(Credit: Crystal Jo / Unsplash)
With numerous gorgeous natural attractions, awe-inspiring infrastructure, and rich food culture, Japan is a top-of-mind destination for many travellers. That said, these may not appeal to the younger generation since kids would want to have some fun while overseas. But you shouldn’t worry because there’s a saving grace to keep your young ones entertained. Meet the wacky Japan theme parks! While originally intended as botanical gardens and festival spaces, these parks have since evolved with unique themes and attractions. What’s more, these theme parks are only a stone’s throw away from the metropolises of Tokyo and Osaka! Stay on and learn what each of Japan’s best theme parks has to offer!
Japan is home to more than 100 theme parks, including a few of the world’s most visited theme parks! Theme parks by popular franchises such as Disney, LEGO, and Universal Studios have all found their home in Japan. Aside from these, there are also other theme parks — many of them centred around local culture and popular mascots. From onsen to anime, each theme park’s signature concept draws waves of tourists to the fun-filled theme park.
No doubt, one of the best theme parks in Japan to visit is the majestic Tokyo Disneyland! Opened in 1983, Tokyo Disneyland was the first Disney theme park to be built outside of the United States. The park boasts seven special themed areas that are adapted from the franchise’s films and stories. One of which is Fantasyland, a Tokyo-exclusive section that features an attraction starring Winnie the Pooh — everyone’s favourite honey-loving bear! Hop onto a trackless ride system and embark on an adventure with Pooh to hunt for his beloved hunny. Once finished, get yourself an adorable Winnie the Pooh plush as memorabilia for visiting the “Happiest Place On Earth”!
After enjoying Disneyland’s signature parade, have a good night’s rest at Hilton Tokyo Bay (viewable on mobile only)! Situated right beside Tokyo Disneyland, this hotel has two room options: a park-facing room and an ocean-facing room. At night, the former offers sweeping views of the resort and the spectacular fireworks display. The latter, on the other hand, offers scenic views of Tokyo Bay set against the backdrop of downtown Tokyo. For convenience, this has got to be one of the best places to stay around Tokyo Disneyland!
Entrance fee: Child – from 4,700 yen, Adult – from 7,900 yen
Address: 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0031, Japan
Operating Hours: Varies (More information available on their official website)
Despite its similar-sounding name, Tokyo DisneySea offers a different experience from the other Disney theme parks. DisneySea takes visitors on a nautical exploration through seven different zones. Termed ports of call, these zones are based on various harbours found in the Disney franchise and around the world. More targeted at teenagers and adults, the theme park features more thrilling rides and attractions as compared to Tokyo Disneyland. To get your dose of adrenaline, whoosh down the high-speed Journey to the Center of the Earth ride. If that isn’t enough, then head over to the Tower of Terror. A drop tower in disguise, this attraction will give you the hair-raising experience you seek. Alongside Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea is one of the best theme parks in Japan to visit for first-time visitors.
If you’re looking for the best budget-friendly places to stay around Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, then here’s one for you! The Grand Nikko Tokyo Bay Maihama (viewable on mobile only) has 709 guest rooms that range from standard rooms to family rooms. Every few floors of the hotel also follow a theme, ranging from the vibrant shades of green on its “Garden” floors to the fanciful colours on its “Rainbow” floors. Truly an aesthetically pleasing sight to behold!
Entrance fee: Child – from 4,700 yen, Adult – from 7,900 yen
Address: 1-13 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-8511, Japan
Operating Hours: Varies (More information available on their official website)
Fuji-Q Highland is one of Japan’s best theme parks famous for its exhilarating and record-holding roller coaster rides. Its main attraction is the 79-metre tall Fujiyama, which was the world’s tallest roller coaster when it opened in 1996. Since then, other exciting rides such as Do-dodonpa, Eejanaika, and Takabisha have been added to the park’s roller coaster lineup. Fuji-Q Highland is also home to Thomas Land, a theme park based on the popular kids’ television series Thomas & Friends. Here, kids can ride on special attractions featuring popular characters from the show such as Thomas, Percy, and Bertie. With so many attractions in store, do drop by Fuji-Q Highland with your family and friends today!
