Whether you’re a fan of Disney theme Parks or not, Tokyo DisneySea is a must-visit for the pure fact that it’s the only sea-themed Disney park in the world.
Situated next to Tokyo Disneyland, it consists of multiple themed zones built around an expansive system of waterways, with a huge volcano looming in the middle of it all. Boats are on offer to ferry people between each zone, which provide a nice alternative to walking.
Mediterranean Harbour, at the entrance of the park, will have you thinking you’re in Europe, with its Italianesque buildings built around an expansive body of water, complete with Venice-style gondola rides in canals off to the side.
Across the water, Mysterious Island features the volcano, which houses the thrilling Journey to the Centre of the Earth Ride (rush for a FastPass for this one on arrival) and a unique Tokyo version of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.
Mermaid Lagoon features a massive underground sea grotto housing sea-themed kids rides based on The Little Mermaid. There’s also an excellent live action aerial and puppetry show call King Triton’s Concert.
The Arabian Coast zone takes you into the world of Aladdin and features the Tokyo-only Sinbad’s Storybook Voyage, a dark boat ride reminiscent of It’s a Small World, among other attractions.
The Aztec-themed Lost River Delta is home to a couple of the park’s more thrilling rides – Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull and a roller coaster called Raging Spirits.
Port Discovery features Aquatopia, a boat ride that swirls you around amid bubbling geysers and the Nemo & Friends SeaRider, a simulator ride based on Finding Nemo.
American Waterfront recalls American harbours of the early 20thCentury and features the Tower of Terror and the SS Columbia, a full-scale passenger ship you can explore. It houses a ship’s dining room that is a great spot for lunch.
There are also multiple shows held across the park’s zones at various times.
One of the best things about a visit to DisneySea is witnessing the pure enthusiasm of the Japanese locals. They get right into the spirit, purchasing Disney clothing on arrival and wearing it around all day. To cater to the market, there are plenty of branded souvenirs on offer too, many with a Japanese twist, including Japanese cookies and sweets.
DisneySea is located outside central Tokyo in Chiba, so factor in time for your transit. Direct buses are available from multiple areas in Tokyo and tend to get you there faster and more easily than by train. Check the Tokyo DisneySea website for transport options.
If you plan on visiting Tokyo Disneyland as well, plan a day at each and spend a night in one of the Disney (or other) hotels available in the precinct in between.
Address: １−１３Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba
Getting there: Maihama Station (JR Keiyo and Musashino Lines)
Nearby: Tokyo Disneyland
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