & rate calendar ▸ 

• Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta | Deluxe | Ornate, sumptuous, opulent. The world’s only hotel located inside a Disney theme park. Baroque design invites you to relax within an 18th-century Italian waterfront village, inspired by Portofino and Venice. Its main façade serves as the entry point to Tokyo DisneySea’s Mediterranean Harbor. Many rooms feature water views of the park’s nightly spectacular. Its recently renovated, sophisticated rooms feature rich brocades, tapestries, and wood-carved furnishings. The stunning domed lobby features fresco paintings and entryways to a collection of delicious restaurants. | View the room availability & rate calendar ▸ 

• Disney Ambassador Hotel | Deluxe | Clever, cool, comfortable. Art deco design evokes 1920’s – 1930’s railway sleeper cars and Atlantic steamships. Although the rooms are simply appointed (on par with a Moderate-level hotel at Walt Disney World) the lobby, pools and common areas feel like a Deluxe resort. Around every corner, you’ll find extravagant details and gleaming artwork from the period. The hotel is located near the back of  Disneyland Park, but it’s a bit too far to walk. Entrances to both parks are just a few minutes away via the monorail. Dining includes a gourmet table service restaurant, a casual diner, and some of Tokyo’s only character dining, Chef Mickey’s. | View the room availability & rate calendar ▸ 

• Toy Story Hotel | Moderate | Colorful, whimsical, imaginative. Tokyo’s newest Disney-themed resort hotel, located right along the monorail line. Think: Toy Story Land at Walt Disney World / Disneyland Paris — the vibe is identical.  Lots of two-dimensional drawings and oversized toy-sized architecture. Rooms are inviting and full of clever details, like an Etch-A-Sketch TV screen and Andy’s iconic bedroom wallpaper: blue sky & white clouds. The hotel’s extensive original merch, kid-friendly play areas, and casual affordable eateries make this family-friendly hotel ideal for guests of all ages.  | View the room availability & rate calendar ▸ 

• Tokyo Celebration Hotel | Value | Fanciful, cute, casual. The only Disney-themed hotel located beyond the resort, about a 15-minute complimentary shuttle drive away. Formerly the Palm & Fountain Terrace Hotel, Oriental Land Company began to transform these hotels a few years ago by adding all-new Disney designs to its rooms, lobbies and pools.  The comfortable rooms are modestly-appointed. The amusing, brightly-colored murals and various bed configurations, however, are designed to appeal to families with young kids. Affordable nightly rates make this hotel one of the most economical lodging choices for Tokyo Disney Resort. | View the room availability & rate calendar ▸ 

TOKYO DISNEY RESORT OFFICIAL HOTELS

In addition to the hotels above, Tokyo Disney Resort also features six official hotels which are located along the resort monorail.   These are similar to what you might know in the USA as Good Neighbor Hotels. OLC doesn’t own or manage them, but they meet the resort’s high standards for cleanliness, service, and amenities. Each of them has an on-site official Tokyo Disney Resort ticket & planning desk.

Two of the hotels are owned by American brands, and are exceptionally accommodating for English-speaking travelers.

HELPFUL TIP | Unlike the Disney hotels above, these hotels may be booked up to 1 year in advance, and Wishful Thinking can set up your hotel reservation .

• Hilton Tokyo Bay | Modern, efficient, familiar. Our top choice for where to stay if you’re not in one of the Disney hotels. This large, recently renovated resort hotel feels like any upscale Hilton you might find back home, with polished marble floors and sleek, modern décor. The Front Desk staff speaks impeccable English. Standard rooms are divided into two design categories — one is more serene and classic, the other more colorful and contemporary — but you can’t go wrong here. The on-site restaurants are big — if a tad bit overpriced — with impressive menus that cater to North American, European, and Asian travelers. Best of all, the hotel’s just a quick monorail ride away from the theme parks. | Get pricing ▸

• Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay | Not currently recommended. Although the hotel formerly was on-par with the Hilton right next door, it’s now overdue for a refresh & refurbishment, and the staff at the Front Desk are not able to communicate in conversational English. After numerous visits (and client feedback) over the 2023 / 2024 travel period, we can’t recommend this hotel, unfortunately. We’ll update this if things improve over the coming year. 

CHOOSING A HOTEL IN CENTRAL TOKYO

Tokyo’s main sights aren’t near Tokyo Disney Resort. Wishful Thinking has expert tips, first-hand accounts, and we love to recommend and book hotels for our clients in Tokyo.

We’ve got hotels in the best neighborhoods. | Most Tokyo visitors have the easiest, most enjoyable visits when they stay in Shinjuku, Harajuku, Shibuya, Roppongi, or Ginza. These neighborhoods are all full of terrific dining, elaborate shopping, and vibrant street life.  I f we had to pick just one neighborhood, we’d probably point you toward Shinjuku. But it’s a tough call; they’re all great. Get pricing for Tokyo hotels ▸ 

You’ll want to stay near a train station. | As we explain below, Tokyo is all about train travel. If possible, select a hotel that’s within a comfortable walking distance of a big train station. 

Compare North American hotel brands vs. Japanese lodging. | If you don’t have a lot of international travel experience, try to minimize your culture shock. A North American hotel chain might be your smartest option. Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, and IHG all have properties in Tokyo, and we’ve got top recommendations within each brand. Their websites, support staff, and on-site front desk staff will work in fluent English. In the guest rooms, you’ll find familiar bed sizes and amenities. If you need to modify / cancel your booking, you’ll be able to rely on English language phone support. When you’re visiting an unfamiliar country, that can help guarantee more restful nights.

However, if you’re an adventurous, seasoned traveler and you’re drawn to unique experiences, consider staying in a  ryokan . These traditional, family-owned lodges are Japan’s most memorable accommodations, particularly in historic locales like Kyoto, Nara, or Osaka. Learn all about ryokan ▸

We have a terrific shortlist of hotels in central Tokyo. | Get pricing at one of our top hotels ▸ 

WHEN & HOW TO BOOK YOUR HOTELS FOR A TOKYO DISNEY RESORT VACATION

When should I visit? And how far in advance can I book?

It greatly depends on whether you want a simple hotel stay, a Disney Vacation Package, or if you’d simply like to visit Tokyo Disneyland / Tokyo DisneySea during a longer stay in Tokyo. Tap below and we’ll send you a free, informative FAQ to help you think through all these decisions.

Let’s plan your trip to Japan ▸

HOW DO I GET THEME PARK TICKETS FOR TOKYO DISNEYLAND & TOKYO DISNEYSEA?

Having trouble with North American credit cards? Wondering if you should get your theme park tickets before you arrive in Japan? Are theme park reservations required?

Learn the secure & guaranteed way to get Tokyo Disney Resort's theme park tickets

Here’s the main thing you need to know: many of Tokyo Disney Resort’s operations have changed post-pandemic.

That’s especially true of their ticket & reservation systems. Much of what we could tell you today could be different tomorrow. 

Here are the most essential updates (updated May, 2024):

If you’re an overnight guest in one of the Disney resort hotels, Disney instructs you to WAIT to buy theme park tickets through your hotel. |  As Tokyo Disney Resort explains on their helpful FAQ, all Disney resort hotel guests are guaranteed to be able to enter the parks on all their dates of stay (check-in through check-out) even if all the day’s theme park tickets are sold out for non-hotel guests.  However, you should wait to purchase your tickets for a few big reasons: one, you’ll need the type of ticket that includes early park entry. Those tickets aren’t available on the internet. Two, Disney may someday offer other types of tickets that were paused for the pandemic, namely, a park hopper ticket and a multi-day ticket. As of April 2024, only one-park-per-day tickets are being sold.

The Disney resort hotels are:

• Tokyo Disneyland Hotel
• Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta
• Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel
• Disney Ambassador Hotel
• Tokyo Disney Resort Toy Story Hotel
• Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel

Guests at the Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel have unique access. | As of April, 2024, guests of this hotel (who are not package holders) have exclusive access to a one-day ticket that includes guaranteed Fantasy Springs entry and reduced wait times at its attractions. Learn more here. Additionally, guests in the Grand Chateau rooms receive extra line-skipping privileges .

If you’re a guest in one of the Tokyo Disney Resort Official Hotels — the ones which are not Disney operated & themed — guests may buy tickets through the hotel. | All guests of the Hilton Tokyo Bay may purchase one-park, one-day tickets in person, in the lobby of the Hilton, even when the tickets are sold out for the general public. Wishful Thinking can book you today into the Hilton, and we highly recommend it. Start here ▸ 

You may buy advance-day tickets online, but you can’t buy tickets more than 60 days in advance. | Currently, online tickets are only valid on the date you select when you purchase them — no additional Theme Park reservations are required. As of now, there are no in-person theme park ticket sales at the parks. You MUST buy your tickets online (or through your Disney-area hotel).

Tickets do not include Genie+ — that’s not how things work in Tokyo. | Instead of FastPass or Genie+, Tokyo Disney Resort offers Premier Access, which any guest may purchase on the day of their visit within the Tokyo Disney Resort app. As of now, Premier Access is only offered on about 3 or 4 attractions per park — here’s the list of attractions and prices. It works almost identically to Individual Lightning Lane purchases at Disneyland in California. You purchase the enhancement after you scan into the park.

Many USA-based credit cards are declined because the Tokyo Disney Resort website and app rely on advanced credit card security called 3D Secure. | The 3D Secure verification is standard for Japan-based banks, but it’s a protocol that isn’t yet standard within the USA. For this reason, many USA-based credit cards will not work if you try to book a hotel or purchase tickets on the Tokyo Disney Resort site. If your card is not working, you need to get a new card. Why? Because you will need a card with this feature when you actually visit Japan. The paid features in the Tokyo Disney Resort app won’t work without one, and many other vendors in Japan require this type of authentication.

Get a card from Revolut. | We highly recommend the safe, secure, internationally-accepted debit cards & credit cards from Revolut, which specializes in international travel . Their exchange rates are tremendous, there are no international transaction fees, and you can even store online balances in multiple currencies — a great strategy if you’d like to buy JPY in advance when the USD is strong. Best of all, their cards support 3D Secure verification.

Explore debit & credit cards from Revolut ▸

Multi-day tickets are still not available. | The 2-day Passport, 3-Day Magic Passport, 5-Day Magic Passport, Annual Passport, and many other long-standing ticket categories are currently not available, and we don’t know when Tokyo Disney Resort may resume the sales of these ticket types. 

Wishful Thinking provides expert guidance & assistance for Tokyo Disney Resort. | Complete our form and we’ll send you an extremely informative, helpful FAQ, direct to your inbox.

SHOULD I BOOK A PACKAGE FOR TOKYO DISNEY RESORT?

Packages at Tokyo Disney Resort are very different from what you’ll find at Disneyland or Walt Disney World. For starters: they’re more expensive than simple hotel bookings + park tickets. You’re paying for unique perks & privileges . So are they worth it? What are the minimum / maximum number of hotel nights and theme park days? When do Tokyo Disney Resort Travel Packages become available? We’ve got all the nerdy details.

Nothing confounds international visitors more than Tokyo Disney Resort’s Disney Travel Packages.

Why? Because their offerings and restrictions are dramatically different from Walt Disney World or Disneyland. Pay attention to the details we’re sharing here; they matter tremendously.

To begin, it’s important that you recognize a few things about Tokyo Disney Resort:

• The crowds are massive. | Every day of the week. Ignore outdated information online that says that things are only busy on weekends. Not anymore. See what rope drop looks like.

• FastPass doesn’t exist anymore. | Post-pandemic, Tokyo Disney Resort replaced their FastPass system with a new benefit called Premier Access, which any guest may purchase on the day of their visit within the Tokyo Disney Resort app. As of now, Premier Access is only offered on about 3 or 4 attractions per park — here’s the list of attractions and prices. It works almost identically to Individual Lightning Lane purchases at Disneyland in California. You’re waiting in line for everything else. UNLESS you have a Disney Travel Package. 

• Tokyo Disney Resort does not offer VIP tours | This is simply not a thing at Tokyo Disney Resort. Pre-pandemic, the park offered informational tours in Japanese (similar to the Keys to the Kingdom Tour at Magic Kingdom ), but they haven’t returned.

Therefore, knowing that avoiding crowds are the MAIN thing that its guests would want, Tokyo Disney Resort offers exclusive additional line-skipping (and show / parade viewing) privileges within their Disney Travel Packages. But there are severe restrictions:

Packages are ONLY available for a one night stay or a two night stay.

• A ONE NIGHT package includes TWO DAYS of theme park tickets: Tokyo DisneySea on day one and Tokyo Disneyland on day two.
• A TWO NIGHT package includes THREE DAYS of theme park tickets: Tokyo DisneySea on day one, Disneyland on day two, and DisneySea again on day three.
• You cannot modify when you use your tickets; your first ticket MUST be used on your check-in day, and your last ticket MUST be used on your check-out day. For this reason, you will probably not want to begin any Disney Travel Package on the day you arrive in Japan. Thankfully, we’ve got expert recommendations for additional hotels in Tokyo. Get pricing ▸
• Disney will not permit any guest to purchase two tickets for the dame day — therefore, you CAN NOT simply book back-to-back packages. (That would mean you’d double up on tickets when one package’s check-out day is another package’s check-in day.)
• As of now — for stays through late 2024 — there are no packages available for longer stays. This is all there is. See our recommendations below about adding a hotel stay to your package.

Currently, package perks include extra line-skipping privileges . This is the sweet gooey center of Disney Travel Packages, and this is why Disney guests are willing to pay more for them. When you book your package, you’ll gain the ability to select from a handful of attractions that are NOT offered as part of Premier Access . Disney simply calls them Attraction Tickets, but they work essentially like a FastPass. They’re available for the ‘2nd tier’ of popular attractions, and they include:

AT TOKYO DISNEYLAND | ATTRACTION TICKETS

• Big Thunder Mountain
• Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters
• Haunted Mansion
• Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek!
• Pooh’s Hunny Hunt
• Space Mountain
• Splash Mountain
• Star Tours: The Adventures Continue

AT TOKYO DISNEYSEA | ATTRACTION TICKETS

• 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
• Indiana Jones® Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull
• Journey to the Center of the Earth
• The Magic Lamp Theater
• Nemo & Friends SeaRider
• Raging Spirits
• Tower of Terror
• Turtle Talk

See more details about Attraction Tickets included in Vacation Packages ▸ 

What to choose? | When you purchase your package, you’ll make your selection as for which attractions you’d like to use for your benefit. Because the ultra-popular attractions Beauty and the Beast and Soaring; Fantastic Flight are also available via Premier Access, we suggest that you use your perks here for one of these ‘2nd tier’ attractions that are ONLY available to package holders. That’s the best way to maximize the value of your purchase. Buy Beauty & the Beast after you’ve entered Disneyland. And if you’re big into the Society of Explorers and Adventurers (S.E.A.) , don’t miss Soaring: Fantastic Flight. The pre-show is stunning. 

Guaranteed Fantasy Springs Access | As of now, all packages for stays beyond June 6th also include guaranteed entry to the new Fantasy Springs land at Tokyo DisneySea on one of your days. We don’t know how long that benefit will be offered as a package perk, and we don’t know whether future packages might include it. But because this is currently the ONLY way to guarantee that you’ll get into Fantasy Springs, these packages are highly sought after. This also explains why they cost so much.

Most Wishful Thinking clients choose to book a package PLUS an additional hotel stay. As you can imagine, many who journey from abroad want more than a two night stay. We recommend that you obtain an additional hotel reservation — a la carte — and purchase any additional theme park tickets on-site at your Disney hotel. (As you’ll see above, ALL Disney resort hotel guests are guaranteed to be able to purchase theme park tickets for the dates of their stay even if tickets are sold out to the general public.)  Do note, however:

• Tokyo Disney Resort does NOT guarantee that if you purchase an a la carte hotel stay for the same hotel as your package that you’ll be able to remain in your same room. These decisions are handled on a case-by-case basis after you arrive at your hotel.
• If you’re in a different room type at the same hotel, Cast Members will transfer your bags for you.
• If you select to stay at a different Disney resort hotel  — including the Hilton Tokyo Bay or the Sheraton, but excluding the Celebration Hotel — Disney Cast Members will transfer your luggage for free to your next hotel. See details about the luggage delivery service ▸ 

IMPORTANT NOTE ON THE JAPANESE-LANGUAGE SITE | Package type availability and benefits differ between the Japanese-language portal of the site and the English-language portal.  Just as Disneyland has special offers for California residents and Walt Disney World has special offers for Florida residents, Tokyo Disney Resort has special offers for Japan residents. Don’t try to be sneaky and enter the name of your Japan-based lodging; if you cannot enter your legal name, permanent address, and credit card billing address using Japanese characters, you will not qualify for these packages. 

When do Tokyo Disney Resort Disney Vacation Packages become available? | Since early 2024, as the resort prepares for / promotes the new Fantasy Springs expansion, Disney’s been releasing them in monthly ‘dumps.’ Typically, Disney only provides a few days notice as to when the next release is coming, and no one knows how long this release pattern will continue.

Bookmark this page and watch for announcements ▸ 

Can an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner or a travel agent book a package for me? | No. As of now, you are literally the only person on the planet who can book a Tokyo Disney Resort Vacation Package; Disney explicitly forbids others from booking a package on your behalf, and if any agent offers to do this for you, your tickets may be invalidated.

Get our FAQ guide sent to your inbox — to learn how to actually book a package ▸ 

What CAN Wishful Thinking quote and book for me? | We’re experts on Japan and Tokyo travel, and we can quote / book all your additional hotel stays in Japan, plus guided day tours, private transportation, and phenomenal multi-night guided tours via Adventures by Disney and National Geographic Expeditions. Also, as of spring 2024, we can book a la carte hotel stays at the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel — but these are not Disney Travel Packages. You’ll still need to purchase your tickets after arriving at the hotel.

Share your plans here — we’ll send free Disney tips and expert recommendations on Japan hotels & sightseeing ▸

WHAT SHOULD I SEE & DO IN TOKYO?

The world’s biggest metropolis: 20 million people live here. Thankfully, it’s also one of the most hospitable destinations for international travelers. But what are the real must-sees? And how should you get around the city?

Have you ever walked into an incredible party in full-swing and thought, “gosh, if I’d known it was going to be this cool, I would have shown up earlier!” 

That’s what it’s like to visit Japan for the first time. It’s even cooler than you imagine it’s going to be. Most North Americans have only a surface-level knowledge of Japanese cuisine, history, & culture. Research can only get you so far. You simply have to go.

Here are a few of the key things you’ll need to know as you plan your visit to Tokyo:

It’s all about the trains | Getting in a car means you’ll be sitting in traffic, not moving. Taxis & rideshares are very expensive — we’re talking $250+ USD just to get to the airport. Not worth it. Getting around Tokyo — and journeying to cities beyond — is all about train travel. There are 3 major train systems in Tokyo:

• The Japan Rail (JR) |  A nationwide rail network, kinda like Amtrak in the USA (but far, far better)
• Tokyo Metro | 9 train lines serving 179 stations
• Toei Subway | 4 train lines serving 106 stations

Taken together, they form an interconnected web of train lines that service the whole city. Thankfully, an IC (integrated circuit) payment card (like  Suica ) works for all three systems, so it doesn’t really matter which train you use. There are many major train station hubs where you can easily transfer from one train to another: Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, Kita-senju and Tokyo Station are the busiest.

Check out this excellent guide to Tokyo’s train systems ▸ 

Bullet trains to other cities | The JR lines also include Japan’s famous bullet trains, known by the Japanese word shinkansen . These high-speed trains are excellent and affordable and provide easy access to cities like Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hiroshima. Many theme park fans who visit Tokyo Disney Resort are also interested in Universal Studios Japan in the city of Osaka, which is 3+ hours away by train. 

View shinkansen routes, schedules & tickets ▸

Japan’s trains can be intimidating at first. Soon, you’ll learn that the station signs, onboard announcements, and train schedules are available in English — once you know where to look. Within a few days, you’ll wish that travel in North America was this quick, efficient, and easy to navigate!

Sightseeing: a contrast of ancient & modern | The sights of Tokyo inspire you to appreciate one of the world’s most incredible ancient cultures with a non-stop eye on the future. From Buddhist temples to high-tech shopping, you should give yourself at leas t three full days for sightseeing. Remember, you’ll be very jet-lagged, so don’t plan on overdoing it. Here are the most popular tourist sights for international visitors:

• Tokyo National Museum | An eye-popping, incredibly curated museum that traces Japan’s history from the shogun to the modern era. More ▸
• Sensō-ji Temple / Kaminari-mon Gate | Tokyo’s oldest and most spectacular temple, dating back to the year 645. More ▸
• Meiji-jingū Shrine | A beautiful, picturesque Shinto shrine within a peaceful evergreen park — one of Tokyo’s most-photographed locations. More ▸
• Ghibli Museum | A family-friendly, incredible museum devoted to the films of the legendary Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki (My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke & many more). A must-see, especially for Disney fans. More ▸
• Shibuya Crossing & Hachikō statue |  The zig-zag pedestrian traffic crossing that you’ll recognize from countless video composites of Tokyo. You might not be familiar with the touching story of the adorable Akita who waited for his dearly-departed master here every day for ten years. More ▸
• Takeshita-dori street in Harajuku | An alley-style shopping bazaar catering to the latest youth trends. You’ll find cutting-edge fashion and the newest must-have snacks. More ▸
• Ginza | A tawny neighborhood with impressive department stores offering high-end accessories, housewares, and designer clothing. More ▸
• Kamakura | The former capital of Japan and an ideal day trip from the city. Visitors flock here to explore its beautiful ancient temples and pose in front of one of Asia’s largest Buddha statues. More ▸
• Nightlife in Shinjuku  | Among many nightlife districts, Shinjuku is especially energetic and over the top. Check out the  Mario Brothers Go-Kart experience and the must-be-seen-to-be-believed Robot Restaurant . Shinjuku Ni-Chome is where you’ll find a collection of tourist-friendly LGBTQ+ bars and dance clubs. More ▸

Learn Japanese manners and courteous phrases. | Japan is a very, very polite society. To avoid unpleasantness, it’s best to learn the most common Japanese phrases, along with the most essential etiquette:

• Payment is given & received with two hands. | When greeting a cashier, always present your cash or credit card with two hands, and do the same when receiving it back.  More ▸  
• Don’t walk & eat / drink at the same time. | Food and drink are meant to be consumed while seated indoors. Even if you place an order ‘to go,’ never eat or drink while walking. You’ll notice that there are virtually no trash cans on public street corners — and this is why. The one spot in Japan where you can probably get away with this? Inside Tokyo Disneyland / Tokyo DisneySea. 
• Remove your shoes in establishments, if requested. | Many traditional tea shops, restaurants, and ryokan hotels will provide slippers or sandals for you to wear upon entry. Place your shoes in the provided cubby holes and change into the footwear they provide.  More ▸
• To visit gyms, pools or onsen spas, be cautious about tattoos. | Tattoos are considered disrespectful by traditional Japanese society. If you’ve got large, elaborate tattoos, it’s possible that you may be denied entry to certain gyms, pools, or onsen spa baths. You may want to seek out a tattoo-friendly gym or onsen that has a stated tattoo-friendly policy. Learn more  ▸
• Learn important, courteous Japanese phrases. | It’s absolutely crucial to learn the Japanese words for please, thank you, hello, goodbye, etc. Here’s a great guide  ▸

This is just the beginning. We’ve got far, far more tips to share.

Wondering where to find the biggest selection of kawaii collectibles, manga , and anime merch? Wondering where to pipe up for some karaoke with the locals?  Want to try fluffy Japanese cloud pancakes, giant multi-colored cones of cotton candy, or the city’s best sushi, omakase, gyoza, ramen & more?

We’ve been to Japan many times, and we’d love to tell you.

If you plan your trip with Wishful Thinking, we can provide a shortlist of our favorite restaurants, the coolest shops, most unique bars, and the best locations to find the hot new food trends. We’ve also got lots of practical tips on how to overcome jet lag, how to set up your WiFi and phone service, how to pay for things, tipping & gratuities, and more. It’s never too early to start planning!

Let’s plan your Japan adventure ▸

Shanghai Disneyland Resort | FAQ

Do I need a visa to enter China if I want to visit Shanghai Disneyland Resort? How many days should I spend in the park? What are the best Shanghai Disneyland resort hotels?  What’s the best way to include a visit to the Great Wall of China? We’ve got answers to the most common questions below.

WHERE IS SHANGHAI DISNEY RESORT LOCATED?

Shanghai Disneyland is around 11 miles from Shanghai Pudong International Airport. It’s in the Pudong District of Shanghai, just 12 miles from the city center. Most guests take the train.

WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN SHANGHAI?

Shanghai’s weather offers four distinct seasons. Summers are sizzling, and winters can be rather chilly. The sweet spot for visiting? Spring and autumn. Here are the historical average temps.

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD I PLAN FOR SHANGHAI DISNEY RESORT?

If you’re a major Disney fan, we recommend at least two full days in the park, plus at least two additional days for sightseeing. If this will be your first destination after flying from North America, schedule your sightseeing days first. Jet lag is going to be absolutely brutal.

IS ENGLISH IN USE AT SHANGHAI DISNEYLAND? HOW CAN I TRANSLATE ON MY PHONE?

Throughout all of China, English is used as a lingua franca for many international guests. English translations are found across Shanghai Disneyland — on signs, maps, restaurant menus, and in-park spiels. Similar to the ways you’ll hear Spanish at Disneyland or Walt Disney World — “¡Por favor manténgase alejado de las puertas!” — you’ll hear English at Shanghai.

Show scripts, attractions, parades, etc., however are exclusively presented in Mandarin Chinese.

If you’re lucky enough to meet a Disney Princess, villain, or MARVEL character, they’ll speak English. Live shows typically have subtitles / supertitles projected along the proscenium with English translations. 

Disney Cast Members have very limited English that’s particular to their role. Attractions hosts will know how to say little more than “How many in your party?” The Disney Resort Hotel Front Desk agents will have much more advanced English vocabulary.Among other guests, it’s common to meet Chinese young adults and teens who speak English and are eager to practice and help. That said, communicating in English can be a challenge because…

Google Translate is blocked in China. All Google-based websites and apps — including Google search, Google Maps and Gmail — are blocked in Mainland China and will not connect to the internet.

There are a few workarounds and things you can do to prepare:

• Rely on a VPN service like Express VPN
• Download your native language(s) to your Google Translate app so it’ll work offline
• Download offline maps for any cities you plan to visit
• Consider downloading a China-based app with translation function, like Baidu

Considering that Yahoo search, Yahoo mail, and all Meta apps (including Facebook, Instagram, Threads and WhatsApp ) are also blocked in China, you’ll probably need a VPN no matter what — just to simply stay in touch with folks back home! Those with Android operating systems on their cellphones typically experience extra difficulties; some folks purchase an iPhone just for their journey. 

Your real-time experience with the Shanghai Disneyland app and website can be a challenge, especially when it’s sending confirmation emails to your Gmail or Yahoo email address. The best solution is to have plan B’s for everything (like a Hotmail email address). 

WHEN & WHERE SHOULD I GET TICKETS?

It’s best if we set up your theme park tickets with your Disney resort hotel stay. See below.

WHERE SHOULD I STAY AT SHANGHAI DISNEY RESORT?

There are two Disney-owned hotels. The Shanghai Disneyland Hotel is an upscale resort with blissfully charming Art Nouveau décor. It overlooks the beautiful Wishing Star Lake. For a more budget-friendly option, the Toy Story Hotel makes Andy’s room larger-than-life. They’ve each got their own pros & cons, which we’d love to share with you:

Get pricing and expert insights for the Shanghai Disney Resort hotels ▸ 

WHAT DINING OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE IN THE PARK?

Just like any other Disney park, dining is a combination of table service, quick service & kiosks. Traditional Chinese cuisine is served in the beautiful Wandering Moon Restaurant , while the Royal Banquet Hall is a must-see fine dining restaurant inside the castle. The Tangled Tree Tavern is a charming quick service spot serving international fare. Sweet treats are available at the Duffy & Friends-inspired Cookie Ann Bakery Café on Mickey Avenue.

After you book your trip , we’ll happily steer you toward the best dining options.

WHAT ARE THE PARK’S HIGHLIGHTS?

Shanghai Disneyland boasts eight unique themed lands:

Zootopia | The newest land at Shanghai Disneyland opened in December, 2023. It’s laugh-out-loud clever, visually imaginative, and fully-immersive. Zootopia: Hot Pursuit carries guests from icy-cold Tundratown through the Rainforest District and beyond, on a crime-fighting chase alongside Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde .  You can taste a raspberry-flavored Pawpsicle , pick up an oversized donut, and try on some new threads at Fashions by Fru Fru.