Wouldn’t it be nice if you could wake up to the beautiful sight of Mt. Fuji? With the Highland Resort Hotel and Spa (viewable on mobile only), your dreams can soon be a reality! This hotel is located near the Tokyo highway bus stop and right beside the entrance of the theme park. Hotel guests can head down to Chureito Pagoda, a scenic lookout spot that provides a perfect vantage of Mt. Fuji. When night falls, guests can soak in the hot spring waters of Mt. Fuji to recharge and rejuvenate. After falling asleep, you are now ready for the highway bus ride back to Tokyo.
Entrance fee: 6,400 yen
Address: 5-chōme-6-1 Shinnishihara, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0017, Japan
Operating Hours: Varies (More information available on their official website)
Yokohama is Japan’s second most populous city and is a magnificent port city overlooking Tokyo Bay. It is also home to Yokohama Cosmo World, a family-friendly theme park that’s known for its magnificent Ferris wheel. Named Cosmo Clock 21, the 112-metre tall Ferris wheel was once the world’s tallest when it first opened in 1989. Today, visitors can hop onto the ride to admire the Yokohama skyline and, if lucky, Mt. Fuji as well. Come nighttime, the Ferris wheel will stun you with its fantastic illuminations. This light show happens every 15 minutes and lasts about six minutes. Just a short train ride from Tokyo, this Yokohama theme park is definitely worth a short stopover.
Plus, this theme park is situated near downtown and is close to many accommodations. And among them, Yokohama Royal Park Hotel (viewable on mobile only) offers great views of the Minato Mirai waterfront! The hotel has a fitness centre on the 49th floor, where users can enjoy pampering themselves at the spa. Alternatively, visitors can swim in their heated lap pool while having a bird’s eye view of the Yokohama harbour.
Entrance fee: Free (Pay-per-ride)
Address: 2-chōme-8-1 Shinkō, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0001, Japan
Operating Hours: Varies (More information available on their official website)
Want to know what life was like during the Edo period? If so, then you’ve got to visit Edo Wonderland! This theme park is adapted from Japan’s town life back in the 17th and 18th centuries. Aside from exploring the numerous Edo-style buildings, visitors can also catch live shows at its open-air theatre. From comedy to martial arts, the cast will wow you with their professional and realistic acts. If you’re brave enough, head over to their Haunted Temple and get spooked by the Japanese spirits and demons.
To reach the theme park from Tokyo, visitors will first have to take a train to Kinugawa Onsen station. They will then have to take a taxi or shuttle bus to reach Edo Wonderland. Alternatively, stay overnight at Daiwa Roynet Hotel Utsunomiya (viewable on mobile only) before setting off the next day. The hotel’s complimentary luggage storage services enable guests to deposit their luggage for up to a day. This means that you can now spend your day at the theme park before retrieving your belongings later that night. How neat!
Entrance fee: Child – from 3,000 yen, Adult – from 5,800 yen
Address: 470-2 Karakura, Nikko, Tochigi 321-2524, Japan
Operating Hours: Summer – 9 am to 5 pm, Winter – 9.30 am to 4 pm (Closed every Wednesday, more information available on their official website)
Japan loves their onsens, so it doesn’t come as a surprise to have a theme park centred around it! Meet Yunnessun, a quirky theme park just a 90-minute train ride away from Tokyo. In its outdoor area, visitors can whizz down exciting water slides or meditate in its infinity hot spring pool. The resort’s main highlight, however, lies in its 23 indoor hot spring baths. There, visitors can nourish their skins by taking a dip in their signature wine and coffee baths. With the rare opportunity to soak in hot spring waters and Hakone’s mountainous vistas, this theme park is simply irresistible!
Can’t get enough of onsens? Fear not because there’s always Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori (viewable on mobile only)! Enjoy sweeping panoramas of Lake Ashinoko while warming yourselves up in the pleasant hot spring waters. Otherwise, you may also admire the starry Hakone skies while lounging on its outdoor terrace. It won’t be long before you fall for Hakone’s beautiful charms!
Entrance fee: Child – from 1,800 yen, Adult – from 3,500 yen
Address: 1297 Ninotaira, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa-ken 250-0407 Japan
Operating Hours: Swimwear area – 10 am to 6 pm on weekdays and 9 am to 7 pm on weekends and holidays, Hot springs area – 11 am to 7 pm on weekdays and 11 am to 8 pm on weekends and holidays (More information available on their official website)
Sanrio Puroland is a must-go destination for avid fans of the Sanrio franchise. This theme park in Japan is tucked away in Tokyo’s Tama New Town, attracting more than 1.5 million visitors annually. Here, visitors can meet and greet with popular characters such as Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, My Melody, Gudetama and many more. Discover and learn more about their backstories by visiting Sanrio Characters Boat Ride and Mymeroad Drive. Thereafter, catch them in action at the Märchen Theater and Miracle Gift Parade to watch them showcase their talents. At Sanrio Puroland, you will definitely get your desired dose of kawaii!
