Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea: A Comparison of Two Disney Theme Parks in Japan
Deciding Between the Classic Charm and the Seaside Fantasy
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If you are traveling around Tokyo, Tokyo Disney Resort is one of the most popular spots to visit! You might be unable to choose which park you are going to, Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea! Of course, I recommend both parks, however, if you need to choose either of them, I can help you!
Generally, Tokyo Disneyland is popular with families and kids, while Tokyo DisneySea is known as an ‘adult theme park’ where even adult people can enjoy and have a dream in the park. In this article, I am going to introduce the difference between Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea from the point of view of situation, attractions and specific events. Moreover, I will show you a lot of new attractions that have opened over the last couple of years in both parks.
Let’s find out which park is ideal for your trip!
*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.
How can you decide which park to go to?
It’s hard to decide which park to visit especially when you are on a tight schedule during your trip. There are some particular attractive points in each park, so you can choose the one to go to depending on your preference.
Who are you traveling with?
Are you traveling with family, friends, or a partner?
Tokyo Disneyland is popular for families as there are a lot of attractions as well as various parades and shows, which are popular for kids. There are a lot of places you can meet lovely Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, as well as Disney princesses such as Cinderella and Snow White.
Electrical Parade is an iconic parade in which many Disney Characters go around the park with amazing dancers. Many visitors stand by a few hours before the parade to see their favourite characters as close as possible. Colourful lights and electrical laser light up the park fantastically.
Tokyo DisneySea is known as one of the best date spots in Tokyo. The night atmosphere is spectacular. A lot of restaurants have romantic atmospheres such as Magellan’s and S.S. Cplombia Dining Room. You can also enjoy drinking in the park, which is not allowed in Tokyo Disneyland. Walking around the park and attractions with a beer in summer is the best ways to enjoy Tokyo DisneySea!
Do you like thrilling roller coasters or more mild rides?
Both parks have a lot of attractions from roller coasters to adventure attractions.
The most popular attraction in Tokyo Disneyland is Splash Mountain. It is a dynamic roller coaster diving into water. In summer, the minimum waiting time might be 80 mins as visitors want to cool down. If you can get the front seat, be ready to feel the splash!
Another iconic attraction in Tokyo Disneyland is It’s a small world. The theme is “a happy round trip over the world”. With a song of It’s A Small World, the boat takes you on a round trip through Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and Islands in the South Pacific.
On the other hand, Tokyo DisneySea has a lot of thrilling attractions, the most popular one being Tower of Terror. In the cursed tower, you will have a thrilling and scary experience. Raising Spirits runs up and down and turns 360° sharply. The view from the top at night is fantastic.
Turtle Talk is a popular attraction for all generations from kids to adults. You can learn something from knowledgeable Crush!
Are there any special events?
Yes, absolutely! There are various seasonal events and anniversary events in both parks.
In Tokyo Disneyland, Splash Mountain increases the amount of water during summer so people can get more water and feel cool. In autumn, Haunted Mansion Holiday Nightmare plays a special program for Halloween.
Various projection mapping is projected on Cinderella Castle. The program is regularly changed but always moving and heartwarming. It is a mandatory event to watch when you go to Tokyo Disneyland.
In Tokyo DisneySea, one of the most famous seasonal parades is held in summer at the center of the park every year. The dynamics are amazing.
Tokyo DisneySea will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2026. There will most probably be special events coming up, just like Tokyo Disneyland celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2023 with many special events and merch. So keep your eyes on it!
What are the newest things in Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea?
They have been expanding their areas for the last 2-3 years; let’s have a look at what is newly coming!
Tokyo Disneyland
- Beauty and the Beast
The pink castle of Beauty and the Beast is now another iconic landmark with Cinderella Castle in Tokyo Disneyland. You will experience the world of Beauty and the Beast and be amazed by the fantastic love of Belle and the Beast. Although it opened in 2020, people can visit only after 2022. It has been popular and has amazed a lot of visitors since then.
Tokyo DisneySea
- Soaring: Fantastic Flight
Soaring is insipired by a musium. You’ll see a lot of exhibitions that excite your adventure curiosity. The attraction is called “Dream Flyer”. It takes you on a world round trip that travels to World Heritages and the best landscapes in the world. It’s very attractive so you’ll want to try it over and over.
- Fantasy Springs
The area just opened in June 2024!! It comprises Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey, Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival, Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure, and Fairy Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies. Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey takes you into the world of Frozen, where you will experience the heartwarming story of the sisters. Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival is “the best day ever” for Rapunzel when she falls in love with Flynn Rider in the tale. You will be attracted to their love story and the fantastic scene of the Lantern Festival.
The two attractions from Peter Pan will take you on a journey through the world of Peter Pan. It might awaken your childhood memories and curiosity. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are also known as “The Dream World.” So, why can’t we go back to childhood?
Thank you for reading till the end.
My personal favourite is Tokyo DisneySea simply because they have beers. Generally, people say Tokyo Disneyland is for family and kids while Tokyo DisneySea is for adults and couples but I personally believe you can fully enjoy each park regardless of your age!
Moreover, both parks have numerous photogenic spots, which is another attractive point, particularly for young people who like taking photos on Instagram. You’ll find these spots when you visit there!
<<Book Tokyo Disney Resort tickets online here!!>>
Hope this article can help you decide which park to go to!
For more information about Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, be sure to check out the following articles!
▶ Tokyo Disneyland Guide: Best Things to Do
▶ Tokyo DisneySea Guide: Best Things to Do
▶ Tokyo Disneyland Food: 10 Must-Try Food at Tokyo Disneyland
▶ What to Buy at Tokyo Disneyland
▶ Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea Event Schedule 2024
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For more information about Traveling in Japan, be sure to check out the following articles!
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Written by
Hello, I'm Kanako. I have a passion for traveling and indulging in local cuisine from various regions. Some of my favorite places in Japan include the beautiful Kanazawa, vibrant Osaka, and lively Fukuoka. A true enthusiast of live music, I particularly enjoy watching rock bands perform and immerse myself in the electrifying atmosphere. As a keen shopper, I always stay on top of the latest fashion trends to keep my style fresh and exciting. I truly hope that my articles can inspire and assist you in your travels or daily life in Japan. Happy exploring!
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