Mickey Avenue | Here’s the welcome mat of Shanghai Disneyland. Imagine a Disney character-infused hometown, rather than your typical Main Street, U.S.A. vibe. Pick up your “why yes, I’ve been there” apparel in Avenue M Arcade — their equivalent of the Emporium — where you’ll find a huge selection of unique Disney merchandise. 

Gardens of Imagination | A touch of calm with a dash of imagination, Gardens of Imagination is where you’ll come across the Chinese Zodiac-themed garden, a Disney twist that’s genuinely delightful. Key spots? The Storyteller Statue and the Fantasia Carousel. And, of course, there’s the Enchanted Storybook Castle — it’s the largest one that Disney’s ever built.

Fantasyland | Step into a realm brimming with classic Disney stories. The enchanting Voyage to the Crystal Grotto is a must-do. Kids (and kids at heart) adore Peter Pan’s Flight and the Hunny Pot Spin. 

Adventure Isle | Time for some adrenaline rush. Prehistoric fun meets high-stakes adventure in attractions like the Roaring Rapids and Soaring Over the Horizon. And don’t miss out on the Camp Discovery challenge trails — they’re like full on hiking adventures.

Treasure Cove | All aboard mateys for the one and only fully pirate-themed land across all Disney parks. A must-see? Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure . Widely considered the world’s best Pirates. Discover legends and lore on a real pirate ship: Siren’s Revenge. And don’t miss Eye of the Storm: Captain Jack’s Stunt Spectacular.

Tomorrowland | Shanghai’s Tomorrowland aims to be actually futuristic. The TRON Lightcycle Power Run is a definite bucket-list item, while the Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue provides an entertaining (if familiar) alternative.

Toy Story Land | It’s time to play along with Woody, Buzz, and friends in this fun-filled setting. Ride high on Slinky Dog Spin, test your courage on Rex’s Racer , or join Woody’s Roundup. Remember to pop by Al’s Toy Barn and grab a bite at the Lotso Lunch Box.

WHAT IS THERE TO DO BEYOND THE PARK?

Although Shanghai Disneyland Resort doesn’t offer the vast outdoor recreation activities of Walt Disney World, Shanghai Disneyland’s footprint is unique — it’s the one Disney ‘castle park’ where the main thoroughfare — Mickey Avenue – is located  before the theme park’s turnstiles . In Celebration Square, the Market District and more, you’ll find ample Disney shopping, dining, and entertainment . For a quieter moment, take a stroll around Wishing Star Park to enjoy nature, views, and tranquility.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I SEE WHILE VISITING CHINA?

How much time have you got? Many North Americans only know of a handful of sights — the Great Wall of China, maybe the Forbidden City, or the Xi’an Terracotta War Soldiers. China is a gigantic country with 1/5th of the world’s population. Planning a trip here can be incredibly complicated, even for seasoned travelers. None of these must-see sights are within easy reach from Shanghai.

That’s why we highly recommend the Adventures by Disney trip through China , which includes an unforgettable visit to both Hong Kong Disneyland and Shanghai Disneyland.

ADVENTURES BY DISNEY: CHINA | 12 DAYS, 11 NIGHTS | HIGHLIGHTS:

Explore Hong Kong Discover the vibrant harbor city with an iconic skyline, world-class shops and exciting street scene.

Hong Kong Disneyland & Shanghai Disneyland Check 2 more Disney theme parks off your bucket list as you immerse yourself in Disney magic at China’s Disney theme parks.

Great Wall of China Cable Car Ride Reach new heights as you ride to Mutianyu for an amazing walk atop this iconic structure.

Victoria Peak Be awed by panoramic views of Hong Kong’s stunning skyline and harbor from the top of the mountain.

Beijing’s Ancient & Modern History Tour Walk through centuries of history as you tour this modern city with a rich past.

Beijing’s Temple of Heaven Tour this massive temple built for emperors to worship the god of heaven.

Panda Visit Get a rare peek at China’s cutest residents on a tour of Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

Sichuan Opera Enjoy music, acrobatics and the classic face changing act that has delighted audiences for centuries.

Shanghai Acrobat Show Experience the excitement of this acrobatic performance and live rock show.

Lijiang River Guilin Boat Tour Cruise the Li River and take in the scenic landscapes, including the “gumdrop mountains.”

Terracotta Warriors & Horses in Xi’an Marvel at this sculpted army created to protect China’s first emperor in the afterlife.

Explore Shanghai Discover the sprawling skyline, classic architecture and waterfront district of this truly international city.

Tiananmen Square Walking Tour Learn the rich history of this focal point of celebration and protest with a local guide.

Yu Garden Tour in Old Shanghai Find peace and inspiration in this 300-year-old garden sanctuary in the heart of Shanghai.

Get 2024 / 2025 dates and pricing for an Adventures by Disney trip to   China ▸ 

DO I NEED A VISA FOR PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA?

Travelers from 50+ countries — including USA, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom — can enjoy a visa-free visit to China for up to 144 hours if they’re transiting to another country. That’s 6 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you enter the country. There are specific restrictions on where you can travel in China and which ports of entry / airports you may use, so it’s very important to study the regulations. Fact check everything.

How it works: upon arrival at the immigration desk in the airport or cruise terminal, you’ll complete a simple form (in English) that includes your lodging address and the reason for your visit. It about 5 minutes to complete.  In addition to your completed form, you will need to present a departure from Shanghai travel confirmation (i.e., a cruise itinerary or a flight confirmation). It’s best to print up this document on paper and have it ready for inspection; the officials will photocopy your confirmation and return it to you. Please note that if you only have the conformation on your phone, the officials will ask you to unlock your device so they can screenshot your phone’s screen. Paper is better.

Learn more about China’s 144-hour visa-free travel policy and review the countries which qualify ▸ 

If you plan to do any sightseeing in mainland China beyond Shanghai, you will you will need a visa . Best to apply for your visa 2 to 3 months before your trip.

If you are ONLY planning to visit Shanghai (for less than 144 hours) and Hong Kong, most international travelers do not need a visa before arrival. See information under Hong Kong, below.

CHINA CONSULAR SERVICES:   For citizens of the USA ▸   |   For citizens of Canada ▸  

List of China consular service websites for other countries ▸ 

LET’S START PLANNING YOUR ASIA DISNEY TRIP

The sooner we start, the better prepared you’ll be for the adventure of a lifetime.

Start planning your trip here ▸ 

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort | FAQ

Is it easy to visit Hong Kong Disneyland and Shanghai Disneyland in one trip? Yes, and Wishful Thinking knows just how to do it. Let’s dive into common questions about visa entry requirements , Hong Kong’s three Disney resort hotels, sightseeing in Hong Kong, how far in advance you should reserve things, and how to enjoy the brand-new Arendelle – The World of Frozen. This absolute gem of a Disney park has so many delights that aren’t well known in the USA, and it may be the easiest Disney park to visit of them all.

WHERE IS HONG KONG DISNEYLAND LOCATED?

Hong Kong comprises a peninsula and a series of islands off the coast of mainland China. Today, Hong Kong is a special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China — somewhat similar to the way that Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States. Although the region operates under the concept of “one country, two systems,” Hong Kong has a separate government, series of freedoms, and protections which are undergoing recent changes .

Hong Kong Disneyland is located on Lantau Island — the same island where the international airport is located — about 45 minutes (by train) from the more-developed city areas.

WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN HONG KONG?

Hong Kong is a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, but summers are extra hot and humid, and winters are generally mild and dry. Here are the historical average temps. If you’re planning to visit Shanghai and Tokyo on the same trip, take note that these three destinations have dramatically different weather — that can make it tricky to pack light.

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD I PLAN FOR HONG KONG DISNEYLAND?

If you’re a major Disney fan, we recommend at least two full days in the park, plus at least two additional days for sightseeing. If this will be your first destination after flying from North America, schedule your sightseeing days first. Jet lag is rough.

IS ENGLISH IN USE AT HONG KONG DISNEYLAND?

Like Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland is fully bilingual. Shows, songs, parades, and attraction spiels are presented in both English and Cantonese Chinese. Disney’s own Cast Members are conversational in English, although you’ll notice British usage and vocabulary. (Hong Kong’s 150+ years as a British protectorate means that English-language education is extremely common here.) Unlike Shanghai, above, there are no internet blocks in Hong Kong for Google, Google Translate, or Meta-owned apps / websites.

Mandarin Chinese translations are offered throughout the park. 對於講普通話的人來說，您會注意到香港迪士尼樂園內有許多標誌、餐廳菜單和表演字幕.

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO PLAN FOR HONG KONG DISNEYLAND?

This is tough for guests from North America to accept, but not only do you not need to worry about planning Hong Kong far in advance, you cannot plan Hong Kong many months in advance. Often times, standalone theme park tickets aren’t even on sale beyond the current month.

Hong Kong Disneyland isn’t open every day.

During less busy times of year, it’s common for the theme park to be closed for one day in the middle of the week (most often on Wednesdays). The park’s opening hours and schedule, however, aren’t typically announced more than about 6 weeks in advance. Hong Kong’s own promotions typically include an ‘Early Bird’ special for bookings that are merely 21-days in advance.

Yes, our version of a last minute booking is their version of an early bird special!

For visitors who plan to fly in from overseas, this makes planning ahead quite difficult. It’s one reason why we suggest giving yourself 4+ days in Hong Kong, allowing for flexibility on exactly which day(s) you visit Hong Kong Disneyland.

Thankfully, Wishful Thinking has expert insights to share; if you get in touch, we can tell you when your travel dates become available , book and help plan your entire Hong Kong adventure. 

Get pricing & assistance for Hong Kong Disneyland ▸  

HOW BUSY IS HONG KONG DISNEYLAND COMPARED TO WALT DISNEY WORLD OR DISNEYLAND IN CALIFORNIA?

Hong Kong Disneyland is nowhere near as busy as the American Disney parks. For that reason, it’s very easy to simply visit as a spur-of-the-moment decision. You really don’t need to plan out every little detail in advance, fight for dining reservations, or struggle to beat the crowds. If anything, your challenges stem from too few guests: the parks (and some restaurants) aren’t open every day.

SO WHEN & WHERE SHOULD I GET TICKETS?

Sold out days at Hong Kong Disneyland are extremely rare.

Currently, only 1-day tickets or 2-day tickets are on sale. You can either set up tickets with your Disney resort hotel stay, purchase them on site at the ticket window, buy them directly on Hong Kong Disneyland’s website. Hong Kong Disneyland also offers a number of add-ons, including:

• Early Park Entry | Gain access to the theme park turnstiles one hour early and enjoy select attractions in Fantasyland and Arendelle – The World of Frozen.
• Disney Premier Access | Not unlike Genie+ / Lightning Lane, this add-on enhancement typically includes ‘skip the line’ entries for 8 attractions plus two shows, including the terrific fireworks nighttime spectacular, Momentous.

Please note that — when available — guests may also purchase Premier Access on the day of their visit, within the Hong Kong Disneyland app. It’s available for specific attractions, shows, character shows and experiences, like the new Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs or the Anna & Elsa Playhouse in the Woods interactive show.

WHERE SHOULD I STAY AT HONG KONG DISNEYLAND?

Some guests stay in Hong Kong for their visit, and simply catch the train (or a taxi) out to Disneyland for the day. If you only anticipate a one-day visit to Hong Kong Disneyland — and if Disney isn’t really the reason for your visit — that may be the easiest way to go. Just buy a ticket for the day and have a great time.

Most Wishful Thinking clients, however, are big Disney fans and want the full immersive experience. If that’s what you’re wishing for, stay in a Disney hotel.

There are three Disney-owned hotels at Hong Kong Disneyland. They’re all right beside one another, along a coastline avenue about a 5-minute drive from the theme park entrance. All three properties are Deluxe-level hotels with similar levels of amenities, accommodations, and pricing. A walkway connects the three hotels to an oceanside jogging path. None of the hotels have a walking path to reach the theme parks. There are no Moderate or Value hotels at Hong Kong Disneyland resort.

Resort Hotel Transportation between the hotels and the theme park is complimentary aboard Disney’s own resort buses. Disney does not offer transportation to / from the Hong Kong Airport. (See our recommendations below.) 

Hotel bedding and amenities are nearly identical to what you’d expect at Disneyland or Walt Disney World; most rooms feature two standard queen-size beds, air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, and you’ll find conversational English-speaking Cast Members at the Front Desk. 

Because the location, transportation, and offerings of the three Disney hotels are nearly identical, what makes each one distinct is each hotel’s theme and design .

The Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel | Looks and feels very similar to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa at Walt Disney World. Inspired by the Hotel del Coronado near San Diego, it’s a Victorian-era, elegant, classy resort hotel with a beautiful multi-story atrium. Accommodations include rooms with water views and the Kingdom Club, upscale club-level rooms with enhanced amenities and an on-site concierge. The Enchanted Garden restaurant offers an elaborate buffet at breakfast, lunch, and dinner with character dining table-side visits from Mickey, Minnie & pals. It’s a beautiful, elaborate hotel. Get pricing ▸ 

Disney Explorers Lodge | Looks and feels almost identical to the Animal Kingdom Lodge at Walt Disney World. With wings and guest rooms themed to different areas on the globe, you’ll encounter whimsical maps, artifacts, sights and sounds from Asia, Oceania, South America and Africa. It’s stylish and tremendously fun, as if you’re in an upscale lodge along a safari route or tropical rainforest getaway. Highly recommended. Get pricing ▸ 

Disney’s Hollywood Hotel | Looks and feels very similar to Tokyo Disney Resort’s Ambassador Hotel, but instead of a nautical / air travel theme, the hotel’s inspired by Disney Hollywood history and art deco décor. Rrecent lobby renovations (in 2023 / 2024) have added style and panache with new art, upgraded furnishings and a swanky new lounge inspired by MARVEL characters, The Archivist . You’ll find a newly-renovated buffet with terrific illustrations and paint-bucket splashes of color at Ink & Paint. Rooms are still being renovated; we recommend waiting to book this property until those room renovations are complete. 

Get pricing and expert insights for the Hong Kong Disneyland resort hotels ▸ 

WHAT ARE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF HONG KONG DISNEYLAND?

Many first-time visitors have heard that Hong Kong is the smallest Disney theme park, but are surprised by just how much originality is found inside. This is a true gem of a park, and Disney fans are sure to be charmed.

Grizzly Gulch | You could imagine this fun, interactive land as as a cross between Frontierland and Grizzly Peak in DCA. Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars is far more fun than it looks on a map; the long lengths of its coaster tracks allows for some super fun momentum!

Mystic Manor |  Easily a contender for the title of Walt Disney Imagineering’s greatest dark ride, this fully original one-of-a-kind spook house is a whimsical, comic delight. Meet Lord Henry Mystic, a member of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers and his adorable, mischievous monkey, Albert. With a score by Danny Elfman and an incredibly immersive atmosphere, this is one attraction you’ll want to ride back-to-back.

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Nano Battle and The Iron Man Experience | Hong Kong Disneyland’s Tomorrowland features a number of MARVEL-themed attractions, restaurants & super hero character meet & greets, but these two attractions are must-sees. The former is similar to Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters, but far cooler. The Iron Man Experience is a motion-simulator attraction — similar to Star Tours — that brings you on board Stark Technology transport for an exhilarating flight through the skies of Hong Kong.

Duffy & Friends Play House | You’ve heard about the Asian Disney Parks obsession with Mickey Mouse’s teddy bear, Duffy, and all his adorable friends — but here’s your chance to meet them all. 

Incredible live shows | It’s probably fair to say that Hong Kong Disneyland’s live performers are the highest caliber performing arts ensemble of any Disney park worldwide. Mickey & the Wondrous Book is an absolute must-see, featuring a terrific medley of Disney music favorites, sung by Broadway-level musical theatre performers. Hong Kong’s Festival of the Lion King has an elevated artistry that puts other parks’ versions to shame — another must-see. Moana: A Homecoming Celebration is a children’s-theatre style re-telling of the tale, with zany antics, creative props and lots of laughs. 

Arendelle – the World of Frozen | Is the park’s newest area, and it’s a visual stunner. Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs is a simple, quick coaster aimed at kids (with a thrill level on par with Goofy’s Barnstormer or Gadget’s Go-Coaster). Frozen Ever After is a ‘plussed’ version of the attraction in EPCOT. Far more unique / original is the Playhouse In the Woods , an interactive show where you’ll come face-to-face with Anna & Elsa as they introduce you to the spirits of the forest. You’ll find very good Scandinavian and American cuisine at the Golden Crocus Inn . 

WHAT IS THERE TO DO BEYOND DISNEY?

Hong Kong is a fascinating, dynamic city that could easily fill two days of sightseeing fun. You’ll want to zip up to Victoria Peak for jaw-dropping city views — the topography of the region is stunning. At night, you must meander through the bustling stalls of Temple Street Night Market and sample the astonishing array of street food delicacies — the kind of flavors you simply can’t find back home. Don’t miss the chance to catch a ferry ride across Victoria Harbour. See more things to do in Hong Kong ▸ 

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO SCHEDULE / COMBINE A VISIT WITH SHANGHAI DISNEY RESORT?

Many of our clients ask for advice about which to do first. There’s no one obvious ‘best way’ to do this, but here are a few helpful things to keep in mind:

• Flights between Shanghai and Hong Kong are plentiful and affordable. | Typical flight time is about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Wishful Thinking does not quote or book air travel, but you may find the best price if you book a multi-city / multi-destination ticket all on one carrier. (That also typically saves you money on baggage allowances.)
• Hong Kong qualifies as a “non-China” destination when you’re departing mainland China. | If you’re opting for the 144-hour visit (see above under Shanghai), Hong Kong qualifies as a next destination under the visa-waiver program.
• From most cities, there are more flights into Shanghai than Hong Kong. | That’s especially true if you’re flying from North America. 

Some folks like to plan “the best for last,” but it’s probably a bit too simplistic to say that Hong Kong Disneyland vs. Shanghai Disneyland are better or worse. They’re each absolutely lovely. (That said, Tokyo Disney Resort undeniably has the best Disney parks on earth.)

We highly recommend the Adventures by Disney trip through China , which includes an unforgettable visit to both Hong Kong Disneyland and Shanghai Disneyland. Get pricing and dates for an Adventures by Disney trip ▸ 

DO I NEED A VISA TO VISIT HONG KONG DISNEYLAND?

Unlike mainland China, most visitors do not need to apply for a tourist visa to enter Hong Kong, and most may remain within the territory anywhere from 7 days all the way up to 6 months. Check your own country’s criteria, here. 

As we note above, if you intend to visit Shanghai as well, but plan to stay in Shanghai for less than 144 hours, most international travelers will not need a visa for China before arrival. 

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO REACH HONG KONG DISNEYLAND FROM HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?

Although Disney does not offer their own transportation, the airport has plentiful taxis and ride share services for easy access to and from the Hong Kong Disneyland area. Taxi services throughout Hong Kong are restricted on where they can travel; taxis that serve Lantau Island are blue and are located in specific pickup locations. Learn more ▸ 

BRILLIANT GUIDES FOR WALT DISNEY WORLD

Walt Disney World in 2024 & 2025

When is the best time to visit? How busy will it be in the theme parks?

Why should I book a hotel on-property vs. off-property?

What’s located at each  theme park? What’s a must at Disney Springs?

What rides, dining, & experiences are most popular & need reservations?

How can I combine  park tickets, dining, and hotel stays to save money?

What are realistic tips for  transportation and getting places on time?

How much do park tickets cost? Which ticket options save money?

When & where do I use the  smartphone app, Genie+ and MagicBand?

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2024 Tokyo Disneyland Trip Planning Guide

In this 2024 Tokyo Disneyland Trip Planning Guide we’ll cover all aspects of planning a trip to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. This post will break down the trip planing process in steps and cover the best ways to save money on airfare, when to visit, how to pick the right hotel, how to buy park tickets, transportation in Tokyo, and anything else we think will help you along the way. This Tokyo Disneyland Trip Planning Guide is a condensed version of our full Tokyo Disney trip planning site , which you should absolutely check out if you want to go more in depth on every aspect of Tokyo Disney Resort. As you start exploring TouringPlans for Tokyo Disney , I recommend starting at the overview pages for Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea .

Before we get started, Tokyo Disney Resort’s official website is extremely picky with US credit cards. Purchase your Tokyo Disney Resort tickets easily and securely with Klook. We’ve used them for years and they’re fantastic. Using our Klook link supports keeping this guide updated .

Buy tickets to Tokyo Disneyland, Universal Studios Japan, train tickets, and anything else in Japan easily and securely using Klook:

Last updated 4/10/24

Step 1: When to visit Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo Disney Resort, or TDR, is always going to have huge crowds and high wait times, especially on the weekends. I’ve spent thousands of hours in the American Disney parks but have never seen anything like the crowds during a weekend in Tokyo Disneyland. With that being said there are a few times out of the year where crowds are smaller than they usually are, but this luxury may come at the cost of poor weather or multiple attraction closures due to refurbishments.

The end of May has pleasant weather and mid-level crowds. I’ve visited Tokyo in mid-January. We found the weather to be absolutely frigid, especially to a wimpy Southern Californian like myself. Temperatures were in the low 30s, which doesn’t sound bad. But it’s made much worse by the constant freezing wind that blows in from the surrounding Tokyo Bay. (Tokyo Disneyland is built on landfill inside Tokyo Bay and is surrounded by water on three sides.) On the plus side the crowds were very light on most days of the trip. This was the least busy I have ever experienced TDR.

In April the crowds during the weekdays are light but there’s usually several marquee attractions closed for refurbishment. Some entertainment is also dark during this time, like Tokyo Disneyland’s parade. Obviously missing out on Pirates isn’t a big deal for most frequent Disney theme park visitors, but Harmony in Color is a fantastic parade that I recommend seeing. During June the crowds are mid-level during the weekdays but there was also constant rain and humidity.

It’s important to adjust your expectations for wait times no matter when you visit TDR. Even if the crowds are “low” you’re still going to be waiting over a half hour for marquee attractions like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt . But that’s a lot better than waiting 140 minutes on a busy day. The days you should absolutely avoid Tokyo Disney Resort is during public holidays in Japan. ( Wikipedia has a helpful list .) Besides holidays I recommend avoiding the parks during weekends altogether. Use that time to see the rest of Tokyo (or other parts of Japan). There’s a lot worth seeing and it’s a fun city to explore even if you don’t have any set plans.

There will be a seasonal celebration going on at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea no matter when you decide to visit. These seasonal promotions are known for their large, multi-month celebrations with elaborate shows and parades. I’ve visited during the Halloween, Easter, and Christmas seasons and was surprised by the scope of it all. Tokyo Disney celebrates the main holidays like Christmas, as well as distinctly Japanese celebrations every now and then.

You’re probably wondering how many days do you need to visit Tokyo Disney Resort to see everything. The answer I would give to any other Disney freak like myself is that any amount of days is not enough. But a more realistic answer would be three days. That way you have enough time to see as much as possible for each park on the first and second day, and then on the third day you can revisit some of your favorite rides, or see some shows and parades you may have missed the first time around.

Step 2: Buy airfare

Airfare will probably be the most expensive hurdle you have to overcome to get to Tokyo. Luckily there are several tools you can use to save as much money as possible. I recommend using AirfareWatchdog.com’s fare alert feature. To set up an alert, visit AirfareWatchdog.com and click on “My Alerts” at the top of the screen. Enter your email address and then select “City-to-City Fare Alerts” from the list. You will then be prompted to type in the departure city you want to travel to Tokyo from. After this you are asked how often you want to receive alerts. If you’re really hardcore you can be sent travel alerts 7 days a week. I opt for the “2-3 time a week” alert option and was sent deals for as low as $440 . Keep in mind that you’ll receive deals with a wide range of travel dates. Some could require booking and travel within the next month or two, while other deals are for over six months down the line. For example, a few years back I booked using an Airfare Watchdog alert about 7 months in advance.

Another tool to use is Kayak.com’s fare forecast. To use this go to Kayak.com and click on flights. Enter the dates you are thinking about traveling and then search for fares. In the top left corner you will see there advice about if you should buy now, or wait. To test this out I’ll type in a random date right now.

As you can see Kayak is advising me to buy the tickets now because their analytics say the price will go up in the next 7 days. Kayak bases their prediction on analysis of historical price changes, and they have a good reputation.

As far as airports, you’ll either fly in to Haneda (HND) or Narita (NRT). Narita is the more common of the two for flights coming in from the U.S. If you have the choice, I’d pick flying in to Haneda because it’s both closer to Tokyo and closer to Tokyo Disney Resort. But if there is a large different in cost, go with whichever is cheaper.

If you don’t live in a major “gateway city” your airfare to Tokyo may be a bit more expensive. Something you may want to consider is buying the cheap airfare you find departing from the gateway city nearest you, and then looking for another cheap airline ticket to the gateway city.

Step 3: Selecting a hotel

The first thing you must decide when selecting a hotel is if you want to stay on-site or off-site. A huge benefit of staying on-site is that all hotels in Tokyo Disney Resort (both the three Disney-branded hotels, and the six non-Disney hotels) have easy access to the Tokyo Disney Resort Line, aka the monorail. This is great because it means you don’t have to take a train in from the city every morning and then transfer to the monorail before entering the park. You can simply make the 5-10 minute walk (or take the complimentary shuttle) from your hotel to Tokyo Disney Resort Line’s Bayside station, and then ride the monorail to the front entrance of Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea. It’s incredibly easy and fast, and getting in line to enter the parks as early as possible is crucial if you want to beat the crowds.

The two non-Disney on-site hotels that are most convenient for foreign travelers are Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay and Hilton Tokyo Bay. Both offer large rooms, staff that is fluent in English, good amenities, and are the two hotels closest to Tokyo Disney Resort Line Bayside station. If the prices between the two were the same I’d go with Hilton Tokyo Bay due to its large, and more modern looking rooms, but you can’t go wrong either way. You’ll be paying a slight premium to stay at these two hotels. Prices on the Hilton and Sheraton can range anywhere from $150 during some parts of the year up to $500 during the busy times of year. We have video room tours of the Hilton Tokyo Bay and  Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay on our YouTube channel . The other four hotels on-site (Sunroute Plaza Tokyo, Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel, Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel Club Resort, Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay) are owned by Japanese companies and have varying levels of quality. The only one of these four hotels I’ve stayed at is Hotel Okura. Okura’s rooms were a bit dated, but clean and spacious. The only problem I had was that the beds were rock hard. This has been my experience in many hotels that are Japanese brands. We have a video room tour of  Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay here .

The benefit of staying off-site is, of course, the lower price per a night. But then you’ll have to rely on public transportation to get in and out of the resort. There are plenty of good, affordable hotels with a short train ride to TDR. Another off-site option is Airbnb. This will save you the most money, especially if you’re traveling during a busy tourist season like Summer or during cherry blossoms season when hotel rates skyrocket. Airbnb will be the cheapest option of all, plus you’ll be staying in someone’s actual apartment/house, so you’ll get a taste of how the locals live.  If you want to save as much money as possible, and the thought of riding in and out of the resort on busy trains or buses does not bother you then you should go with the off-site option. Overall, it’s cost versus convenience. During my trips to Tokyo my travel party stays in one of the on-site hotels during the week we are visiting TDR, and then moves to an Airbnb during the weekends. Moving luggage around is a bit of a pain but we’ve saved hundreds of dollars using this method.

The third and most lavish option is staying on-site in one of the three Disney hotels, Tokyo Disneyland Hotel , Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta , or the slightly cheaper option, Disney’s Ambassador Hotel . The benefits of these include incredible views of the parks, the closest possible distance to the parks, free Tokyo Disney Resort Line tickets (yes, the monorails cost a couple of dollars to ride), and 15 minutes early access to the parks (called “Happy Entry”). Fifteen minutes may not seem like a lot but it’ll give you just enough time to beat the huge crowd of thousands of people running towards rides like Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast . The official Disney hotels also have the nicest theming by far, including special rooms decorated after Alice in Wonderland, Beauty and the Beast, and other Disney classics. You’ll pay a large price to stay at these hotels, usually in the $500 per a night range. During one of my trips to TDR my group of 4 decided to splurge and stay 3 nights in the official Tokyo Disney hotels (after staying at Hilton Tokyo Bay for the first 4 days of the trip), which ended up costing around $650 a night for theme park view rooms. As you can see from the pictures the view was incredible, especially at Hotel MiraCosta which is actually inside DisneySea. We have video room tours of Tokyo Disneyland Hotel and Hotel MiraCosta on our YouTube channel .

