But COVID-19 has changed the format of the party drastically! It is now called Disney’s After Hours Boo-Bash. While you’re still encouraged to dress up, go trick or treating and enjoying the spooky decor atmosphere, so many of the activities and events we’ve seen in years past are gone. Unlike other years, the park is only open for three hours. This means you’ll REALLY have to prioritize what you’re interested in doing!

The Halloween Party can be an overwhelming experience for first-timers. There’s so much to see and do. Even if you arrive as early as possible, it’s still tough to do it all. But with this guide, you’ll be able to create a reasonable itinerary that allows you to earmark what’s most important to you and how to use your time wisely.

Buying Your Tickets

Tickets for this event are SOLD OUT! So unless you have a ticket, you’ll have to plan you’re Halloween Party for next year. We have heard that if you walk up to the gate on the day of the event, they may have some tickets for sale, but since this is a very risky plan, it’s best to just plan on attending next year unless you live near the park.

When To Go

This year, the Boo Bash is being held on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday nights. Typically the busiest night of the party is Halloween night, October 31st. That night is also the most expensive. The closer you get to Halloween, the more crowded the park becomes and the most expensive the tickets are. Weekdays in early October, late September are your best option, although be warned, even in September/October the nights can still be very very hot, so keep that in mind.

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Costume Guidelines

During the Halloween party guests are allowed to wear costumes, something which is banned during the rest of the year for adults. But there are some rules. For anyone over the age of 14, you need to make sure your costumes aren’t inappropriate or could detract from other guests’ experiences. This includes violent or provocative-looking costumes. If you decide to dress up like your favourite Disney character (which had been prohibited in years past) all you need to make sure to do is not pose for pictures or sign autographs. This is to make sure guests don’t get you mixed up with the real character actors.

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You also need to be sure not to bring any toy weapons that resemble or could be mistaken for real weapons. For safety reasons due to the volume of people in the park be sure your costume does not drag on the ground. And no masks allowed. For children, some masks may be worn but they cannot cover the entire face, and eyes must be visible. Wearing a costume really gets you into the spirit and is so much fun. We didn’t have the room in our suitcase to bring character costumes but we wore a whole spooky-Disney-inspired outfit and my old poison apple ears from Disneyland’s Halloween Party a few years ago went down a storm!

Mask Guidelines

Face coverings are required for all Guests (ages 2 and up) while indoors and in Disney buses, monorail and Disney Skyliner, regardless of vaccination status. This includes upon entering and throughout all attractions. Face coverings remain optional for all Guests in outdoor common areas. If you are wearing a costume you want to make sure your mask is easy to take on and off with your costume. Think of this as another opportunity to add an extra bit of flair to your outfit!

When to Arrive

The Boo Bash officially kicks off at 9 pm and 9:30 pm (depending on your date). But you can enter the park as early as 7 pm with your party ticket. Although the Halloween bash won’t have started yet, and you won’t be able to start trick-or-treating, this is a great time to get on some rides. Since the Bash is only three hours along, this extra two hours inside the park is a huge advantage to making the most of your time there. You can seek out rides without Halloween overlays to get on before the Bash starts, as these will be the same before and after the party.

Arriving before 9 pm also means you’ll be able to catch the fireworks show. Unlike other years, there are no special Halloween-themed fireworks. The Happily Ever After fireworks show will go off just before the official close park before the Bash.

If you decided you wanted to come to the park during the day as well as the party at night (which would require a party ticket as well as regular park admission), anytime after 7 pm stop by “Ghost-services” to get a party wristband. This will denote to the staff you have paid to attend the party and you won’t be escorted out of the park after 9 pm. For anyone simply entering after 7 pm with a party ticket, you’ll also receive a wristband upon entry. In both cases, when picking up your wristband you’ll also be provided with your trick-or-treat bag!

Trick-or-Treating

Throughout the park, there are dozens of Trick-or-Treat locations where guests get loaded up with treats. While you are given a bag upon entry, many visitors bring their own due to the sheer volume of candy being given out. They give you giant handfuls of candy everywhere you go! And it’s all name brand treats. If a line is short, you can go through it as many times as you want. Sure, as an adult, you could go out and buy your own, but there is something about trick-or-treating which makes you feel like a kid again!

That being said, while it is SUPER fun, I wouldn’t recommend making that you’re primary goal of the night. Sure it’s great to nab candy at treat stations where there’s no line but spending too much time waiting for candy isn’t worth it. If you stay to the very end of the party, walk by treat locations on your way out. There is barely anyone in line and they absolutely fill your bag up with the candy. This is because they’re trying to get rid of by the end of the night. Anything they don’t get rid of they need to lug back to the storage room so they’re more than happy to load you up!

Allergy-Friendly Candy

If you have a child with an allergy or if you yourself have an allergy, when you pick up your treat bags at the start of the night, ask for an “allergy friendly” bag. They use teal blue bags to indicate to cast members that you have an allergy. Head over to the Hall of Presidents where you can score delicious allergy-free candy.

While the candy is super high quality and delicious, there isn’t a huge selection. But for kids who have severe allergies and who often feel like they can’t participate in events like Halloween, it’s a great alternative.

If your allergies aren’t too severe (for instance if you’re sensitive to gluten but no celiac) it might be worth just getting the regular treats and then swapping with friends if you find anything you can’t eat. I think you get more interesting candy that way.

Food at the Boo Bash

To make up for the huge price increase and shorter event time of the Boo Bash, Disney gives all party guests unlimited free bottles of water and soda, free popcorn, mickeys bars and other small ice cream treats. This really makes it, so you don’t need to buy anything additional all night to keep you hydrated and full of salty, sweet treats.

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There are no restaurants open with regular menus during the Boo Bash, so be sure to eat a full dinner before you come to the park. Although there are lots of snacks and sweet treats you’ll find there isn’t anything like a meal available.

During the party, there are exclusive food options available throughout the park. While this is a unique part of the experience, the overall reviews of these treats are pretty underwhelming, and often these treats are more expensive due to their “exclusive nature.” But there are some exceptions. The Maleficent Churro is covered in chocolate cookie crumbles and then drizzled with purple icing and green and purple sprinkles.

Another top tret is the Foolish Mortal Funnel Cake based on that iconic line inside the Haunted Mansion. Who doesn’t love a funnel cake? And this one is covered in purple ice cream, oreo crumbles, green drizzle and m&ms.

If drinks are your thing for a real taste of fall, try out the Apple Ginger Dale Frozen Drink. It’s made of frozen apple cider with ginger ale giving it this perfectly refreshing and spicy taste. It’s topped with whipped cream and a chopped Twix cookie (which you can also ask to omit if you’re allergic.)

Character Meet and Greets

One of the most popular things to do during the event used to be the character’s meet and greets. But because of social distancing, this is no longer an option at the Boo Bash. Instead, various Disney characters in Halloween costumes can be spotted throughout the park. You won’t be able to get up close as you would in the old meet n’ greet, but it’s still great to be able to see them at all in the park.

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If you make your way over to the Frontier Land Balcony, you’ll be able to catch Goofy, Chip ‘n’ Dale. Outside Pirates of the Caribbean, you can find Mickey, Minnie and more in their Halloween outfits. In Pinnochio’s Village House, you’ll discover Foulfellow and Gideon. Outside on the verandah of the Crystal Palace is the Winnie the Pooh characters. The Haunted Mansion is home to Miss Carlotta, Miss Renatta and Broome the Butler.

Rides

22 of the rides inside of Walk Disney World are open during the Boo Bash. Since the admission tickets are costly, the number of people in the park is much lower during the party, lowering wait times. This is especially true as the night gets later. Haunted Mansion has by far the longest wait times, which actually seem to get longer as the night goes on.

There are a few rides that are uniquely entertaining during the party. Big Thunder Mountain and Splash Mountain don’t have Halloween overlays. But the views across the park with the Halloween lighting are beautiful to see from up high. 

The Mad Tea Party ride is definitely worth seeing later in the evening. They have special lighting and music as their Halloween overlay. It makes the ride a bit spookier, and at the end of the night, it’s pretty much a walk-on.

Space Mountain turns into Deep Space Mountain during the Halloween party, and the ride is run in complete darkness. Paired with loud, rock music, it makes for a disorientating and yet exhilarating ride! Although I’m not a thrill rider myself, everyone who rode it said it was incredible. The big fans of Space Mountain said it was their favourite overlay ever.

Entertainment

My favourite Halloween entertainment was always the Hocus Pocus Villain Spooktacular, and I was soooo sad to hear it is no longer a part of the Boo Bash. While there really is no replacing it, you can still see some singing and dancing by the Cadaver Dans. The Cadaver Dans prefer nightly at various times on the Frontier Land Balcony.

Halloween Cavalcades

Unlike years past, there is no large parade through the streets of Disney World. Instead, several smaller “Character Calvacades” roam through the park at various times throughout the night. This Character Calvacades is another excellent opportunity to see your favourite characters, especially the villains, out and about in the park. Each of the four Cavalcades is themed. The first is Mickey’s Happy Halloween Cavalcade, where you can spot Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto and pals. Each one dressed in hauntingly boo-tiful Halloween costumes. This Cavalcade is accompanied by a musical procession.

Next, there is the Disney Villain Halloween Cavalcade. My personal favourite. In this Cavalcade, you can see your favourite villains such as Dr. Facilier, the Queen of Hearts and Jafar. Being their wonderfully wicked selves.

The Jack’s Nightmare Cavalcade features the great Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington himself. He is joined by Sally and Oogie Boogie.

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The last Cavalcade is called the Maleficent’s Fiery Prowl. It features Maleficent the Dragon, who breathes fire down on the audience. It’s one of the most exciting parts of the party!

Merchandise

There is no Boo Bash exclusive merchandise this year but you can still shop Disney’s Halloween merch instead. That being said, since these items can be purchased on a regular trip to the park I would say you’re precious time is spent outside of the gift shop.

Memory Maker Photos

If you’ve purchased Memory Maker for your Disney Vacation, the Boo Bash is one of your best opportunities to get some incredible shots. Throughout the park, there are exclusive photos locations as well as some hilarious and spooky “magic shots“! You can get a shot with the hitchhiking ghosts, make your own poison apple and even be surprised to find a ghost or two in your photos.

Is it Worth It?

If you’re wondering whether or not the party is worth your time and money, well, it’s really in all how you see it. Personally, I LOVED the previous Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. I was very happy to pay extra for that event. But since there are so many restrictions, changes and missing elements, spending $129+ for a three-hour event might not be for everyone. But suppose you’re a huge Disney fan and can’t go without the spooky season in your Disney Experience. In that case, I’m sure you’ll find lots of exciting things to do in the park to make it worth your time and money!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post Ultimate Guide to Disney’s After Hours Boo-Bash 2021 first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. #1. Spend a Night in a Space Age Capsule Hotels
2. #2. Explore a Dream World in TeamLab Planet Tokyo
3. #3. Get Spooked By Godzilla
4. #4. Explore the Strange World of Love Hotels
5. #5. Act like a Kid Again at Tokyo DisneySea
6. #6. Explore the Walled City inside Kawasaki Warehouse
7. #7. Get Grossed out at the Parasite Museum
8. #8. Try Cream Puffs too Cute to Eat!
9. #9. Experience Cuteness Overload at a Maid Cafe
10. #10. Dine at Ramen Restaurant from around Japan in Yokohama
11. #11. Dine on Sushi around a Conveyor Belt
12. #12. Cheer, Scream and Sing-a-long at a Baseball Game
13. #13. See a Professional Sumo Match
14. #14. Catch some Kabuki
15. #15. Fish for your Dinner
16. #16. Soak in the Healing Waters at Onsen

#1. Spend a Night in a Space Age Capsule Hotels

Capsule Hotels are one of the most unique forms of accommodation and are only available in Japan (although it’s slowly starting to catch on elsewhere). Capsule hotels are not just a super cool thing to experience but also a great way to save money! They’re a great place to stay the first night you arrive since you’re bound to crash hard, and there’s no point shelling out for a luxury hotel you won’t even notice until you’ve had a good night’s sleep.

