Khaizuran RashidIf you’re a fan of spine-chilling tales and eerie exploration, then abandoned theme parks are your perfect thrill! While these forgotten amusement spots might no longer offer the fun and excitement they once promised, they certainly deliver an atmosphere of mystery and decay that’s enough to make anyone’s heart race. So, for those looking for an adventurous (and slightly creepy) trip, here are 5 abandoned theme parks across Asia that are just waiting for you to explore!
Also read: 6 Most Haunted Places in Malaysia You Can Visit
1. Nara Dreamland: Nara, Japan
Image credit: Ivan Lucas via Wikimedia Commons
Once the pride of Japan, Nara Dreamland was built to resemble Disneyland before the real deal came to Tokyo in 1983. Opened in 1961, it quickly became one of the most popular theme parks of its time. However, after the opening of Tokyo Disneyland, its popularity slowly dwindled, and it was finally shut down in 2006.
Today, the park remains a haunting reminder of its heyday. The Aska Roller Coaster, once the park’s signature ride, is now a rusting skeleton, offering a creepy view of the park’s now-abandoned expanse. This eerie site is easy to access and has attracted many thrill-seeking explorers who dare to venture into the empty park.
2. Encore Garden: Taichung, Taiwan
Image credit: 21TScott via Fandom
Built in the early 80s, Encore Garden was once one of Taiwan’s most visited attractions. Tragically, it was shut down in 1999 after a devastating earthquake that claimed over 2,000 lives in the area. Since then, the park has been left to decay, and its haunted history only adds to its creepy charm.
The park is full of eerie remnants, including rides caked in dust, derelict buildings, and spooky Chinese shaman masks hanging ominously throughout the site. This forsaken park is perfect for those who enjoy a creepy atmosphere mixed with a touch of local history.
3. Mimaland: Gombak, Malaysia
Image credit: Rezza Dude via Wikimedia Commons
Mimaland was once a popular amusement park in Malaysia, known for its large water park, hotels, chalets, and life-size dinosaur models. Opened in 1971, the park’s abrupt closure came after a series of unfortunate events, including a drowning and a landslide in the mid-90s. By 1994, the park was shut down permanently.
Today, Mimaland is a decaying jungle of overgrown plants and rusting rides, with its life-sized dinosaur statues now bearing a sinister air. A 3km trek through the jungle leads you to the remains. The park’s eerie atmosphere is heightened by the sounds of nature taking back what was once man-made.
TripZilla Tip: Be cautious while exploring, as wild animals such as tigers have been spotted in the area.
4. Takanonuma Greenland: Fukushima, Japan
Image credit: 21TScott via Fandom
Okay, I’m just adding this to the list for the vibes because the park has since been demolished! Located in Fukushima, Takanonuma Greenland opened in 1973 and had its fair share of dark history. The park was initially closed in 1975 due to fatal accidents on its rollercoaster. After reopening in 1986, it was ultimately shut down again in 1999 due to poor attendance.
The park was a popular spot for urban explorers and thrill-seekers. Visitors could walk through a fog-laden landscape where rusting rides and abandoned structures create a truly haunting atmosphere. The park’s dilapidated state, combined with the thick mist, made it feel like you’ve stepped into a horror movie!
5. Wonderland Amusement Park: Beijing, China
Image credit: Tormod Sandtorv via Wikimedia Commons
Wonderland Amusement Park in Beijing is unique for one reason: it never actually opened. Construction began in 1998, and the park was supposed to open in 2008, but financial difficulties and delays led to its abandonment before any visitors could step foot inside. Today, what remains is an unfinished and crumbling castle-like structure that has become a popular spot for explorers and photographers.
The site is surrounded by farmland, with farmers often seen walking past the eerie castle. Though no accidents have been reported, the partially completed structure and the sheer emptiness of the site give it a chilling feel. This unfinished theme park has earned its place as one of the creepiest abandoned parks in Asia.
Ready for the Spooky Thrill?
If you’re someone who loves a good scare and isn’t afraid to venture off the beaten path, exploring these abandoned theme parks in Asia might be the perfect adventure.
Whether you’re braving the grounds of Nara Dreamland or walking through the dilapidated ruins of Mimaland, these parks offer a unique kind of thrill that’s far from ordinary. So, summon your courage, and prepare to step into the eerie silence of these forgotten worlds, if you dare!
Also read: 5 Museums Dedicated to Monsters Around the World