I see a lot of confusion with people regarding room categories with Hotel MiraCosta. I made this map to help you get a better idea of where room categories are located and what kind of view you can expect to see from them:

There is another official Tokyo Disney Resort Hotel, Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel, but we don’t see many positives to staying there. It’s cheaper than the other officials hotels, but the rooms and hotels are bare bones, and most importantly they are located outside of the resort. Walking to the parks from Celebration Hotel isn’t impossible; it would just take over an hour and a half. Instead, Celebration Hotel offers free shuttle buses that take about 15 minutes to reach the parks. Rack rates for Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel range from around $200 USD to $450, depending on the time of year.

Tokyo Disney Resort Toy Story Hotel is another official Disney hotel. It is located on-site, but it’s in the cluster of on-site hotels that are not owned by Tokyo Disney Resort. We like the theme, and the close location to the Tokyo Disney Resort Bayside Station (the resort monorail station), but it’s significantly more expansive than its neighboring hotels. Save the money and visit the grounds and lobby of the Toy Story Hotel if you want to take a look.

The non-Disney on-site hotels (Hilton, Sheraton, etc) can all be booked via each hotel’s website, or any third party sites like Expedia or Priceline. The official Tokyo Disney Resort hotels need to be booked on the Tokyo Disney Resort Online Reservation & Tickets website , which is in full English. Please note that the official TDR hotels sell out extremely fast, sometimes as soon as the reservation window opens, which is 9 AM (JST), six months before your arrival date. When your reservation window opens, be ready and waiting at your computer.

Step 4: Buy your tickets

Tickets can be purchased at any of Tokyo Disney Resort ticket booths in front of Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, but you can also purchase them online via the Tokyo Disney Resort Online Reservation & Tickets website . If you live outside of Japan, and purchase your tickets from home, your only option will be to print out the tickets, so be sure you have a printer with plenty of ink available. TDR recommends printing tickets on non-standard A4 size paper, but I’ve printed tickets using regular sized paper with no problem (your mileage may vary). Like I said before, you can also buy the tickets at the park but remember that some busy days may sell out and no more tickets will be sold. When you purchase TDR tickets you will be required to enter the dates in which you will be using the tickets. These dates cannot be changed, so if you’re going April 15 your ticket will only be valid April 15. Multiday tickets are currently not being sold for Tokyo Disney Resort. They have been sold in the past and we hope they will return in the future.

How to buy Tokyo Disney Resort Tickets in the US

Tokyo Disney Resort’s official website is extremely picky with the type of foreign credit card it will accept for payment. Klook is a way to bypass this. They’re a travel discount website like Priceline, and are reputable. Please use our link. It supports keeping this guide updated .

Current Tokyo Disney Resort Ticket Prices:

1-Day Passport

• Adult (Ages 18+)  7,900 yen – 10,900 yen
• Junior (Ages 12-17)  6,600 yen – 9,000 yen
• Child (Ages 4-11)  4,700 yen – 5,600 yen

Early Evening Passport (Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea can be enjoyed from 3:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays with this ticket.)

• Adult  6,500 yen – 8,700 yen
• Junior  5,300 yen – 7,200 yen
• Child  3,800 yen – 4,400 yen

Weeknight Passport (Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea can be enjoyed from 5:00 p.m. on weekdays (excluding holidays) with this ticket.)

Adult  4,500 yen – 6,200 yen

• Junior  4,500 yen – 6,200 yen
• Child  4,500 yen – 6,200 yen

Step 5: Transportation

When you arrive at Narita or Haneda you’ll need to find a way to get to TDR — luckily you have a lot of options. My favorite option is  Airport Limousine Bus , which you can find outside of the airport (follow the signs or ask the information desk if you need directions). Tickets are around $20 and can be purchased at the Limousine Bus desk, or at automated ticket machines near where the bus loads. The travel time from Narita to TDR is around 60 to 90 minutes, while the travel time from Haneda to TDR   is 30 to 60 minutes. You can also take the Limousine Bus back to the airport from any of the Tokyo Disney Resort on-site hotels. Tickets can be purchased from the front desk. The major downside to Limousine Bus is that the buses leaving TDR hotels stop running around 5 PM. Buses going to TDR from the airports stop around 7 PM.

Your other option to/from the airport is to use public transportation. This will be your cheapest option, but also the most intimidating to first time visitors. If you rent a mobile WiFi hotspot and pick it up from the airport (which you should absolutely, 100%, beyond a shadow of a doubt do) you can use the greatest invention of all time for travelers, Google Maps ! Just type in Tokyo Disney Resort in to Google Maps and it will tell you the exact lines to take, how many stops between you and your destination, when to transfer, and the expected travel time. It works great and I wouldn’t be caught dead without it. If you’ve never been to Japan before and you’re considering using public transportation to get to your hotel from the airport, consider this: You’ve just been on a plane for over 10 hours, you spent at least 40 minutes going through customs, and maybe another 30 minutes picking up your bag, you’re exhausted and maybe not thinking clearly, and after all that you know have to use a complicated transportation system with multiple stops and transfers between you and your destination. This may not be a big deal to some people, but to others it will be.

Another option is to use a taxi, which is both the fastest and the most expensive. Make sure you’re sitting down for this one, the cost of a taxi from Narita airport to Tokyo Disney Resort can run around $150 for a one way trip, or over $200 if you travel between 10 PM and 5 AM.

When you’re in Tokyo Disney Resort you can travel around via the Tokyo Disney Resort Line, aka the monorail. There are four stops, Resort Gateway Station (which is next to Maihama railway station), Tokyo Disneyland Station, Bayside Station (where all the non-Disney on-site hotels are located), and Tokyo DisneySea Station. Tickets cost a couple of dollars a day. The monorail runs daily 6 AM to 12 AM.

We have a page dedicated to Tokyo Disney Resort transpiration located here .

Step 6: Rent some mobile WiFi hotspots or simcards

The frivolous reason you should get a mobile WiFi hotspot is to share your experience on social media. Show people how much fun you’re having exploring Mysterious Island in DisneySea, or maybe you’ll want to show off the weird food item you just ate (bean paste and chocolate ice cream on top of mango shaved ice? Ok!). Some people like to go on vacation and disconnect from the world. I am not one of those people. The serious reason why you need to be connected to the internet is that you’re in a foreign country, obviously. What if you get lost in the city and can’t find your way back to the hotel? What if you need to let your mom know that you arrived safely? It’s not too expensive and free public WiFi isn’t easily found outside of your hotel, so for all those reasons I think renting a WiFi device is a necessity. You won’t be able to make calls or send regular texts, but iMessage (on iPhone) works, as well as any other app that uses the internet. Using iMessage to communicate with the rest of my group played a crucial roll making sure none of us got lost during the times we got separated, plus having access to the internet killed time when we were in all those long attraction lines.

So far I have used Globaladvancedcomm.com  during all my trips and have had zero problems. When you’re at home you can reserve a WiFi device, or sim card if you have the right kind of phone, and then pick up the package from the post office inside the airport after you arrive in Tokyo. At the end of your trip when you’re leaving Tokyo you can simply drop it off in any post box. They provide the packing material and the postage is already paid. It’s very easy. The price as off the time this post was published is about $75 a week. I recommend renting one WiFi device for each person in your party because there will be times when groups get separated.

There are other options to rent WiFi devices, such as B-Mobile , which a lot of people recommend. Several shops inside the Tokyo airports rent WiFi devices and simcards but I found these to be expensive and severely lacking in the amount of data you can use.

Step 7: Get some foreign currency (or inform you credit card company about your trip)

Check with your bank to see if they offer currency exchange. Some banks will have online order forms where you can exchange money directly from your bank account, and they will then send the money in the mail. From my experience, most banks do not have Japanese yen on hand to do the exchange in person, but maybe yours does. Keep in mind that most banks will charge a small transaction fee when you exchange currency. Your local airport may have a kiosk where you can exchange currency, but these are infamous for their high fees.

If you don’t want to carry around cash, all of the shops and restaurants in Tokyo Disney Resort take standard US credit cards. Some shops and restaurants outside of the resort require credit cards with the “Smart Chip” inside. You will not be able to purchase anything from these retailers if you do not have a credit card with a smart chip. No matter what kind of credit card you have, be sure to call your bank before you leave home and let them know you will be traveling. If not, your credit card will probably immediately be blocked for suspicious activity. Another thing you want to watch out for is your credit card’s foreign transaction fee.

The credit card we recommend for travel is the Chase Sapphire Preferred , which has no foreign transaction fees and earns you 2 points on dining and travel per $1 spent, as well as 1 point per $1 spent on everything else. When you redeem points through Chase Ultimate Rewards portal they’re worth 25% more, and you can also transfer them at a 1:1 rate to many other loyalty programs. There is a $95 yearly fee, but if you travel more than a couple times a year the points you earn more than make up for it. We can’t say enough good things about this card. Use our affiliate link to sign up and see if there’s any point bonuses .

If you run out of cash, there is an ATM in Ikspiari (which is basically Tokyo Disney Resort’s Downtown Disney), which accepts American debit cards. It is located on the first floor, near the grocery store.

Step 8: Create your game plan for the parks

You’ve got your flights booked, hotel picked out, tickets purchased, internet on lock, and transportation is set. Now you need a game plan for the parks. Like we say for the American Disney parks, the morning hours are crucial for getting ahead of the crowds. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before park opening. Chances are that there will already be thousands of people in front of you, but don’t let that scare you off.  You’re going to want to run to a marquee attraction and ride it as soon as possible. For Tokyo Disneyland ride Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast and then quickly move on to  Pooh’s Hunny Hunt . That way you’ll have two the parks marquee/exclusive attractions knocked out within the first couple of hours of the day. After this you’ll want to ride the other headliners as early as possible.

Be sure to make use of single rider lines at both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. At Tokyo Disneyland, Splash Mountain offers a single rider line. This is a big help because it’s one of the most popular attractions in the park and not that many people use the single rider line so your wait will be very short. At DisneySea, Raging Spirits and Indiana Jones Adventure both offer single rider lines. There won’t be any signs for single rider lines. To enter them walk up to the start of the queue and tell the cast member that you are a single rider. It should go without saying but you and your party will be split up if you use the single rider line.

Tokyo Disney Resort FASTPASS Changes

Tokyo Disney Resort no longer offers FASTPASS. In its place are Premier Access and Priority Pass, which are similar.

Tokyo Disney Resort Disney Premier Access

Disney Premier Access provides expedited access to certain attractions in both parks. This often saves a substantial amount of time waiting in line. The charge for each Disney Premier Access pass is between ¥1500 and ¥2500, about $10 to $15 USD. Guests can purchase one Premier Access pass per a ride, per a day. Premier Access purchases must be made in the official Tokyo Disney Resort app.

Disney Premier Access is offered at the following attractions:

Tokyo Disneyland

• Disney Harmony in Color Parade – ¥2500
• Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights – ¥2500
• Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast – ¥2000
• The Happy Ride with Baymax – ¥1500
• Splash Mountain – ¥1500

Tokyo DisneySea

• Believe! Sea of Dreams Nighttime Spectacular – ¥2500
• Soaring: Fantastic Flight – ¥2000
• Toy Story Mania! – ¥2000
• Tower of Terror – ¥1500
• Journey to the Center of the Earth – ¥1500

Tokyo Disney Resort Priority Pass (formally known as FASTPASS)

Priority Pass is Tokyo Disney Resort’s free ride reservation system. Reservations can be made as soon as the parks open for the day. After a reservation is made, you’re given a return time with a 1 hour window. Priority Passes do run out, especially on busy days, so you should prioritize rides that are important to you. All Priority Pass reservations can be made in the official Tokyo Disney Resort app.

Priority Pass is offered at the following attractions:

• Star Tours: The Adventures Continue
• Space Mountain
• Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters
• Pooh’s Hunny Hunt
• Haunted Mansion
• Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek!
• Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull
• 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
• Turtle Talk
• Nemo & Friends SeaRider
• The Magic Lamp Theater
• Raging Spirits

What’s New For 2024?

Fantasy Springs will open on June 6, 2024 in Tokyo DisneySea. Included in the new land, or port as they’re called in DisneySea, are 4 new rides, three restaurants, one shop, and one deluxe hotel. It’s a $2 billion dollar expansion and it looks like it will be the most impressive theme park expansion Disney has built since Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge. Fantasy Springs is divided into different areas, Frozen Kingdom (inspired by “Frozen”), Rapunzel’s Forest (inspired by “Tangled”), and Peter Pan’s Never Land (inspired by “Peter Pan”). Some new mega E-ticket rides are part of the new land as well, including Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey and Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure .

Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel will also open as part of the Fantasy Springs expansion. This 475-room hotel is integrated into the park like Hotel MiraCosta is at the front of the park.

What’s new from the past few years?

In 2023, Tokyo Disneyland premiered a new parade called Disney Harmony in Color for the parks 40th anniversary. Disney Harmony in Color’s cavalcade of characters include Tinker Bell, Vanellope and Ralph from “Wreck-It Ralph,” Wasabi, Fred, Honey Lemon and Go Go from “Big Hero 6,” and many more. Tokyo Disneyland’s parades never disappoint and Harmony in Color is a fantastic parade with an catchy theme song and larger than life floats.

In 2022, Believe! Sea of Dreams premiered as Tokyo DisneySea’s new nighttime spectacular. The show is full of lasers, searchlights, projections, water effects, fireworks, and of course, Disney characters. Believe! Sea of Dreams takes place in the waters of Mediterranean Harbor and is a replacement for the park’s version of Fantasmic!

In 2020 Tokyo Disneyland opened its newest mega E-Ticket ride, Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast . Based on the 1991 classic film, Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast takes riders through Beast’s castle and recreations of iconic moments from the movie. Guests ride in giant teacups that make use of trackless technology (just like the one used in Pooh’s Hunny Hunt). We expect Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast to have huge crowds for the foreseeable future.

Also at Tokyo Disneyland The Happy Ride with Baymax  opened in 2020, which is a spinning ride, similar to Alien Saucer Swirl in Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World, or Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree in Disney California Adventure.

Soaring: Fantastic Flight is Tokyo DisneySea’s custom version of the popular ride from Disney California Adventure, Epcot, and Shanghai Disneyland. OLC says Soaring “will feature original scenes and the newest visual images.” We do know that DisneySea’s Soaring will feature a new original storyline where riders are greeted by the spirit of the fictional aviator, Camellia Falco. Guests are invited to ride on her newest invention, the “Dream Flyer.” As with the other versions of the attraction, riders sit in rows of seats that lift in to the air, and are then suspended in front of a large screen. Guests then embark on a hang-glider tour with a large-format movie projected all around them. Special effects include wind, sound, and smell.

Mickey’s Magical Music World is a stage show in Tokyo Disneyland. It’s the first show in the park’s new state-of-the-art theater in the park’s new Beauty and the Beast area.

Rules and Etiquette

Before visiting Japan, or any foreign country, it’s good to get informed on some of the rules, cultural differences, and types of etiquette to remember during your visit. For example, tipping after a meal, taxi ride, or any other service is not expected and should not be done. Tipping is simply not something that is practiced in Japan, including Tokyo Disney Resort. Any tips you try and give will usually be refused. We go much further in-depth on the subject of rules and etiquette on our Tokyo Disney site .

Is Tokyo Disneyland “English friendly?”

I’ve been posting these Tokyo Disneyland guides for over 5 years now and one of the most frequently asked questions I get is: “How English friendly is Tokyo Disneyland?” or “Is there an issue with the language barrier?” or “Will I enjoy the parks if I don’t speak Japanese?” along with many other variations of the same question. In my many visits to Tokyo Disneyland for both pleasure and to research for this website, I have never experienced any issues with communicating with the resort staff. As to be expected in a country that is not your own, most Tokyo Disney cast members will not fluently speak your native language. But, most will know enough to help you with whatever you need. If a cast member can’t understand what you are asking, they will do their best to find a colleague who can. If you find that you are having difficulty communicating with a cast member, be patient, don’t raise your voice, show respect, and anything you are asking will be handled in a short amount of time. Also keep in mind most cast members at ticket booths, guest services, and the hotels will usually speak fluent English. Will you enjoy the rides and shows if you don’t speak Japanese? Yes. Themed entertainment uses visual storytelling. While some rides and shows are in English, most are not, but they’re still just as enjoyable visually. Is Pooh speaking a little Japanese on Pooh’s Hunny Hunt going to ruin your enjoyment of the ride? No, it shouldn’t.

Food Recommendations

I love food and especially Disney food, luckily Tokyo Disney Resort has tons of great options. Twice now on this blog I have ranked every single snack and meal I consumed during my trips, and each time it’s

been a ridiculously high amount (during my June 2015 trip the total number of food items I ate ended up being 25). Chances are that you aren’t as crazy as I am, and you probably won’t want to eat that much food, but your mouth and stomach won’t be disappointed if you do. Some must try restaurants include Hungry Bear Restaurant (great curry), Magellan’s (one of the best Disney restaurants on earth), Sherwood Garden Buffet (the best buffet on property), and Queen of Hearts Royal Banquet Hall (photogenic food items). There’s also dozens of small snacks you’ll want to try. When I’m in the parks I find myself examining the menu of every food cart and kiosk I pass in the hopes of finding some new delicious treat.

A word about Tokyo Disney merchandise

Hopefully using the information in this Tokyo Disneyland trip planning guide you’ll be able to plan the perfect Tokyo Disney Resort vacation. If you have been before I’d love to hear any tips or strategies you may have picked up while you were there. If you’ve never been, feel free to leave any questions or comments below.

Your Thoughts?

Are you a first time visitor planning a trip to Tokyo Disney Resort and have questions? Have you been before and have advice to share with other people? Let me know in the comments below. Also let me know about your favorite things about TDR, or what you’re looking forward to seeing this year.

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Guy Selga Jr.

Disneyland writer for TouringPlans.com and co-author of the Unofficial Guide to Disneyland. Also a Disneyland local and appreciator of Disney theme park history. Twitter and Instagram: @guyselga

19 thoughts on “ 2024 Tokyo Disneyland Trip Planning Guide ”

Thank you for sharing, i just wanted to ask, how much time will it take to cover one park?

Another great option for buying tickets is at certain Disney stores in Japan (notably, the one in Shibuya). That’s been my go-to TDR ticket strategy.

Great tip. Thanks for sharing.

Your suggestion to get a mobile hotspot is one of the best pieces of advice you can give anyone traveling in Japan, even when I travel there for work, I always pickup an econnect. they deliver it to the post office in Narita aiport, pick it up when you arrive, and you just toss everything back in the provided envelope and drop it in a mailbox in the airport on the way out.

The convenience of the pick up/drop off process is fantastic!

Keep up all of the great Tokyo info. We need this to plan our way in the future trip. I think we are going to hit Universal Osaka too. Need to crack open my college Japanese texts, like it’s really going to help:)

Awesome! I’m a big fan of Universal Japan and the city of Osaka so I definitely recommend going there to explore.

Just a tip regarding currency: do not get foreign currency before your trip, either from your bank or the airport. The exchange rates are lousy and the fees are astronomical. Better to just stop by an ATM when you land. Yes, alert your card company and ask how much your daily withdrawal can be. Usually there is a set fee in addition to the exchange rate, so best to just withdraw large amounts at once (i.e. $300) then make frequent visits and be hit with the fee each time.

In japan, if you are using your card, make sure the machine says interac or something along those lines or they won’t work. Your best bet is a post office, or good old 7-11. Which in Japan, is pretty classy compared to North America.

We visited Tokyo Disneyland in July of 2016 – a few things to add to your post:

We went in early July. The crowds at that time are light, but there were some ride closures. The trade off is that it was hot. Worst case Orlando hot. 90+ with high humidity. To add to that, air conditioning in Japan is different. For instance, in the shops in Orlando, the AC is cranked low and that creates an oasis of cool. In Japan the shops are cooler, but not even close to as cool as Florida standards. The hotel AC is also not as cold as would be the norm in the US. So if you go in that quieter time be ready for heat – we adopted our August touring style of taking afternoons off – it was a necessity.

One funny thing about the onsite hotels – the pool wasn’t open during our early July visit – it didn’t open until the middle of the month. It was strange having it be so hot, and no pool available.

As a way to keep airfares manageable (we are a family of 6) we used credit card points to book reward tickets. We saved points for two years, and with introductory offers, were able to travel round trip from the east coast for just the taxes – about $360 total. Not for everyone, but if you have access to a way to earn points, it works to make the trip affordable.

As for credit cards, we had no issues in the parks, but once you are in Tokyo proper, there are many places that only accept cash. My kids wanted McDonalds fries one day after a week of Japanese food, and when I pulled out my credit card to pay, was a little surprised to find out they only accepted cash. Even in Tokyo, there are many places that do not accept cards – make sure you have cash ready.

Your point about the early 15 minutes for staying onsite cannot be stressed enough. The regular lines at rope drop started forming 90 minutes before opening on a quiet (for TDR) day. Without the 15 minute headstart we would have been stuck in long lines. In that 15 minutes, we could get a fast pass for Toy Story, and ride Tower of Terror twice before the lines ballooned with the regular crowds. At that point the wait just to get a fast pass for Toy story was more than 20 minutes long. Having that 15 minutes allowed us to stay ahead of the crowds.

The ticket lottery was interesting. There was some chatter when we were there that guests staying onsite had better odds – especially if they were foreign. Not sure how true that was, but when we entered the lottery for Big Bang Beat (yes – it is amazing!!), a message popped up on the machine and they had to retrieve special tickets for us. Center stage about 10 rows back. Not sure if that was a result of our staying onsite (in two rooms) but it seemed that way by the staff reaction.

For the language barrier, our experience was that it was no issue in the parks, but a bit more of a challenge at our hotel (Disneyland Hotel). IT seemed that we were just about the only English speakers when we went, and while the front desk was fantastic, the housekeeping staff, and the limo bus ticket desk were a little more challenged by English. Just took a little more effort to get our points across – but the service was excellent. If the potential language barrier is keeping you from visiting TDR, it shouldn’t. We were apprehensive before the trip, but ran into no issues in Tokyo or TDR. In the city, folks were very happy to see us as tourists, and extremely welcoming.

Finally – things in Japan run on time. When we went to catch the limobus back to Narita, we received an apology because it was running late. Turned out it left 2 minutes later than scheduled and we received multiple apologies!!

You are so right about the AC, not just in TDR, but in Japan in general. No one their cranks their ACs up like we do in the US. I enjoyed reading all your comments and observations, thanks for leaving them.

Americans turn their AC waaaay too low! I always have to bring a thin wool blanket in my bag when we are in the U.S. because I get so cold indoors. Just because I dress according to the outside temperature 😮

Thank you for this! We will go to Tokyo Disneyland for the first time in April 2020 (the week between Easter and Golden week), and I have begun checking hotel sites for the same week of 2019 to get an idea of what we will have to pay for accommodation. So this blog post is super helpful! One question: How much of an advantance is the early access at at time with a predicted medium attendance level? We are debating whether we should stay at the Disney Celebration hotel to get the early access, even if Hilton and Sheraton are better and closer. The other three Disney hotels are too expensive for us. We recently visited Shanghai Disneyland, stayed onsite and loved the early access and the separate entrance for hotel guests, so we fear we will regret choosing a better hotel over early access in Tokyo. Thoughts on this will be greatly appreciated!

When we went in early July of 2016, it was a very quiet time, and that 15 minutes was priceless. The line up at rope drop starts early, and even arriving 45 minutes before the early entry started, there were quite a few folks in front of us. I cannot imagine what it is like when its is busier. That 15 minutes allowed us to get in front of the crowds, keeping us one step ahead all morning. By the afternoon – the advantage runs out. We paid a lot to stay onsite, but the convenience and early entry made it worth it. Park tickets are relatively inexpensive compared to US parks, so we balanced the extra hotel cost against the lower ticket price.

Thank you! This is exactly the kind of advice I was hoping for. I think we may have to go for the Disney Celebration hotel. Or perhaps we should follow your example and splurge for one of the three monorail hotels because the park tickets are inexpensive… 🙂

I don’t find the early access to be much of any advantage at all. No rides are open during this time (but OLC has announced that Soaring will be the first and so far only ride open during Happy 15). The only advantage you get is that you are at the front of the lines that have formed outside of the park. Again, this is my opinion, I stayed in MiraCosta and Tokyo Disneyland Hotel and found the early entry perk not to be useful at all. Would love to hear what other readers have to say though.

When we were there, Buzz Lightyear was open during the 15 minutes at Disneyland, and Tower of Terror and Toy Story were open at DisneySea. After riding the first rides, were were able to gt in short lines for fast passes machines that turned on at official park opening – when the big crowds were still at the front gate. That got us our second fast pass earlier, as the return time on the first one was close.

For example at DisneySea, we rode Tower of Terror twice, then got a fast pass for Toy Story with a very quick return. Went on Toy Story, then walked over to the Nemo ride and were able to get a fast pass for not too far in the future. Couldn’t do that without the 15 minutes.

In Shanghai Disneyland the attractions are not open during the 30 minutes early access for hotel guests, but we managed to get first in line for the headliners and also get a head start on getting fastpasses during that time because the main entrance crowds were not yet inside the park. Do the hotel guests have a separate entrance during the Happy 15? If so, that is a great perk in itself 😀

Yes – there is a separate entrance just for Happy 15 hotel guests.

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101 Great Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea Tips

Thinking about visiting Japan before, during, or after the 2020 Olympics? These are 101 of our favorite tips to save time, money, or just improve the quality of your experience at Tokyo DisneySea and Disneyland. These ideas will have you touring the parks like a local…even as you’re thousands of miles from home! ( Updated January 29, 2020 .)

If you’ve read any of our posts about Tokyo Disney Resort, you know we absolutely love these parks, and think you’d almost have to go out of your way to have a bad experience. (Well, unless you visit on weekend during a Golden Week.) As easy as it is to have a good experience, there are plenty of little under the radar things that can elevate your trip from good to great, or even from great to magical.

This list of Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea tips could go on and on. As Tokyo Disney Resort Annual Passholders, we spend a lot of time in the parks, attempt to try every limited-time snack, special event entertainment, and checking out all of the cool new merchandise…but it’s an uphill battle. Things are changing constantly, and the Japan parks have offerings for every season…and seasons that you didn’t even know exist!

By the way, if you have some good tips be sure to add them to the comments. This is just a jumping-off point, and hardly covers everything that could improve your experience at Tokyo Disney Resort.

