Nur SofiaReady to fully immerse yourself in a magical, nautical wonder world? Here’s your handy-dandy guide to Tokyo DisneySea. Brace yourselves for fun in epic proportions!
Image credit: Nagi Usano
In America, you have Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and California Adventure to satiate your appetite for theme park thrills. Here in Japan, Tokyo DisneySea boasts a unique concept of an Aquasphere, top-notch attractions and world-class shows that mostly revolve around a “marine” theme. Opening its doors to the globe back in 2001, this massive 176-acre park houses seven main “ports” where you’ll find all the fun at – and rumours have it the eighth port might be Frozen-themed. Olaf fans, rejoice!
What is a trip to an amusement park without researching on key information? Well, here are some essential pointers to note first!
Operating Hours: 8am/8.30am – 10pm
Address: 1-13 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture 279-0031, Japan
Best time to visit: Early April, Mid-May, Early-Mid September & Early December
Attractions
The seven “ports” have various rides that cater to the young, old, the scaredy-cats (it’s okay!) and the crazy thrill-seekers. You’ll discover Mediterranean Harbour, American Waterfront, Port Discovery, Lost River Delta, Arabian Coast, Mermaid Lagoon and Mysterious Island. The challenge will be to cover them all in less than 12 hours without feeling like as if you just ran an ultra marathon. I have narrowed down a few must-visit attractions so you’ll know where to immediately run to after having your tickets scanned at the entrance!
Almost as tall as DisneySea’s iconic Mount Prometheus, this attraction is one you simply cannot miss: Tower of Terror. The highlight of it all? That spectacular free-fall drop that will literally take your breath away! I’ll spare you the details so it wouldn’t be too much of a spoiler now.
Next up, Toy Story Mania! This attraction has seen waiting times surpassing three hours but it is definitely worth your patience. The funky interiors, phenomenal 4D effects and the interactive pre-ride virtual exhibits leave Toy Story Mania! to be an absolute hit with the kids (and the young-at-heart adults too).
Image credit: Peter Lee
Following that, Indiana Jones Adventure is another must-visit indoor roller coaster. You don’t have to close your eyes; it is as dark as it gets in this colossal jungle-temple complex. Board your oversized jeep and prepare for an exhilarating ride ahead. The high-speed ride will leave your heart racing as you try to anticipate the next giant move (read: drop), while you lunge around and swerve along sharp corners. Remember to hang on tight during this turbulent ride!
Journey To The Center of The Earth is also a hot favourite as you twist, turn, plummet and soar. Check out what that “Terravator” is all about and get ready to propel to greater heights. Watch out now, that volcano is real active (read: explosive!).
Special mention: As of 12 May 2017, a new ride has emerged in Port Discovery, namely “Nemo and Friends SeaRider”. The flawless animation coupled with the engaging storytelling component gives this 3D simulator ride a big plus point, especially amongst the little Finding Dory fans.
Shows
Image credit: Nagi Usano
For those who are not into having jaw-dropping and heart-thumping moments, the extravagant shows might be more of your cup of tea! If I had to choose, Fantasmic! would be my top pick followed by King Triton’s Concert. The former brims with a dramatic display of vibrant lights, lasers, carefully curated water projections and colourful pyrotechnics that will leave you in complete awe.
Image credit: Nagi Usano
Let your imagination take flight and immerse yourself in the fantasies depicted. With the night-time sky as a brilliant backdrop, be mind-blown as the dazzling spectacle unfolds right in front of your eyes.
As for King Triton’s Concert, this dynamic musical masterpiece will ensure you’re still humming along to the tunes of “Under The Sea” and “Part of Your World” all night long. The visuals and music are equally enchanting and captivating. A few other shows to note include Big Band Beat, Steps To Shine and My Friend Duffy.
Image credit: Nagi Usano
Halloween Specials: 8 Sept to 31 Oct
The Villains World will launch an eerie Halloween Party, as Disney Friends arrive all clad in their special costumes. Goofy with fangs? Mickey Mouse with a purple cape? Will Maleficent be there? You’ll have to see it to believe it. Aside from this, there will be an exclusive Halloween fireworks display inspired by some of the creepiest tunes ever – yikes!
Food
Image Credit: Alex Hurst
Tokyo DisneySea has no shortage of tantalising food options, ranging from swanky, fine restaurants to quirky snack pushcarts. There is something to satiate everyone’s taste buds and appease those growling tummies, so take your pick from Western, Asian and even fusion cuisine! If you are not an adventurous foodie (think: sweet potato, Japanese pumpkin and raw seaweed), fret not as they still serve juicy cheeseburgers, tasty pepperoni pizzas and mouth-watering fried chicken. Also, you can pair your mains with alcoholic beverages such as ice-cold beer and other creative cocktail concoctions! Fancy a refreshing kiwi mojito or a frozen citrus cocktail? The choices are endless.
Counter Service
- New York Deli
- Cape Cod Cook Off
- Zambini Brothers’ Ristorante
- Miguel’s El Dorado Cantina
- Sebastian’s Calypso Kitchen
Table Service
- Magellan’s
- Teddy Roosevelt Lounge
- Ristorante Di Canaletto
- S.S Colombia Dining Room
- Horizon Bay Restaurant (*Character Dining Experiences)
For table service restaurants, it is highly recommended that you make reservations prior to dining. With regards to the snacks, you must sample the exclusive Ukiwa Shrimp Buns, Gyoza Dog, Mike Wazowski Melon Bread and the all-time favourite: popcorn! The numerous flavours will truly take you on a gastronomical adventure. Hot favourites include cappuccino, curry, white chocolate and black pepper.
Shop
Image credit: Loren Javier
With a whopping 14 retail stores all within one “port”, Mediterranean Harbour is where you will find a myriad of souvenirs, park accessories, scrumptious snacks and awesome apparel. This is indeed the best place for you to nab some cool Disney loots.
Alternatively, if you are looking for merchandise from a specific character or theme, you can check out the other ports as well. American Waterfront has about six stores where you can purchase some great memorabilia. Calling all Little Mermaid Fans: you may buy your Flounder plush or Ariel purses at Mermaid Lagoon! Just in case you realised that you’re short of a keychain for your best friend back home, you can also frequent the souvenir store, Parkway Gifts, right outside the park entrance.
Screenshot these final tips
1. As there is no public Wi-Fi access within the park, rent a portable Wi-Fi router or purchase a SIM card. Download the “TDR Wait Time Check” app where you’ll find waiting times for the attractions and other useful guides.
2. Standby at least 45 minutes before each show or parade to get the best spot in the house. There will be crowds for sure.
3. Note: Popcorn buckets and drink bottles are refillable at a much cheaper rate! Spend wisely.
4. The three most important mascots – Gelatoni, Duffy and ShellieMay – are exclusive to Tokyo DisneySea. The merchandise for these mascots would really make ideal gifts!
5. FastPass is a must! The following attractions are highly popular so prioritize your FastPass (it’s free, no worries) for them: Toy Story Mania!, Journey to the Center of the Earth, Raging Spirits, Indiana Jones® Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull and Tower of Terror.