Capsule hotels are found all over the city and are great since they’re most often in fantastic locations outside train stations. Capsule hotels are divided into male and female floors where you’ll get a single capsule to sleep inside. While the capsule is little more than a person-shaped rectangular cube, most are more spacious than you’d imagine and come with your own personal light, tv, bedding, place to plug in all your devices and even air conditioning. It feels like sleeping in a spaceship in your own little pod. Outside your capsule, you can use all the amenities in the hotel. They are complete with spotless showers, places to sit and eat (always filled with lots of vending machines), and some even have massage chair floors where you can relax and read.

#2. Explore a Dream World in TeamLab Planet Tokyo

The TeamLab Planets exhibition in Tokyo is a truly unique and immersive experience that you won’t find anywhere else. This digital art museum features a wide range of interactive installations that use cutting-edge technology to create mesmerizing displays of light, sound, and movement.

One of the standout exhibits is the Forest of Lamps, which is a room filled with thousands of glowing lanterns that respond to your movements. As you walk through the room, the lanterns change color and shape, creating an ethereal and dreamlike atmosphere. Another must-see exhibit is the Crystal World, a cavern-like space filled with crystal-like structures that seem to grow and change as you move through the space. The installation uses light and sound to create an immersive and sensory experience that is truly unlike anything else.

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#3. Get Spooked By Godzilla

In amongst the neon jungle, which is Shinjuku, keep your eyes peeled for a monster poking his head out. Don’t think it’s the jet lag that is indeed Godzilla himself towering above you. Hotel Gracery plays host to the beast, and if you want to see what it’s like to be in Godzilla’s head, you can visit the Bonjour cafe on the 8th floor. This cafe has a small menu but does offer a great view from outside Godzilla’s head across Shinjuku. Godzilla is such an iconic part of Japanese entertainment, so seeing him in the “flesh” here in Shinjuku makes you feel like you’re in Japan!

#4. Explore the Strange World of Love Hotels

If capsule hotels seem a little claustrophobic, you can check out a “Love Hotel.” These Love Hotels aren’t for the faint of heart, but you will get a once-in-a-lifetime experience. All over Tokyo and other parts of Japan, you’ll see these types of hotels on various corners of the city. The rooms are rented by the hour and per night, so you can imagine what kind of clientele they are geared towards…But does that mean you can’t go as a tourist to fulfil your curiosity? Absolutely not! These hotels aren’t as seedy as you might imagine. They’re actually pretty incredible or at least incredibly weird.

Each room is themed for a different interest; some have rotating beds, others are covered floor to ceiling in Hello Kitty paraphernalia, and others even have heart-shaped jacuzzis! These hotel rooms are so cutesy because around 90% of love hotels in Japan are designed by women. Being developed by women means that they are more likely to come inside than be weirded out by a sketchy-looking hotel. Also, for this reason, the hotels are always super clean and extremely private. Some check-in desks are entirely run by touch screens, so you don’t even need to interact with a real human on your way in! Definitely a unique experience.

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#5. Act like a Kid Again at Tokyo DisneySea

One of my favourite parts of Tokyo is DisneySea, and while visiting what might on paper feel like an American theme park seems odd on a list of uniquely JAPANESE adventures, DisneySea is unlike any of its North American counterparts. The influence of Japan’s creative culture made this park so wondrous. It is famously known as the best theme park in the world. Unlike Disneyland, which has been replicated almost brick for brick worldwide (even in Japan), DisneySea is one of a kind. Here you’ll be able to ride the most immersive and original rides in all of Disney and visit the seven ports inspired by fictional and historical seaside locations. You can visit Ariel’s Kingdom or Aladdin’s Castle. DisneySea is also home to Duffy the Bear, a character you’ll only find here in Tokyo!

#6. Explore the Walled City inside Kawasaki Warehouse

I am a HUGE fan of the arcades in Japan! I have sunk way more money than I’m proud of trying to win a stuffed Pokemon character. All arcades in Japan are worth checking out for a great night out, but none are as weird as Kawasaki Warehouse. The warehouse arcade is located about 30 minutes outside the city but is well worth the trip. Inside what looks like an old, rusted-over building, you’ll find the almost picture-perfect recreation of the gritty streets of Kowloon.

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Kowloon is the famous crime-filled, walled city of China that has been the inspiration for apocalyptic environments for years. Spread out over multiple floors, this place, made to look like a crumbling city, is actually an arcade. Set amongst the rotting walls, dirty clothing lines, and shady retail signage are real arcade games you can play in this haunting setting. Don’t worry; nothing is dirty; it’s all for the show! Every inch of this place is themed and decorated to ensure an eerier atmosphere permeates the entire place; even the men’s bathroom is made to look covered in filth (although the women’s washroom was spared this treatment).

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#7. Get Grossed out at the Parasite Museum

Located in the suburb of Meguro, you’ll find one of the weirdest museums in the world. In this museum, you’ll be introduced to the world of parasites. And trust me, after visiting, you’ll wonder how many of them might be living inside you right now! The museum is the only one of its kind, and a few minutes into the exhibits, you might be able to imagine why. The museum has collected over 45,000 parasites, now displayed in jars along the walls. They even have an 8.8-meter-long tapeworm which proves the resiliency of these parasites. While this might not be for everyone, the uniqueness of the subject matter is something to be amazed at. And for those of you with a strong stomach, you might be pretty surprised by these creatures. I found it interesting and enjoyed the curator’s dedication to the subjects.

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#8. Try Cream Puffs too Cute to Eat!

If you’re looking for something a little more fun and carefree, go to this dreamy little cafe which serves up some of the most delicious and, perhaps, too-good-to-eat pastries. If you’re a fan of anime, specifically Studio Ghibli, visiting Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory is almost a requirement for your trip to Japan.

This cafe is run by a Ghibli family member, and her creations are therefore deemed “official” Ghibli products. Walking up to the shop is like stepping into a Ghibli film; the street looks almost picture-perfect, just like the animes. Each cream puff is made to look like the popular character “Totoro” and is filled with either custard, chocolate or caramel banana. You can make reservations here, but if you feel like the reservations system online is too complicated without being able to speak or read Japanese, you can also show up when they open and get in line to nab one of these delicious treats.

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#9. Experience Cuteness Overload at a Maid Cafe

As soon as you get into Tokyo and start walking around the streets at night, you’ll immediately see dozens of maids on the road handing out flyers. If you’ve never heard of a ‘Maid Cafe‘ before, this sight might be a little strange and shocking. But the reality of these Maid Cafes is a lot less lurid than you might expect. In Japan, Maid Cafes are popular restaurants where the waitresses dress up in cute maid costumes and act as “servants” to their customers or “masters.”

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Although these cafes were originally introduced for the amusement of the men in Japan, these days, they have become more of a tourist attraction. And, therefore, a little less salacious. Inside you’ll be doted on by a given maid. You’ll also eat food in adorable shapes and designs, learn cutesy songs and even take a kawaii (cute) picture with your maid as a commemorative souvenir. It’s weird, it’s cute, and it’s worth checking out for a unique experience.

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#10. Dine at Ramen Restaurant from around Japan in Yokohama

Although it’s dubbed a “museum”, the experience you’ll have at the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum is more in line with a trip to Epcot. The museum is almost like visiting a food-themed amusement park which sends you back in time in tastes and visuals. The Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum was first opened in 1994 as a one-stop shop for people to sample all different varieties of Ramen. The interior of the museum is designed to replicate the streets of Japan in 1958. There are nine different restaurants open throughout the two lower floors serving up all sorts of different variations of ramen. Each one specializes in a regional flavour profile. Like travelling all across the country in one day!

#11. Dine on Sushi around a Conveyor Belt

While conveyor belt sushi restaurants have started popping up in other locations around the world, they got their start here in Japan, and if you’ve never visited one before, then this is the best place to start! Conveyor belt sushi restaurants are all over Tokyo, and you can’t go wrong with them. If there is a lineup outside the door, that is always a good sign that it’s going to be delicious! Lines move quickly since diners usually don’t spend an enormous amount of time here, so don’t be afraid of waiting.

Once you get inside, you’ll be seated around an actual moving conveyor belt. On the belt are dozens of plates with pieces of sushi on top. Each of the plates is a different colour and/or pattern. Those colours or patterns denote the cost of the sushi. Just grab what you want and keep the empty plates. The plates are used to calculate your bill at the end of the meal. The sushi is cheap and delicious, and you’ll often be more enticed into trying something new. It’s hard not to be curious when you see it right there in front of you.

#12. Cheer, Scream and Sing-a-long at a Baseball Game

Are you thinking of baseball? C’mon, now we have that in North America too! That’s not something we want to do when we’re halfway across the world. Well, trust me, this isn’t baseball as you know it. I mean, sure, yes, the rules are the same. And in essence, the game itself is pretty similar, but the experience surrounding the game is worth your time! Baseball games in Japan are like a huge party. Everyone sings a different anthem when each player comes to the plate. There are designated cheering sections where the entire group will stand, dance and cheer.

Not only are there special themed foods you can buy in the stadium, but you’re also allowed to bring any food or drink you want. That’s right, you can even bring your own alcohol! Before you arrive at the stadium, dozens of street vendors sell freshly cooked yakisoba, sushi and more to take inside with you! It’s so much fun, and you don’t need to be able to speak Japanese to be able to follow the action!

#13. See a Professional Sumo Match

Sumo wrestling is Japan’s national sport. And if you’re visiting Tokyo during the season these matches take place, it’s your duty as a traveller to make your way to see a game. Sumo is one of those things that seem not to exist outside Japan. Its traditional roots and cultural importance are so strong that it never took off anywhere else. The matches are surprisingly exciting. And the crowd is so passionate that you’ll cheer with them even if you’ve never seen a game before or understand the rules. Tickets sometimes sell out during busy times of the year, so it’s worth buying tickets in advance.

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#14. Catch some Kabuki

Another very traditional thing to do in Japan is to see a Kabuki performance. Kabuki is a classical Japanese dance-drama known for its stylized performance and elaborate make-up. Despite the show being in Japanese, much like Opera, you can get a program where there will usually be a translation in English. That way you can understand a bit of the plot. But the expressions and performances are so strong and evocative that you’ll be able to follow along without it.

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#15. Fish for your Dinner

Walking into Zauo restaurant, you’ll think you’ve stepped onto a fishing boat. A giant wooden ship is installed over the top of dozens of tanks of water. Guests stand excitedly with a fishing rod on the boat’s edge, ready to nab their dinner. That’s right, here at Zauo, you eat what you catch! Be warned that if you catch something, you must eat it; there’s no throwing it back. But that’s half the fun! Just don’t come in with a specific meal in mind, be open to trying something new. Once you catch your fish, you get to choose how it’s cooked and seasoned. Then it will be served at your table. The cost is probably a little inflated compared to a typical seafood restaurant, but the novelty value is real. And it’s definitely a memorable meal.

