Tokyo DisneyLand

If Tokyo DisneySea isn’t enough to help you get your Disney fix, head on over to Tokyo DisneyLand for more fun, characters, and rides. Aimed at a younger crowd, the park (which is actually located in Chiba prefecture) continues to expand yearly, ensuring magical moments with each visit. It’s also one of GaijinPot’s Top 5 theme parks in Japan.

As you make your way through the park (and wait lines), you’ll be entertained by other park goers dressed in Disney cosplay (especially around Halloween).

The park’s little details make it all that much more interesting. Search for “hidden Mickeys” all around the grounds. The iconic head and ears of Mickey Mouse can be found practically anywhere on the park’s spacious grounds — in rock formations, on the details of rides, in the carpets of the gift shops and even created by shadows.

Of course, the big attractions are what make it memorable, too. Some that are unique to Tokyo DisneyLand are Pooh’s Honey Hunt and Monster’s Inc Ride and Seek, but you can enjoy crowd favorites like Space Mountain and It’s a Small World, as well. Once you hear the Japanese lyrics for “It’s a Small World,” you’ll never get it out of your head. You’ve been warned.

While alcoholic drinks are not permitted on the premises, why not try Tokyo DisneyLand’s specialty gourmet items instead? The park’s famous giant turkey legs are an odd but perfect finger food. However, brace yourself for a bit of a wait, as that the lines for the savory treat can rival those of any attraction.

If you prefer something less messy to munch on, go for the popcorn. The flavor list is as long as it is impressive, with tastes such as curry, caramel, soy sauce and butter, salt, BBQ, honey, and milk chocolate.

Complete your visit by with the dazzling Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights, followed by the nightly fireworks display.

Disney Halloween

Every year Tokyo Disneyland turns into a ghost town (not the abandoned kind), during the Halloween season. The theme park gets filled with pumpkins, ghosts and bat decorations, food, and merchandise. Anyone for a Jack Skellington hamburger steak a la The Nightmare Before Christmas?

Mickey, Minnie, and other Disney friends dress up in their spooky-themed costumes aboard special Halloween themed floats for the annual Boo Parade. This parade is one of the biggest highlights of Disney Halloween. As it only takes place twice a day during the season, it shouldn’t be missed.

Feel free to come in your own costume, but do note the park has strict rules that only costumes of Disney characters are allowed!

Before you go

A one-day passport includes admission to the park and access to attractions and entertainment. Some attractions may require an additional fee.

Open 365-days a year, this place doesn’t stop. It’s always crowded, particularly on weekends, national holidays and school vacations. If you don’t mind getting wet, plan your trip on a rainy day, and you’ll be able to get on all your favorite rides back to back with little interruption.

You can also take a cue from the locals and beat the crowds by taking advantage of the night passports, After 6 and Starlight Passports. Buy your tickets in advance online, or in person at participating retailers.