With that said, let’s dig into our 101 best Tokyo Disneyland tips…

• DO NOT VISIT TOKYO DISNEYLAND OR DISNEYSEA ON WEEKENDS OR NATIONAL HOLIDAYS. Sorry for yelling, but the difference between a Tuesday and a Saturday is more pronounced in Japan’s parks than any others in the world. These are truly local’s parks, and wait times and crowd levels really reflect that. Read more in our When to Visit Tokyo Disneyland in 2020 post.
• Seasonal versions of Country Bear Jamboree still run in Japan, and they will undoubtedly be named National Treasures and UNESCO World Heritage Sites within the next few years. Do not miss Country Bear Vacation Jamboree if you visit from May through October or Jingle Bell Jamboree (Country Bear Christmas) if you visit in November or December.
• No matter when you visit Japan, consulting our 1-Day Tokyo Disneyland Itinerary and 1-Day Tokyo DisneySea Itinerary for efficient touring plans. We’ve revised these itineraries countless times, and they will maximize what you see in a single day.
• Want a delicious meal in a stunning setting? Read our 3-Course $30 Meal at Disney’s Nicest Restaurant post.
• The biggest expansion of Tokyo Disney Resort in two decades debuts in 2020. Read our Opening Date & New Details for Tokyo Disneyland’s Colossal 2020 Expansion for info about the new Beauty and the Beast land, and more.
• Tokyo DisneySea is currently in the midst of constructing a $2.3 billion new land (and hotel) known as Fantasy Springs . This will debut in 2023.
• Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage is a life-changing attraction that is often overlooked . Do not miss it.
• Consult the Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea Crowd Calendars when choosing your dates to visit.
• Chandu Tails are a life-changing snack that…well, they’re not often overlooked. Nevertheless, do not miss them. Read about other delicious options in our Awesome Tokyo DisneySea Snacks post.
• We’ve stayed at all of Tokyo Disney Resort’s on-site non-Disney hotels, which are the best option unless you’re a high-roller who can splurge for Tokyo Disneyland Hotel or Hotel MiraCosta. These on-site hotels are all on the monorail loop, and regularly have rooms in the $150-200/night range. Read our Hotel Reviews & Rankings for Tokyo Disney Resort for info, room photos, and more about each.
• Always consult the Temporary Closure of Park Facilities page before booking your trip. Maintenance is an imperative at Tokyo Disney Resort, and many attractions receive work annually. Schedule your trip to avoid closures of must-do attractions.
• Tokyo Disney Resort now has an app that can be used for securing FastPass. This is essential for Soaring: Fantastic Flight and the same will be true for Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast. Unfortunately, the app is only in Japanese, and you’ll have to jump through some hoops to download and use it. However, it’s worth the effort.
• Discount TDR tickets are sometimes available, and can save you some money. Read our Tips for Saving Money on Tokyo Disneyland Tickets post for tips and tricks to saving money on Tokyo Disney Resort park tickets.
• No matter the season, one thing you absolutely need to pack for a trip to Japan is an external battery chargers for your phone . This is essential not for sharing photos on social media, but so you have Google Maps to navigate Tokyo’s complex transportation network. Find more suggestions on our Unique Disney Packing List post.
• Contrary to conventional wisdom, the only ATM at Tokyo Disney Resort is not in the basement of Ikspiari. There are more convenient 7-11 ATMs in some of the third party hotel lobbies, including the Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel Club Resort .
• Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights will blow your mind , and should be experienced by everyone, even if you’re “not a parade person.” It’s the best Disney parade in the world, period.
• While taking the monorail is a fun and highly recommended experience, you can walk from Bayside Station to Tokyo Disneyland in a little over 10 minutes. This will save you time in the morning, and also the cost of purchasing a monorail ticket. (On the way back at night, the monorail will be faster.)
• Ikspiari is Tokyo’s equivalent of Downtown Disney. Read our Guide to Ikspiari at Tokyo Disney Resort for our full shopping & dining recommendations.
• For maximum savings on hotel rooms, plan a stay between Sunday and Friday. Weekend rates can be over double the cost of weekday rates, and weekends in the parks are busier, anyway.
• If you’re caffeine addicts like us, we recommend bringing your own “fix.” We use these Mount Hagen Organic Instant Regular Coffee sticks as they are a cost-effective and strong option. Highly recommended! All counter service restaurants at Tokyo Disney Resort have free water, and most will give you cups of free hot water. (However, hot water can be difficult to get due to the language barrier. It’s one of the few things that consistently gives us trouble.)
• We have used Airbnb throughout Japan, including for two separate month-long stays in Kyoto. It’s an excellent way to save money, and is particularly good for larger families, as most hotels in Japan are geared for solo travelers or parties of 1-2. Read our Tips for Using Airbnb post for our recommendations for booking an Airbnb for a Tokyo Disney vacation.
• For the easiest parade viewing experience, watch the last running of the parade from the rail near the Partners statue. This provides an elevated view and is not as good for ground level performers, but is great for photos with the floats in the background. The best ground-level view is the left side of the Central Plaza curb (directly in front of Crystal Palace).
• If you do opt for hotels, we recommend doing a split hotel stay with one hotel at Tokyo Disney Resort for that portion of your trip, and one hotel in downtown Tokyo for that portion of your trip. The commute to Maihama Station from downtown can take an hour, and transferring through Tokyo Station can be brutal.
• From the brilliantly-themed restaurants to the cute and delicious foods, eating is a huge part of the Tokyo Disney Resort experience. Consult our Tokyo Disneyland Restaurant Reviews for food photos and thoughts about almost every restaurant in the parks!
• One of our favorite times to visit is late October into early November. We call this “HalloXmas at Tokyo Disneyland” and have a full post detailing how to do both Halloween and Christmas in one trip . (BONUS: You see both seasonal versions of Country Bear Jamboree, which many experts say is the fastest path to enlightenment.)
• Speaking of which, Christmas at Tokyo Disneyland is my favorite time to visit . The decorations are beautiful, the entertainment is spectacular, and there’s excellent Christmas ambiance. Thanks to the beautiful tree, World Bazaar has a sense of warmth and character instead of feeling cavernous.
• You do not need to pack a voltage converter in Japan. However, outlets in most Japanese hotel rooms are limited, so we’d strongly recommend packing this compact 6-port USB charging station . If you’re like us, most of your devices charge via USB these days.
• Unlike Orlando or Anaheim, Tokyo has seasons. It can get cold (and even snow!) at Tokyo Disneyland in the winter. If you’re visiting from October through March, be sure to consult our What to Pack for Winter at Disney post.
• Did we mention that Tokyo has seasons? Because it can get super hot and humid during the summer. So much so that a big part of the summer entertainment involves hosing down guests with water. Consult our Summer Packing Tips for Disney post for some suggestions. (Even though that discusses Walt Disney World, it applies equally to Tokyo–the top photo in the post is actually from Tokyo DisneySea!)
• For a hassle-free way of getting from Narita or Haneda Airports to Tokyo Disney Resort, use the Airport Limo Bus . Cheaper transportation is available via the JR Lines, which is what we typically use. However, if it’s after a long flight and you have kids, the Airport Limo Bus is less of a hassle.
• Traveling to Japan is not cheap, but it doesn’t have to break the bank, either. While we don’t focus on every money-saving hack in these tips, you can find a ton of suggestions for cutting costs in our Tokyo Disneyland on a Budget post.
• Duffy is “a thing” in Japan. This might come as a surprise for U.S. fans who saw the character fail in the stateside parks. Trust us: embrace Duffy and his friends, don’t fight it. For more on this, read our “ Phenomenon of Duffy at Tokyo DisneySea ” post.
• Thinking about visiting during the Olympics? Read our Visiting Tokyo Disney Resort During Japan’s 2020 Olympics for the pros & cons of timing a trip during the games, and what else you might need to know.
• Tokyo Disney Resort merchandise is very taste-specific. If you love flashy designs and characters, you’ll likely love it. If you’re more into park or attraction-specific stuff, you’re likely to be disappointed. Read our “ Tokyo Disneyland Merchandise: Awful or Awesome? ” post for more info.
• If you are celebrating a special occasion, you can purchase buttons and other merchandise reflecting the celebration in gift shops. Guest Services will have free “Happy Birthday” stickers, too.
• Embrace your inner child and feel free to dress with a sense of “kawaii-ness” at Tokyo Disney Resort. Many guests wear novelty hats, loud character shirts, and other Disney-centric attire. Attire you might feel self-conscious about wearing in the U.S. parks will be celebrated in Japan. Consult Sarah’s What to Wear to Disney post for ideas of practical and nice-looking options.
• Tripods are not allowed in the parks, no matter what the size. If you want night photos like the ones on this blog, we recommend using the Pod Bean Bag .
• Single Rider is available at Splash Mountain, Raging Spirits, and Indiana Jones Adventure. Simply enter the FastPass return line and say “Single Rider.”
• Hilton Tokyo Bay is our favorite non-Disney hotel at Tokyo Disney Resort , and it has occasional flash sales and special Hilton Honors (free to join) member pricing. We’ve also found great prices at Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel, scoring rates around $125/night for both of these hotels.
• If you leave your hotel room early to make rope drop and have to forgo breakfast, two options that are quick and convenient are Sweetheart Cafe in Tokyo Disneyland and Mamma Biscotti’s Bakery in Tokyo DisneySea.
• Shops on World Bazaar are open up to an hour after the park closes. Unfortunately, this is when everyone seems to do their shopping, and you’ll find that a lot of inventory is sold out later in the night. Do your shopping in the mid-evening and take photos as the park is clearing out.
• The perfect place to warm up with a hot drink on a cold winter evening and enjoy the beautiful Christmas ambiance is Cape Cod at Tokyo DisneySea .
• “Priority Seating” reservations for table service and buffet restaurants can be made online 30 days in advance, but only on the Japanese site, which is mind-numbingly frustrating to use. Instead, make them in person at the restaurant podiums starting at 10 a.m. each day. That’s what we do, and we’re successful about 90% of the time.
• Thanks to stopovers and open-jaw flights, it’s possible to visit Hong Kong Disneyland, Shanghai Disneyland, and Tokyo Disney Resort all on the same trip. Read our “ How to Visit 3 Disney Destinations on 1 Airfare ” post for the step by step process of booking this.
• Grab a FastPass for Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek! at rope drop, then race to standby for Pooh’s Hunny Hunt. If the wait is 30 minutes or less, do it. If more, move on to Peter Pan’s Flight and get a Hunny Hunt FastPass later.
• Parade mats are a big thing. We recommend packing this to help save your spot and also “claim your territory” so others’ don’t encroach upon your personal space. You can also buy Disney-themed mats in the parks.
• Want to splurge for a night or two? We recommend booking a night at Hotel Miracosta between the Tokyo (city) and Disney legs of your trip and taking a day to unwind in your room. Hotel Miracosta is inside Tokyo DisneySea, and is an incredible hotel experience that justifies the sky-high prices .
• If you stay at one of the three Disney hotels, you’ll be able to enter 15 minutes before everyone else through a special turnstile for “Happy 15.” This is a nice advantage if you want Toy Story Mania FastPasses, but it doesn’t offer much of an advantage at Tokyo Disneyland.
• If you’re truly a high-roller, you’ll book one of the specialty suites at the Disney-owned hotels, such as the Mickey Mouse Penthouse .
• Sherwood Garden Restaurant in Tokyo Disneyland Hotel is the best buffet at Tokyo Disney Resort . Great for a midday break on a busy day.
• If you only have the energy to do rope drop or close out the park at the end of the night, choose the latter. To take full advantage of rope drop, you need to arrive at least 30 minutes before opening. By contrast, it’s easier to wait out the late night crowds as most people take the train home before the parks close.
• China Voyager and Hungry Bear Restaurant are our favorite fast options for food at Tokyo Disneyland. For the full list, check out our Tokyo Disneyland Counter Service Restaurant Rankings .
• Purchasing a multi-day pass for the monorail might not be the cheapest option unless you take midday breaks at your hotel, but it’s definitely the most convenient one. (Alternatively, using a PASMO card can be both cheap and convenient.)
• All restaurants at Tokyo Disney Resorts have English menus; if there is a language barrier issue, Cast Members will have menus with photos you can point at to place your order.
• Teddy Roosevelt Lounge is a must-visit bar (even if you don’t drink) in Tokyo DisneySea located aboard the S.S. Columbia. Let that sink in. A bar in Japan. Honoring an American President. On a classic American ocean liner. We think it’s the nicest Disney bar in the world–and we’ve been to both Club 33 lounges in California.
• Tokyo Disney Resort is famed for its unique popcorn flavors that are exclusive to certain spots in each park. While we recommend trying a few of these, don’t buy into the hype. You might love them, but you might find them massively overrated. (We do.)
• If you’re staying at Tokyo Disneyland Hotel or Hotel Miracosta, you’ll be given a monorail pass to use for the duration of your hotel stay.
• Tick Tock Diner in Disney’s Ambassador Hotel has cute and photogenic Mickey-shaped baked goods . We highly recommend it (unfortunately, it’s not open before the parks–you’ll need to go midday).
• The various storefronts and other props in Toontown are the Tokyo “cool kid” equivalent of the Purple Wall at Walt Disney World. Expect to wait in line for primo photo spots.
• You can exchange 3 single-day (or multi-day) monorail tickets at the station for a collectible pin. (You don’t have to actually surrender your tickets, which are also collectible–they’ll be stamped.)
• Vegetarian meals are becoming more common at Tokyo Disney Resort, but your best option for that is still the in-park buffets. (Plazma Ray’s Diner is also a good choice.)
• Big Band Beat, Hello New York, and Song of Mirage at Tokyo DisneySea and Let’s Party Gras and Dreaming Up at Tokyo Disneyland (as well as seasonal shows in both parks) have a free lottery system for seating. All of these shows are worth seeing, so plan accordingly if you lose. We highly recommend playing the lotto for Big Band Beat early in the day, and doing the first show of the day via standby.
• If you anticipate “needing” a princess dress or pirate costume while at Tokyo Disney Resort, buy it from your local Disney Store or DisneyStore.com in advance during a sale. Much cheaper that way.
• While we recommend packing cheap ponchos, Tokyo Disney Resort sells branded ponchos and umbrellas–one of the few pieces of merchandise that actually says “Tokyo Disney Resort” on it–and they’re not terribly overpriced.
• There’s a grocery store in the basement of Ikspiari where you can purchase foods to make cheap breakfasts. (At night, there are also markdowns on pre-made meals.)
• If Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights is cancelled due rain, don’t run off. In its place, Nightfall Glow runs, which is arguably a better parade than Paint the Night. (And definitely better than Walt Disney World’s nighttime parade: ~ nothing ~)
• Photography rules on attractions and shows are strict and difficult to ascertain. “No flash” also means no LCD screens in most cases, so hold your phone to your chest so no one else can see the LCD screen if you plan on using it.
• Our favorite counter service restaurant at Tokyo DisneySea is Casbah Food Court. You can read how they all stack up in our Tokyo DisneySea Counter Service Restaurant Rankings .
• Photos with roaming characters are a free-for-all. It’s one of the few scenarios where the orderliness of Japan gives way to mass chaos. Nevertheless, it’s a fun experience, and usually characters will go out of their way to seek out the confused foreigner if you have trouble being assertive.
• It’s possible to view all of Tokyo DisneySea’s harbor shows from Fortress Explorations. This “rear” vantage isn’t always the best, but these are mostly 360-degree shows, and you can show up and grab a spot at the last minute, unlike the front of the park.
• Crowds at Fantasyland attractions thin dramatically in the evening, especially if the weather is crowd or rainy. We routinely encounter a <10 minute wait at Pooh’s Hunny Hunt in the last half-hour the park is open.
• In parade and show seating areas, standing is not allowed, nor are shoulder kids or even large hats.
• Duffy and friends merchandise is only sold at Tokyo DisneySea. Certain Duffy items are limited edition, and sell out within hours of being released.
• If you’re into park audio or videos, you’re in luck–Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea release CDs and DVDs/Blu-ray for pretty much everything. Here’s a look at the excellent Tokyo Disneyland 30th Anniversary Blu-ray Set we bought .
• The monorail typically runs 90 minutes after park closing. This could be problematic if you stay out late in Shinjuku and return at Tokyo Disney Resort long after the parks close…and have to walk from Maihama Station to your hotel in the cold. (Not that this has ever happened to us…multiple times…or anything!)
• Avoid dedicated character meet & greets. The lines are usually long, and to get people through as quickly as possible, only one photo per party is allowed. The experience is rushed and often un-fun.
• Free Wi-Fi internet is not available throughout the theme parks at Tokyo Disney Resort, so you’ll either need a MiFi or international data on your phone.
• Queen of Hearts Banquet Hall– the popular Alice in Wonderland restaurant in Tokyo Disneyland –often draws a line. We recommend lining up 5 minutes before they open (often as early as 10 a.m.) to beat the crowds.
• Bell Services at all Tokyo Disney Resort hotels (Disney and non) will store your luggage, meaning you can enjoy the parks if you arrive too early on check-in day or have a late flight out on check-out day. (There are also lockers at Maihama Station.)
• The popular Green Alien Mochi that we highlight in our Adorable & Awesome Tokyo Disneyland Snacks post are also available in a 9-dumpling serving size for groups (or Sarah, all by herself!) at Mamma Biscotti’s.
• Hilton Tokyo Bay has an incredibly elaborate Christmas village with trains, Shinkansen, hot air balloons, and even gondolas. It’s worth a detour to see even if you’re staying at one of the other Bayside Station hotels.
• Coca-Cola is sold at Tokyo Disney Resort, but Diet Coke is not. You can find Coke Zero in some locations, though. (Diet Coke isn’t sold in Japan, but Coca-Cola Plus–Coke with a laxative–is!)
• Pan Galactic Pizza Port is an intergalactic franchise serving budget-friendly pizza and having the coolest alien show. We can only hope this becomes the next big IP, and Tony Solaroni: Crust’s Edge Land, Pan Galactic immersive hotel experience & cinematic universe are soon introduced.
• Chewing gum is not sold in Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea.
• HHonors Gold Members receive free breakfast at Hilton Tokyo Bay. This is a huge benefit as the breakfast here is incredibly high quality with a mix of Eastern and Western foods.
• Ippudo is one of the best ramen chains in Japan, and it has a location in Ikspiari. Highly recommended if you want to try great ramen but will have limited time in the city of Tokyo.
• You will not get wet on Splash Mountain, making it a suitable option for cold days, or nights when it’s often (inexplicably) a walk-on.
• You’ll have around 30 minutes for photos after park close. Start in the back of the park and work your way forward to World Bazaar or Aquasphere Plaza, which are always packed with people in the first 20-30 minutes after park closing.
• There’s a hidden 50,000 point target in the center of Zurg’s chest on Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters.
• Happy 15 is best used for character meet & greets, Monsters Inc. Ride & Go Seek, or Toy Story Mania.
• Stand to right of Partners statue for best photos of any parade and ideal show-stop positioning for holiday parades.
• In Tokyo Disneyland, the middle balcony of Tomorrowland Terrace or the terrace behind Stitch Encounter are good fireworks viewing/photography locations.
• The Cape Cod lighthouse platform is good fireworks viewing location in Tokyo DisneySea.
• Watch the courtyard behind Cinderella Castle within the first hour the park is open. You’re sure to spot some characters, but you might get lucky and see all Seven Dwarfs march through Fantasyland!
• Jungle Book monkeys and the Three Caballeros regularly appear near the Tiki Room in Adventureland
• Set meals at table service restaurants are significantly more expensive at dinner for a disproportionate increase in quality. We almost exclusively do lunch.
• Do your shopping early in the day to avoid crowds in shops at park closing. Avoid the Emporium and go for other smaller shops deeper in Tokyo Disneyland.
• Not all toilets are “fully-featured” at Tokyo Disney Resort. Typically, you can find good ones in restaurants.
• For first timers to Japan who are Disney fans, we recommend allocating one-third of your time to Tokyo and one-third to Tokyo Disney Resort. The final third should be spent taking the Shinkansen to Kyoto, which is our favorite city in the world. Read our Ultimate Guide to Kyoto, Japan for our tips, recommendations, and plans for visiting.
• Japan Rail Pass is not valid on the Disney Resort Line (monorail), so time your activation date to coincide with your days exploring Tokyo and Kyoto. Read our “ Should You Buy the Japan Rail Pass? ” post to determine whether it’s right for you.
• Slow down to savor the entertainment, Cast Member interactions, and little magical moments that occur frequently throughout Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. Both parks are so much more than their attractions and shows.

Okay, that’s it! This barely scratches the surface, so if you have any useful tips about Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea that we’ve missed, please share in the comments to keep the conversation going!

If you’re thinking of visiting Japan for the first time and are overwhelmed with planning, definitely check out our Tokyo Disney Resort Planning Guide . It covers much more than the parks, from getting there to WiFi to currency and much, much more. For more photos and an idea of what we did day-by-day during our first visit, read our Tokyo Disney Resort Trip Report .

YOUR THOUGHTS…

What do you think of the tips we’ve shared for best-experiencing Tokyo Disney Resort? Anything with which you disagree? Any of your own tips to add to improve others’ experience in Japan’s Disney parks? Any questions about these Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea tips? Hearing from you is half the fun, so please share your questions and thoughts in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

>hot water can be difficult to get due to the language barrier.

“Hot water” is “ o-yu ” in Japanese.

>Chewing gum is not sold in Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo Disney Sea.

Is chewing gum sold in Disney parks in the U.S.?

the link to Klook is a dead link, and there aren’t tickets for Tokyo Disney on that website. What’s the next best place to buy tickets?

This is incredibly helpful – thank you so much! I appreciate the note about vegetarian options.

This will be our first trip to Japan and your suggestion about making Kyoto one of our other destinations sealed the itinerary I had drafted.

Hi! Thanks for all the tips. Great resource for TDR! Hot water is “Oyu” (お湯), you could try it next time to get your caffeine fix!

Ok, now I’m very curious about what this means:

“Not all toilets are “fully-featured” at Tokyo Disney Resort.”

Please elaborate.

1. Windy conditions will cancel Fantasmic so if conditions are good, consider prioritizing it over rides instead of thinking you’ll see it another night; otherwise you may miss out like I did. 2. TSM is exactly the same as in the U.S. so skip if there’s a wait. Indiana Jones is NOT the same, as the queue is really elaborate and a few aspects of the ride are unique. On a weekday you can sometimes do a near-walk on with Single Rider so do not skip! 3. Even if you don’t understand Japanese, act attentive and don’t browse your phone during the safety spiel. Otherwise you’ll be politely told to put your phone away and bring shame upon the U.S.

I got the Sinbad story card at the ride but didn’t realize others also had them. Next time…

This is super helpful and really fun to read, as are all of your articles! Seeing all of the social media posts of yours and Sarah’s has influenced my decision to plan solo trip to TDR in May 2019 right after Golden Week. I would love to see a post about going solo in TDR. I’m doing 7 days in the parks. I wanna really soak it all in! And I’m using all of your articles to make my plans. Thanks for all the amazing words and pics!

1. During certain days during the Halloween Event, guests can come to the park in costumes as Disney characters. I don’t know that this schedule is publicly available in English, but it’s really cool. So many guests go all-out on their costumes, and it adds a fun element to your day. 2. There are a number of characters you never see in the U.S. I remember seeing the Three Little Pigs and Marie from The Aristocats (who is SUPER popular because kawaii), among others. 3. I never meet face characters in the US, but at TDR it was really cool. We met Prince Eric at DisneySea, for example, and he was fantastic. They are taken from the same pool of character actors as the U.S. parks, so you can imagine that they don’t get the same chance to talk to the guests as they do in the U.S. Perhaps because of that, he was very happy to chat with us. It can be a fun, brief chance to converse with someone else in English, because (although it appears to be changing a bit) you won’t see many westerners at the parks. 4. Maybe we just got lucky, but despite the huge popularity of the various parades/events, we were able to find viewing areas not that long before they started. 5. Make an effort to spend time at DisneySea at night, it’s beautiful. 6. FastPass is closer to “front of the line” in Tokyo than it is anywhere else. Every time I (or anyone else) used a FastPass, they would immediately stop the standby line and let the FP holders through. 7. Go in with at least some kind of plan. I can’t imagine how stressful Tokyo Disney would be if you were to go in blind. All of the Japanese guests plan, are there early, and know how to use and maximize FastPass. 8. A lot of Tokyo Disneyland’s rides are exact clones of Disneyland or Magic Kingdom attractions, but not all of them. Attractions that are different that I sometimes see labeled as identical on other TDR reports include Splash Mountain and Snow White’s Adventures (which is still SCARY in Tokyo!) 7. Touched on above, but even if you’re not an entertainment person at the other parks, make an effort to see at least the big ticket shows at both parks. The entertainment quality is staggering. 8. One place that does NOT extend, however, is the fireworks show. They do one show for both parks. It’s short, NOT centered around the castle, and not choreographed or synced with music. Unlike the spectaculars associated with the US parks, it’s basically a version of Fantasy in the Sky no matter what they’re calling it this year. They are also canceled a lot due to wind (as TDR is right on Tokyo Bay); I was there for four days and they only went off one night. No need to prioritize them at all. 9. If you think you’re only going to visit one international park, make it Tokyo. If you want to do all of them and that seems like a realistic possibility, I would recommend Paris first, then Hong Kong, then Shanghai (which admittedly I haven’t been to yet), and then end with Tokyo. This is partially because… 10.Tokyo Disney Resort WILL alter the way you see all of the other Disney parks around the world. The standards it sets are unmatched by the others in all of the important areas. 11. Not sure if this has changed, but in 2010 they did not have English maps readily available around the park. You couldn’t just walk up to a map kiosk, for example, and grab an English map. They are available at Guest Relations at each park. Maybe someone who’s been more recently can shed some light on whether or not this has changed? 12. Don’t fret about the language barrier. If a cast member doesn’t speak English, they will find someone who does. Speaking a little Japanese will help, but you will get excellent service even if you don’t know any Japanese. All of the important information (signs, warnings, etc.) will be posted in English. 13. Tokyo’s subways shut down promptly at Midnight. It’s unlikely to affect you, as usually the parks close at 10, but something to keep in mind if you’re commuting and it takes you longer than you expect to leave the park. 14. If you are remotely passionate about Disney parks, you owe it to yourself to go. If anyone rolls their eyes about going to another country and visiting a theme park, leave them at home.

hi Tom (or any Disney experts out there) I have a question!

I plan on doing Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom in one day (park hopper) on September this year.

I know HS will have the new Toy Story Land, so which park do you recommend I visit first that day?

HS in the afternoon or Animal Kingdom?

I would love to know your opinion

All of this had me intrigued and wondering if I could plan a trip for when my kids are a bit older until you dropped the bombshell… NO DIET COKE?!?!? I seriously am not sure i can go a week without it.

Trust me, it’s worth it. Tokyo Disney is that amazing!

And Diet pop is, to my knowledge, an exclusively American thing. I’ve now visited eight countries and have never seen ANY diet soda outside of the US.

In Germany, Diet Coke is called Coca-Cola light. There is also Coca-Cola Zero, which I prefer.

It’s not an American thing. We have Diet Coke in New Zealand, Australia and the UK.

Tip 102: try to visit during the second, third or fourth week in april, after the sakura / cherry blossom week, but before Golden Week starts. This period appears to be (one of) the least crowded times at Tokyo Disney Resort.

If you do this and, like us, really want to ride Toy Story Mania (even if Tom tells you to skip it 🙂 ), make sure to arrive +- 30-45 minutes before DisneySea opens. Next, walk (but not run) towards the TSM standby line as fast as you can, passing by hundreds of Japanese guests and ignoring the crowded fastpass line.

Last wednesday, we only waited about 30 minutes in standby for Toy Story Mania, a bit after 9 AM. In the evening around 9 PM, the line even turned out to be a bit shorter (although listed as 40 minutes).

No Fastpasses were wasted on Toy Story Mania last wednesday :), and on a relatively quiet day like this, Fastpasses for Tower of Terror, Indiana Jones and Raging Spirits were available until the evening….

Great info. I’m starting research for a trip in June 2019. Reading it makes me more excited about seeing the beauty of the Japanese people and culture. Thank you!

Great list Tom and great timing. We leave for Tokyo in 33 days!

I wish I knew about the story cards when I went. Would have loved them as a collectable. I used a waittime app to get get the story from unknown attractions (used with mifi of course).

People are unfailingly polite and friendly in Japan, and will go out of their way to help a confused looking westerner – and trust me, you’ll spend a lot of time in the train stations looking confused. Although you can get by with no Japanese (gesturing and smiling usually gets the message across), knowing a few words seems to delight people. We learned only the very basics – hello, please, thank you, white coffee and toilet – so it wasn’t difficult, but I felt it made our holiday interactions richer.

Last year ( and the year before) at the Tokyo Disneyland Park cast members were inviting guests to ride Monsters Inc, Ride and Go Seek after the official closing time. A fun way to end the day.

Any thoughts on visiting TDR on a Monday/Tuesday vs a Tuesday/Wednesday? We’re going the week of November 18th this year.

Hey Jen! I’ve been planning a visit for October this year and the crowd calendar seems to indicate Mondays are very busy, almost all the time… Check the crowd calendar Tom suggested above and Google translate it. See what it says for Mondays during your vacation but if I were you and had a flexible schedule, I’d aim for Tuesday/Wednesday.

We started our visit to TDR just this past Monday (April 16th) and we were able to see a surprising amount of attractions. We were at DisneySea Monday and by the end of the day the only things we hadn’t done yet were Big Band Beat and the gondolas, which were easily knocked out our second day at DisneySea.

Edit: We did not do Midway Mania either, though that was intentional. We’ve done it 7489274 times in Anaheim.

That’s so encouraging to hear! I hope it’s the same in October *crosses fingers*

Thanks to all! We’ll be doing Tuesday/Wednesday. Any intel on vacation packages vs. purchasing separately?

The vacation package has Fastpasses included, which seems worth it to us?

101. Get a celebration sticker from Guest Services. I went to DisneySea on my birthday and everyone was insanely, genuinely happy to wish me a happy birthday. One cast member approached me at dinner to ask if I wanted another one and drew a cute picture of Mike on it with my name in Japanese, and another cast member backtracked into a queue (when it looked like he was on break or on his way out) to wish me happy birthday.

Awesome tips!!! We are going in July and will be at Tokyo Disney Resort splitting our stay between Mira Costa (1 night only – I can barley swallow how much the 1 night is.) & the following nights at Tokyo Disneyland Hotel.

We will be traveling out to Tokyo City & other regions from Tokyo Disney Resort. I know this is not the most ideal plan in regards to sight seeing but it was the best option for us in this case and how things worked out.

But we are fully prepared for their public transportation!

Can’t wait to go! And thanks for all your resources!