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#16. Soak in the Healing Waters at Onsen

Odaiba Oedo Onsen combines a traditional Japanese onsen spa and a journey back in time. Designed to look like the Edo period, this onsen is the perfect place to unwind. Especially after your long flight! An ‘onsen’ is a Japanese hot spring and bathing facility. Here, men and women are divided into two separate areas, where they can soak in a giant, naturally heated hot spring completely in the nude. No bathing suits allowed (hence the gender separation.) You can use these small towels provided to cover your private parts. But the atmosphere is so relaxed, and no one is looking, so it feels totally normal, and you’d be surprised how freeing it feels!

The Odaiba Oedo Onsen also has a zen-like garden where you’ll find a long foot bath. To use the outdoor foot bath and gardens, you’ll put on your traditional Yukata. This part of the spa is clothed, so both men and women can use it together. Onsens are such a special part of Japanese culture. And while it seems intimidating, it’s immensely calming and a must-do for anyone visiting Japan.

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*A Note about Animal Cafes

While I will readily admit that animal cafes look UBER adorable and are found on many lists of “things to do in Japan,” I see them as wildly conflicting. On my first trip to Japan, I visited an owl cafe in Asakusa, which was well-reviewed as to how they treated their animals, but after visiting, I felt awful. I had gone for a weird experience, and while it was that, I just felt so sad for the animals.

Even though I did see how loved they were by the carers, owls are nocturnal, and to have them out during the day and trapped inside felt so cruel. Various other types of animal cafes suffer from the same kind of thing, and while I know, they feel like something you NEED to do while in Japan, I would ask you to heavily consider the welfare of the animals before you think about spending time there. You can get so many weird experiences in Japan that shouldn’t be your primary destination.

Whether you’re a fan of art, culture, or technology, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and eclectic city. From visiting the ancient temples and shrines to experiencing the latest advancements in technology, these 16 unique and amazing experiences are a must-see for anyone visiting Tokyo. So why not start planning your trip today and experience all that this incredible city has to offer?

The post 16 Unique and Amazing Experiences You Can’t-Miss in Tokyo first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Pass Cases

One of the most popular items throughout the park are the Pass Cases. In Japan, no matter what city you’re living in, requires you to buy a metro or train pass card which you can load all your money onto in order to take the trains. This means all you need to do to pay your fare is scan your card and go! It’s so easy, especially for foreigners, since you don’t need to worry about figuring out the particular price per distance. Because these pass cards are so prevalent, cases to carry them in have become one of Japan’s hottest accessories.

And Disney doesn’t hesitate to corner the market! Here you can buy the heads of many of your favourite Disney Characters, even some which aren’t the mega-popular Disney Princesses we only see merchandise for in the West. The hamburger pass case is one of the most popular despite the fact that it isn’t a character at all! So even if you’re not a huge Disney fan, but love these cases, there is something for you!

PRICE: 1,800 yen

Sublimation Shirts

Tokyo Disney’s iconic “sublimation” shirts are one of the most sought-after pieces of merchandise. They often come out with different patterns or themes throughout the year but the consistent ones are the movie character groupings. They are so bright and colourful that no Disney fan can leave without buying at least one! This year they also release several shirts with patterns created from memorable areas of the DisneySea park such as Mermaid Lagoon’s mosaics and Toy Story Mania’s cutouts. Some Disney character t-shirt can look cheesy or too childish but these shirts’ patterns are so impressive and dynamic that you won’t hesitate to wear them all over the place!

PRICE: 2,600 yen

Baseball Caps

Something adorable which can be worn easily outside of the parks are the Mickey ear baseball caps. Essentially they are a baseball cap with two giant pompoms on either side to replicate Mickey’s ears. These come in a variety of colours and during the Springtime and special events often come in limited edition hues. They are both casual and sporty and give any outfit you wear a joyous spirit!

PRICE: 3,500 yen

Sunglasses

The character sunglasses at Tokyo Disney were something I was dying to get and went I finally saw all the options I was overwhelmed! I finally decided on the pair I had been coveting from afar for a month, the Donald and Daisy kissing pair! They had a variety of other characters, including Winnie the Pooh, The Monsters Inc. favourites and a selection of Mickey and Minnie seasonal options. These are so cute and on a sunny day are the perfect thing to up your look.

PRICE: 1,800 yen

Minnie Bows and Mickey Ears

The oversized bows, modelled after the ones Minnie wears in her hair, are Tokyo’s version of the traditional sequinned Minnie ears found in the US parks. These come in a myriad of colours but the seasonal selection is always extra special. Summer 2018 brought patterns designed after different summer fruits! The Mickey ears are similar to the ones found in the US parks but they are totally unique to Japan so if you’re a collector this is a great place to get something you can’t get anywhere else! Mickey train conductor hats are also available due to the prevalence of trains in Japan and are a great souvenir of your trip to Tokyo.

Price: 1,400 – 2,600 yen, depending on style and size

Popcorn Buckets

Tokyo Disney Popcorn is bar-none the best kind of popcorn from all the parks around the world. They have weirder and wilder flavours which demand your gluttonous attention. And there is no better way to eat it then out of a themed popcorn bucket. These make GREAT souvenirs and are beautiful pieces to carry around the park with you. There are always the iconic classics (Dumbo, Cinderella’s carriage and Ariel’s Seashell) but the speciality ones which are limited edition are where it’s at! When Tokyo Disney was celebrating Donald Duck’s birthday, they came out with a limited edition birthday cake popcorn bucket that was so stunning, it was hard to believe it wasn’t real cake! After you purchase your bucket, the popcorn refills are discounted, giving you more reasons to try out all the different flavours.

PRICE: 1,600 – 3,200 yen depending on size and design

Duffy

Duffy is the most popular character all over Tokyo Disney. He was once a discarded merchandising endeavour for Disneyland. Marketed as Mickey’s stuffed bear, it didn’t catch on with US audiences. Seeing it’s potential, Tokyo took on Duffy as the mascot for their new park, Tokyo DisneySea. With expert marketing, a darling storyline and an adorable character, Duffy caught on like wildfire in Japan. These stuffed bears can be purchased all over the park and you can also buy his friends, Shelley May, Gelatoni and Stella Lou. Each of the stuffed animals come with their own outfits so you can style your Duffy and Friends to match your own personal style. These are absolutely darling and if you’ve got kids, this is the best kind of souvenir they can cuddle with for years to come.

PRICE: 3,900 yen

Pins

While Disney pins are much bigger in the US, the Tokyo parks do have a few unique options available. Much like the rest of the merch at Tokyo Disney, these pins are wildly adorable and creative. I was sure to pick up the ones with the names of the parks spelt out in traditional Japanese lettering but there are also a selection of character pins worth checking out.

PRICE: 800 – 1,000 yen

Tomica Cars

One of Japan’s most beloved form of collectables are these Tomica’s cars. A new car is released from the yearly lineup on the third Saturday of every month and you’ll see huge lineups outside of hobby stores on those days. But Disney produces their own line of Tomica cars which have become extremely sought-after in the parks. New ones are constantly coming out. They are miniatures of some of the real cars which drive up and down the streets of Tokyo Disney as well as fantastical models of cars designed after various Disney characters. These are great for kids and adults alike.

PRICE: 800 – 1,200 yen

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Chopsticks

While in Japan, you’ll be eating with chopsticks every day! If you’re not familiar with using these, visiting Japan is like taking a crash course! Bring back some of those memories with a charming set of your own Disney themed chopsticks. They come in a variety of design featuring some of your favourite Disney characters.

PRICE: 800 – 1,000 yen

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Oversized Character Bags

Throughout the park, you’ll find various oversized bags with the darling faces of certain popular characters. Duffy is a popular one, followed by Gelatoni, Chandu the Tiger and there is even a giant version of the tiny hamburger bag. These are colour and cute and while they are on the pricey side of things if you’re looking for a large bag to carry on a daily basis which is fantastically whimsical, this is the bag for you!

Customizable Pens 

If on the other hand, you’re looking for something a little smaller but just as fun, the stationary stores in Tokyo Disney sell all sorts of pens. Now, this might sound a but boring but it couldn’t be further from that! Each of the pens come with two exchangeable accessories. You can buy all different toppers for your pens, mix and match, and create a customized piece of stationery just for you!

Price: 850 yen, toppers 500 – 700 yen

Phone Cases

If you’re anything like me, you have a thousand silicon phone cases. Not only are these so cute, they really do a good job of keeping your phone saf ! They do create a rather oversized version of your phone but I find the larger the phone, the easier it is for me to find! The unique cases at Disney are marvelous. They feature some obscure characters and designs you couldn’t even dream up that the Disney Imagineers have already thought of for you!

Squishies

Squishies are one of those fads which is sweeping the nation right now. Fidget spinners are a thing of the past and now it is all about Squishies! These are essentially brightly coloured foam toys in all sorts of different shapes and sizes which you can squish but then after a few seconds, will return to their original form. It’s very relaxing and sort of like the millennial stress ball. Disney caught onto the trend fast here in Tokyo and you can find Squishies in the shapes of Disney Characters as well as some of the iconic food items which you’ll find throughout the parks!

Cosmetics

At the Disney parks, you can always find different cosmetic brands doing collaborations with Disney, creating beautiful packaging with our favourite characters. So if you’ll looking for a lip balm or sun lotions, pick it up here – although it might cost a little more, the cute packaging will make you happy every time you go to grab it.

PRICE: 1,800 – 3,200 (depends on the type of product)

Fake Food Keychains

Food within Tokyo Disney parks is out of control and people are obsessed with it. So much that there are even souvenir merchandise all surrounding the food at the parks. All over Japan you’ll see fake food in restaurant windows and storefront advertising what can be eaten within. At Tokyo Disney, they have used the fake food styling trend to develop new merchandise! You can have a keychain with your favourite meal from the park cheerfully displayed no matter where you go!

PRICE: 1,800 yen

Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea Souvenir Shirt

Although there are a lot of well-priced items in the park, there is perhaps none as cheap and iconic as the Tokyo Disneyland simple logo t-shirt. They sell these in vacuum sealed bags and although the quality is slightly less than the other shirts in the park, you get a lovely pale grey souvenir shirt with the Tokyo Disney logo on it for less than $15 USD. Since they are vacuum sealed they make for cheap and easy to pack souvenirs to take home to the entire family!

PRICE: 1,500 yen

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Rice Scoops

Another Japanese souvenir to grab in this park are the kitchen accessories, especially these adorable rice scoops. They come in a variety of character designs but my favourite is the Donald Duck scoop in the shape of his yellow foot sticking out of a water buoy! Rice scoops are textured spoons which help portion out freshly cooked rice.

Price: 500 yen (Minnie, Mickey, and Donald), 800 yen (Winnie the Pooh)

Lint Rollers

Let’s face it, if you like your cloth to look clean, most of us have a lint roller stashed in our purse at all times. Disney wants you to customize your lint rollers and have two sizes with whimsical designs. The larger version is meant for lint rolling your carpets and rugs. The cutest part of these are characters whose tails are the handle for the roller!

Price: 1,500 yen

What were your favourite souvenirs from this magical park?!