From Shinjuku, visitors can ride on the Odakyu or Keio Line to reach Sanrio Puroland in under an hour. As such, your best bet to enter the theme park early is to find accommodation near Shinjuku station. One of these hotels is the JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku (viewable on mobile only). Just a 3-minute walk from Shinjuku station, the hotel has everything you need within its premises. From vending machines to a 24-hour coin laundromat, you don’t have to worry about your chores anymore. Go forth and explore Shinjuku and Greater Tokyo!
Entrance fee: Child – from 2,500 yen, Adult – from 3,600 yen
Address: 1-chōme-31 Ochiai, Tama, Tokyo 206-8588, Japan
Operating Hours: Varies (More information available on their official website)
We’ve talked about so many of Japan’s best theme parks, so what about the largest one in Tokyo? Situated on the hillsides of Inagi, Yomiuriland draws visitors for its serene countryside vibes. Aside from thrilling roller coasters and water rides, Yomuriland is known for having a myriad of seasonal festivities as well. From autumn to spring, the park turns into a spectacle every night with its signature event: the Jewellumination. During this time, thousands of bedazzling neon lights illuminate the park to provide a beautiful environment background for many aesthetic Instagram shots. Don’t believe us? Guess you’ve got to head there to see it for yourself!
Just like Sanrio Puroland, Yomuriland is accessible via Shinjuku station’s Odakyu train platform. But if you’re looking for places to stay near Shinjuku’s popular landmarks, then go for Citadines Central Shinjuku Tokyo (viewable on mobile only)! Situated near Kabukicho, visitors can head on over to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and admire cherry blossoms during springtime. And if you’re ever feeling peckish, walk over to the nearby Don Quijote or Isetan to get your fix. With so many amenities and attractions within walking distance, you will most definitely get spoilt for choice!
Entrance fee: Child – from 4,000 yen, Adult – from 5,800 yen (Unlimited rides pass)
Address: 4015-1 Yanokuchi, Inagi, Tokyo 206-8566, Japan
Operating Hours: Varies (More information available on their official website)
What do you get when you combine adorable marine creatures with an exciting theme park? The answer: Hakkeijima Sea Paradise! The Hakkejima Sea Paradise is split into two zones: the Aqua Resorts and Pleasure Land. At Aqua Resorts, visitors can learn more about the aquarium’s wildlife residents and interact with them at the Fureai Lagoon. Visitors can then enter the Pleasure Land and visit some of the mind-blowing attractions. These include riding on a raft through man-made rapids and a roller coaster that swirls above the Yokohama waters. For an unforgettable experience, definitely consider adding this theme park to your itinerary when visiting Tokyo!
Hakkejima Sea Paradise can easily be reached via two different routes, both of which originate from Yokohama station. This means that you can spend your day at the theme park before hitting the sack at Richmond Hotel Yokohama Ekimae (viewable on mobile only)! Just 300 metres away from Yokohama station, this hotel is also in close proximity to the area’s major shopping malls. With Yodobashi and Sogo a short’s walk away, it’s time to open up your wallets and shop till you drop!
Entrance fee: Child – from 3,700 yen, Adult – from 5,100 yen
Address: Hakkeijima, Kanazawa Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 236-0006, Japan
Operating Hours: Varies (More information available on their official website)
This theme park in Tokyo’s outskirts will bring you on a journey around the world in a matter of hours! Tobu World Square is located in the neighbourhood of Kinugawa Onsen and showcases miniature versions of famous world landmarks. Spot replicas of famous icons, including China’s Forbidden City, Greece’s Parthenon, Egypt’s pyramids, as well as America’s White House. Additionally, this theme park doesn’t forget to feature some of Japan’s most famous landmarks as well! Sharing the grounds are historical attractions such as Himeji Castle and Todaiji, alongside the modern Tokyo Tower and Narita Airport. What a stunningly beautiful theme park indeed!