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20 Best Tokyo Disneyland Rides You Shouldn’t Skip for All

All Tokyo Disneyland rides make it one of the happiest destinations on earth. There are plenty of iconic indoor and outdoor rides for you to play , along with different interactive attractions.

I’ve explored this amazing theme park with my wife at least 3 times , and each visit was truly enjoyable . In fact, it is high on my list of top things to do in Tokyo that you shouldn’t miss.

So, let me share the 20 best rides and attractions in Tokyo Disneyland that will surely make you want to try them more than once ! 😊

Tokyo Disneyland’s Exclusive List of Must-Experience Rides

1. splash mountain, 2. space mountain, 3. big thunder mountain, 4. star tours: the adventures continue, 5. monsters, inc. ride & go seek, 6. pooh’s hunny hunt.

• 7. “it’s a small world”

8. Cinderella’s Fairy Tale Hall

9. buzz lightyear’s astro blasters, 10. haunted mansion, 11. peter pan’s flight, 12. pirates of the caribbean, 13. western river railroad, 14. dumbo the flying elephant, 15. minnie’s house, 16. enchanted tale of beauty and the beast.

• 17. Mickey’s PhilharMagic
• 18. Gadget’s Go Coaster
• 19. The Enchanted Tiki Room: Stitch Presents “Aloha E Komo Mai!”

20. The Happy Ride with Baymax

The best tokyo disneyland rides and attractions (summary), must-watch shows at tokyo disneyland, meet up with disney characters, tokyo disneyland: priority pass and premier access, recommended hotels, related posts.

Among the standout rides during your adventure in Tokyo Disneyland, Splash Mountain is a top pick .

This splashing water ride comes with audio-animatronics and 45-degree high-speed drops to entertain you .

Hop aboard the log boat that can cater up to 8 persons . The entire journey lasts for up to 10 minutes.

During your trip, you’ll come across incredible sights that are actually based on the animated Disney film, Song of the South .

Space Mountain is one of Tokyo Disneyland’s most scary rides that should be part of your must-try list.

This thrilling rocket ride is like an indoor roller coaster . It travels you through a galaxy scene at a shockingly high speed .

So, make sure to prepare yourself as the 12-passenger seat ride takes you to the ends of outer space .

Along the way, there will be sharp curves and even sudden falls to hype up the fun .

It might be a challenge to keep your eyes open, but try your best to catch the remarkable scenery.

Big Thunder Mountain is a classic train roller coaster at Tokyo Disneyland that can accommodate 30 people per train.

This high-speed train ride takes you on an electrifying cave adventure .

Enjoy the thrill while watching the spectacular landscape of the 19th century California gold rush era.

Throughout the ride, there will be a lot of thrilling tilts, drops, and even a 180-degree turn .

If you’re a Star Wars fan, don’t miss the Star Tours: The Adventures Continue . This amazing ride lets you experience a realistic Star Wars battle .

Get entertained by the epic galactic adventure filled with incredible tech designs. You’ll even find yourself in the middle of an action-filled setting .

So, if you want to unleash your Star Wars fantasy, this 3D motion simulator attraction is top-notch.

The entire ride runs for 4 minutes and caters up to 40 people per vehicle.

The Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek is a 4-minute fun ride that is unique in Tokyo Disneyland.

It is a dark yet interactive attraction that is packed with sound effects and fuller-than-life animations .

Once you sit on the tram, you will be transported to the set of the famous movie, Monsters Inc .

Each car accommodates 2 persons. And since this ride-and-go-seek game is dark, you’ll be using flashlights to capture the adorable movie characters .

Tokyo Disneyland rides cover a variety of attractions, but Pooh’s Hunny Hunt is one attraction you shouldn’t skip . It’s a trackless dark ride that rotates for about 4.5 minutes .

Uniquely, what you’ll be sitting here is a honey pot that accommodates up to 5 persons .

Along the trip, there will be a fun story-telling that complements well with the 3D fine arts .

Relish the ride that transports you from one scene to another before reaching Pooh’s most-awaited Honey Tree!

7. “it’s a small world”

“it’s a small world” is a water-based boat ride that is bursting with highly-animated designs .

Catch the audio-animatronic dolls dancing, spinning, waving, and even flying around. These adorable miniature statues add more color to the place.

Throughout the 10-minute cruise , the playful chant of the song “It’s a small world” is being played .

This definitely makes the ambience more entertaining . Each boat can take up to 20 people only.

Step into the magical Cinderella’s Fairy Tale Hall and get mesmerized by its sophisticated designs .

Inside this beautiful structure are pieces from Cinderella‘s life story. These include some dazzling chandeliers and intricate ceilings.

Along with that, you’ll love the painting gallery that highlights different Cinderella scenes .

The walkthrough exhibit is also surrounded by stunning miniature statues . And of course, the famous glass slipper is also on display .

Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters is an interactive shooting attraction available within Tokyo Disneyland. This slow ride is very popular among tourists travelling with kids .

Here, you will go on board a space cruiser that can fit up to 3 persons.

Each vehicle comes with laser pistols and a joystick, which you can use along the way.

Experience a 360-degree rotation with the help of the joystick.

And then, shoot Emperor Zurg and his robots using the laser shooters .

If you want a spooky, dark ride , try the Haunted Mansion . As soon as you enter this ominous gothic mansion , you can already feel the eerie vibes.

There are plenty of ghosts, ghouls, and goblins lurking around . Some of the scary characters are even dancing and hanging , so never let your guard down.

And since this is a slow-moving ride with creepy effects, lighting, and sounds, you won’t get disappointed with the 15-minute adventure .

A total of 2 persons can seat on the Omnimover-style vehicle.

Peter Pan’s Flight is also part of the must-visit Tokyo Disneyland attractions , so make sure to ride it.

This place captivates you with its flying ship , which will serve as your transportation to Neverland, London, and Captain Hook’s pirate ship.

Come and see the many wonders of this rail-suspended dark ride that can fit 2 guests per vehicle.

Your adventure begins at the humble home of the Darling family and jumps next to the old, quiet London streets . Thereafter, you will meet Wendy Darling and Captain Hook .

Pirates of the Caribbean is another dark boat ride that you shouldn’t miss. Each boat can cater to 20 passengers.

From the name itself, this indoor cruise mimics the popular Disney movie, Pirates of the Caribbean .

You will travel through the world of pirates that is filled with realistic designs and incredible sounds .

Along the way, you will see a lot of creepy-looking characters as well as jolly figures . For sure, you will enjoy this classic water adventure.

Western River Railroad is a steam train that can accommodate 140 persons.

Unlike other rides, this 15-minute outdoor expedition passes right through other areas in the park . These include Critter Country, Adventureland, Thunder Mountain, and Westernland.

While onboard, you’ll catch a glimpse of the daily lives of the Native Americans . The scenic views are also worth-capturing.

And near the end part of the adventure, you will enter a dark area with a lot of dinosaur figures .

Marvel at the blue sky above you as you settle on top of Dumbo The Flying Elephant .

Not too slow and not too fast, this carousel-style ride is definitely a fun way to enjoy the outdoors .

Each Dumbo vehicle can accommodate 2 persons only.

So, whether you’re with your partner or with your kid, you’ll love this steady yet exhilarating trip.

Has it crossed your mind to live in a cute, tiny Disney house?

It’s time to make your dreams into reality and enter Minnie’s House .

This gorgeous home is too cute to go unnoticed! Even from afar, you can feel the charm of this small structure.

Go inside the house and be transported into the world of Minnie Mouse!

In the living room, you’ll see pretty things like pink telephone, green sofa, and colourful stack of books . There’s also a kitchen area, a bedroom, and a fireplace.

No list of top rides at Tokyo Disneyland will be complete without Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast . This new attraction caters to visitors of all ages .

Hop aboard the magical cups and enjoy the realistic acts from the famous movie, Beauty and the Beast.

Throughout the ride, you’ll be enthralled by majestic scenes and magical music . Truly, this is like dream come true for die-hard fans of the animated film.

17. Mickey’s PhilharMagic

Watch Mickey’s PhilharMagic and get a chance to see the fun-filled world of Disney .

This 12-minute show fascinates its audience with realistic scenes and animated effects .

It gathers some of the best animated Disney movies like Mickey Mouse , Coco , the Donald Duck , and more!

And during the 4D performance , you can sing along with your favorite characters. So, don’t miss this spot and have a marvelous time with your family and friends.

18. Gadget’s Go Coaster

Gadget’s Go Coaster is another fun spot for families . Adorned with vibrant colors, this ride may appear to be all mild and cheerful.

But don’t underestimate the charming designs because this one is quite electrifying!

Get on a fantastic roller coaster journey and prepare yourself for a thrilling experience.

While aboard the seat, enjoy the twists and turns along with the colorful scenes around you .

19. The Enchanted Tiki Room: Stitch Presents “Aloha E Komo Mai!”

Drop by The Enchanted Tiki Room: Stitch Presents “Aloha E Komo Mai! and revel in this lively show .

Here, you get to see the four talented Birds of Paradise namely Manu, Mahina, Hau’oli, and Waha Nui .

Follow the entire performance, which is filled with remarkable audio-animatronics.

And of course, enjoy the act of the mischievous yet adorable Stitch from the famous Lilo & Stitch movie !

The Happy Ride with Baymax offers you the opportunity to get dragged by Baymax! This is such a rare chance of having this fluffy character as your driver.

And you’ll love the ride even more because of the lively music. Be entertained by the enthralling loops while enjoying the musical vibes!

Thrill Rides:

• Splash Mountain – Water-based thrill ride
• Space Mountain – Indoor roller coaster set in space
• Big Thunder Mountain – Outdoor roller coaster with a mine train theme

Sci-Fi/Futuristic Attractions:

• Star Tours: The Adventures Continue – Space-themed motion simulator ride
• Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters – Interactive shooting gallery ride set in space
• The Happy Ride with Baymax – Whirling ride themed after the character Baymax from Big Hero 6

Fantasy and Fairy Tales:

• Pooh’s Hunny Hunt – Dark ride based on Winnie the Pooh
• “it’s a small world” – Boat ride featuring various cultures in a whimsical style
• Cinderella’s Fairy Tale Hall – Walk-through attraction exploring Cinderella’s story
• Peter Pan’s Flight – Flying boat ride through scenes from Peter Pan
• Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast – A ride that brings the “Beauty and the Beast” story to life with scenes from the movie.
• Mickey’s PhilharMagic – 3D film attraction featuring Disney characters

Adventure and Exploration:

• Pirates of the Caribbean – Boat ride with a pirate theme
• Western River Railroad – Train ride offering park views
• Dumbo The Flying Elephant – Aerial carousel ride

Character-Themed Attractions:

• Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek – Interactive dark ride based on Monsters, Inc
• Haunted Mansion – Dark ride through a haunted estate
• Minnie’s House – Walk-through attraction of Minnie Mouse’s house
• Gadget’s Go Coaster – Roller coaster themed around the character Gadget
• The Enchanted Tiki Room: Stitch Presents “Aloha E Komo Mai!” – A musical animatronic show featuring Stitch

Something to Take Note Of:

For non-thrill seekers , give priority to Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and Monsters, Inc. Rider & Go Seek because these rides easily run out.

And for thrill-seekers , then Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, and Big Thunder Mountain should be your top choices.

Friendly Reminder:

There is no ticketing counter available at Disneyland for purchasing tickets .

You need to book your Disneyland tickets online here before your visit.

After the purchase, you’ll receive an e-ticket in your email. Just scan this e-ticket from your smartphone at the entry gate to access the park.

Remember to secure your park tickets early , as they sell out quickly , especially during peak season.

My Recommendations:

Option 1: DisneySea

If you have more time in Tokyo, it’s recommended that you also go to DisneySea . This is a super beautiful theme park that is located next to Disneyland.

However, I encourage you to allocate another day here because this is quite big and has a lot of attractions to visit .

Go check out my guide to the best Tokyo DisneySea rides to know all the rides and shows that you should try there.

Option 2: Sanrio Puroland

Another suggested place to visit is Hello Kitty Land . Though this is a bit smaller compared to DisneySea, it’s a great place to meet Hello Kitty and Sanrio characters .

Plus, it comes with fun parades and performances that are very suitable for those travelling with kids. You can read my Sanrio Puroland article for more information.

Visiting Singapore soon? Don’t miss the Universal Studios there and consult this guide to the top Universal Studios Singapore rides .

Tokyo Disneyland isn’t just about thrilling and fun rides; there’s a whole world of excitement waiting for you!

So, let me introduce the 4 must-see shows and parades that you should catch while you’re in the park.

1. Mickey’s Magical Music World

Mickey’s Magical Music World welcomes you to a dazzling performance by Mickey Mouse and his friends .

Take joy in the fantastic live show filled with beautiful music and lively dances .

And of course, the magical stage sets make the show more memorable . So, make sure to add this attraction to your plan and be captivated by their brilliant charms.

2. Club Mouse Beat

Club Mouse Beat is also an entertaining avenue for Disney lovers . Groove to the beat of the music while your beloved characters dance their hearts out.

Here, you can catch them showcasing their talents like there’s no tomorrow .

See them highlight their dancing skills in hip-hop, pop, Latin, and more!

The show runs for around 25 minutes, so better prepare yourselves for a remarkable show!

3. Disney Harmony in Color

Disney Harmony in Color is a vibrant daytime parade showcasing beloved Disney characters and celebrating themes of adventure, courage, family bonds, and friendship.

The parade features colorful flower petals and lively music, making it a joyous and exciting experience for all ages .

It lasts 45 minutes and starts at the Park Entrance, goes through World Bazaar, passes Cinderella Castle, and stops at the Plaza.

When you watch, look for Tinker Bell . She is at the front with a colorful costume and rainbow wings.

You will also see characters from movies like Zootopia, Moana, Wreck-It Ralph, and Coco . They ride on bright, fun floats.

At the end of the parade, Mickey Mouse and his friends come out . They end the parade with lots of colors and happiness, creating a heartwarming and cheerful finale .

4. Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights

Cap off the adventure by watching the Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights . This night parade lights up the entire park with vibrant colours and beams .

Here, you’ll meet the Blue Fairy, together with the Knights of Light . The Casey Junior Train, on the other hand, is occupied by Mickey Mouse and Goofy .

Also crowd favourites are Alice in the Wonderland , Pete’s Dragon , Toy Story , Genie , Cinderella , and Pinocchio .

All these floats are not just mesmerizing but also nostalgic.

While wandering around the park, you might come across your favourite Disney characters. Here are some spots to meet these adorable figures.

1. Mickey’s House and Meet Mickey

How about you spend time inside Mickey’s House?

This is another renowned spot in Tokyo Disneyland because it allows you to see the life of Mickey Mouse.

Enjoy the walkthrough tour and learn more about this mischievous and jolly character.

Check out his classic collectibles and bunch of treasured possessions!

After that, take a look inside his Movie Barn and watch some of his well-known movie scenes. Then, you’re free to share a photo with Mickey Mouse!

Tigger is very easy to spot because of his orange and black stripes. And of course, just like in the movies, he is also very energetic.

So, don’t be surprised to catch him bouncing all over the place.

Don’t get intimated with Eeyore’s gloomy appearance.

His worry-eyed face may suggest sadness but he is actually very friendly. That’s why many want to take a photo of him.

Oftentimes, you’ll find him surrounded by a lot of people.

Interact with Rabbit and strike a pose before the crowd gets bigger. This adorable character is such a joy to watch as he entertains visitors with his charms.

Another cute character that is always ready to brighten up your day is Piglet. His vibrant color makes him a standout even in a crowd of visitors.

So, admire his presence and don’t forget to capture his delightful smile.

There are 6 important things about this park that you should know in advance . These tips will help you make the most out of your visit .

So, let me highlight the key insights through the list below.

Take Note : Remember to purchase your Disneyland tickets online , as there are no ticketing counters available on-site. This is important, so please take note.

1. Know the open and unavailable rides beforehand

There are times when some rides in the park are close for maintenance. So better check Disneyland’s ride closure date in advance so you won’t miss the rides that you want to try on that day.

2. Be informed of the schedule

You can also visit this Disney parade and show schedule website to know the exact showtimes. This will help you plan your trip ahead of time and maximize your tour.

3. Check the waiting time every now and then

To get the updated waiting time of the rides, download the Tokyo Disney Resort App . Using this app, you can prioritize rides with shorter lines and save time.

4. Assess the crowd level

To avoid crowds, consider going to the park on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. These three days are often less crowded than others.

5. Allot 1 day for your trip

To make your visit more efficient, allocate 1 day for Tokyo Disneyland because there are too many things to see and do there.

I personally spent the entire day in the park with my wife because of the abundant entertainment options.

More so, Disneyland is just part of my Tokyo trip. See here for my personal 7-day Tokyo itinerary, which will show you all the places that you should visit. I will also share here the suggested time duration for each place.

6. Transportation

There are 2 best ways to reach the theme park, either by bus or train.

Sometimes, taking the bus is the most convenient option. However, this depends on where you depart.

So, make sure to see this detailed article on how to go to Tokyo Disneyland to assist you in choosing the best transport mode.

Tokyo Disneyland offers two types of passes to help you access fast lanes for popular rides, reducing your wait time .

1. Priority Pass

The Priority Pass is available free of charge . It allows you to book access to certain rides or attractions ahead of time . This way, you bypass the standard queue . It’s like making a reservation for a ride.

To book, use the Tokyo Disney Resort App. The app lets you select eligible rides. However, you can’t choose the time to access the ride . The time will be allocated by the app.

You can get another Priority Pass in two ways . Either after using the previous one , or after a 2-hour period , whichever comes earlier.

Refer to the Priority Pass guide here for usage instructions.

2. Premier Access

Similar to the Priority Pass, Premier Access is typically a paid service that grants immediate or expedited access to attractions .

This pass allows you to choose a specific time for your favorite ride .

You can purchase a Premier Access pass for another ride after 60 minutes of your initial purchase.

Read the Disney Premier Access information to learn more about it.

There are 2 nearby hotels that are the best to stay while in Tokyo Disneyland.

• Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel : This hotel offering spacious rooms is just a 2-minute walk to Bayside Station. From there, you can ride the monorail going to Tokyo Disneyland in 9 minutes. It is also directly accessible from both Narita and Haneda Airports via the Airport Limousine bus.
• Hilton Tokyo Bay : This is located beside Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel.

17 Best Tokyo DisneySea Rides You Can’t Miss Now

Tokyo Itinerary: The Best 7-Day Guide for a Fantastic Trip

15 Best Universal Studios Japan Rides to Win Your Heart

2 thoughts on “20 best tokyo disneyland rides you shouldn’t skip for all”.

Excellent articles Josh! My family just took our first trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida and we loved it so much that we want to go back! But we also want to visit Japan, learn about the culture and experience some traditional Japanese activities. We didn’t know how many things at Disney Tokyo are so different and unique from Disney Orlando! Now we are talking about adding a couple days to our trip just for Disney Tokyo thanks to your posts! Thank you so much.

Hi Erah McMullen,

You’re most welcome. 🙂

I hope that my guide and sharing tips in here can help you to maximize your trip to Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea .

These 2 attractions are truly amazing and beautiful. Worth to visit!

Wish you have an enjoyable and great holiday in Tokyo. 🙂

Regards, Josh

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Tokyo Disneyland Guide: Everything You Need To Know

If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo Disneyland, it’s important to have a solid guide to help you navigate the park and make the most of your time there. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your visit without a reliable resource to turn to. That’s where this comprehensive guide comes in.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about visiting Tokyo Disneyland, from park hours and ticket prices to insider tips on the best rides and attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney fan, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan a memorable trip to the happiest place on earth.

With over 43 million visitors in 2019, Tokyo Disneyland is one of the most popular theme parks in the world. Located in Urayasu, just outside Tokyo , the park features classic Disney attractions, as well as unique rides and experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.

So, whether you’re a fan of Mickey Mouse and friends or you’re looking for an adventure in a galaxy far, far away, Tokyo Disneyland is waiting for you.

Tokyo Disneyland Tickets

Buying tickets for Tokyo Disneyland can be confusing, especially if you are visiting for the first time. However, it is important to plan ahead and purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines and sold-out dates. Here’s everything you need to know about Tokyo Disneyland tickets:

Types of Tickets

There are several types of tickets available for Tokyo Disneyland:

• One-day Passport: This ticket allows you to enter either Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea for one day.
• Multi-Day Passport: This ticket allows you to enter both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea for multiple days.
• After 6 Passport: This ticket allows you to enter either Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea after 6 PM.
• Starlight Passport: This ticket allows you to enter either Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea after 3 PM.

Where to Buy Tickets

You can purchase Tokyo Disneyland tickets online, at the park, or at select Disney Stores in Japan. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance online to save time and avoid long lines at the park.

Tips for Buying Tickets

Here are some tips for buying Tokyo Disneyland tickets:

• Check the official Tokyo Disney Resort website for ticket availability and prices.
• Consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the park.
• Be aware of blackout dates and peak seasons, which may affect ticket prices and availability.
• Check for discounts and promotions, such as student discounts or early bird discounts.

By following these tips and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Tokyo Disneyland.

According to Tokyo Disney Resort , there are several types of tickets available for Tokyo Disneyland. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance online to save time and avoid long lines at the park.

Tokyo Disneyland Attractions

Tokyo Disneyland is home to a variety of attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. Here are some of the must-see attractions:

• Pirates of the Caribbean: This classic attraction takes you on a journey through a Caribbean port town, where you’ll encounter pirates, treasure, and adventure.
• Haunted Mansion : This spooky attraction takes you on a tour of a haunted house, complete with ghosts, ghouls, and other supernatural surprises.
• Splash Mountain : This thrilling ride takes you on a log flume adventure through the world of “Song of the South,” featuring drops, twists, and turns.
• Space Mountain : This high-speed roller coaster takes you on a journey through outer space, featuring twists, turns, and drops in the dark.
• It’s a Small World : This classic attraction takes you on a boat ride through a world of singing dolls, representing different cultures from around the globe.

In addition to these attractions, Tokyo Disneyland also offers a variety of live entertainment shows, parades, and character meet-and-greets. Be sure to check the park schedule for showtimes and locations.

It’s important to note that some attractions may have height restrictions, so be sure to check before getting in line. Additionally, some attractions may have long wait times, so it’s a good idea to prioritize which ones you want to experience most and plan accordingly.

Finally, be sure to take advantage of FastPass, a free service that allows you to reserve a spot in line for select attractions at a specified time. This can help you save time and avoid long wait times.

Tokyo Disneyland Parades and Shows

If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo Disneyland, you won’t want to miss the spectacular parades and shows that take place throughout the day. Here’s everything you need to know about the most popular parades and shows:

The parades at Tokyo Disneyland are a must-see for visitors of all ages. The park features several parades throughout the day, each with its own unique theme and characters. Here are some of the most popular:

• Happiness is Here Parade: This parade features a colorful procession of Disney characters, dancers, and floats. It’s a high-energy spectacle that’s sure to put a smile on your face.
• Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights: This nighttime parade is a fan favorite, featuring dazzling lights and music, and a procession of beloved Disney characters.
• Disney’s Easter Wonderland Parade: This seasonal parade takes place during the Easter season and features colorful floats and costumes, as well as appearances by the Easter Bunny and other springtime characters.

In addition to the parades, Tokyo Disneyland also offers a variety of shows throughout the day. Here are some of the most popular:

• Minnie Oh! Minnie: This musical show features Minnie Mouse and her friends as they put on a fun and lively performance.
• Fantasmic!: This nighttime show is a grand spectacle featuring Mickey Mouse and other Disney characters, as well as fireworks, water effects, and more.
• One Man’s Dream II – The Magic Lives On: This musical show takes you on a journey through Disney’s history, featuring songs and scenes from classic Disney films.

Be sure to check the park schedule to see when the parades and shows are taking place, as the times and locations may vary depending on the day.

Tokyo Disneyland Restaurants and Food

One of the highlights of any visit to Tokyo Disneyland is the food. There are plenty of restaurants and food options to choose from, ranging from quick bites to sit-down meals. Here are some of the best dining options at Tokyo Disneyland:

Quick Bites

For those looking for a quick bite, there are plenty of options available. The Queen of Hearts Banquet Hall is a great option for those looking for a themed dining experience. The restaurant is designed to look like the Queen of Hearts’ castle from Alice in Wonderland and serves a variety of dishes, including curry and pasta.

Another popular quick bite option is the Hungry Bear Restaurant, which serves burgers, sandwiches, and other American-style fare. The restaurant is located in Critter Country and has indoor and outdoor seating options.

Sit-Down Meals

For those looking for a more substantial meal, there are several sit-down restaurants to choose from. The Blue Bayou Restaurant is a popular option, as it is located inside the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction and has a unique ambiance. The restaurant serves Cajun-style cuisine, including gumbo and jambalaya.

Another popular sit-down restaurant is the Crystal Palace Restaurant, which is located in World Bazaar and serves a variety of international dishes. The restaurant also features character dining, where guests can meet and take photos with Disney characters.

Snacks and Treats

No visit to Tokyo Disneyland is complete without trying some of the park’s famous snacks and treats. The Sweetheart Cafe is a great place to grab a sweet treat, as it serves a variety of desserts and drinks, including Mickey-shaped waffles and hot cocoa.

Another popular snack option is the Pecos Bill Cafe, which serves churros, popcorn, and other classic Disney snacks. The restaurant is located in Westernland and has indoor and outdoor seating options.

With so many dining options available, there is something for everyone at Tokyo Disneyland. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, be sure to try some of the park’s delicious food options during your visit.

Tokyo Disneyland Tips and Tricks

Visiting Tokyo Disneyland can be a magical experience, but it can also be overwhelming. Here are some tips and tricks to help make your trip smoother:

1. Arrive Early

One of the best ways to beat the crowds at Tokyo Disneyland is to arrive early. The park opens at 8:00 am, but guests can enter the park as early as 7:00 am. Arriving early will give you a chance to ride some of the popular attractions before the lines get too long.

2. Use FastPass

FastPass is a free service that allows guests to reserve a spot in line for popular attractions. Guests can obtain a FastPass at the FastPass distribution machines located near the entrance of each attraction. It is important to note that FastPasses are limited and can run out quickly, so it is best to obtain them early in the day.

3. Download the Tokyo Disneyland App

The Tokyo Disneyland App is a great tool for navigating the park. It provides real-time wait times for attractions, show schedules, and a map of the park. The app also allows guests to make restaurant reservations and purchase park tickets.

4. Dress Comfortably

Visiting Tokyo Disneyland requires a lot of walking, so it is important to dress comfortably. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that allows for movement. It is also a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater, as the park can get chilly in the evening.

5. Bring Snacks and Water

Food and drink options can be expensive inside the park, so it is a good idea to bring snacks and water with you. There are plenty of places to refill water bottles throughout the park, so be sure to bring a reusable water bottle.

These tips and tricks should help make your trip to Tokyo Disneyland a magical experience.

Tokyo Disneyland Hotels and Accommodations

When planning a trip to Tokyo Disneyland, choosing the right accommodation is crucial. Fortunately, there are several hotels and resorts located within the Tokyo Disney Resort area that offer a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences.

The most popular and convenient option is to stay at one of the official Tokyo Disney Resort hotels. These hotels are located within walking distance of the parks and offer perks such as early entry to the parks and character breakfasts.

The official hotels at Tokyo Disney Resort include the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel, Disney Ambassador Hotel, and Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta. Each hotel has its own unique theme and atmosphere, so visitors can choose the one that best fits their preferences and budget.

For those who prefer more affordable options, there are also several partner hotels located near the resort. These hotels offer shuttle buses to the parks and can be a great option for those on a budget. Some popular partner hotels include the Hilton Tokyo Bay, Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel, and Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel Club Resort.

It’s important to note that accommodations at Tokyo Disney Resort can book up quickly, especially during peak season. It’s recommended to book accommodations well in advance to ensure availability and get the best rates.

Overall, choosing the right accommodation can greatly enhance the Tokyo Disneyland experience. Whether you prefer a luxurious stay at an official Disney hotel or a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of choices to suit different needs and preferences.

Getting to Tokyo Disneyland

One of the most important things to consider when planning a trip to Tokyo Disneyland is how to get there. Fortunately, there are several convenient transportation options available.

One of the most popular ways to get to Tokyo Disneyland is by train. The resort is conveniently located near two train stations: Maihama Station and Tokyo Disneyland Station. Both stations are served by several different train lines, including the JR Keiyo Line, the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, and the Disney Resort Line.

If you’re coming from Tokyo, take the JR Keiyo Line from Tokyo Station to Maihama Station, which takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line from Otemachi Station to Maihama Station, which takes about 20 minutes.

