Japan has no shortage of entertainment opportunities. Amusement parks are plentiful, dynamic, and each one is unique in its own way. Whether its world-famous theme parks or displays of Japanese culture, you’ll be able to dive right in.
Japan has always been remarkable at space management, and theme parks are no exception with more than 100 locations nationwide.
The parks in Japan are as diverse as they are abundant. You can find huge, internationally recognized franchises or charming, locally themed attractions special to Japan. Disney Resorts and Universal Studios maintain their prowess in Japan, and places like Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura keep the variety ever so diverse. Even the larger world-famous theme parks have attractions that can only be found in Japan. Japan is also home to a few world-record breaking roller coasters that will surely leave your hair on end and lungs exhausted. Let us introduce a selection of theme parks and amusement parks in Japan that you won’t want to miss!
Tokyo Disneyland
Although they have same great attractions you may already have experienced at one of the other 6 Disney Parks spread throughout in the world, there are also some attractions that are only available in Japan. For example, although there are Monsters, Inc. attractions at other Disney Parks, Tokyo DisneyLand's “Monsters, Inc. Ride and Go Seek!” is different in that it is interactive and the rider can use a flashlight to spot the hiding monsters.
Tokyo DisneySea
Another part of Disney that is unique to Japan is the ocean themed DisneySea. Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage, Tower of Terror, Journey to the Center of the Earth, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and Raging Spirits are all attractions that you can only experience at DisneySea. There is also plenty of exclusive merchandise.
Universal Studios Japan
One of Osaka’s claims to fame is Universal Studios Japan. Opened in 2001, it was the first Universal Studios theme park to open up in Asia and features 10 areas including Hollywood, New York, and San Francisco. You can also find the renowned THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER™, as well as the Japan exclusive SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ that opened in 2021.
Fuji-Q Highland
You may have heard of Fuji-Q Highland before. This is the famous theme park in Japan that has a number of world record breaking roller coasters. This park is not for the faint hearted, rather a paradise for thrill seekers. The more remarkable world records include the most inversions, fastest acceleration, and steepest drop. If you change your mind about riding the roller coasters after you see them in person, you will still be able to enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji if you are there on a clear day. There are also plenty of other more mellow rides that are a good option if you have children.
Sanrio Puroland
Here you can get your fill of Hello Kitty and other cute characters. Crowd favorite friends of Hello Kitty like Cinnamoroll and Pompompurin make appearances, as well as other lesser-known characters. There are plenty of opportunities to take the cuteness home with you, as there is an extensive selection of merchandise like plush toys and stationery.
Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura
For those curious about what Japan was like during the Edo period (1603 - 1867), this theme park offers an impressive recreation of this iconic era. Actors and actresses make the atmosphere come alive by playing roles for attractions, restaurants, and other services dressed in stunning edo attire. Be sure not to miss the ninja performance, the Modern Edo-Tech Museum, and the Karakuri Ninja Maze among other things.
Nagashima Spa Land
Just outside of Nagoya, Nagashima Spa Resort has everything you could ask for. A cohesive mix of roller coasters, hot springs, shopping, water attractions, and even a flower park is sure to entertain people of all generations. Fuji-Q Highland is not the only park with a world record breaking roller coaster, as Nagashima Spa Land’s “Steel Dragon 2000” currently has the Guinness World Record for longest roller coaster.
Toei Kyoto Studio Park
Another great experience for Edo enthusiasts, as well as Japanese film enthusiasts, is the Toei Kyoto Studio Park. Here you can spend time in the actual movie set where over 2,000 films and 9,000 episodes of TV series were shot. You can dress up and have your makeup done in various costumes at the ever-popular Historical Costume Disguise Corner. You can also enjoy a ninja maze, but be sure to check out the unique retro cafe and haunted house.