The best part about the theme park is how simple it is to get there! Those staying in Asakusa can hop onto the limited express Kinu and alight at its doorstep in under two hours. Speaking of Asakusa, why not find a place to stay around one of Tokyo’s most popular sightseeing areas? To get the best views of Sensōji and Tokyo Skytree, two of Asakusa’s most famed attractions, then you’ve got to pick The Gate Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon by Hulic (viewable on mobile only)! Each of its hotel rooms features massive floor-to-ceiling windows, providing breathtaking views of Asakusa’s skyline against the dreamy Tokyo skies.
Entrance fee: Child – from 2,800 yen, Adult – from 1,400 yen
Address: 209-1 Kinugawaonsen Ōhara, Nikko, Tochigi 321-2522, Japan
Operating Hours: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm daily (Hours are subject to changes, more information available on their official website)
This theme park in Osaka beckons your arrival with all of its fun-filled attractions! By visitor numbers, Universal Studios Japan ranks as one of the top three theme parks around the world! Consisting of seven uniquely themed zones, this theme park offers unparalleled fun and excitement for visitors of all ages. Among them is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, an area centred around author J.K Rowling’s famous novels. There, visitors can hop onto a 4D ride that will bring them through several iconic scenes from the Harry Potter franchise. And if that isn’t exciting enough, then the newly-added Super Nintendo World will certainly spice things up! Inspired by Mario and his friends, the area has attractions, facilities, and signages that pay homage to the animated game. So what are you waiting for? Lets-a-go!
Given its popularity, it comes as no surprise that this theme park sees snaking queues every morning before opening. To be the early bird that catches the worm, we recommend staying at Hotel Keihan Universal Tower (viewable on mobile only). Located right outside the theme park’s doorstep, this hotel gives guests the opportunity to be the first few in line. When the clock strikes ten, just simply scan your Universal Studios Japan Admission ticket (available on Kings Travel SG) to enter. Then, you can make a dash for it and visit your desired attractions worry-free. What a hack!
Entrance fee: Child – from 5,400 yen, Adult – from 8,400 yen
Address: 2-chōme-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan
Operating Hours: Varies (More information available on their official website)
If you’re a big Ghibli fan, then Ghibli Park is the best theme park in Japan to add to your itinerary! Opened in Nov 2022, this theme park is located in Nagoya — just an hour’s train ride from Osaka. Here, visitors can see architecture and figurines modelled after some of the franchise’s most famous titles. From fan-favourite “My Neighbor Totoro” to award-winning “Spirited Away”, the theme park provides tons of photo-op for its visitors. Take your time to stroll around the park and breathe in some fresh air. Before you know it, you will have already reached the park’s closing time. Before leaving the park, don’t forget to snag some Totoro merchandise at its souvenir shops to commemorate your visit here.
Rather than heading back to Osaka immediately, why not spend your time exploring the hidden gems of Nagoya? The Nagoya Tokyu Hotel (viewable on mobile only) is a great place to start off your adventures. Located near Sakae station, it offers great convenience to many places in downtown Nagoya. Discover some of the city’s historical landmarks such as Nagoya Castle and Osu Kannon Temple while roaming around town. Alternatively, take the train to Toyota city and join an experiential tour to see the manufacturing process of Toyota cars. If you haven’t explored Nagoya, then you’ve got to visit this amazing city at least once!
Entrance fee: Child – from 1,000 yen, Adult – from 2,000 yen (Advanced reservation required on official website)
Address: Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
Operating Hours: Weekdays – 10 am to 5 pm, Weekends and holidays – 9 am to 5 pm (Closed every Tuesday, more information on entry times available on their official website)
Looking for exciting roller coaster rides? If so, then Nagashima Spaland is the best theme park in western Japan to get your share of the thrill! Situated between Nagoya and Osaka, this theme park is well-known for having retail and entertainment facilities all under one roof. The theme park itself has over 40 rides with some catered for the bravest souls. For starters, take on the Arashi, an exhilarating roller coaster that will turn you topsy-turvy while oscillating mid-air. Once done, head over to the eye-catching Steel Dragon 2000. Spanning 2,479 metres, this ride is the world’s longest roller coaster and boasts the highest drop in all of Japan. Climb up to an altitude of 97 metres and whoosh down while catching a glimpse of the park from above. Believe us: you will be at a loss for words when you finally see the ground. Nagashima Spaland is also home to a water park that is open in the summer. With water slides and an expansive wave pool, it is the perfect place to cool down from the summer heat.