Another option for getting to Tokyo Disneyland is by bus. Several bus companies operate services to the resort, including the Airport Limousine Bus and the Keisei Bus. These buses offer direct services from Narita Airport and Haneda Airport, as well as from various locations in Tokyo.

One of the advantages of taking a bus is that it can be more convenient if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage. However, be aware that traffic in Tokyo can be heavy, so the journey may take longer than expected.

If you prefer to drive, you can also get to Tokyo Disneyland by car. The resort is located near the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line Expressway, which connects Tokyo to Chiba Prefecture. There are several parking lots available at the resort, but be aware that parking fees can be expensive.

Note that driving in Tokyo can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. Traffic can be heavy, and parking can be difficult to find in some areas.

Visiting Tokyo Disneyland is an experience like no other. With its unique blend of Japanese culture and Disney magic, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan.

From the moment you enter the park, you are transported to a world of fantasy and adventure. With so much to see and do, it’s important to plan your visit carefully to make the most of your time there.

By following the tips and advice provided in this guide, you should be well-prepared for your trip to Tokyo Disneyland. Remember to book your tickets in advance, arrive early, and take advantage of FastPass to minimize wait times for popular attractions.

Don’t forget to try some of the delicious food options available throughout the park, and take plenty of photos to capture your memories.

Overall, Tokyo Disneyland is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan. It’s a place where dreams come true and memories are made that will last a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!

Tokyo Disneyland is the most popular theme park in Japan, attracting millions of visitors each year.

As Klook notes, Tokyo Disneyland is a unique blend of Japanese culture and Disney magic, with attractions and experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

Tokyo Trip Checklist

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I have been going to Tokyo every year for the past decade, yet I never made it to Tokyo Disneyland… until this year! I am kicking myself for not going earlier. Disneyland in California was fun, but Disneyland in Tokyo? 1000x better! They have super cute food and merchandise that are available exclusively in Tokyo.

Since it’s such a magical place, it’s a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. You can’t avoid the crowd, but you can definitely optimize your trip by understanding how the park works .

I’ve visited Tokyo Disneyland twice now – once in 2019 before COVID, and once in December 2021 in the middle of COVID right before the Omicron wave hit Japan (which didn’t stop people from going to Disneyland!). I’ll try to impart as much of my knowledge as possible.

First, let’s understand the basics of visiting Tokyo Disneyland:

1. Buy Tokyo Disneyland Ticket Online

If there is ONE thing you take away from this blog, do this. Buy your tickets ahead of time! You don’t want to buy tickets on the day. You may not even get a ticket if you are visiting during the peak period.

You can buy Disneyland tickets 2 months before your intended visit date. Here are a few ways to obtain tickets:

• Buy through Klook, an authorized booking partner – When you buy Disney tickets from Klook, you don’t need to do anything else. You just scan the QR code at the entrance and off you go.
• Alternatively, the Tokyo Disneyland ticket can be purchased as an add-on to  Tokyo Pass ! If you plan to visit other attractions while in Tokyo, you might be able to save some money if you get this pass.
• Buy through the Official website

What is Klook? Klook is the leading travel and experiences booking website in Asia. And yes, they are legit! I personally always book my activities through them whenever I am traveling. See my review of Klook here .

2. Download the Tokyo Disneyland Resort App

The Tokyo Disney Resort App is your lifeline during the visit. It is where you can obtain Standby passes (if available for the day you’re visiting), buy the Disney Premier access, book restaurants, and get entry requests for certain events. So make sure you have it downloaded!

Find links to download the Tokyo Disney Resort App here

3. Understand the queueing systems in Tokyo Disney

When I visited in 2019, Disneyland was still using the FASTPASS (FP) system, a line-skipping system that comes with your Tokyo Disneyland ticket. FP allows you to book a 1-hour window to come back and go on an express lane at a later time.

However, when I came back in December 2021, they’d done away with the entire FP system. It has been replaced by a few different types of passes, all of which can only be obtained by using the Tokyo Disney Resort App after entering the park.

There are 4 passes available at Tokyo Disneyland:

• Entry Request
• Standby Pass
• Disney Premier Access
• Tokyo Disney Resort 40th Anniversary Priority Pass (NEW)

What is an Entry Request?

Certain experiences might require an entry request. Currently, it is mostly used for characters’ meet and greet (and not rides). These do sell out, so you’ll want to book as soon as you get to the park.

If this interests you, feel free to check out what experience is available through Entry Request here .

What is a Standby Pass?

A Standby Pass essentially means you are booking a time to join the queue at certain attractions and shops. When you grab a standby pass for an attraction, it will tell you the time you can return to join the queue for that attraction. This makes the queue much shorter and moves faster for those who were able to secure a standby pass.

Standby Pass is not a requirement . Not all of the rides will require a Standby Pass and there might be days when Standby Pass won’t even be released at all. However, for the days that it is released, there might also be a time when only those who have obtained a Standby ticket can join the queue.

You can hold only one Standby pass at a time during your visit. You can only book another standby pass for another attraction once you’ve utilized the standby pass, so make sure to use it wisely.

Check the steps on how to get a Standby Pass here and which attractions, if any, require a Standby Pass on that day. This list is updated daily so you can check it on the day you’re planning to visit the park.

As Standby Passes are limited, it does mean that some of the more popular rides could be booked out for the day and no more standby passes will be issued. In our case, we went during the peak period and despite entering the park shortly after it opened in the morning, we STILL couldn’t get a pass for Beauty and the Beast.

What is Disney Premier Access?

Disney Premier Access is effectively a paid FASTPASS that was launched in May 2022 at Tokyo Disneyland. It has an additional fee of 1,500-2,500 yen that you must pay on top of your entrance ticket to be able to join the express queue to some of the most popular rides, and even the parades.

You can only buy one Disney Premier Access per entrance ticket every hour. Of course, the highly coveted Beauty and the Beast is one of the rides on Disney Premier Access.

How is it different than the other passes? Aside from Premier Access being a paid pass, you’ll also be able to specify which time you want to access the attraction.

Click here for more information on Disney Premier Access

What is a Priority Pass?

Available from 26 July 2023 until further notice, this is the newest type of pass available at Tokyo Disney Resort. It is also branded as the Tokyo Disney Resort 40th Anniversary Priority Pass, which may insinuate that it is temporary.

From my experience, it works almost the same as the Fast Pass system they used to have. You’ll be able to reserve a time to come back for certain attractions to skip the queue, but you cannot choose the time. You can also only reserve one Priority Pass every 2 hours.

Take note that Priority Pass might sell out. On my last visit on Dec 2023, all the Priority Pass was sold out by 4pm.

Learn more about the Priority Pass here

4. How to check ride wait time, operating status, and current wait time

Again when I visited in 2019, the official Tokyo Disneyland website claimed to have all the ride wait times… but in my experience, the website did not work for me when I visited the park! The Tokyo Disneyland iOS App also was only available to Japanese iPhone users at that time. It was frustrating.

I’m happy to report that when I came back in 2021 and 2023, they fixed this issue. The Tokyo Disney Resort App will not only give you wait time for all of the rides in Tokyo Disneyland, but it lets you do pretty much everything you want to do in the park – getting priority passes, booking restaurant, etc. Definitely download this app before coming to the park!

If the app does not work for you, you can check this third-party website for the wait times.

How to get to Tokyo Disney Resort

1. by local train.

Tokyo Disney Resort can be reached via Maihama station on the JR line. So, staying somewhere around the area could help you get to the resort faster. I will elaborate more on this topic in the next section.

2. By Shuttle Bus from Shinjuku

If you don’t want to change hotel, there is a shuttle bus from Shinjuku that will get you to the resort around 9AM. Book the shuttle bus here . However it’s only a one-way transfer, so on the way back you can take the local train.

Where to stay when visiting Tokyo Disney Resort

If you are visiting both Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea, you might want to opt to stay closer to the resort. Or if you just don’t want to waste time on the train getting here. There is of course the option of staying at the resort itself, but it is quite pricey.

As I was saying before, Tokyo Disney Resort can be reached via Maihama station on the JR line. So, staying somewhere around the Maihama station or 1-5 stations away in Urayasu would help you cut down the travel time to the resorts.

Here are some recommendations:

• Hilton Tokyo Bay – This hotel is right next to the resort area
• Tokyo Bay Maihama – This hotel is right next to the resort area
• Hiyori Hotel Maihama – About 20 minutes by bus to Maihama station
• Oriental Tokyo Bay – Near Shin-Urayasu station, about 7 minutes away from Maihama station
• Bay Hotel Urayasu-Ekimae – Across from Urayasu station, about 22 minutes by train to Maihama station

How to Optimize Your Tokyo Disneyland Trip

Okay! Now that you’ve been updated to the current ride reservation system at Disneyland, let’s get tips on how to optimize your time in Tokyo Disneyland!

Here are the things you need to do as soon as you enter the park:

1. Download the Tokyo Disneyland Resort App and add your tickets to the app – This should be the VERY FIRST thing you do when you get to the park. This will allow you to manage the entire group’s premier access and priority pass allowance. It will also assist you with other admins during your visit such, as booking restaurants, looking up wait times for the rides, etc.

2. Buy the Disney Premier Access for Beauty and The Beast – This ride is extremely popular and you should purchase the access as soon as you get to the park. Unless, you are okay to queue for the ride, which might take 2-4 hours depending on the crowd on the day. This past December, I arrived pretty late to the park at 10:30 AM, and the premier access for this ride was already sold out for the day.

3. If Priority Pass is available, grab it for the most popular ride at the earliest time – For example, Space Mountain is one of the most popular rides at Tokyo Disneyland. If there is a Priority Pass available then immediately grab it. Then, get another Priority Pass 2 hours later for other attractions.

4. Check other rides’ wait times – Another thing you should do when you get to the park is to look at the map in the Disneyland app and check all the ride wait times – I’ve elaborated on how to do this above. Also, you should check the operating status as some rides might be closed for maintenance. Then, begin strategizing!

5. Know which ride is the most popular in Tokyo Disneyland – The following rides are more popular than the rest, so you should prioritize getting passes for them:

• Enchanted Tales of Beauty and the Beast
• Splash Mountain
• Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek
• Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters
• Space Mountain
• Big Thunder Mountain
• Haunted Mansion
• Pooh’s Hunny Hunt

6. Check for the park’s special parades – I’m not sure if it’s because I went during Easter, but there were at least 3 parades on the day I went. During these parades, the major streets in the park are closed, which makes it a bit hard to move around. So make sure to keep this in mind!

Tip: You can check the parade schedule in Tokyo Disneyland here

Also if you’re going during a special time like Christmas (which means there will be a Christmas parade), the park will be inaccessible while the parade is going on, as it’s extremely popular and people would “reserve” their spot since the morning.

7. Don’t forget about the daily fireworks ! This usually happens around 8 to 8:30 PM so try to stay at the park as long as you can to witness this fireworks show.

8. Don’t forget to have fun – Last but not least, I know this is a lot and optimizing your Disneyland visit is quite overwhelming. If you didn’t manage to get on the ride you wanted, that’s alright! I have gone to Tokyo Disneyland three times and still didn’t manage to get on Beauty and the Beast, but I still had a lot of fun. And honestly, that’s all that matters right?

What to eat in Tokyo Disneyland

Initially, I was worried about the food situation inside the park. What if all the food is expensive and not good? I was even thinking of packing some onigiri and snacks because I didn’t want to go hungry. But once inside the park, I realized my fears were unfounded.

The food in Tokyo Disneyland kicks butt in SO many ways – The reasonable price, the delicious taste, and the super creative concept! I really appreciate the folks at Tokyo Disneyland for making food such a delightful experience.

The only downtime would be the queue time if you came to Tokyo Disneyland during peak periods, such as summer or school holidays. It could get pretty long. During COVID, it was impossible to eat at a normal restaurant as they had been booked weeks in advance, so we had to resort to eating outside or at the food courts where seats are first-come-first-served. If any restaurants catch your eye, please book ahead!

Here are my favorite eats in Tokyo Disneyland:

1. Three Green Alien Mochi (300 Yen)

This is seriously THE CUTEST food ever! I squealed when I saw this in person. They are three mochis (rice cake) balls shaped like the little green men in Toy Story. The mochi each has different fillings – strawberry, chocolate, and custard. Such a genius concept! You can find this at the Plazma Ray’s Diner in Tomorrowland .

2. Mickey Gloves Chicken Sandwich (600 yen a la carte / 900 yen with a set meal)

Yet another item I squealed when I saw it in person. On the menu, it’s a pretty average-sounding grilled chicken and scrambled eggs sandwich. The kicker? It’s served inside a Chinese bun that is perfectly shaped like Mickey Mouse’s gloves! You can buy this sandwich at Huey, Dewey, and Louie’s Good Time Cafe in Toontown .

3. Mickey-shaped Churros (300 Yen)

The OG Disneyland in Los Angeles might have the most famous churros, but you can only find these Mickey-shaped ones in Tokyo Disneyland! I love the subtlety here. You can only see the Mickey shape if you look at the churros from the top down. I might have missed it myself if I didn’t know about it! You can find this all over Tokyo Disneyland Park. Just keep an eye out for the sweets stand – I got mine at Westernland .

4. Smoked Turkey Leg, a Disneyland Classic! (900 Yen)

This is a Disneyland classic and a must-have. I have been told the portion is not as massive as the ones in the original Disneyland, but it was just right for me! You can find this at the Cowboy Cookhouse in Westernland .

5. Mickey-shaped eggs!

I have no idea how they did this, but a few restaurants at Tokyo Disneyworld feature yolk shaped like that iconic mickey-shaped silhouette. Super cute! I call them the mickey-egg 😛

You can find Mickey-egg served with the Hungry Bear Curry at Hungry Bear Restaurant for 1200 yen.

There are also a few mains served with Mickey-egg at Plazma Ray’s Diner in Tomorrowland .

Getting a photo at The Cinderella Castle

Everyone must get a photo at the famous Cinderella Castle whenever they visit Disneyland, right?

Having taken a million photos of it during my visit, I can say the best time to take photos at the castle is right before sunset! So, google the sunset time at the time of your visit, and make sure you are at the castle 30 minutes before the sunset time. This ensures a nice soft pink light which makes it all the more magical.

By the way, if the front of the castle is under construction for whatever reason (like the day I visited), don’t worry: Try going around to the back – it’s just as beautiful too! The photo I have above was taken from the back of the castle, near the Dumbo ride.

Okay, that’s all I have on Tokyo Disneyland! If this guide helped you, please leave a comment below. I love reading your comments.

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18 Comments

• June 9, 2024

Hello, Thanks so much for your very helpful guide. When you arrived at 10:30am, did you find it was easy to get straight into the park or did you have a long wait?

Hey Laura, at 10:30AM i was able to just walk in. I think the queue only forms at opening hours.

• April 30, 2024

Great blog! Thanks for the awesome tips. I am looking forward to going in June!

• April 18, 2024

Thanks for this! ❤️

• March 26, 2024

Lots of great information. I would have liked it if you had compared the names of priority access passes and others with the US Disney Parks names to make it a little easier to understand.

• March 3, 2024

Thank you so much for this helpful and detailed guide! Visiting in March 2024 for my honeymoon. So excited!

• January 12, 2024

Such a helpful post, thank you! This will be our second time in Tokyo but our first going to Disneyland and I can’t wait. Are all the foods that you included here available as takeaway at stands or were some pre-booking only?

• January 16, 2024

Hi Jess, they’re all available as takeaways.

• November 17, 2023

Hi, Melissa, need some advice here. Upon entering the park, should I try getting a Priority Pass (for Attraction A) before getting a paid Premium Pass (for Attraction B), since the time for the Priority Pass is assigned. I can then select a time for the Premium Pass to make sure it doesn’t clash with the assigned timing of the Priority Pass. Is that how it works? Any insights is appreciated!

• November 16, 2023

hiya, i just wanted to say i like your blog a lot, no one makes guides this specific. i hope to use these for my trip next year!!

Seyoo, Thanks for your kind comment!

• September 30, 2023

Very very helpful! We will be visiting from Mexico and all this detailed information is super useful! Thank you!

• October 1, 2023

Have fun at Disneyland, Leslie!

• February 24, 2023

Very helpful and up to date info! Thank you!

• October 16, 2020

oh i miss tokyo disneyland

• June 3, 2019

Love your blog/instagram! Also absolutely LOVE that you visited one of my favorite places on earth, Tokyo Disney Resort!!

• June 2, 2019

Hi! I’m from Chile, and i’m planning a trip to Tokyo next year. I’m planning visiting Tokyo Disneyland too. ☺. Thank you for sharing this! It will be very useful ☺

have fun in Disneyland!!!

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Tokyo disneyland® vacations & packages.

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I only need accommodations for part of my trip

Visit Tokyo Disneyland®

At the captivating Tokyo Disneyland® theme resort, the movies of Walt Disney spring to life with a host of family-friendly attractions. Enjoy roller coasters and fairground rides, watch music and dance performances and meet world-famous Disney characters. You can even spend the night at a themed hotel. The resort opened in 1983 and was the first Disney Park outside of the U.S.

Start your visit at Tokyo Disneyland® Park, also known as The Kingdom of Dreams and Magic. Immerse yourself in the world of Disney’s adored characters in the seven themed areas. Visit Mickey Mouse and his friends in Toontown or relive classic fairytales in Fantasyland. Ride a tall log flume in Critter Country or explore futuristic technology in Tomorrowland. Cruise on a Mississippi riverboat or ride a runaway mine train in Westernland. Visit the Cinderella Castle to discover the story of the much-loved fairytale princess.

Don’t miss the World Bazaar, where you’ll find recreations of 20th-century American shops and restaurants. It’s a good place to have lunch or purchase snacks and souvenirs. Check the park’s schedule for live shows and parades. A highlight is the Nighttime Parade, featuring illuminated floats and dancing Disney characters.

Discover the legends of the sea celebrated in Disney movies at Tokyo DisneySea® Park. Take a ride on Sinbad’s boat or follow the adventures of Indiana Jones. Glide along a canal on a Venetian gondola or journey to the center of the earth with Captain Nemo. Watch firework displays accompanied by Disney songs.

Tokyo Disneyland® is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Tokyo. It is easily accessible via public trains and buses. There are direct bus and train connections from Narita International Airport. Paid parking is available for up to 20,000 vehicles. A paid monorail links the various attractions and several hotels, which include three Disney-themed hotels.

Tokyo Disneyland® is open daily. Allow a full day to visit each of Tokyo Disneyland® Park and Tokyo DisneySea® Park. Check the resort’s official website for details of admission fees, including information on multiday passes. Purchase tickets online to avoid standing in line at the park’s ticket booths. Cut costs by bringing your own food to enjoy at designated picnic areas.

Plan a trip to see Tokyo Disneyland®

• Hotel Emion Tokyo Bay

Reviewed on Jun 8, 2024

MONday Apart Premium GINZA SHINTOMICHO(Former:GATE STAY PREMIUM GINZA SHINTOMICHO)

MONday Apart Premium Hamamatsucho(Former:GATE STAY PREMIUM HAMAMATSUCHO)

Reviewed on Jun 10, 2024

Browse tours and tickets to explore Tokyo Disneyland®

Tours & day trips.

Full-Day Sightseeing Bus Tour in Tokyo with Cruise

Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Tour Return by Bullet Train

From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji Full-Day Sightseeing Trip

Tokyo: Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Scenic 1-Day Bus Tour

Tokyo: Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Waterfall Tour

Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Scenic Spots Full Day Bus Tour

Tokyo: Hakone Fuji Day Tour w/ Cruise, Cable Car, Volcano

Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide

Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Culture Walking Tour

Scenic Spots of Mt Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi 1 Day Bus Tour

Cruises & boat tours.

From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji & Hakone Tour w/ Return by Bullet Train

Tokyo: Traditional Asakusa Music Show with Dinner

From Tokyo: Mount Fuji and Hakone 1 Day Private Tour by car

Private Tokyo Night Tour

Tokyo Shinjuku: Izakaya(bar) tour (3drinks, 1meal)+3 free 📸

Tokyo: Mt. Fuji & Hakone Day Trip with Cable Car & Cruise

Tokyo :Local Izakaya and Ramen hopping in Ikebukuro

【Contemporary Culture】Bar Hopping I Always Visit in Shinjuku

Food, drink & nightlife.

Private Car Tour to Mt. Fuji Lake Kawaguchiko or Hakone Lake Ashi

Tokyo: Made In Japan Cultural Curiosities Small Group Tour

Eat and Drink Like a Local: Tokyo Ueno Food Tour

Wagyu & Sake Pairing Experience

Meiji Shrine and Tsukiji Sushi Making Private Tour

Tsukiji Fish Market Food Walking Tour

Ultimate One-day Tokyo Must-sees Tour with Photo Spots

Tokyo: Secret Food Tour

Tokyo After 5: Small Group Evening Food Tasting Tour

Shopping & fashion.

Day Tour to Mt. Fuji 5th Station, Oshino Hakkai & Shopping

Asakusa: Food replica store visits after history tour

Tokyo Mt. Fuji and Oshino Hakkai Bus Tour

Tokyo Private Day Tour by Car with English speaking Driver Guide

Tokyo: Mt. Fuji 5th Station, Lake kawaguchi and Gotemba Outlets

Shopper's Dream: Private Tokyo Shopping Tour in Luxury SUV

Private Layover Experience in Luxury SUV (5-6 Hours)

Tokyo Shopping Street Hopping Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide

Adventure & outdoor.

Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Tour Return by Bus

90 min Tokyo Go-Kart: Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo Tower *IDP MUST*

Multi-day bilingual driver for your trip anywhere in Japan!

Mt Fuji Private Tour with English speaking driver

4 Day Tour - Mount. Fuji, Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Yokohama

5-Hour Tokyo & Edo Hidden Gem Bike Tour with Lunch

Kyoto, Osaka, Nara Full Day tour by Car English speaking Driver

3-Hour Tokyo city Highlights Sunset Bike Tour

Takao mountain and View Fuji

Nagano Full Day Tour Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Zenkoji Temple

Reviews of tokyo disneyland®, 1/5 - terrible.

Rating was based on experience with massive crowds during late December. Surely, an experience any other time would be much more pleasant.

5/5 - Excellent

Buy your tickets ahead and be there before the amusement park opens.

Disney Sea is a must.

The after 6 PM pass is worth it, most of the attractions are exactly the same as the American counterparts, so you don't need to see those, which means that less than half of the park is different, so you don't need too much time at the park.

It takes about 3 different trains plus the Disney monorail (which you have to pay for) to get there. Kind of a pain the butt. We were in Shinjuku.

Lines to purchase tickets were really long. Suggest to order tickets online and print from home before going to park.

Popular places to visit

Tokyo disney resort®.

Bring the family to Tokyo Disney Resort® and enjoy this exciting theme park in Urayasu. Amble around this family-friendly area's seaside and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Conjuring a flash of Disney magic, this shopping palace consists of nine themed worlds, with a majestic courtyard, water features and a large movie theater.

• Tokyo DisneySea®

Discover the secrets of the oceans in this magical theme park, where Disney’s sea-dwelling characters will take you on a journey to the world below the waves.

Urayasu Sports Park

Take your pick of activities at this huge sporting complex, where Olympic-standard facilities offer locals, visitors and professional athletes a place to train.

Tokyo Sea Life Park

Enjoy watching the adorable penguins and scary sharks, while kids learn about marine life through touch in this leafy aquarium in a seaside park.

Kasai Rinkai Park

The largest urban park in Tokyo complements its scenic vistas with a bird sanctuary, an aquarium and a Ferris wheel with marvelous light shows.

Best Lodging Options Near Tokyo Disneyland®

Check availability on hotels close to tokyo disneyland®.

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• Toyosu Market
• Ghibli Museum
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• Meiji Jingu Shrine
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Wandering In Disney

A disney theme parks blog.

• Tokyo Disney Resort Trip Planning Guide

Many believe that a trip to Tokyo Disney Resort is nothing more than a pipe dream. Sure, the photos look amazing and everyone raves about it, but traveling to Japan is far different from traveling within the United States. While that is true to a degree, some may be surprised at how attainable at trip to Tokyo Disney Resort (and Japan) is. For those who have decided to go on this amazing trip, or even for those that are simply thinking about it, we’ve created this guide to Tokyo Disney Resort. Our planning guide will include the best times to go to Tokyo Disney Resort, places to stay, where to get park tickets, attraction guides, itineraries, dining tips and reviews, and more. We also have trip planning guides to Disneyland and Disney World .

While we’d like this guide to have every answer to any questions you might have, I also don’t want it to be longer than Moby Dick. Instead, think of this as a jumping off point for a trip to Tokyo Disney Resort. There are many links included within the guide, some to our content and some to other sites that we’ve used. Over time, we’ll have more and more TDR content and will update this guide periodically. More than anything, we want this post to ease some of the burden of what might feel like a monumental task. There are more things to plan and worry about when traveling internationally than there are when going to Disney World or Disneyland, but we think the reward is greater when going to Tokyo Disney Resort. For those just getting started on their planning, here’s a timeline to loosely follow .

Near the end of the post I will discuss whether 2024 is a good time to visit Tokyo Disney Resort. After all of the craziness of the last few years, Japan is open and drawing many tourists. 

I realize that people vacation when they can and sometimes that portion of trip planning isn’t all that flexible. If you can’t be flexible on what year to go, don’t fret. Tokyo Disney Resort and Japan are incredible destinations, regardless of the year. Sure, some are better than others, as we will discuss below, but if you are already planning then this guide will try to help you have an even better time. If you’re simply wondering how the resort differs from the American parks then this post may be a good place to start.

As always, if there is something we didn’t cover or you have a question, then please leave a comment. On to the guide!

When to Visit Tokyo Disney Resort?

Like any other trip, when you visit Tokyo Disney Resort will likely depend on your schedule and priorities. Where it differs is that the trip should include going to cities and landmarks around Japan. For example, we’ve centered some of our trips to Japan around cherry blossom season and fall color season. Both were incredible and had little to do with Tokyo Disney.

Before booking our trip, I did check a crowd calendar to make sure the parks wouldn’t be overrun with people during our potential dates. I’d recommend the same strategy for anyone else. The cherry blossoms and fall colors in Kyoto should likely outweigh any factors that Tokyo Disney Resort brings. But, if your trip is mainly focused on TDR then here is a breakdown of what months we’d recommend, starting with the months we’d probably stay away from. We do have a full post on this subject if you’d like to go further in depth .

Like Disneyland and Disney World, the weather in July and August can be excruciating in Tokyo. Both months are also fairly crowded with the higher crowds being in August. Tokyo can be quite humid in the summer and we’d recommend staying away unless you have no other option. June is also quite warm but doesn’t have as high of crowds, so if you need to travel during the summer months we’d recommend June.

Somewhat surprisingly, one of the busiest months at Tokyo Disney Resort is March. This is because of spring breaks for the schools and student discounts on tickets. If possible, wait until the first week of April is over to visit if you are going to Japan in the spring. February is somewhat similar to March, although the crowds are slightly lower and the weather a little cooler.

September and October are hit and miss crowd wise, thanks to the popularity of Halloween at Tokyo Disney Resort. The average temperature is ideal but it is typhoon season so guests might run into high winds and rain. Of course, if you love Halloween then seeing how TDR decorates may be worth any crowd or weather headaches.

November and early December have lower crowds and the resort does a wonderful job of decorating for Christmas, despite the holiday not being widely celebrated in Japan. The temperatures can be cold but it may be worth it to see the outstanding décor and experience some of the Christmas entertainment. Avoid the week after Christmas, leading into the New Year as the crowds are absurd.

The lowest crowd levels of the year are generally in mid to late January. Sure, weather is cold but it may be a solid trade-off to see the parks empty. Plus, you may be able to see Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea with snow on the ground.

The sweetest spot as far as crowds and temperatures go is April and May, except for Golden Week (a week in Japan with multiple holidays where many people travel). While the events are slightly less interesting than Halloween or Christmas, the parks look beautiful as guests would catch the tail-end of blooming season and the parks will be filled with color. If you have your pick, I’d recommend May or early December.

For a look into what specific week you should visit, this is a great crowd calendar . It is all in Japanese, so either use Google Translate and then decipher from there or check out this post that breaks down the crowd calendar from the excellent TDR Explorer. Last of all but probably most importantly, go to Tokyo Disney Resort on weekdays. The crowds will be much lower and more manageable. While we don’t completely advise planning a trip to Japan around Tokyo Disney Resort, make sure your itinerary has you there on weekdays as opposed to weekends. This isn’t quite as big of an issue post-pandemic but is still smart to try for.