The post Guide to the Must-Have Souvenirs from Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Table Service
   • Magellan's
   • Teddy Roosevelt Lounge
   • Restaurant Sakura
2. Counter Service
   • Vulcania
   • New York Deli
   • Mama Biscotti's Bakery
   • Casbah Food Court
3. Snacks
   • Chandu's Tail
   • Gyoza Dog
   • Ukiwah Bun
   • Herb & Tomato Popcorn
   • Potato Churro
   • Omiyage Boxes
4. Desserts
   • Sea Salt Ice Cream Monaka
   • Alien Mochi
   •  Tiramisu Ice Cream Sandwich
5. Drinks
   • DeepSea Pineapple Smoothie
   • Vanilla Smoothie & Coffee Jelly
   • D's Delights Salty Frozen Dessert Drink
   • Frozen Beer
   • Themed Convenience Store Drinks

Table Service

If you have some money to splash out you can’t go wrong with Magellan’s. This is one of the most popular restaurants in the park so be prepared to wait. You can always put your name down on a wait list and come back when your table is ready. The restaurant opens at 10am, so arriving around then is your best option for making your reservation. If you have the option, ask for a table in the ‘secret room’ which is located behind a trick bookshelf which opens up into a secret wine cellar.

Magellan’s

Magellan’s feels like the regal and secretive meeting place of people like Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo where they would go on a dark and stormy night to discuss science, art and all things in between. Magellan’s is a fine dining table service restaurant and creates dishes like wagyu beef, grilled scallop salad and Crème brûlée. The menu is a Prix fix with different price levels. They range from ¥4,900 – ¥ 8,400 ($45-$77 USD) but for the food you get this is MORE than worth it! Plus, the ambiance and decor really can’t be beaten!

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Teddy Roosevelt Lounge

The Teddy Roosevelt Lounge is located inside the giant S.S. Columbia ship, which is docked outside the American Waterfront. Inside, it feels like a vintage smoking room from the 1920’s. The staff is all dressed in flapper costumes and jazz music plays throughout. The dimly lit wooden lounge is covered in rich textures and beautiful upholstery. The food here is suave and typical of American restaurants from that era. Since its rather on the pricey side, if you want a chance to experience the ambience, get a table and order the seasonal parfait instead of an entire meal. There is always something being changed up here so you never know what will be on offer. You can even order it in a souvenir glass for an extra something to remember your meal by. The parfait alone is ¥1,230 ($11 USD) and with the Souvenir Glass is ¥2,260 ($20 USD).

Restaurant Sakura

If DisneySea is one of your first stops on your visit to Japan and you’re dying to try some Japanese food, you really can’t go wrong by visiting Restaurant Sakura! Inside you’ll find all the traditional dishes Japan is famous for; udon, tempura, sushi and tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet). It’s not too pricey either for a meal, set range from ¥1,800 – ¥2,500 ($16 – $22 USD), so you can afford to try a few different options! The interior is beautiful but not Japanese decor, in case you were expecting something more traditional.

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Counter Service

Vulcania

Vulcania is one of those counter service restaurants you just can’t believe is counter service! Carved into the side of Mount Prometheus, is it meant to look like a geothermal station’s mess hall, but the food is, I’m sure, much better than those scientists ever got! This is where you should come if you’re looking for something Asian to try on your trip. While the food isn’t typically Japanese, you can try Chinese dumplings, Shrimp in Chili Sauce, Spicy Tofu w/ Minced Pork and even their new lunch and dinner set which comes with their take on Ramen noodles. Dishes are about ¥980 ($9 USD).

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New York Deli

If on the other hand you’re looking for something more familiar to the North American palette after days of Japanese meals, head down to the American Waterfront, and stop by New York Deli. This counter service restaurant is heralded as one of the best places to eat in the Disney Park universe. Mouthwatering stacks of meat piled on top of soft bread and crunchy pickles will make your hungry stomach very happy. The theming inside is, once more, unparalleled! Details you’d expect in a fancy sit-down restaurant are all over the place. Here you’re treated like a king at the price of a pauper.

Mama Biscotti’s Bakery

This little cafe is the perfect place to visit after your morning rush to get Toy Story Mania FastPasses and early morning rides. Here is where you’ll be able to find a good cup of coffee to keep you going all day as well as a HUGE selection of fluffy Italian and Japanese pastries. Picking up a selection of a few is a great plan in case you get caught in a long line when hunger strikes!

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Casbah Food Court

Casbah Food Court is one of the most immersive counter service restaurants I’ve been at a DisneyPark. Located inside the Arabian Coast, the interior of this food court looks like an ancient eastern bazaar. Intricate fabrics cover the ceiling, multicoloured Turkish lamps hang from the rooftop and beautiful mosaics decorate the walls. Inside, there are a few different counters serving curries from around the world! The best option here is the Three Curry Combo with Chicken, Beef, Shrimp curry served with rice and naan for ¥ 1,020 . This is less than $10 USD! Although the serving size is less than you might be used to in North America, the quality of the curry is out of this world. The naan is soft, the curry is rich and spicy and sitting in the most transporting environment, you feel like you’re dining in a very expensive restaurant.

Snacks

Chandu’s Tail

Chandu is the little tiger sidekick in Disneysea’s stand-alone ride, “Sinbad Storybook Adventure”. If you’ve ever had a curry bun, you’re going to love Chandu’s Tail. These treats can be found in the Sultan’s Oasis in the Arabian Coast. Year round these buns are filled with creamy chicken curry and during the springtime are filled with spicy beef and cheese. curry At only ¥500 ($4.50 USD) these are a steal and look – how could anything get any cuter?!

Gyoza Dog

Down the stairs from the Mysterious Island Gift Shop is one of the real treasures of the park. The Gyoza Dog is Tokyo’s answer to a hot dog, for an on-the-go treat! In its simplest form, it is an enormous dumpling bun stuffed with minced pork. The bun itself is like biting inside a cloud. I cannot express how soft this snack really is. The snack only costs ￥430 ($4 USD) and will definitely fill you up if you’re looking for something to keep you going during that mid-morning period. This place fills up FAST during the dinner and lunch rush so visiting outside those hours is preferable. But even when there is a huge line, the menu is small enough that people will take your order before you even reach the counter which really speeds the process along! So don’t be afraid to wait in line, it’s worth it!

Ukiwah Bun

The Ukiwah Bun can be found in the coastal themed harbour of Port Discovery. Ukiwah translates into English as “lifesaver” which is why these adorable little buns are shaped like tiny, round red and white lifesavers. They are served in a plastic wrap with the image of Donald on top which makes it looks like Donald is jumping out of the lifesaver, so cute!!! But they aren’t just cute to look at, they are delicious to boot. Stuffed with shrimp dumpling filling inside a soft bun, they are the perfect thing to eat on the go. At only ￥450 ($4 USD) you might find yourself eating two!

Herb & Tomato Popcorn

Disney Popcorn is an iconic treat but the flavours in Tokyo are next level! And while they might seem a little outta this world they are more worth giving a try. The flavours usually available are; Milk Chocolate, Soy Sauce and Butter, Curry, Honey, Black Pepper and our favourite Herb and Tomato (which is basically PIZZA!). They often have limited edition flavours available during holidays or special events. Speciality flavours such as Strawberry, Milk Tea, Jalapeno and coconut. But the best part about the popcorn are the adorable souvenir buckets they come in.

Buckets can be purchased in some of the souvenir shops or certain featured ones can be bought at the popcorn vendors carts. We got the BuzzLightyear bucket which looked like the real Buzz Toy in it’s collector’s box. It looks incredible up on our shelves so definitely worth the price. The popcorn costs ¥350 ($3 USD) for a regular box and around ¥1400-¥2000 ($13 – 18 USD) for a souvenir bucket. BUT a refill of the bucket will only cost your ¥500 ($4.50 USD) so if you’re travelling with friends and are up for sharing this is a great deal! Grab the bucket and try as many flavours as you can!

Potato Churro

Churros in any Disney park are a popular option. The lines for them are often just as long as some of the rides! During the holidays, the churros are often seasoned with specialty flavours like strawberry, cotton candy or cafe au lait! They only cost ¥310 ($2.80 USD) so they are much better priced than in any of the US parks – worth trying as many flavours as you can find!

Omiyage Boxes

Inside almost all of the souvenir shops at DisneySea, you’ll find the most adorably designed Omiyage Boxes. “Omiyage” is a Japanese word which refers to the giving of a gifts (typically something edible) which one brings back to their family and co-workers after a trip or vacation. They are usually impeccably presented as well as delicious. And at DisneySea, they don’t take any shortcuts. The tins, boxes, bowls and treats themselves are all so beautiful you’ll find it hard to give them away. Be sure to check out the limited edition seasonal box sets, that is, if they haven’t already sold out!

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Desserts

Sea Salt Ice Cream Monaka

A monaka is a Japanese treat, traditionally served with a dollop of red bean paste inside two mochi wafers. Here at the park they have revamped it into something cool for a hot day. Two crispy wafers, in the shape of a seashell, contain sea salt ice cream and a dollop of raspberry filling instead of the red bean. The combination of the tart berries, sweet cream and hint of salt is ABSOLUTE perfection! Grab one of these while you’re visiting Mermaid Lagoon as the seashell design makes for a great photo op in front of Ariel’s kingdom! I’m amazed they’re only ￥310, less than $3 USD if the exchange rate is good.

Alien Mochi

Toy Story is such an important movie in Japan and they LOVE their Toy Story merch and themed food! One of the most popular items in the park are these ice cream mochi. Mochi are little dumplings made from gluttonous rice and here filled with ice cream in three flavours. The mochis are shapes into the heads of the aliens from Toy Story and served stacked one on top of the other like they would be in the crane machine. Three mochi will cost you ¥360 ($3.20 USD) and they often have speciality souvenir carriers which cost ¥880 ($8 USD).

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 Tiramisu Ice Cream Sandwich

Japan has found it’s answer to the classic Mickey Ice Cream Bar at Disneyland, and that is their Tiramisu Ice Cream Sandwich. Sandwiched between two dedicated cookies flavoured with a hint of coffee is a creamy vanilla ice cream. It’s soft, cool and absolutely delicious. For only ¥300 ($2.70 USD) youll want to try ore than one. 

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Drinks

DeepSea Pineapple Smoothie

If you’re looking for something to drink that’s not just the typical soda, head over to Port Discovery beside Nemo and Friends Searider ride and try out this tropical cocktail. Looking at it from afar it looks like layers of the ocean, the top is blue slush, the middle is filled with blue jelly and the bottom has a layer of yellow tapioca balls to represents the ocean floor. If you are a fan of the texture of bubble tea, you’ll love this drink! It’s ¥400 ($3.8 USD)and comes in an adorable cup!

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Vanilla Smoothie & Coffee Jelly

For an afternoon pick me up there is nothing better than the Vanilla Smoothie with Coffee Jelly over in the Sultan’s Oasis. There are so many layers of flavours, it makes it a joy to drink. The sweetness of the smoothie is cut with the bitter coffee, a fantastic blend. A cup will run you ¥500. Although small in size, it’s BIG in flavour. 

D’s Delights Salty Frozen Dessert Drink

If you’re not in the mood for coffee, D’s has another iconic treat up their sleeve. The “salty” dessert drink is made from creamy vanilla ice cream, with raspberry and lychee puree. Mixed in is a hint of salt which takes the entire sip up a level. But be sure to mix it well otherwise you might be a mouthful of pure salt! For only ¥500 it’s a luxurious steal!