This resort can be reached from Nagoya station via the JR and Kintetsu railway lines. Around Nagoya station itself lies many department stores for you to stock up on your Japanese products. Book a night at Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nagoya Taiko dori Side (viewable on mobile only) and head out in the evening to avoid the throngs of shoppers during the peak hour. Spend your time strolling down the aisles of BIC Camera and Animate. Thereafter, you can bring your haul back to the hotel while feeling super accomplished.
Entrance fee: Child – from 4,200 yen, Adult – from 5,500 yen (Unlimited rides pass)
Address: 333 Nagashimachō Urayasu, Kuwana, Mie 511-1192, Japan
Operating Hours: Varies (More information available on their official website)
After a long day out exploring the streets of Osaka, your sore body and legs deserve a good rest. So why not relieve the soreness by taking a dip at Spa World? This theme park is conveniently located near Shinsekai, one of Osaka’s most famous areas. This complex has two areas: an indoor water park and a themed hot spring area. Within the indoor water park lies a myriad of slides and pools to frolic around in. Whereas its hot springs are split into two zones, the European and Asian zones. The former features an ancient Rome-themed jacuzzi, a Greek-themed medicinal pool, as well as a Finnish bathhouse and sauna. The latter, on the other hand, features Japanese cypress wood baths alongside Persian and Balinese-styled baths. But before you get all excited, there’s a catch! Each zone only grants entry to a specific gender every month. Therefore, it is advised to check the official website to avoid disappointment.
And above Spa World is its very own Spa World Hotel (viewable on mobile only)! Guests can enjoy lovely views of Shinsekai and the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower while in the comforts of their rooms. Those staying in Osaka for a few days will also appreciate the hotel’s proximity to the subway station. By taking the subway, visitors can reach Osaka’s popular attractions such as Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and Dotonbori easily and conveniently. Spa World awaits on your next trip to Osaka!
Entrance fee: Child – from 1,000 yen, Adult – from 1,500 yen
Address: 3-chōme-4-24 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
Operating Hours: Onsen – 10 am to 8.45 am, Stone saunas – 10 am to 10 pm, Swimming pools – Varies (More information available on their official website)
This theme park in Japan is specially designed with your young ones in mind! LEGOLAND Japan is yet another theme park found in Nagoya and is perfect for day-trippers coming from Osaka. Here, you can find countless LEGO replicas of the most famous attractions from Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya. What’s more, kids can ride on a merry-go-round and roller coasters in the shapes of LEGO blocks. Within its premises, visitors can also find a driving school where kids can drive vehicles without a licence! Watch your kids manoeuvre the bends and drive around the streets while obeying traffic rules. Drivers who conquered the course will then be awarded their very own driving licence to keep as a memento. With so many things in store, you and your family are guaranteed to have a fun-filled day at Legoland Japan!
If you’re looking for somewhere interesting in Japan to stay overnight, then LEGOLAND Japan Hotel (viewable on mobile only) is one that will satisfy you! Each of its rooms is decorated with themed furniture and has plenty of space for an ample night’s rest. Big families are also well accounted for with their spacious premium rooms. These rooms are partitioned into two areas: one for adults and one for kids. While parents lounge on a queen-sized bed, kids can tuck themselves into their bunk beds and rest for the night. But if you’re one that stays up late at night, don’t fret! Night owls will also be pleased with the TVs in each room that airs free LEGO movies through the night. Leggo to LEGOLAND Japan today!
Entrance fee: Child – from 3,300 yen, Adult – from 4,500 yen
Address: 2-2-1 Kinjoufutou, Minato-ku Nagoya-shi, Aichi 455-8605, Japan
Operating Hours: Varies (More information available on their official website)
With this theme park in your palms, all that’s left is to have fun at Japan’s best theme parks! But in the event that you still crave some excitement after coming back from Japan, check out some of the best things to do at Changi Airport and Sentosa — two of Singapore’s most popular attractions. Otherwise, if you’re staying there for an extended period, check out some of the best ramen in Tokyo and the best ski resorts in Hokkaido to get a taste of the authentic Japanese experience.
Time to jingle his bells!
‘Tis the season to be jolly and a little competitive!
For a-meow-zing staycays.
Ending the year with a blast (of fireworks).
Leave a Comment