Airfare, Transportation, & Communication

We have a few thoughts on airfare in our post about what a Tokyo Disney Resort vacation would cost . This will be one of the most expensive portions of your trip if you live outside of Japan. Having said that, airfare from the United States to Japan has steadily decreased in price over the last few years. If you live on the west coast, I’ve seen airfare under $700 out of Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Vacouver BC. Other west coast cities, including Seattle and Portland, have airfare below $900 round trip commonly. Throughout America, costs shouldn’t rise much above $1,000 RT and could be less than that if you are close to a major hub like Chicago or New York.

If flying into Tokyo, there are two options – Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND). Narita is the bigger of the two airports and may be the cheaper option. Haneda is closer to Tokyo Disney Resort and has been gaining popularity over the last few years. If you are going straight from the airport to TDR then Haneda may be the better choice but only if it won’t cost you much more than Narita. Traveling from the airport to the resort is a little bit cheaper and faster from Haneda but it’s not much time in the grand scheme of things.

If Kyoto, Osaka or other cities in that region are where you’re starting your itinerary then check out flights into Osaka International (KIX). While likely not cheaper than one of the Tokyo airports, it might save you some money in travel costs in getting from Tokyo to one of those cities.

As usual, we recommend using  Matrix ITA Software to find the best fare when looking for a flight. That site includes nearly all major airlines and is very direct in the information given, with no pop-up ads or other distractions. While you can’t book directly on that site, it will show the cheapest option. If possible when first starting to look into flights (and your trip) we recommend being flexible on dates to find the cheapest option.

Once at the airport, getting to Tokyo Disney Resort is fairly simple. Both Narita and Haneda Airports offer direct buses to the resort and the signage within the airport is pretty clear in how to catch a ride. If you are coming from Tokyo (or outside of Tokyo) via trains then get to Tokyo JR Station and transfer to the Keiyo Line. Follow signage for Tokyo Disney Resort from there.

When you finally make it to the resort, there is an internal monorail to take to your hotel. Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disneyland Hotel share a stop. Following that is Bayside Station (the Official Hotels stop), which includes Hilton Tokyo Bay, Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay, and other resorts. The next stop is Tokyo DisneySea and Hotel MiraCosta. Finally, the Resort Gateway Station is right next to the JR train line that the trains come from. This is home to Ikspiari (Tokyo Disney Resort’s version of Downtown Disney) and the Disney Ambassador Hotel. We loved the monorail and recommend using it when going in between parks and resorts, although it does cost a nominal fee.

For traveling outside of Tokyo Disney Resort but still in Japan, we like the convenience of the Japan Rail Pass . This is offered to foreigners and gives easy access to railroads, including the Shinkansen (bullet train), across the country. If you are traveling throughout Japan rather than just Tokyo then you will get value out of the Rail Pass at least in terms of time. The rail system in Japan is very advanced and can get travelers to nearly any area they want to go. With renting a car being somewhat out of the question for most (we wouldn’t recommend it even if you were feeling up to the challenge) trains are an easy way to get around. Buy the JR Pass before leaving for Japan. Unfortunately, the prices on the pass have been raised in the last year so it’s not as good of a deal.

Here’s a whole post on the subject !

When traveling throughout the country, Google Maps will be a huge help. We recommend putting locations into Google Maps during your trip planning so that you’ll be somewhat familiar with locations. Planning itineraries using landmarks that are close together will make traveling more efficient and enjoyable.

As far as how to get Google Maps to work while walking around Japan, we recommend a device that you can rent called pocket wi-fi . This is essentially a wi-fi hot spot small enough to fit into your pocket that you can connect multiple smart phones (or laptops) to. This will make messaging (multiple messaging apps work), as well as connection to apps or the internet, fairly easy. You can find one here and combine it with a JR Pass purchase.

How Many Days?

This one used to be simple… Four days . As we’ll cover in the park tickets section, the maximum amount of days you used to be able to buy a ticket for is 4 park days. Multi day tickets at Tokyo have not come back yet although I think they will at some point. Regardless, filling up four days at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea is very easy. In fact, I’d recommend more days if it was at all logical or a good value.

Of course, time constraints come into play and eventually you’re robbing Peter to pay Paul. Tokyo, Kyoto and other landmarks in Japan are fantastic destinations in themselves. Staying at TDR for a full week will likely take a hefty chunk out of your trip to Japan. Perhaps that’s fine with you and, if that’s the case, you should stick to a 4-Day pass. If on limited time, I do think you could see most everything with a 3-Day Passport. That’s assuming that you are going during the week and at a less busy time of year. Any lower than 3 days and I’m not sure how you’ll be able to see everything. Perhaps that’s okay with you if you’re more interested in Japan than you are Tokyo Disney Resort. Since you’re reading this blog, we come at it from a Disney centered point of view but can certainly understand being more interested in other aspects of the trip. That said, four days gives you the ability to explore the parks as well as ride and see nearly everything without rushing around.

Where to Stay?

We’ve covered this topic extensively in this post . A quick breakdown of the accommodation situation (feels like a Schoolhouse Rock song) – there are Disney Hotels, Official Hotels, and Partner Hotels or other places throughout Urayasu and Tokyo. The Disney Hotels include Hotel MiraCosta , Tokyo Disneyland Hotel , and the Disney Ambassador Hotel. These hotels are pricey but lavish with outstanding locations. The recently opened and popular Toy Story Hotel fills the mid-range price point. There’s also Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel that would be considered a value Disney hotel. We do not recommend that option, as the location is far worse compared to similarly priced hotels. These hotels do get you into the parks 15 minutes early in the morning, which might not seem like a lot but is beneficial for the headliner rides. Staying at one of these hotels also makes it easy to book dining reservations ahead of time. If you have the means, the high-end Disney Hotels are incredible.

The Official Hotels are also very nice and with a great location. No, they aren’t Disney hotels but they are usually far cheaper. Their location is mere minutes away from the parks while still being high quality hotels. The Official Hotels include a Hilton, Sheraton and several other Japanese chain hotels. If you are wanting to stay somewhere nice and close but are looking to save a little money then one of these hotels is the way to go.

Lastly, the partner hotels or staying at an Airbnb away from the parks is an option. Frankly, we wouldn’t recommend this unless you are on an extremely strict budget. Even then, we’d recommend trying to save elsewhere. Transportation can be a bit of a headache if you are staying outside of the resort grounds and makes getting to the parks on-time in the morning quite difficult. While we don’t recommend them while staying at Tokyo Disney Resort, we have had several wonderful experiences staying in Airbnb’s throughout Japan, specifically in Kyoto and Tokyo. We don’t recommend it here unless you can get a spot very close to Tokyo Disney Resort but do recommend that route for other legs of your Japan journey.

Park Tickets

Tokyo Disney Resort tickets are far more affordable than the Disney Resorts stateside. This isn’t because there is some secret site to go and buy discounted tickets but simply because the tickets are cheaper. With a 1-day ticket costing less than $70 depending on the time of year, the value is already there. Currently, Tokyo Disney uses a dynamic pricing model with a 1-day ticket so it can be anywhere from around $50 USD up to 80.

In the past, Tokyo Disney Resort also offered Starlight Passports (just under $50) which give guests a chance to enter after 3 PM on select national holidays, Saturdays and Sundays. On weekdays, After 6 Passports (under $40) are offered and they allow guests to go into a park of their choosing after 6 PM. While neither ticket is an extremely good value, it is a way to get a little extra park time out of your trip while perhaps exploring Tokyo or another city during the day. We started off our Tokyo Disney Resort stay with an After 6 Ticket before using a 4-day ticket and I thought the strategy worked well, although it’s not a great value. These tickets aren’t offered at the moment but I’m hopeful they’ll come back.

The easiest way to buy tickets is through the Tokyo Disney website or app. You can buy them 2 months in advance and it’s a fairly simple process, following steps as directed. If you are staying at a hotel affiliated with Tokyo Disney, meaning the official hotels (like the Hilton, Sheraton, etc.) or Disney Hotels, then you can buy your tickets there, as well. If you go that route, I recommend doing that the night before you enter the parks as it saves time in the morning and waiting in line at the ticket booths is a hassle, especially on busy days. There’s really no reason to do anything other than buy them on the app or website.

Attractions, Itineraries and Guides

Both parks have a number of world class attractions and we’ve ranked them all. This probably goes without saying but prioritize the ones that we rank in the top ten!

• Tokyo Disneyland Attraction Rankings
• Tokyo DisneySea Attraction Rankings

Of course, there are more to the parks than just attractions. Tokyo Disney Resort is full of incredible entertainment, from jaw-dropping parades to outstanding stage shows. The resort just debuted a new daytime parade and the nighttime option, Dreamlights , is the best we’ve ever seen. DisneySea is home to giant harbor shows that are quite a spectacle as well as our favorite stage show of all time – Big Band Beat . On top of that, both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea have beautiful lands that you should take plenty of time to explore and enjoy. With all of this in mind, we’ve created 1-Day Itineraries to each park that try to encompass the best of attractions, shows, food and wandering.

• Tokyo Disneyland 1-Day Itinerary
• Tokyo DisneySea 1-Day Itinerary

While we tried to incorporate this into our itineraries, make sure to give yourself time to relax and wander the park. Part of the charm of these parks is some of the beautifully detailed lands inside of them. I could walk around Tokyo DisneySea for an entire day without riding an attraction and be perfectly happy. Tokyo Disneyland isn’t far behind in that regard either. A few of our favorite lands in these parks are Mediterranean Harbor, American Waterfront, Mysterious Island, and Arabian Coast in DisneySea and Westernland, Fantasyland, and World Bazaar in Tokyo Disneyland.

The food in Japan is one of the things that we’re asked most about. While we understand that foreign food can be intimidating, it’s much ado about nothing really. Japanese food is mild, as far as spices go, and full of flavor.  Outside of putting too much mayonnaise on a few random items, we thoroughly enjoyed everything we tried while in Japan.

Tokyo Disney Resort’s food is even less foreign than that as there are plenty of different options throughout the parks. While there are some traditional Japanese restaurants throughout Tokyo Disney Resort, there’s also American, Italian, Chinese, and standard theme park food that we’d find throughout Disneyland and Disney World.  We haven’t made it to every Tokyo Disney restaurant but we do have a number of reviews listed below.

The food throughout TDR and Japan, as a whole, is cheaper than what we’re used to in America. Magellan’s, arguably the best theme park restaurant in the world, has 3-course meals that are cheaper than some standard table-service restaurant entrees in Disney World. It’s easy to find table-service meals for under $30/person and counter-service meals for under $15/person. Dining prices are an easy way to save some money on a trip to Japan.

Tokyo Disneyland dining reviews:

• Crystal Palace (table-service)
• Hungry Bear Restaurant (counter-service)
• China Voyager (counter-service)
• Queen of Hearts Banquet Hall (counter-service)
• La Taverne de Gaston (counter-service)
• Pan Galactic Pizza Port (counter-service)

Tokyo DisneySea dining reviews:

• Magellan’s (table-service)
• Ristorante di Canaletto (table-service)
• Restaurant Sakura (table-service)
• New York Deli (counter-service)
• Vulcania (counter-service)
• Zambini Brothers Ristorante (counter-service)
• Horizon Bay Restaurant (counter-service)
• Casbah Food Court (counter-service)
• Cafe Portofino (counter-service)

Along with some fantastic restaurants, Tokyo Disney Resort is home to some of the best, and definitely the cutest, snacks in any Disney Park. This post ranks all of the snacks we’ve tried at both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea . Make sure you set aside some time and funds for snacking around the parks. All in all, dining in Japan and Tokyo Disney Resort is something to look forward to, not something to be afraid of.

Outside of the Parks and Resources

If this hasn’t come through already in this guide, we absolutely loved Japan outside of Tokyo Disney Resort. From Kyoto’s contemplative history to Tokyo’s futuristic skyline, both cities made a lasting impression on us. Kyoto has become our favorite city in the world and one we long to visit nearly every day. I can’t recommend it enough. Tokyo is overwhelming to the senses and fascinating. While we loved both cities, we only were able to experience a fraction of them so we are far from experts. To read about our travels in Japan, check out this trip report . In the future we look forward to experiencing Hiroshima, Nara, Himeji Castle, and other landmarks throughout the country.

For better resources of what to do in Japan check out Travel Caffeine , an excellent travel website by Tom Bricker ( Disney Tourist Blog also has great Tokyo Disney Resort tips). He has developed the best online resource to Kyoto there is, as well as other cities in Japan. TDR Explorer is another exceptional resource to Tokyo Disney Resort, Japan, and other theme parks in Asia. In planning our travel, we used these sites extensively as well as Lonely Planet’s Japan Guide . If you have questions about Japan please let us know in the comments!

Should You Visit Tokyo Disney Resort in 2024?

Yes! The country is open, the resort is in decent shape and one of the biggest expansions in theme park history is set to open in June. Naturally, this means that the summer months at the park will be quite crowded. If you feel like you can handle that, go for it! Otherwise, going this fall or winter would be fantastic. The next big project Tokyo Disney is opening isn’t until 2027 so there’s no time like the present.

Tokyo Disneyland boasts a new Beauty and the Beast attraction as well as the soon to be Fantasy Springs. Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast opened in 2020 during the pandemic. In June, DisneySea will be adding Fantasy Springs , a multi-billion (that’s billion with a B) dollar expansion. There’s no doubt that the land will be a sight to behold.

Regardless of when you’re able to visit Tokyo Disney Resort we know that you’ll have the time of your life. These are two of the best Disney Parks in the world and Japan as a whole is a beautiful place to discover. We couldn’t recommend traveling there highly enough.

We hope this guide has been helpful! If you have any thoughts or questions, please leave a comment down below. If you enjoy what you are reading here on Wandering in Disney please share this post with your friends, as well as like our social media pages. You can also subscribe to the blog via WordPress or email. All of those links are on the right side of this page. Thank you for reading, we really appreciate it!

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Categories: Trip Planning Guides

Tagged as: Disney Parks Travel Guide , Tokyo Disney Resort , Tokyo Disney Resort Guide , Tokyo Disney Resort Trip Planning Guide , Tokyo Disneyland , Tokyo DisneySea

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great article and travel guide, thanks

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ASIA , JAPAN , TOKYO · July 9, 2019 Last Updated on March 10, 2024

HOW TO PLAN A TRIP TO TOKYO DISNEY IN 5 EASY STEPS

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If you’ve ever planned a trip to Disney World or Disneyland, then you know how easy and convenient it is. You can do everything online without the need to talk to a representative. Piece of cake. However, when it comes to an international Disney park like Tokyo Disney, things can get a bit tricky.

This is where this article comes in. Although it can be a bit overwhelming, if you properly do your research, it really can be just as smooth as planning a Disney trip in the States. To help, I’ve created this guide: 5 easy steps for planning a trip to Tokyo Disney.

TRY TO VISIT TOKYO DISNEY IN JANUARY OR SEPTEMBER

I’d say this is probably the most important advice I can give you. Walt Disney World in Florida and Tokyo Disney are the busiest parks and it can get very crowded. Which is why you should visit during the slow season.

I went in January and it was the best decision I ever made. You should also know that the best days to go during the slow season is the weekdays, specifically Tuesday through Thursday, the ultimate slow time.

Avoid going to the parks during the weekends. It can get very unpleasant in terms of crowds. I cannot stress this enough!

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When we went to Tokyo Disneyland on a Tuesday, most rides were empty so all we did was walk in and hop on the ride. Others only had a 5-minute wait. It was so funny watching the cast members just stand there waiting for someone to walk into their rides. It was amazing. I remember riding 3 rides in the span of 20 minutes, no FastPass necessary!

STAY AT A DISNEY HOTEL OR PARTNER HOTEL

If you want to take advantage of being one of the first people to enter the parks AND have a stress-free commute to the parks, I suggest staying at a Disney hotel or Disney partner hotel .

If you’re only planning on doing one day at the parks, then it’s not really necessary, but if you aren’t, you definitely should stay on Disney property. The commute from central Tokyo to Urayasu can be a hassle, especially in the mornings and evenings. I stayed at the Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel , a Disney partner hotel, and it was one of the best experiences of the whole trip.

The hotel is situated right across the street from the Disney resort line, which takes you around the entire Disney resort, the parks, and Ikspiari (their version of Disney Springs). It was convenient and so satisfying just crossing the street to catch our train to and from the parks.

The same goes for the Disneyland Hotel, the MiraCosta Hotel, Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay , and the Hilton Tokyo Bay . All of the nearby Disney Tokyo hotels are easily accessible and a small walk to the resort line.

SHERATON GRANDE TOKYO BAY HOTEL

If you can’t choose a hotel and if you’re looking for something affordable, I highly recommend the Sheraton . The room was so amazing and we were lucky enough to stay in their newly renovated wing.

They offer so many amenities, we were slightly overwhelmed. The food was delicious, the hotel itself was beautiful, the little shopping area in the hotel was extremely useful, (I got sick and required some medicine). And they have their own mini Disney store!

You can easily buy Disney tickets right at the hotel and you’re guaranteed admission even if the park reaches capacity. Their body wash also smelled really good! Another great thing about the partner hotels is that you can book them on Booking.com and other travel websites, so you can use your points if you have any.

PURCHASE A DISNEY RESORT LINE MULTI-DAY PASS 

Now you really only have to do this if you’re staying on Disney property, or if you’re planning on commuting to the parks more than one day. Like mentioned before, the Disney resort line moves you throughout the entire Disney property. It’s one large loop going in circles around the resort, with 4 stops total:

• Stop 1: Resort Gateway Station. This is where you’ll find Maihama Station, the train stop you’ll get off at if you’re visiting the resort from central Tokyo. You’ll also find Ikspiari, their version of Disney Springs. And finally the Disney Ambassador Hotel, as well as other entertainment facilities.
• Stop 2: Tokyo Disneyland Station. You’ll find Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disneyland Hotel.
• Stop 3: Bayside Station. This is where the Tokyo Disney partner and official hotels are located, (and where I stayed).
• Stop 4: Tokyo DisneySea Station. Here you’ll find Tokyo DisneySea and Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta.

DISNEY RESORT LINE AT TOKYO DISNEY

The Disney resort line multi-day pass is sort of an unlimited MetroCard. You can buy it for a certain amount of days, and use it as much as you’d like to within the time frame. You can go back and forth between the parks, Ikspiari, and your hotel.

KNOW WHICH RIDES YOU WANT TO DO FIRST

This one is very important. Unlike Disney World, you can’t book fast passes beforehand. This is probably the only negative thing I can say about Tokyo Disney. Because you can’t pick fast passes in advance, it’s all about timing your day and your rides.

People take their rides very seriously. The locals will line up for hours before the park opens in order to be first and run to the ride they want to get fast passes for, or just run to be the first in line, which can become an hour-long within 10 minutes of the park opening. And I do mean RUN – cast members are forced to hold signs reminding people to walk instead of running. Fast passes also sell out very quickly.

TOKYO DISNEYLAND RIDES

At Tokyo Disneyland, the most popular ride is Pooh’s Hunny Hunt . It’s so popular that fast passes sell out within the first 2 hours of the park opening! We wanted to ride that ride because it’s also unique to Tokyo Disney, so of course, that was the main focus on our Disneyland day.

We got our FastPass at opening hours, then, later on, we got Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. We really didn’t have to get fast passes for the remainder of the day because as mentioned before, the park was so slow there was no need!

TOKYO DISNEYSEA RIDES

At Tokyo DisneySea , the most popular ride is Toy Story Mania. It’s so popular it’s insane. Fastpasses sell out within the hour of the park opening. When entering the park, we found it so interesting observing the entire crowd just turn left to go get in line or get a FastPass for Toy Story!

I don’t blame them though, it’s an amazing ride, but we opted out of this one this time. Instead, we got fast passes for Tower of Terror, (which it’s a completely different theme than the other Disney parks and has a terrifying monkey), Journey to the Center of the Earth, (which I found to be a little underwhelming if I’m honest), and Tower of Terror again because we loved it so much!

PICKING YOUR FAVORITE RIDES

Now returning back to my point: you should know the must-rides for you. That way you can plan and know where you have to run to, (or speed walk really really fast), to get your FastPass in the morning. Know how popular that ride is and if it’s one of the most popular ones, get a FastPass for that one first and get the least popular rides later in the day because you can’t get them all the same time. Planning saves you time, which allows for more fun!

You should also know that Tokyo DisneySea is an extremely large park. The minimum you should plan for it is 2 days. It also has the most thrilling attractions out of the two parks, therefore the favorite to most people.

It also has the most interesting theme spots such as Ariel’s Playground, Agrabah Marketplace, and the Italy section. Nothing you’ve ever seen before! Take your time exploring Tokyo DisneySea, it is beautiful.

BUY YOUR TICKETS BEFOREHAND OR AT THE HOTEL

You’ve most likely probably heard of this one. Well, you hear it a lot for a reason! No one likes the morning lines to get tickets, watching everyone rush by you because they already have theirs. Buy your tickets online, or at the Disney hotel, you are staying at.

You can even buy Disney tickets at 7-elevens and Lawsons in central Tokyo if that’s where you’re staying, it’s so easy and convenient! Just don’t do it when you reach the gates.

Tokyo Disney tickets are also the most affordable Disney tickets in my opinion. Compared to other parks, it’s moderately priced. The food and merchandise are also surprisingly affordable if you were wondering!

WHAT TO KNOW FOR VISITING JAPAN

Japan visas.

Citizens of many countries can get a free 90 day entry to visit Japan for tourism.

Be sure to check the official Japanese Immigration Website for the latest information for your specific country.

The currency used in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY) . The current exchange rate is approximately 1 USD to 108 JPY. You can check the latest EUR exchange rate on Google .

While traveling, our number one tip is to use a free Charles Schwab Debit Card which gives unlimited worldwide ATM Fee Refunds and the true exchange rate.

BEST TOURS IN TOKYO

Some of the best tours and things to do in Tokyo are:

• Tokyo Temples and Shrines Morning Tour
• Tokyo: Sushi Making Class
• 2-Hour Asakusa Food Hunt & Cultural Tour
• Photo Shoot in Tokyo with a Private Photographer

WHERE TO STAY IN TOKYO

We recommend booking your hotels on Booking.com to get the best rate and many hotels offer free cancellation in case your plans change.

Some of our favorite hotels near Tokyo Disney are:

• Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel
• Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay
• Hilton Tokyo Bay

AirBnB is also a great option in Tokyo (and you can save $44 using that link to sign up!).

BEST TIME TO VISIT JAPAN

The best time to visit Japan is during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to November . These times have the mildest temperatures and will be less crowded than summer.

BEST BOOKS ABOUT JAPAN

Read more about Japan before you go! Some of the best books about Japan are:

• Memoirs of a Geisha
• Shogun: The Epic Novel of Japan
• My Year of Meats

WHAT POWER ADAPTERS DO YOU NEED

Japan uses standard Type A and Type B adapters also commonly used in the USA. However, keep in mind that the voltage is different so be careful with your electronics and bring a voltage converter if necessary.

You can buy a universal adapter that will work in any country and has extra ports for USB cables to charge your phone and other devices.

We also always travel with a portable battery pack which is great to keep your phone charged on long journeys.

TRANSPORTATION IN JAPAN

• Public Transportation: Japan has extensive public transportation by both bus and train. The high speed trains are particularly good.
• Rental Cars : If you want flexibility, we recommend renting a car at the airport. This provides the easiest way to see certain landmarks, though parking in Tokyo can be expensive.
• Uber: Uber is sometimes available in Japan, though it depends on the area (mostly in Tokyo and Kyoto). However, the rules are constantly changing about Uber in Japan due to the strict permits that are required for drivers to offer rides. Metered taxis are readily available. You can use the popular JapanTaxiApp instead of Uber.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Our top recommended travel insurance companies for Japan are:

• World Nomads : Comprehensive coverage for medical, travel delays, and electronics.
• SafetyWing : Cheaper monthly coverage primarily for medical, starting at $37 for 4 weeks of coverage.

MORE ARTICLES ABOUT JAPAN

• Top 10 Things To Do In Tokyo
• Naoshima, Japan Will Surprise You
• Why You Should Consider Japan For A Solo Female Trip
• A Guide To Visiting Hakone, Japan
• The Perfect 7 Day Japan Itinerary
• 8 Things To Do In Japan Totally Worth The Hype
• 8 Off The Beaten Path Things To Do In Tokyo, Japan

So far, I think Tokyo Disney might be my favorite Disney park, in terms of uniqueness and convenience. Walt Disney World, of course, will always be my OG. But these two parks are the parks that I will always continue coming to.

We hope that this article has helped inspire you to visit Tokyo Disney. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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We Are Travel Girls Contributor Ashley Prenza of AshleyPrenza.com   Connect with Ashley  Instagram  | YouTube

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January 24, 2020 at 9:40 pm

Great article! We’re a family of 7 — mom/dad and 5 kids. Any hotel recommendations?

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9 things to know before visiting Tokyo Disney in 2024

If you like the U.S. Disney parks, the odds are high that you'll love the two theme parks at the Tokyo Disney Resort.

Tokyo Disneyland opened in 1983 with a high standard, even by Disney's notoriously high theme park standards. That commitment didn't break, even as the construction budget ballooned past expectations. In 2001, Tokyo Disneyland was joined by the Tokyo DisneySea park, home to many ports and adventures set around the 189-foot Mount Prometheus volcano.

Along with the two Tokyo Disney theme parks are six Tokyo Disney Resort hotels and a monorail with access to many other nearby hotels. From can't-miss rides and snacks to how to get tickets, where to stay and how to get around, here is what you need to know before visiting Tokyo Disney.

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Tokyo Disney basics

Tokyo Disneyland is the original park in Tokyo Disney. It is a traditional Disney "castle park" with themed lands that may strike you as quite familiar, including Adventureland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Toontown and more. The castle itself will likely look familiar as it is modeled after Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World.

Don't write it off as a replica of Disney World, though. It's inspired by, but certainly not a copy of, the Florida park.

Two monorail stops away is the newer park, Tokyo DisneySea. This park is the most original of the two, and it's unlike any Disney park you've seen before.

It's also home to never-before-seen rides, such as Journey to the Center of the Earth and Sindbad's Storybook Voyage, not to mention all the new rides in the new Fantasy Springs portion of the park.

There's even an entire steam-powered ocean liner in the park. You can actually go inside to explore, eat, take selfies and make TikToks (which seem to be a very common pastime here).

How to get Tokyo Disney tickets

One of the best things about Tokyo Disney is that the tickets are much cheaper than Disney tickets in the U.S. Based on the current exchange rates, adult Tokyo Disney tickets start around $50 per day while teen and tween tickets are $42 and child tickets are just $30 per day.

There are also evening tickets that start at $30 for adults. These tickets can be used from 5 p.m. onward during the week and 3 p.m. onward during the weekends and holidays.

Related: How to use miles to fly to Japan

You can purchase Tokyo Disney tickets online at the official Tokyo Disney Resort starting at 2 p.m., two months before your desired visit.

Note that tickets sometimes sell out. However, if you stay at a Tokyo Disney hotel, you are guaranteed access to tickets, which eliminates some stress. Additionally, don't be surprised if the Tokyo Disney website (and many websites in Japan, frankly) is persnickety about accepting some U.S. credit cards.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve ® and The Platinum Card® from American Express were pretty reliable in our experience, but you may have to try various cards to get the purchase to work as there's not a fully consistent pattern of what will go through. If all else fails, the Klook app or website has Tokyo Disney tickets, among many other popular attractions in Japan; it is pretty reliable with U.S. credit cards. The downsides of booking with a third party are prices can be a bit higher, and dates can't be changed once purchased.

Regardless of how you purchase your Tokyo Disney tickets, know that all tickets are single-day tickets; multi-day tickets aren't currently available. Tickets are also limited to just a single park per day as well, with no park hopping offered.

How many days to spend at Tokyo Disney

Naturally, how much time someone wants to devote to visiting Tokyo Disney — especially when there is so much to see and do in Japan — will vary based on a long list of factors. However, if you really want to experience a good amount of what Tokyo Disney has to offer, you need at least one full day devoted to each park. Plan to stay from open to close.

But now that Fantasy Springs has opened in Tokyo DisneySea , you may very well need at least a half-day more than that to feel like you had enough time to do most of the unique rides and experiences there. So, we'd recommend at least two full days for Tokyo Disney and, ideally, three days if you want the luxury of time on your side.

That said, if you just want to take the train in and have one Tokyo Disney-themed day, you will still have fun. Instead of cramming everything in, just try to enjoy what you have time for on your trip. If you only have one day, we highly recommend arriving at least an hour before opening time to get in line and be ready to make the most of your time.