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Frozen Beer

On a hot day, or even just as a way to relax your tired body, there is nothing better than an ice cold beer. Oh wait, yes there is – a FROZEN beer! Down beside the model of the Nautilus in Mysterious Island is where you can find this elixir. For only ¥700, if you’re looking for something with a kick, this is it

Themed Convenience Store Drinks

At any of the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel’s, you’ll find their very own convenience stores! If you’ve read any of my other posts on Tokyo, you’ll know that convenience stores are EVERYTHING in Japan! They are no different here at Tokyo Disney Resort. Inside are the typical convenience store foods but you’ll ALSO find uniquely themed food, drinks and snacks! Even their bottled water is packaged in adorable bottles in the shape of beloved Disney characters. If you’re not staying on Disney property, you can find these at the 7-Eleven’s near Maihama station.

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Did this post make you hungry?! It sure made me miss all those incredible foods and miss Japan even more! Let me know what you’re looking forward to eating or if you’ve already been to DisneySea what dish was your favourite!

The post All the BEST Food at Tokyo DisneySea first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

How Long to Spend at Tokyo DisneySea

Most people who visit DisneySea will only be here for one day. Although ticket prices here in Tokyo are much lower than anywhere else in the world, unless you’re HUGE Disney buff you’ll most likely only spend the one day per park so making the most of your time here is of the utmost importance! A one day visit to any Disney park is a daunting task, with so many places to visit, attractions to ride and things to eat, how can anyone fit everything into just one day? Looking back, I can’t believe how much we managed to pack into the short time we had, so trust me, with the proper planning and knowledge it’s more than manageable to see and do a TON inside this unbelievable fantasyland.

1-Day Itinerary

It’s very difficult to create a universal schedule or itinerary to follow since everyone’s experience will be totally unique. Maybe you don’t like the big rides or maybe you want to take it slow. Perhaps you’re there over Christmas and want to spend the majority of your time attending special holiday performances. So, instead of making an hour by hour agenda, I’m going to try and give you tips on what is worth checking out, thoughts on what’s worth skipping and pointers which will allow you to see and do as much as possible.

I’ve found that as great as some online itineraries are, they can make you feel very rushed and that if you’re not making every stop happen, you’re falling behind. Even if you miss out on something you thought was a “must-see” don’t let that get you down!  This park is full of surprises and new adventures you might not have seen coming! The key is to do your research and make a list of what’s important to you! Hopefully, this blog will help narrow down how to get the most out of your DisneySea experience!

Layout of this Guide

I’ve broken this post up into preparation, tips & advice, rides, shows, food and entertainment! I’ve seen so many other great blog posts and wanted to make mine a little bit different but just as helpful. At the bottom of the post I’ve also provided what our day at DisneySea looked like to give you an example of exactly what can be done in just one day!

When to Go

One of the biggest questions before visiting any Disney park should be “When should I go?” This decision will impact your experience and how many things you can pack in. I suggest using a Crowd Calendar. These are so useful when visiting any park. They help you see when the busiest and least busy days will be over the year so you can better plan out your travels. These calendars not only incorporate last years crowd count statistics but also special events, holidays and school vacations. Weekdays (excluding Fridays) are often the safest bet! We went on a Tuesday and the crowds, while still busy since it was during the 35th Anniversary event, were perfectly manageable.

Another thing you must check in advance are any ride closures. While ride closures and repairs definitely happen and sometimes can’t be prevented, often, especially in the Tokyo Disney Parks these are planned and announced long in advance. A few YouTubers I follow went to Japan a few weeks before we went and were sad to find that many of the most popular rides were closed down. This is because Disney wanted to make sure they were in tip top shape before the 35th-anniversary events. If you’re coming a long way just to see this place, you want to make sure you’ve done a bit of research in advance to ensure those rides you’ve been looking forward to are in working order.

Tickets

Buying tickets in advance is very important! The crowds tend to line up here even 2 hours before the park opens and the last thing you want is to need to spend time buying your ticket on top of all this. You can buy tickets online through the official DisneySea website, the easiest option. They call their 1-Day tickets “passports”. A 1-day passport costs 7,400 yen per adult (approx. $67 USD) and 6,400 yen per child (approx. $58 USD).  You can also buy tickets to the Disney Parks at 7-Eleven kiosks but often finding the English buttons can be very difficult so unless you’re Japanese is pretty strong I wouldn’t advise going this route. 

The last option is for anyone staying on Disney property hotels. You can easily buy your passports at the reception desks here but frankly, while I’d love to dream of one day staying at these hotels, the prices are incredibly high. Plus, if you stay off property, think of how many souvenirs you can buy in the park with the money you saved!

Transportation

As mentioned above, if you’re staying off property, finding your way into the park, as early as possible is very important. The best way to make your way into the parks is to take the train to Maihama Station. This is the main entry point to all the Tokyo parks. From here take the Disney Resort Monorail to Tokyo Disney Sea Station (10 minutes, 260 yen). 

Crowds

The crowds at DisneySea are much heavier than in the US parks. Japanese fans are highly passionate about everything Disney and as such, even on a light day it might feel very busy at times in certain areas. But you can rest easy because almost everyone is so polite and respectful of people’s personal space and there won’t be any rude line skipping from these incredibly respectful people.

Park Opening

Waiting in line for the park to open might be the most agonizing part of the whole day. To get the most out of your day you want to arrive at least one hour before the gates open. On busier days I would recommend two hours. This is so you are as close to the front of line to get inside as possible. If you’ve got a portable wifi try to use this time to look over your plan again, post some pics from your trip so far on Instagram or even research any plans for the next day.

Ensure you grab a map of the park to study up as well as one of the Today booklets. The Today booklet is in Japanese only but lists all the different speciality merchandise and food items available exclusively this month. Can’t recommend reading this thing more! Great way to pass the time. You don’t want to miss all those limited edition items which Japan parks specialize in. If there is something you are really interested in, ask any cast member to help translate Japanese for you.

Entry into the Park

When the gates finally open and you walk through, you’ll pass by dozens of cheerful cast members waving their oversized Mickey hands to greet you. It’s a ritual which every Disney park performs and which I’ve come to love so much. They all just seem so happy to welcome you to their park!

FastPasses & Wait Times

The FastPass system in Tokyo Disney is a little different from the other parks. You can get one FastPass every 2 hours. This important to keep in mind so you don’t miss out on nabbing a FastPass to help you expedite your way onto some of the most popular rides. The rides in the park which offer FastPasses are; Journey to the Center of the Earth, Nemo and Friends SeaRider, Venetian Gondolas, Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage, Raging Spirits 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Aquatopia and Tower of Terror.

Checking ride wait times is a great way to make the most of your time in the park. If you see a short wait time for an otherwise very busy attraction that is your opportunity maximise your time park. I would recommend the TDR app for the most updated ride times.

Mediterranean Harbour

DisneySea is made up of seven themed ports of call; Mediterranean Harbour, Mysterious Island, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery and the American Waterfront. Various ports are based off historical locations throughout the world and others are complete fantasies.

Mediterranean Harbour is modelled after Italian port towns of the Renaissance era. While no one specific town was used as inspiration, you are surrounded by shockingly accurate renaissance architecture, Venetian canals, bobbing gondolas and traditional Italian restaurants. Since Mediterranean Harbour is the first land you enter as you walk into the park is acts as defacto “main street” with a host of souvenir shops and restaurants. Another unique aspect of this land is that the buildings around the waterfront are not just facades. Inside are the hotel rooms of the MiraCosta. Guests can peer out at the park all day! While these rooms are certainly not cheap, there is nothing quite like them anywhere in the world. Seeing people on their balconies, enjoying the view, makes the illusion of this being in an actual city all the more realistic.

On either side of the harbour are two access points towards Mysterious Island. The bridge of the left is designed after the famous ‘Ponte Vecchio’ in Florence with all the ancient shops and stores practically hanging off the side of the bridge. To the north of the Harbour is an expansive medieval Fortress where you can dine at Magellan’s or play within the Fortress Explorations. The Mediterranean Harbour definitely has the most restaurants and souvenir shops so if you’re looking for something to eat or a specific piece to bring home, this is the best place to go.

Mysterious Island

Mysterious Island was inspired by Jules Verne‘s science fiction novels involving underwater adventures, sea creature and the infamous, Captain Nemo. The world looks like an aquatic steampunk dream. Despite the name, the island is no island at all. Rather, it is built into the enormous land mass which can be seen across the park. This is Mount Prometheus! Throughout the day the volcano atop the mountain erupts with a huge burst of flames. Mysterious Island is made up of rocks and water with bits of industrial metal carved into the sides, so it looks like it’s under constant excavation. The bright green and yellow metallic structures look so iconic against the red rocks. Mysterious Island has some of the most interesting and unique rides in the park and also several snack kiosks and shops to grab a quick bite to eat, all in a relatively small area.

The Lost River Delta

The Lost River Delta feels like stepping into the ancient ruins of Central America. You’ll see stone temples rising from the treetops, ancient pyramids and crumbling structures. Despite having two large roller-coasters, there is little else to see and do while over here. But the lush greenery and adventurous scenery makes it a lovely place to come and relax if you’re just looking to take a break!

Mermaid Lagoon

Mermaid Lagoon might be my favourite area of the park but what it makes up for in appearance it lacks in quality rides. Very much the opposite of Lost River Delta. The exterior and interior of the Lagoon are inspired by the Little Mermaid. The castle seen in the centre of the lagoon was made to look like King Triton’s Palace. Seashell shaped coral the size of small buildings pop out of the ground and welcome in visitors. The interior of the Lagoon is worth exploring during the late afternoon to escape the heat or on a rainy or chilly day.

The rides inside are geared towards younger kids so older kids and adults might find them a little simplistic. But the design is stunning, it really makes you feel like you’re under the sea. Ariel has a character meet here and the lines are usually pretty short so be sure to check it out on your way through. They also have some of the best souvenir shops if you’re a princess fan!

Arabian Coast

The Arabian Coast feels like the great city of Agrabah from ‘Aladdin‘ which was originally inspired by the book, ‘1001 Arabian Nights‘. The largest cafeteria-style restaurant is located here serving up Middle-Eastern, Indian, and Japanese food. This part of the park feels huge. If you ever feel overwhelmed by the volume of people, head here to get some space!

There are various very unique rides to be found here as well as the Magic Lamp Theater and some incredibly themed shops. Aladdin was always one of my favourite movies and exploring this port was like walking into the movie itself. If you see line up throughout the day around here this will be for Abu’s Bazaar, a small arcade where you can play various games for 500 yen a turn with the chance to win some incredible prizes, even if you don’t wind you’re guaranteed a special Tokyo Disney pin. If the line is short, don’t miss out.

Port Discovery

Port Discovery is probably the weakest of all the lands at DisneySea. Labelled as the marina of the future, it feels like a less realized version of Tomorrowland in Disneyland. Some of the rides are themed after Finding Nemo/Dori and others seem to fit in more with Mysterious Island’s steampunk motif. 

American Waterfront

The American Waterfront is a historical reinterpretation of New York, New England and Cape Cod in the early 20th century. In the New England area, walking along the street, you really do get that coastal, seaside village feeling. Fishing rods hang off the pier, waiting for the fishermen to return. The New York side of the park also features Toyville Trolley Park which is their interpretation of Coney Island with Toy Story characters inserted throughout. New York during the industrial revolution was a town ready to burst with ideas. So many of those inventions are on display here including an elevated railway, the S.S. Columbia cruise ship and sprawling city shop fronts.

Guide to the Rides

Toy Story Mania FastPass

When the gates open you’ll see everyone quickly walk towards the left towards of the park to the Toy Story Mania fastpass queue. Many blogs might tell you to skip this but we opted to walk with the crowds and just see how long the line would be to get a fastpass. Despite arriving so early it looked like there were already so many people ahead of us. But everyone walked at a fast but sensible pace and despite the line looking long, we got ourselves a fastpass in under 15 minutes! 

By directly making your way with the crowds from the entrance toward Toy Story Mania, you might feel like you’re missing out taking in all the sites along Mediterranean Harbour but don’t worry, they’ll be lots more time later in the day to admire the design of this park. The first thing is to get to Toy Story and then you can relax!

Tower of Terror (Alternate FastPass)

Tokyo DisneySea’s Tower of Terror is another one of those rides which is on the top of everyone’s list. If you miss fastpasses for Toy Story Mania, this is your next stop for fastpasses. It helps that both rides are so close together to save you some time. In the early morning, the standby line is pretty short since so many people are lined up for those Toy Story fastpasses. If you have been on any of the Tower of Terror rides in the other Disney parks, the ride system is the same, but the story is completely unique!

The narrative focuses on an American adventurer called Harrison Hightower III. Hightower owned one of America’s most prestigious hotels and made it his mission in life to fill it with rare and ancient treasures. He searched the globe for these antiquities and eventually found a statue in African known only as “Shiriki Utundu”. Unfortunately for Hightower, the statue carried a curse and once he moved it into the Tower, the curse took over everything inside, including Hightower himself.

Ride Explanation

The reason I go into detail here to explain the story is that the entire ride is in Japanese, so if you’re interested in knowing the story, it’s best to get a little primer before heading inside. That being said, the ride is so exhilarating, scary and incredible that even without understanding the language, you’ll be spellbound the entire time.

Journey to the Center of the Earth

Journey to the Center of the Earth is often only a 20-30 minute wait early morning so jump in the queue. The ride is completely unique to DisneySea and takes riders throughout the enormous Volcano. Journey focuses on the historic Captain Nemo and his discoveries underground. You ride a subterranean vehicle that journeys into Mount Prometheus where you’ll come across glowing insects, rock monsters and ends in an exhilarating finish, but I won’t ruin the surprise.

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20,000 Leagues under the sea

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea is one of the best dark rides in any of the Disney’s parks but is usually less than a 20-minute wait. If you’ve been on the Finding Nemo Submarine ride at Disneyland, the concept is very similar but with a different story. Instead of Nemo the fish, at DisneySea we have Captain Nemo, who is our guide into the depths of the ocean. Passengers ride in Neptune submarines, each of which have their own portholes so the riders have their own individual view of the ocean around them. The ride feels so long and is such a blast even if you can’t understand what’s being said since it’s all in Japanese. You’ll enter the Kraken Reef, see the remains of Atlantis, study bioluminescent fish and even catch a glimpse of a city where humanoid-fish creatures live!

Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal

Despite having a similar ride system as the other parks, it is widely thought that this Indiana Jones ride is far superior to all the other ones. And this is all in spite of the fact that the ride revolves around the worst movie. While the line for the ride might be consistently long, they make the most of your time waiting. Incredibly detailed statues, paintings and music effects make you feel as if you are really descending down into the depths of ancient Amazonia.

Although the markings are not very clear, there is a single rider line here and it is almost always fairly. Chances are you might even get put on the same car as your friend  – but even if you’re separated you’ll both have such a blast. If you can’t wait in line or go single rider, the fast passes for this ride are available and would make a great option for your first or second fast pass of the day. 

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Sindbad’s Storybook Village

Located in the Arabian Coast is one of Disneysea’s most charming and memorable rides. Since the park is more geared towards thrills, there are not as many dark rides in the park. This is an exception and what an exception it is. This dark ride takes you on a gentle boat journey through the legendary adventures of Sindbad. The entire story is told with some of the best animatronics I’ve ever seen. The concept is similar to It’s a Small World but with a much more engaging story, lifelike animatronics and a catchy theme song! I had to ride it twice since the entire thing is a feast for your eyes and you’ll miss so many of those little details upon first viewing. The cutest part of the journey is Chandu, Sindbad’s sidekick, an adorable little tiger cub who gets into mischief but also helps Sindbad along the way!

Caravan Carousel 

In the centre of the Arabian Coast is a double-decker carousel, inside a beautifully arched Arabian rotunda. Look, the ride might be nothing innovative or over thrilling, but the lines are never long and the carousel itself is so stunning. With so many iconic characters and animals to ride, it’s really a sweet sidebar from the thrill rides. You can choose between riding the top or bottom carousel. We, of course, chose the top! There is something about a carousel which just makes you feel like a kid again. 
 

Jasmine’s Flying Carpets

Many people will tell you to skip this ride, and if you’re pressed for time, you should, but if you have some time to kill while waiting to redeem fastpasses, this is a great way to spend the time. Not only is the wait almost always short, but it offers up some charming views of the Arabian Coast. The ride is essentially the same as the classic Dumbo ride but with colourful magic carpets from Aladdin.

Fortress Explorations

Surrounding Mediterranean Harbour is a giant stone fortress which looks like just another piece of decoration. But unlike many other parks where this would simply be for looks, the entire structure is itself an attraction called Fortress Explorations. The fortress is modelled after a Renaissance stronghold for a fictionary secret society. Throughout, you and your friends can explore interactive exhibits which transports you back in time. You feel like a regular Leonardo DaVinci. This is always one of the most overlooked areas of the park and will never be very busy except on rainy days when people come here to escape the weather.

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Venetian Gondolas

The Venetian Gondolas are exactly what it says on the label. Two gondoliers paddle you and a dozen guests around the Mediterranean Harbour. While this might seem a little boring nothing could be further from the truth. The Venetian Gondolas are a joyous, relaxing way to enjoy the incredible views which can be seen throughout DisneySea. When the sun is about the set behind the mountain is the best time to get on the gondolas since the views during sunset are unbelievable! The lines are usually around 30 minutes so keep that in mind and sometimes longer right before sunset.

The gondolas are driven by two charming young men who talk the entire trip, as well as sing you a ballad or two. While nothing they said was in English, the Japanse people on our boat were laughing up a storm and I imagine that the ride would include the same funny dad jokes that are on the Jungle Cruise. There really isn’t a bad time to come on this ride (well except for perhaps when it is raining) but overall this ride is the perfect one to come on when you need a break from the busy nature which is a day in the parks.

Aquatopia

Aquatopia can be found in Port Discovery and looks like an amalgamation between bumper boats and Autopia in Disneyland. The ride is one of the few attractions anywhere around the world that uses a trackless system. The trackless ride means that no matter how many times you get on, the ride is a little different. Each boat moves around the water randomly. Some are sent into the caves, some twirl in place and others chaotically wander around the waterfalls and whirlpools. Despite being the water, you never really get wet so even if it’s a cool day you can still ride. At night this ride is absolutely mesmerizing but it can get busy during certain hours so just keep checking the wait times and head over when the line isn’t too long as the ride isn’t’ worth spending too much time waiting for.

Food

Magellan’s

If you have some money to splash out you can’t go wrong with Magellan’s. This is one of the most popular restaurants in the park so be prepared to wait. You can always put your name down on a wait list and come back when your table is ready. The restaurant opens at 10am, so arriving around then is your best option for making your reservation. If you have the option, ask for a table in the ‘secret room’ which is located behind a trick bookshelf which opens up into a secret wine cellar.

Magellan’s feels like the regal and secretive meeting place of people like Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo where they would go on a dark and stormy night to discuss science, art and all things in between. Magellan’s is a fine dining table service restaurant and creates dishes like wagyu beef, grilled scallop salad and Crème brûlée. The menu is a Prix fix with different price levels. They range from $45-$77 USD but for the food you get this is MORE than worth it! Plus, the ambience and decor really can’t be beaten!

New York Deli

If on the other hand you’re looking to spend a little less cash and are on your way through the American Waterfront, stop by New York Deli. This counter service restaurant is heralded as one of the best places to eat in the Disney Park universe. Mouthwatering piles of meat piled on top of soft bread and crunchy pickles. The theming inside is once more, unparalleled. Details you’d expect in a fancy sit-down restaurant are all over the place. Here you’re treated like a king at the price of a pauper.

Mama Biscotti’s Bakery

This little cafe is the perfect place to visit after your morning rush of Toy Story Mania fastpasses and early morning rides. Here is where you’ll be able to find a good cup of coffee to keep you going all day as well as a HUGE selection of fluffy Italian and Japanese pastries. Picking up a selection of a few is a great plan in case you get caught in a long line when hunger strikes!

Gyoza Dog

Down the stairs from the Mysterious Island Gift Shop is one of the real treasures of the park. The Gyoza Dog is Tokyo’s answer to a hot dog, for an on-the-go treat! In its simplest form, it is an enormous dumpling bun stuffed with minced pork. The bun itself is like biting inside a cloud. I cannot express how soft this snack really is. The snack only costs ￥430 and will definitely fill you up if you’re looking for something to keep you going during that mid-morning period. This place fills up FAST during the dinner and lunch rush so visiting outside those hours is preferable. But even when there is a huge line, the menu is small enough that people will take your order before you even reach the counter which really speeds the process along! So don’t be afraid to wait in line, it’s worth it!

Ukiwah Bun

The Ukiwah Bun can be found in the coastal themed harbour of Port Discovery. Ukiwah translates into English as “lifesaver” which is why these adorable little buns are shaped like tiny, round red and white lifesavers. They are served in a plastic wrap with the image of Donald on top which makes it looks like Donald is jumping out of the lifesaver, so cute!!! But they aren’t just cute to look at, they are delicious to boot. Stuffed with shrimp dumpling filling inside a soft bun, they are the perfect thing to eat on the go. At only ￥450 you might find yourself eating two!

Sea Salt Ice Cream Monaka

A monaka is a Japanese treat, traditionally served with a dollop of red bean paste inside two mochi wafers. Here at the park they have revamped it into something cool for a hot day. Two crispy wafers, in the shape of a seashell, contain sea salt ice cream and a dollop of raspberry filling instead of the red bean. The combination of the tart berries, sweet cream and hint of salt is ABSOLUTE perfection! Grab one of these while you’re visiting Mermaid Lagoon as the seashell design makes for a great photo op in front of Ariel’s kingdom! I’m amazed they’re only ￥310, less than $3 USD if the exchange rate is good.

Herb and Tomato Popcorn

Disney Popcorn is an iconic treat but the flavours in Tokyo are next level! And while they might seem a little outta this world they are more worth giving a try. The flavours usually available are; Milk Chocolate, Soy Sauce and Butter, Curry, Honey, Black Pepper and our favourite Herb and Tomato (which is basically PIZZA!). They often have limited edition flavours available during holidays or special events. Speciality flavours such as Strawberry, Milk Tea, Jalapeno and coconut. But the best part about the popcorn are the adorable souvenir buckets they come in.

Buckets can be purchased in some of the souvenir shops or certain featured ones can be bought at the popcorn vendors carts. We got the BuzzLightyear bucket which looked like the real Buzz Toy in it’s collector’s box. It looks incredible up on our shelves so definitely worth the price. The popcorn costs ¥350 for a regular box and around ¥1400-¥2000 for a souvenir bucket. BUT a refill of the bucket will only cost your ¥500 so if you’re travelling with friends and are up for sharing this is a great deal! Grab the bucket and try as many flavours as you can!

Chandu’s Tail

Chandu is the little tiger sidekick in Disneysea’s stand-alone ride, “Sinbad Storybook Adventure”. If you’ve ever had a curry bun, you’re going to love Chandu’s Tail. These treats can be found in the Sultan’s Oasis in the Arabian Coast. Year round these buns are filled with creamy chicken curry and during the springtime are filled with spicy beef and cheese. curry At only ¥500 these are a steal and look…how could anything get any cuter?!

Alien Mochi

Toy Story is such an important movie in Japan and they LOVE their Toy Story merch and themed food! One of the most popular items in the park are these ice cream mochi. Mochi are little dumplings made from gluttonous rice and here filled with ice cream in three flavours. The mochis are shapes into the heads of the aliens from Toy Story and served stacked one on top of the other like they would be in the crane machine. Three mochi will cost you ¥360 and they often have speciality souvenir carriers which cost ¥880.

Vanilla Smoothie & Coffee Jelly

For an afternoon pick me up there is nothing better than the Vanilla Smoothie with Coffee Jelly over in the Sultan’s Oasis. There are so many layers of flavours, it makes it a joy to drink. The sweetness of the smoothie is cut with the bitter coffee, a fantastic blend. A cup will run you ¥500. Although small in size, it’s BIG in flavour. 

Frozen Beer

On a hot day, or even just as a way to relax your tired body, there is nothing better than an ice cold beer. Oh wait, yes there is – a FROZEN beer! Down beside the model of the Nautilus in Mysterious Island is where you can find this elixir. For only ¥700, this is one of the best drinks in the park. 

Entertainment 

Character Meets

DisneySea has some of the most unusual character meets I’ve seen in any Disney Park! While there aren’t as many dedicated meet and greet spots where you can line up during certain times, the characters seem to roam around the park, surprising guests as they go. We were lucky enough to meet both Jafar and Abu in the Arabian Coast! Other unlikely characters seen roaming the park are; Abu, Ariel, Bernard, Bianca, Chip, Dale, Clarice, Cruella De Vil, Donald and Daisy Duck, Duffy, Gaston, Genie, Gepetto, Goofy, Gideon, Indiana Jones, Jack Sparrow, Jasmine, John Worthington “Honest John” Foulfellow, José Carioca, Jungle Monkey, Marie, Max Goof, Max, Eric’s Dog, Mickey and Minnie, Miss Bunny, Pinocchio, Pluto, Prince Eric, ShellieMay, Gelatoni, Stitch and Thumper

Big Band Beat

Big Band Beat is the most popular musical theatre show at DisneySea. If this sounds like something you really want to see there are two ways of securing spots in the theatre. The Biglietteria (ticket booth) in Mediterranean Harbour has a series of lottery machines where you can see if you have “won” tickets to one of the various showings. Simply scan your passport ticket and see if you’re one of the lucky ones. This is totally random, so no need to come here asap. We were lucky enough to win tickets to the afternoon presentation. If you don’t manage to win the lottery, not to worry, the first showing isn’t available for the lottery so you just have to line up to secure your seats.

For the other shows, there are always a limited amount of seats available in the rush line. The performance itself is a 1920’s Broadway-inspired show featuring a live band, amazing singers and Mickey himself with Minnie, Daisy and Goofy. It’s so much fun and great break from the go-go-go nature of one day in the park. The show itself is around 30 minutes long so it’s not a huge part out of your day.

Fantasmic! 

Fantasmic! is my favourite performance across all the parks in the states so I was very excited to see it in Tokyo. Unlike in Disney World where they are bleacher seats surrounding the dedicated pond or Disneyland where it is set in the Rivers of America, the show in Tokyo is set in the Mediterranean Harbour where visitors have a 360-degree view of the show. You can literally move around the entire time (so long as you don’t want a super good spot) to view the show from different perspectives. Fantasmic! is a show about the forces of good and evil, with Mickey as our hero with cameos from the majority of the Disney-verse characters. There are pyrotechnics, fireworks, brightly coloured boats carrying all my favourite princesses, light displays and more!

The entire show is so exciting, energetic and exhilarating that your jaw will be on the ground the entire time. Many people go to find spots for the show hours before it starts. If you see people sitting on the ground well before show time, this is why. While a good spot is great, there are so many better things to do with your time and in a park this big with so many places to view the performance, there really isn’t a bad spot to watch!

King Triton’s Concert

If you don’t manage to nab tickets to Big Band Beat, the other show worth seeing is King Triton’s Concert. This is an abstract, puppet show based on The Little Mermaid. Very similar to ‘The Lion King’ musical, humans both manipulate or act inside large mechanical puppets which bring the world of the Little Mermaid to life! While the show is a bit disjointed, if you’re a fan of the movie it’s a real treat. 

Shopping

Tokyo Disney is obsessed with merchandise. I’m not joking. Read up online to find out when new merchandise is scheduled to hit the park, because if you happen to arrive on that day, even if it’s the middle of the week, you’ll be shocked to see how many people will arrive, solely for the purpose of buying the new merchandise. And versus every other park in the world, this place just has better stuff. More interesting, abstract, weird and wonderful things.  Here are some of my favourite things to buy and places to shop.

DisneySea Ears

DisneySea has a plethora of speciality Mickey, Minnie and other themed ears which are completely unique to Japan. During our stay, we were lucky enough be there during the 35th Anniversary of the Resort and got a pair of incredible Minnie ears which were exclusive to this event. There are so many Tokyo specific ears which are so great to bring home with you to wear in other parks and watch people gaze at in awe. There are oversized Minnie Bow headbands which comes in a multitude of colours, various headbands with lesser known animated characters, oversized hats and adorable minature hats which you can pin on any headband you own.

Il Postino Stationery

One of my favourite stores in the park is Il Postino, which sells darling stationery. “Il Postino” is Italian for “postman” and here you can find Disney themed cards, pens, notepads and more! So often some of the souvenirs we buy are just things for our walls or go unused, but here you can get stationary for your home or office which you’ll use every day and think of those fantastic memories! I would recommend picking out the notepads or pens since they make for great gifts. Tokyo Disney specializes in custom products and you can customize the pens with different toppers to make it unique to you or the person you’re buying it for.

Sleepy Whale Shoppe

Inside King Triton’s Palace is one of the most unusual souvenir shops. To enter the shop you walk through the giant gaping mouth of an enormous whale. Stare up at the ceiling to admire the detail and how much it looks like being inside of a whake. Fittingly enough, everything inside the store is Little Mermaid themed clothes, sweets, accessories and more. The items here I would check out are the sublimation shirts which are made up of all different characters from a certain movie creating a beautiful pattern.

Mermaid Treasures

Around the corner from the whale is ‘Mermaid Treasures’, a beautiful interpretation of Ariel’s bedroom that she would have had under the sea. Tiny mirrors, the perfect height for little ones, are scattered throughout making them feel like this is a place just for them. For the older folks, try out the Gachapon, vending machines. Designed to also look like giant coral structures, you place a few coins inside and turn the handle to see which tiny character you’ll receive!

Agrahbah Marketplace

The opening scene of Aladdin when he runs through the marketplace and steals that iconic loaf of bread is faithfully recreated here in the Agrahbah Marketplace. The Marketplace is the best place to find Genie and Chandu merchandise. The giant Chandu bag is definitely the thing I regret not buying most! The Genie merchandise is also something you don’t often see in any other park so this would make a really unique piece to bring home. The genie neck pillows are especially hilarious.

McDucks Department Store

Scrooge McDuck is a Disney character that I feel that us 90’s kids, who grew up with DuckTales, have so much nostalgia for and whom is rarely even talked about these days. Scrooge McDuck is known as the richest duck in the world and therefore his shop along the American Waterfront is fantastically opulent and luxurious.  This store has a large selection of Duffy Bears and accessories for the bears. Duffy Bears are one of the most iconic items from DisneySea as he is their mascot. Aunt Peg’s Village Store is notoriously THE place to buy your Duffy but it is small and VERY crowded, so if you’re not looking for something rare, I think purchasing your Duffy at McDucks is the better option.

Pass Cases

One of the most popular items that you’ll see everyone wearing are these Pass Cases. They really are a coin purse with a slot on the back to put your fastpasses, annual pass or even a credit card or two. They come in a plethora of character designs, some unique to DisneySea but every one just as cute as the other! I fell in love with Gelatoni while we were in DisneySea and bought that one but the Mickey Ear Hamburger case is definitely the most famous!

What to Skip

Potato Churros

Churros in any Disney park are a popular option. The lines for them are often just as long as some of the rides! While I wouldn’t tell you to outright say they don’t taste great, I think there are so many more unique options to be had in the Tokyo parks. During the holidays, the churros are often seasoned with speciality flavours which make them a little more interesting but I think overall you’re better to skip it and try something you can’t get anywhere else in the world!

Nemo & Friends SeaRider 

This ride is one of the newest in the park, and anything new breeds huge lines! The ride itself is a simulator set in the Finding Nemo universe. While it might be fun for the smaller kids, it’s not worth the huge wait!

Mermaid Lagoon Rides

Mermaid Lagoon is full of rides for little kids. They can be fun if you’re out of things to do, but are very simple and short and not worth time out of your busy day.

Fireworks

You might see fireworks on the schedule of events and think, “hmm, I’ve never heard of DisneySea having fireworks…” Well, the reason for that is because they’re not very impressive. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea both share the same firework show, meaning it’s not very visible from either park. And compared to the fireworks shows in the states, they really don’t pack the same punch.

Raging Spirits 

This rollercoaster is heralded as being the most intense ride in the park with its full 360 loop. But the line is long, the ride is short and the themeing just isn’t up to par with the other amazing rides to be found at DisneySea.

Our Sample Itinerary

• 8:00 am Arrived an hour before park opening
• 9:00 am After opening walked to get FastPasses to Toy Story Mania
• 9:30 am Watched the Happiest Celebration on the Sea
• 9:45 am Journey to the Center of the Earth (20min wait)
• 10:15am 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (5 min wait)
• 10:30am Explored Mermaid Lagoon Exterior + shopping
• 10:45am Chandu Tail Snack at Sultan’s Oasis
• 11:00am Met Abu
• 11:10am Rode Aladdin’s Flying Carpets (5 min wait)
• 11:20 am Met Jafar
• 11:30am Rode Sinbad’s Storybook (5 min wait)
• 11:45 am Explored Agrabah
• 12:00 pm Explored Arabian Coast and Rode Carousel (no wait)
• 12:10 pm Popcorn snack break
• 12:20 pm Redeemed Toy Story Fastpass
• 12:45 pm Got Fastpass for Tower of Terror
• 1:00pm Ice Cream break in front of Tower of Terror
• 1:20 pm Ate Ukiwah bun along the Port of Discovery
• 1:45pm Shopping in American Waterfront
• 2:20pm Explored the S. S. Columbia
• 2:45 pm Tower of Terror FastPass redemption
• 3:20 pm Big Band Beat
• 4:30 pm Fashionable Easter Parade
• 5:00pm Shopping along the Mediterranean Harbour
• 5:30pm Venice Gondolas (30 min wait)
• 6:30pm Gyoza Dog in Mysterious Island
• 7:15 pm Single Rider Indiana Jones (30 min wait)
• 7:45pm Exploring Interior of Mermaid Lagoon
• 8:00pm Fantasmic! Show
• 8:30pm Shopping and late night treats
• 9:00pm Park Close

Even if you’re not a die-hard Disney fan, there is so much to see and do here. The park is so immersive and definitely transports you out of this world. Despite, none of the lands being set in Japan, there is a vein of Japanese artistry and technological development which runs through the entire park. The first time I came to Japan, I missed out visiting this park. I regretted it the instant we left Tokyo. Don’t make the same mistake as me! Check it out and let me know what your favourite part of the entire park was!

The post The Ultimate Guide to Your First Visit at Tokyo DisneySea first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Buena Vista Street
   • Trolley Treats
2. Cars Land
   • Radiator Springs Racers
3. The Cozy Cone Motel
4. Flo's Diner
5. Lightning McQueen Meet and Greet
6. Pacific Wharf
   • Boudin Bakery
7. Paradise Pier
8. Ariel's Grotto
   • Ariel's Undersea Adventure
9. A Bugs Land
10. Night Time in DCA
    • King Triton's Carousel of the Sea
11. Toy Story Midway Mania

Buena Vista Street

As you walk in the gates, feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Buena Vista Street is an architectural recreation of early 1920s California and LA. These shops and restaurants are all styled in the period’s Mission and Art Deco designs. The Carthay Circle Restaurant reminded me of the Mission-style churches I visited in San Francisco. There is even a bright red trolley, mirrored after the original trolleys that ran up and down LA’s downtown core. These cars run visitors down Hollywood Boulevard if you want to take a load off after walking around this giant park.

As we passed through Buena Vista on our way toward Cars Land, we caught the end of the Red Car News Boys show. These cast members, dressed in vintage newspaper vendor caps and clothes, dance on the street to lively, classic jazz tunes with stellar choreography.

Trolley Treats

One of the main features of Buena Vista Street is its lavish souvenir shops. Each of these shops is designed to reference classic department stores of the 1920s. But my must-stop shop has to be Trolley Treats! This sweet shop looks like the one from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The candy is tucked away inside little glass jars and behind stylish window displays. Inside you can find some of Disney’s best treats, including the ornate character candy apples or some freshly made chocolate fudge! Even if you don’t wanna buy a treat, you can stand at the window and watch chocolatiers make these magical treats.

Cars Land

This morning, the first thing on the agenda was to grab some fast passes for Radiator Springs Racers. This is probably the most popular ride in the park, and fast passes usually run out around 11:00am. We managed to snag a few for the members of our group and went about touring Cars Land while we waited for our fastpass redemption time.

Radiator Springs Racers

Radiator Springs Racers is a combination of dark rides and speed tracks. Based on Pixar’s classic film Cars, you drive through the beautiful red-coloured mountains of California, have your car painted and readied for racing and finally speed up and down the track, racing against another car adjacent to you. The first half of that ride sounds great, but the second half doesn’t gel with my stomach, as there are a few big dips.

The rest of Cars land is almost an exact replica of the movie itself. The painted treatment of all the buildings and signage makes you feel like you’re in the film. That blend of an illustrative dreamland and reality brings the film to life here. Looking around this place, so many small details that some people might not even notice make it seem all the more authentic. The flowers are made of car parts, and spare tires can be found everywhere. And best of all, some famous restaurants from the film have also been recreated here in their delicious glory!

The Cozy Cone Motel

The Cozy Cone Motel features some of the most fun and interesting food in DCA! The Chili Cone Carne is an amazing treat with a pretzel cone filled with chilli and cheese. Perfection. They also served retro-themed iced beverages and yummy-flavoured popcorn!

Flo’s Diner

Flo’s Diner has to be one of the best-themed restaurants in the park. Inside this retrofit, diner are meals straight from the 1960s! You can get classic milkshakes so rich you’ll need a spoon to drink them! The inside of Flo’s is a neon paradise, and the outdoor eating area is designed to look like an old-fashioned gas station, complete with comfy seating for patrons.

There are more rides here in Cars land that aren’t quite as intense as Radiator Springs. Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, similar to the tea cups, is a fun little ride with an adorable design. Luigi’s Flying Tires is a bumper car-like ride that seems more confusing than fun but is worth a try.

Lightning McQueen Meet and Greet

While the adult’s road Radiator Racers, Tori and I went to meet Lighting McQueen in front of the Cozy Cone Motel. The character meets so much fun, and it was hilarious to see this giant car rolling around and chatting with kids.

Pacific Wharf

After spending some time in the hot sun in Cars lands (where there is little shade), I felt like something cold and sweet! I had heard so much about the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop in the Pacific Wharf, so we headed there next. The Pacific Wharf is inspired by San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf. All the shop fronts have that old, nautical feel to them. This area is full to the brim with food options. You can grab some craft beer from Karl Strauss’ beer truck, chow down on tacos at Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill or just sip on a glass of wine at the Mendocino Terrace.

But we were here for one thing alone: good ol’ fashioned sundaes from Ghirardelli. When you enter this shop, you are overwhelmed with the smell of chocolate. You get a free sample of chocolate just for walking in the door, which will tide you over while you wait for your order. There is a giant menu, and picking out which sundae to get was difficult. Ultimately, I went for a chocolate brownie sundae, although Dan was fighting hard for the salted caramel one (next time). After being served our treat, we sat on a bench next to the shop and marvelled at the creamy treats coming out the door.

Boudin Bakery

After being sated by our sweet treat, we headed to the Boudin Bakery. I remembered Bourdin fondly from my trip to San Francisco and was keen to check out how they make that irresistible bread in DCA! It seemed to be the same process and tasted just as amazing. While in Disney, I’ve had sourdough bread bowls and have always been more than impressed by the freshness. The video you watched while walking through the mini factory was pretty cheesy, but I did enjoy watching how they made Mickey Shaped bread!

Paradise Pier

After touring the bakery, we headed over to the Paradise Pier. The view from the Pier is incredible. You can see all the beautiful rides adorning the edge of the pier and Mickey’s big smiling face looking down at you from Mickey’s Big Wheel.

Paradise Pier was made to look like the coastal boardwalks of LA, like Santa Monica and Santa Cruz. On the lake’s opposite side are many classic arcade games that are standard on many boardwalks. The rides, like California Screamin’, Mickey’s Big Wheel and Toy Story Mania, are all more impressive versions of classic midway games you’d find at any self-respecting water-side arcade. 

The man-made lake in the centre of Paradise Pier is where the pyrotechnic show World of Colour is performed nightly. Although we didn’t get the chance to check out the show, I’ve seen videos of this technicolour performance, which is out of this world!

Paradise Pier was by far my favourite of all the Lands in DCA. I was simply enchanted with all of its beautiful popcorn lights and colourful, darling designs. A lot of it also reminded me of Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. It’s elegant and fun all at the same time.

Ariel’s Grotto

Plus, Paradise Pier is home to Ariel’s Grotto. Ariel’s grotto is one of the restaurants in DCA where you can have a princess meet at dinner while looking out over the beautiful waters of Paradise Pier.

Ariel’s Undersea Adventure

After wandering the Pier, we rode Ariel’s Undersea Adventure. This was the ride I was most excited for all my life, The Little Mermaid is my most treasured Disney movie, and I couldn’t wait to see what they did with it for the ride. Even the line-up for this ride was wonderful. The building housed inside was modelled after a 20th-century aquarium – perfectly fitting for the Little Mermaid. There are little mosaics with aquatic themes and a giant mural depicting all our favourite characters from the film.

When we neared the front of the line, I squealed in delight as I saw the adorable little clam-shaped cars that would be our transportation through the ride. The attraction is a dark ride and features different scenes from the movie brought to life with dynamic animatronic characters.

As you got into the clam, you began to descend backwards, down and down into the sea as a projection of Ariel and the ocean floor came up around you. The ride’s Ursala scene was the best part, as she looked incredibly real. Her body moved like real flesh, and her face had advanced animatronics that made her expressions so real.

A Bugs Land

After a tearful (yes, I got a little choked up) ride through the sea, we headed off to Bug’s Land. As the name states, this is based on the movie A Bug’s Life. While I’m not much of a fan of A Bug’s Life, I have to say that the design of this area was so much fun. As soon as you step through the gates, you feel you’ve been shrunken down to the size of a bug. Big leaves hang over your head, and oversized crayons, Christmas lights and more are scattered across the place. It reminded me more of Honey I Shrunk the Kids (one of my all-time favourite movies), and there was something truly enchanting about seeing the world from such a different perspective.

Most of the rides here are meant for the little kids, but they are pretty creative, and some are really funny. We rode Heimlich’s Chew Chew Train, which was pretty short but made us laugh, and we only had to wait a few minutes to jump on. You ride on top of Hemlich as he adventures through many giant pieces of food he finds along the way. As you pass by these pieces of food, scented air is blown towards you that matches the foods you’re passing by. It’s a completely immersive experience and unique to the ride. 

Night Time in DCA

After Bugs Land, we walked over to the Paradise Pier. Once night hits DCA, the place seems to almost transform. The light simply danced over the water, and neon lights were sparkling across the sky!

King Triton’s Carousel of the Sea

We hit up the boardwalk immediately and rode on King Triton’s Carousel of the Sea! Carousels are some of my favourite rides, but unique versions of them are even better. I like more than just simple horses to ride on, so this ride was just for me! King Triton’s carousel features adorable sea creatures like lions, dolphins, and whales instead of horses. They are all brightly coloured and just plain adorable.

Plus, this ride is never very busy, so usually, you can jump right on. We had a lovely romantic jaunt riding this delightful carousel as music played and the light twinkled in the background. If you walk along the boardwalk, you can play various carnival games interspersed with charmingly themed souvenir shops.

Toy Story Midway Mania

Toy Story Midway Mania would have been our favourite ride of the day. Even though we waited in line for what seemed like forever (mainly due to the ride breaking down at one point), it was such a blast. You spun around in giant cars shooting at different 3D projections throughout the ride. As you spun around from screen to screen, there were huge scenes from the Toy Story universe, making for both an interactive and dark ride! What fun. Plus, I got the highest score, so that was cool too…

Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta and Corn Dog Castle

As the evening drew closer, it was time to get something to eat. We went to the Boardwalk Pizza, Pasta Pavillion, and Corn Dog Castle. The Boardwalk Pasta was surprisingly delicious for essentially fast food pasta. But it wasn’t mushy or flavourless. On the contrary, it was full of spices and savoury cheese and cooked to perfection. The building was all decked out in Art Deco loveliness, which wasn’t too shabby either. The Corn Dog Castle is long talked about as amazing and living up to expectations. Crispy, soft and warm all at the same time, it was just the right thing to eat as the night brought a slight chill to the air.

Hollywood Land

To cap the night off, Dan rode the Twilight Tower of Terror. I was, of course, too scared to ride it. Knowing I’d puke all over this thing, I decided to wait outside and admire it from below. It’s an amazing piece of architecture. The lobby is gilded in bronze and gold and has within it that feeling of an old Hollywood haunting. I wish I could have gone on the ride and simply got off before that terrifying fall, but you aren’t allowed to do that. It was Dan’s favourite ride of the day, so I can only imagine how awesome it was to experience. The view from the top of the tower alone is such a perfect view of DCA at night….maybe one day I will be able to handle it, but for now…no way.

While Dan was on the ride, I walked around Hollywood Land. Hollywood Land has many building facades facing the street, each inspired by the Golden Age of Hollywood in the 1930s and designed to look like an old Hollywood backlot complete with painted backdrops. It was a lovely little street to wander along, the lamplight all aglow and couples walking hand in hand.

Soon enough, it was time to go. With one last look out over the pier, we bid adieu to DCA!

The post An Honest First-Timers Experience at DCA, Disney California Adventure first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.