Just know that if all you get is a taste of Tokyo Disney, you may immediately start planning your next visit.

Getting to Tokyo Disney

If you are arriving at Tokyo Disney from Tokyo proper, taking the train is an inexpensive and efficient option. Two Japan Rail lines, JR Keiyo and JR Musashino, run from Tokyo Station at the city center to Maihama Station, right by Tokyo Disney.

The ride from Tokyo Station to Maihama Station takes 15 to 20 minutes. Guests traveling from other central areas of Tokyo will likely have a 10- to 30-minute train ride on other JR or subway lines to reach Tokyo Station first. Transiting the enormous Tokyo Station can be intimidating at first, as there are long walks, lots of escalators and moving sidewalks between connecting trains.

Trains also connect Tokyo Disney to Tokyo's two major airports, Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND), but other transportation methods may be preferable with luggage and tired kiddos. The connections to Tokyo Disney from NRT, particularly, are far from ideal; it'll be a long journey that requires backtracking.

Both of our families booked a private 45-60 minute van ride with Tokyo Airporter between our resort hotel and NRT — a pricey but convenient option with jet-lagged kids.

A more budget-friendly option at 1,300 Japanese yen (about $8) per person is the Airport Limousine bus. Service is more frequent from HND than NRT, but it drops off at many hotels near Tokyo Disney. Check schedules online (searching "Disney" in the destination filter will display most hotels near Tokyo Disney) to see if this option might work for you. Wait until you land in Tokyo to buy tickets for a specific departure.

Related: Beginner's guide to visiting Tokyo

Where to stay at Tokyo Disney

If you are a big Disney fan (and you have the budget to stay at one of the Tokyo Disney hotels), we recommend one of the six official hotels. The 15-minute Happy Entry headstart it gets you each morning into the parks is a bigger deal than it sounds when it comes to knocking out one or two attractions before the crowds descend. Importantly, it also allows you to purchase Premier Access rides a bit earlier than most of the crowd, as you must be in the park to do that.

Of course, other options are nearby, too, if you're not all-in on Disney or want to use traditional hotel points for this part of your trip.

If you want to stay at an official Tokyo Disney hotel, bookings open four months in advance for a hotel room and between five and six months in advance for a vacation package. Packages can make sense if you plan to use all of the inclusions — such as tickets, rides and popcorn — especially with the Fantasy Springs passport, which can help you enjoy that part of the park.

Tokyo Disneyland Hotel

The Tokyo Disneyland Hotel is classified in the deluxe tier of hotels (second only to the luxury tier, which is home to just a portion of the new Fantasy Springs Hotel). It's so close to Tokyo Disneyland that you can almost smell the popcorn from within the park. This Victorian-style hotel gives off strong Walt Disney World Grand Floridian vibes. However, it offers some interesting themed rooms (Beauty and the Beast, Tinker Bell and Alice in Wonderland) that are very much worth it in our view.

Prices here start around around $400 per night.

Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta

Also in the deluxe hotel tier, Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta has its own entrance into the connected DisneySea park. Plus, its rooms offer a view of the park — you can sleep with one eye on the magic all night if you want. It's a Roman-style hotel that carries mythical stories of the sea into the lobby and rooms.

Rooms with a view into the park are worth it if you can book one, but these sell out very quickly; don't miss the booking window when it opens. Note: Aside from a very small selection of packaged items in the market, there are no real grab-and-go food options in the hotel.

Tokyo Disney Fantasy Springs Hotel

Tokyo Disney Fantasy Springs Hotel is Tokyo Disney's newest hotel and the only one with some of its offerings in the highest luxury tier.

This hotel offers deluxe and luxury rooms, and the luxury rooms offer balconies with views over the new Fantasy Springs port. Hotel guests will enjoy the feeling of checking into Fantasy Springs upon arrival at the hotel; it offers beautiful theming and some rockwork views that are only accessible to hotel guests. Once the sun sets and the guests leave DisneySea, look over Fantasy Springs from your balcony or one of the hotel's many public areas to enjoy the sparkle of the now-empty Fantasy Springs.

The bad news about Tokyo Disney Fantasy Springs Hotel is that, at least for now, this is the hottest ticket in town. Snagging a reservation here is harder than getting a face-value Taylor Swift ticket in the U.S.

Other Official Tokyo Disney hotels

In addition to those three official hotels, there is also the Disney Ambassador Hotel (deluxe tier), Tokyo Disney Resort Toy Story Hotel (moderate tier) and Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel (value tier). These are generally less expensive than the three above, especially the Toy Story- and Celebration-themed properties. However, none are super close to the parks, so factor that into your decision-making.

You'll likely take the Disney monorail to visit the parks for the first two hotels, and you'll likely take a shuttle bus to the Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel.

Other nearby hotels

If none of the official Disney hotels is the right choice for your trip, 19 other Good Neighbor and Partner hotels offer amenities such as shuttle buses to the parks or resort monorail. Such options include Hilton Tokyo Bay Hotel (which is right next to Tokyo Disney's Toy Story-themed hotel) and the Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay .

How to get around Tokyo Disney

Once you arrive at the Tokyo Disney property, it's quite easy and efficient to get around.

Tokyo Disney has its own monorail, which makes a loop and has four stations, bringing you to the two theme parks and the resort hotels. This loop is roughly the same size and scale as the Magic Kingdom monorail loop at Disney World in Florida, but it has an additional theme park and more hotels on the same loop.

Unlike Disneyland and Disney World in the U.S., the monorail is not free. It is highly affordable at 300 yen (less than $2) per ride, but you'll need to purchase tickets or daypasses at one of the stations to ride. You can't use a credit card to purchase your tickets, so you'll need an alternate way to pay, such as yen or a Suica card.

Daypasses are generally more economical if you plan to take the monorail more than twice in a single day. Transit cards like Suica and PASMO (valid on Japan's other public transit services like trains and subways) also work to pay monorail fares.

While most guests will likely need to take the monorail some of the time, some resort destinations are within walking distance of each other. For example, it's a relatively easy 10-minute walk between Maihama Station and both Tokyo Disneyland Park and the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel. Reaching DisneySea or many other hotels from any of these locations, however, requires a monorail ride.

Tokyo Disney crowds — and how to minimize your time in line

Tokyo Disney has developed a bit of a reputation for crushing crowds and extraordinarily long lines. Located in the world's largest metropolitan area, the resort undoubtedly draws a jaw-dropping number of people on any given day.

Despite what some posted wait times might suggest, you don't need to resign yourself to standing in two-hour queues. With some research and strategy preparation, our families never waited more than 30 minutes in like for any single attraction.

The key to avoiding long attraction queues is maximizing Tokyo Disney's two cut-the-line options: Premier Access (available for a per-ride fee) and 40th Anniversary Priority Pass (free). Premier Access functions similarly to paid Lightning Lanes in the U.S. parks, and the 40th Anniversary Priority Pass works like a free version of Disney Genie+ .

Free 40th Anniversary Priority Pass

The 40th Anniversary Priority Pass works much like Genie+, but this version is free. You can get one ride pass upon entering the park in the morning. Then, you can get subsequent ones 120 minutes after the last one or when the return time opens for the last one you've obtained. With these, you cannot choose the return time and simply get the next available slot for your chosen attraction.

It's reasonable to assume that if you start right at the park opening, you'll be able to probably get two of these in a day — three if you are lucky. Be sure to prioritize the one you want the most as they do "sell out."

Eligible 40th Anniversary Priority Pass attractions include:

• Tokyo Disneyland: Space Mountain
• Tokyo Disneyland: Buzz Lightyear's Astro Blasters
• Tokyo Disneyland: Star Tours: The Adventure Continues
• Tokyo Disneyland: Haunted Mansion
• Tokyo Disneyland: Pooh's Honey Hunt
• Tokyo Disneyland: Big Thunder Mountain
• Tokyo Disneyland: Monsters, Inc. Ride Go & Seek
• Tokyo DisneySea: Nemo & Friends SeaRider
• Tokyo DisneySea: Aquatopia (from July 2 through Sept. 18, 2024, only)
• Tokyo DisneySea: Raging Spirits
• Tokyo DisneySea: 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
• Tokyo DisneySea: The Magic Lamp Theater
• Tokyo DisneySea: Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull
• Tokyo DisneySea: Turtle Talk

There are also character meet and greets available with the Priority Pass, so don't forget to get one of those if you're dreaming of that photo with Mickey, Minnie or friends.

Premier Access (paid)

Then there's the paid Premier Access system, which works a lot like individual Lightning Lanes for the most popular rides in the U.S. If you are coming all the way to Japan and want to ride some top rides, you want to buy Premier Access.

You can purchase your first one as soon as you enter the park and then can continue buying more (to the same or different rides) either 60 minutes after your last purchase or after the start time of your last purchased Premier Access Pass, whichever is earlier. You can also have a Premier Access Pass at the same time as an attraction for a parade or show. You can have them at the same time as the free 40th-Anniversary Priority Passes.

Here are the eligible rides and shows for Premier Access:

• Tokyo Disneyland: Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast (2,000 yen, which is about $13)
• Tokyo Disneyland: The Happy Ride with Baymax (1,500 yen, which is about $10)
• Tokyo Disneyland: Splash Mountain (1,500 yen, which is about $10)
• Tokyo DisneySea: Anna and Elsa's Frozen Journey (2,000 yen, which is about $13)
• Tokyo DisneySea: Rapunzel's Lantern Festival (2,000 yen, which is about $13)
• Tokyo DisneySea: Peter Pan's Never Land Adventure (2,000 yen, which is about $13)
• Tokyo DisneySea: Soaring: Fantastic Flight (2,000 yen, which is about $13)
• Tokyo DisneySea: Toy Story Mania! (2,000 yen, which is about $13)
• Tokyo DisneySea: Tower of Terror(1,500 yen, which is about $10)
• Tokyo DisneySea: Journey to the Center of the Earth (1,500 yen, which is about $10)

In our experience, if you start purchasing Premier Access passes right at park opening and continue to do so once per hour (or sooner, if your start time is sooner), you'll likely be able to purchase about three in one day before they sell out. This was true before the opening of Fantasy Springs, so it could change now that the number available at DisneySea has almost doubled. However, start for sure with the one or two rides you want to prioritize for that day.

Early Happy Entry

Another way to avoid some of the most notorious crowds is to stay at one of the deluxe Disney-branded hotels and use the Happy Entry perk.

Depending on the hotel you stay in and the date of your visit, you can get early access to one or both parks via "Happy Entry." Check the fine print carefully as the opening of Fantasy Springs is changing what hotels offer this benefit for each park on different days.

The head start is only 15 extra minutes, but it can make a world of difference. Happy Entry guests enter through separate checkpoints and can dash to one popular attraction to start the morning with a short standby wait. Additionally, Happy Entry guests can begin making ride reservations with Premier Access and 40th Anniversary Priority Pass upon entry, getting an important jump on other guests.

That means you can get a short wait for one ride while you get the first pick on two other rides with the paid and free passes — all in the first few minutes before the official opening time.

If you're not eligible for the Happy Entry benefit, you should expect a massive crowd outside the parks before the gates open each day. If you want to be at the front of those crowds, it's necessary to arrive up to several hours before park opening. Thankfully, Tokyo Disney Resort is highly efficient at processing what may appear to be an intimidating number of guests, even if you arrive closer to opening time.

Of course, there are times when the crowds can be unbearable. The Golden Week holidays in late April and early May have historically been the most crowded. The opening of Fantasy Springs in early June 2024 will also likely lead to an unprecedented surge in demand at Tokyo DisneySea through the summer and beyond. Regardless of which season you visit, we highly recommend avoiding weekend days.

Must-do Tokyo Disney rides and shows

Quite a few of the attractions in Tokyo Disneyland will look familiar to guests who know the U.S. parks well. There are classics like It's a Small World, Peter Pan and Pirates of the Caribbean.

However, most guests visit to experience Tokyo Disney's more interesting attractions , and the two parks boast an impressive list of rides and experiences available nowhere else. Not surprisingly, these attractions tend to have the longest lines. A smart strategy to get aboard most of them without long waits is essential.

One of Tokyo Disneyland's newest and most popular attractions is Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast. It's within Beast's Castle (a 2020 expansion to Fantasyland), and guests glide along in a trackless teacup ride vehicle through scenes from the movie populated with realistic Audio-Animatronic characters.

Also popular is Pooh's Hunny Hunt, which was the first Disney attraction ever to use trackless technology. Guests will also want to make time for the Happy Ride with Baymax (similar to Alien Swirling Saucers or Mater's Junkyard Jamboree) and Monsters, Inc. Hide and Go Seek (a substantial improvement on Disneyland's Monster's, Inc. dark ride). It's not a particularly amazing ride, but it's an amazing atmosphere, so go watch others ride if you don't have time to do so yourself.

In Tokyo DisneySea, the top thrill ride is Journey to the Center of the Earth, a dark ride and coaster that winds through Mount Prometheus before its thrilling drop ends.

Milder but still cool DisneySea rides include 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Sindbad's Storybook Voyage, Nemo & Friends: SeaRider and Aquatopia. Tokyo DisneySea also has its own Tower of Terror complete with a totally different theme and storyline that shouldn't be missed.

Within Fantasy Springs, there are four new attractions — Peter Pan's Never Land Adventure, Rapunzel's Lantern Festival, Fairy Tinker Bell's Busy Buggies, and Anna and Elsa's Frozen Journey — that you'll want to include in your itinerary.

While many guests to Disney parks prioritize rides, they shouldn't overlook Tokyo Disney's shows and entertainment. These offerings are far more substantial than those in the U.S. parks.

The most talked-about show is Big Band Beat in Tokyo DisneySea, which uses a lottery-style "Entry Request" system to distribute seats. Yes, that's separate from the Premier Access and 40th Anniversary Priority Pass we've been talking about.

Some shows, such as the popular Duffy and Friends' Wonderful Friendship, are only available to guests who book a dining reservation at the associated restaurant (more on dining below).

Tokyo Disneyland Park traditionally has a daytime and evening parade as well as evening fireworks. Tokyo DisneySea also features a nighttime spectacular on the water. You can purchase Premier Access reserved "seating" for either of those.

Thankfully, attending parades is a very organized process in Tokyo Disney. In the hour or two before the show, it is quite common to see families sitting along the parade route.

Best meals and snacks in Tokyo Disney

Tokyo Disney Resort offers a somewhat overwhelming array of dining options, and most non-local guests won't have time to sample more than a couple of the many dozens of restaurants.

Like the U.S. parks, Tokyo Disney has quick- and table-service restaurants. The resort also offers a few entertainment dining restaurants that combine a meal with a stage show featuring character performers.

Getting dining reservations for the most popular table-service and show-dining restaurants is at least as competitive as for Disney World or Disneyland.

Show dining reservations open at 9 a.m. local time exactly one month in advance. All other table service restaurant reservations open one hour later at 10 a.m. The demand regularly crashes the Tokyo Disney website and app. Be prepared not to get your first (or maybe even your second or third) choice.

If this process doesn't sound like your idea of fun vacation planning, know that it's not necessary to make dining reservations at all. There are plenty of tasty, quick-service meals and snacks to enjoy. One of us battled the website and snagged some (but not all) of the more competitive table service restaurants like Magellan's, Teddy Roosevelt Lounge, Blue Bayou and Mickey's Rainbow Luau.

But one of us opted out of this rat race and ate only quick service and snacks in the park instead; this led to more flexibility, lower prices and still some pretty solid food.

For some of the quick-service options, you can use the mobile ordering option in the app, which works somewhat similarly to the U.S. Disney parks. This isn't available at every quick-service restaurant; still, it's available at enough of them to keep you happy and avoid wasting precious time in line. We used it to receive this quick order from Plasma Ray's Diner in Tokyo Disneyland.

When it comes to snacks, Tokyo Disney has a fair number of reasonably priced and adorable snacks for dining on the go. The most visible and beloved snack is undoubtedly popcorn. Popcorn carts are in nearly every land in both parks, and queues often rival the lines for popular attractions.

Each cart offers a different flavor, from the sweet to the savory. Some of the flavors available in 2024 include curry, caramel, chocolate, black pepper, garlic shrimp and matcha white chocolate. You can afford to sample a few at 400 yen (about $3) per box.

Tokyo Disney also offers several other snacks that will be familiar to guests who have visited the U.S. Disney parks. These options include churros and turkey legs. (Insider tip we learned the hard way: Skip the potato churro and opt for the traditional cinnamon-sugar one instead. Along with many other snacks here, it comes in a Mickey shape.)

Unique to Tokyo Disney are the often-Instagrammed Toy Story Green Alien Mochi dumplings.

Is it worth it to visit Tokyo Disney?

Japan has more to offer than you could ever enjoy all in one visit, so it can be tough to decide whether it's worth devoting some of your precious time there to a theme park visit. Nothing is right for everyone, but if you even remotely like the U.S. Disney parks, then Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are worth the time.

Some things will feel very familiar if you are used to the U.S. Disney parks (which can be a nice break while in a part of the world that is so distinct from home). However, many other things are unique to Tokyo Disney, and both of our Disney-loving families found the visit very much worth the time and money.

Visitors can sit on the ground to watch the shows and parades, capitalize on the affordable prices, sample interesting snacks, enjoy high-quality and original rides, meet the adorable Duffy and friends characters, and stay in interesting hotels. So, even after devoting multiple days to Tokyo Disney, we all left wishing we could stay for more.

Related reading:

• Best ways to use your points and miles to visit Japan
• Review of the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel
• Review of Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta
• Look inside Tokyo Disney Fantasy Springs

Here's Why Tokyo Disneyland Can Be Cheaper To Visit Than Disney Parks In America

T okyo holds the world's two best-rated Disney parks , but that's not the only reason it's on the radar of American theme park goers. Even with the cost of plane tickets, a trip to Tokyo Disney Resort can be cheaper than one to California's Disneyland Resort or Florida's Walt Disney World. The exchange rate from U.S. dollars to Japanese yen is to thank for that, and it might soon have you rethinking where to plan your next Disney vacation.

From August 2020 to June 2024 — when the new $2 billion expansion area, Fantasy Springs, opened at Tokyo DisneySea — the exchange rate climbed from about 106 to 156 yen against the dollar, according to Statista . This means the purchasing power of $1 in Japan went up around 150%. Just think of that as more bang for your Disney buck in Tokyo.

The benefit of traveling to DisneySea and Tokyo Disneyland hasn't escaped the notice of fans on TikTok (not to be confused with Tick-Tock, the hungry crocodile who appears in the Peter Pan's Never Land Adventure ride in Fantasy Springs). For @maddiecastellano , the biggest expense was airfare, but it only cost $1,050 for her family of four to fly round-trip from Honolulu to Tokyo. They stayed in a hotel on the resort's monorail loop for two nights and visited DisneySea for two days, and the total cost for them including food was $1,850. In the U.S., airfare may be cheaper, but you'll have to spend more on Disney ticket prices and other add-ons.

Read more: 28 Bucket List Destinations That Everyone Needs To Experience At Least Once

The Airfare To Japan Is Offset By Other U.S. Expenses

International airfare might seem costly when you're paying it all upfront, but the expenses for a stateside Disney trip add up fast, too. Per CNN , it could cost a family of four $1,500 just for tickets, parking, and the Genie+ service for two days at California's two Disney parks. That's during the off season, and it only gets more expensive when you factor in food and hotel prices. Disney World has four theme parks, so there's more ground to cover, and it adds to your vacation's length and price. This is one reason why Disneyland may be better than Disney World for a short trip.

Even a budget trip to Disney World for four days costs around $5,000 for a family of four. This is the same resort that, after less than two years, closed down its new "Star Wars" hotel, where the minimum two-night stay ran $5,000 just for one couple. Deluxe resort hotels still fetch prices as astronomical as the spacefaring droid R2-D2 in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.

Sure, you could cough up $900 a night to stay at the Grand Floridian, or you could hop on the Japanese airline ANA's R2-D2 jet to Tokyo. Depending on the airline, a good deal on a flight from Los Angeles to Japan could get you there for as little as $300 one-way or $600 round-trip. Flying from the East Coast (for example, Florida to Tokyo) would likely be pricier.

The Exchange Rate Reduces Ticket Prices (And More)

In April 2024, the Japanese yen briefly dipped to its lowest value against the U.S. dollar since 1990. That benefits American travelers, though it's not the best news for Japanese citizens, who are paying more than ever to visit Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. In 2023, the price of a peak ticket to the parks exceeded 10,000 yen for the first time. For its most in-demand rides, the increasingly monetized resort now charges for the line-skipping option of Premium Access, much like the U.S. Disney parks did away with free Fastpasses in favor of the Lightning Lane upcharge.

The difference when you're paying 156 versus 106 yen to the dollar would be that 10,000 yen equals about $64 instead of $94. That's for the highest price tier; the lowest tier for Tokyo Disney Resort tickets (on off-peak days) is 7,900 yen, or about $50 at the 156-yen rate. Paying $50 for a one-day Disney park ticket is unheard of in California, where tickets currently range from $119 to $194.

The savings you'll get in Japan trickle down to other expenses, like meals, souvenirs, and Premium Access rides. Fantasy Springs-adjacent hotels on the monorail loop, like the Hilton Tokyo Bay, also provide super-convenient park access for as low as $150 a night. While the currency exchange rate is always fluctuating, the yen's weakening in the 2020s gives fans a rare window of opportunity to save money on their Disney trip by flying to Tokyo.

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Why Disney fans will travel all the way to Japan for Tokyo Disneyland, DisneySea

• Tokyo Disneyland feels familiar with notable differences.
• Tokyo DisneySea feels foreign in the best way.
• There is no Disney Genie+ at Tokyo Disney Resort.

If you ever want to experience pure joy, go to Tokyo Disney Resort.

More specifically, The Happy Ride with Baymax at Tokyo Disneyland.

It may operate like Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree at Disney California Adventure or Alien Swirling Saucers at Disney’s Hollywood Studios , but the vibe is truly one-of-a-kind.

Cast members sing and dance in sync with the infectiously bubbly music. Fellow guests of all ages bop along while waiting patiently in line and wave their arms as the ride spins them around like kids who’ve had too much candy. You can’t help but feel happy. 

“I want our guests to feel transported and to kind of escape from the daily grind. And I think that's what really Tokyo Disney Resort, the entire resort, does best,” Daniel Jue with Walt Disney Imagineering said ahead of Thursday’s opening of Fantasy Springs, the resort’s largest expansion since the opening of Tokyo DisneySea.

Disneyland may be the happiest place on Earth, but Tokyo Disney Resort is right up there. That’s just one of the reasons why Disney fans will fly across the world to visit its two parks: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. Here’s what travelers should know before they go.

A new Fantasyland? See inside Tokyo DisneySea’s new Fantasy Springs

Tokyo Disneyland feels familiar

Tokyo Disneyland feels very much like the original Disneyland in California and Magic Kingdom in Florida, with some notable differences.

There are numerous rides unique to the location, like The Happy Ride with Baymax and the wildly popular Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast , which swirls and sways like Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway through beloved scenes from “Beauty and the Beast” on trackless oversized dishes. The park is getting a totally new Space Mountain , expected to open in 2027. And it still has Splash Mountain , as Tokyo Disney Resort is owned by Oriental Land Company, which licenses from and partners with Disney.

Instead of Main Street U.S.A., guests enter the park through the glass-canopied World Bazaar. Instead of Frontierland, there's Westernland. The park’s Cinderella Castle may look like the one at Disney World, but guests can walk right through its upper chambers into Cinderella’s Fairy Tale Hall and throne room. The park also has a Toontown like Disneyland, whereas Disney World’s Mickey’s Toontown Fair closed years ago for New Fantasyland . Guests may also notice the Japan section of “ it’s a small world ” is larger than at other parks.

Tokyo DisneySea feels foreign in the best way

As Jasmine and Aladdin sang, Tokyo DisneySea is like “a whole new world.” Instead of lands, the park is organized into ports like American Waterfront, which looks like a coastal New England town, and Mermaid Lagoon, an indoor port, which makes fans of “The Little Mermaid” feel like they’re under the sea. 

The park’s newest port, Fantasy Springs, opened Thursday. It features four new, location-exclusive attractions including the world’s only “Tangled”-theme ride, as well as Captain Hook’s ship, multiple restaurants, and stunning Disney-inspired rockwork fans will want to take time to explore. There’s also an adjacent Fantasy Springs Hotel overlooking the port with its own park entrance, like Disney’s Grand Californian with Disney California Adventure.

In the middle of Tokyo DisneySea, there’s a towering mountain, Mount Prometheus, and a large lagoon. One of the park's most popular and unique rides, Journey to the Center of the Earth , takes guests deep into the mountain, where unusual creatures await in the darkness. Nearby, guests can still ride 20000 Leagues Under the Sea , which closed at both Disney World and Disneyland years ago. At night, guests gather around the lagoon for the Believe! Sea of Dreams spectacular show.

There is no Genie+

There's no Disney Genie+ at Tokyo Disney Resort, but there are ways to cut waits for fees and for free.

Guests staying at the resort’s hotels can get a head start with Happy Entry . Instead of 30 minutes of early entry like at Disney World and Disneyland, Tokyo Disney Resort hotel guests get into the parks 15 minutes early through dedicated entrance lanes. That may not sound like much, but when you see the massive lines that form outside park gates early each morning, you’ll see what a difference 15 minutes make. 

Instead of Individual Lightning Lanes, guests can purchase Premier Access for the parks’ most popular attractions. That lets them into shorter lines at designated times. Each one has a separate à la carte fee. Guests can also purchase Premier Access for reserved seating for parades and nighttime spectaculars. 

Currently, Tokyo Disney Resort is also offering 40th Anniversary Priority Passes that work like Disney World and Disneyland’s old Fast Passes, granting access to shorter lines at select attractions and other experiences for free. Guests can request one pass at a time, pending availability on the resort’s free app.

The park app is also needed for free Entry Requests to Tokyo Disney Resort’s stage shows. These shows offer seating on a lottery basis rather than first-come, first-served.

During certain times of the year, a free Standby Pass may also be required to enter certain shops with high-demand, limited-edition merchandise. 

Nearly everything is in Japanese

Guests who don’t understand Japanese will want to download a free app like Google Translate to read menu ingredients and ask for directions. Some cast members speak English, but unlike at Disney World and Disneyland, there are no paper park maps. There are only digital maps on the app.

Most rides are also in Japanese, but you can get the gist of what’s going on from other audio and visual cues, even on attractions like Sinbad’s Storybook Voyage , which has no equivalent in the U.S.

The food is almost too cute to eat

From custard-filled mochi that looks like the aliens from “Toy Story” to sandwiches made with fluffy white buns shaped like Mickey Mouse’s gloves to rice molded into Baymax sitting in a plate of curry, the food is almost too cute to eat at Tokyo Disney Resort. Don’t miss the many flavors of popcorn, like Matcha White Chocolate and the new Roast Beef, as well as the elaborately themed popcorn buckets and themed vending machines with both hot and cold drinks, depending on the season.

Guests with food allergies may want to bring a notecard indicating the allergy in Japanese to show at park eateries. Vegetarians may find fewer options than at Disney World and Disneyland. Picky eaters should note substitutions or modifications may not be allowed, particularly with set menu items.

Everything is cheaper

Flying to Japan is expensive, but nearly everything else is cheaper at Tokyo Disney Resort, including park tickets, food, and souvenirs like Mouse ear headbands, which are about half the price of those at Disney World and Disneyland. The favorable dollar-to-yen exchange rate also helps. 

Disney fans will want to arrive with extra space in their luggage or a spare bag for the haul they’ll bring back home.

There’s no shame in Disney adulting

“I have this hypothesis that what so connects our guests here is that it is a place where they can be who they want to be,” Imagineering’s Jue said. “It’s OK to dance to the parades here. It's OK to walk around with a teddy bear here.”

And they do. Duffy the Disney Bear and his friends are a big deal. Not only do they have a whole show at Tokyo DisneySea, Duffy and Friends’ Wonderful Friendship , but there are numerous pint-sized photo opps for Duffy and friends plushies and tons of themed merchandise. 

“I do think that we provide something very emotional that is necessary for our guests ... in a very safe place where you are not judged,” Jue said. “That's why they like their Duffys. Duffy does not judge them. Duffy accepts them for who they are.”

C ast members are magical

Cast members are the magic at any Disney destination, but they're especially effusive at Tokyo Disneyland. With exuberant smiles, they'll often enthusiastically wave with both hands. 

Make sure to wave back.

The reporter on this story received access to the resort from Disney. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of reviews.

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .