Will being a larger body size affect what rides I can go on?

Universal Studios Japan, like many theme parks have some size limitations on their rides, including the rider’s body width and height.

Japanese theme parks in particular often have smaller than usual ride seating and restraints. This is probably due to the smaller national average body dimensions in Japan than perhaps may be found in some other parts of the world.

With the number of locals frequenting Japanese theme parks vastly outstripping the number of visiting tourists it makes perfect sense that they design their rides to fit the smaller size average of Japanese people. However this ride seat size difference at Universal Studios Japan when compared to other theme parks around the world can sometimes catch us larger-framed tourists by surprise!

What if I’m too tall for a Universal Studios Japan ride?

If you are of larger or taller dimensions, it’s possible that you may be excluded from some Universal Studios Japan rides. It’s a common problem that tourists purchase Express tickets for rides they are unable to safely fit on.

The Flight of the Hippogriff is notorious for rejecting tall and plus size passengers.

Does the Flight of the Hippogriff ride have a test seat?

No, there is no test seat for the Flight of the Hippogriff ride in Japan Universal Studios. So you may wait in line for over an hour and still be rejected at the ride.

It can be frustrating if you have paid for an Express Ticket for the Flight of the Hippogriff in Harry Potter World, only to find out that in Japan Universal, this ride is actually considered a Junior or Youth Ride.

Being classified as a Youth ride means that the Flight of the Hippogriff has a smaller seat size and so is more size-limited than some of the other Universal Studios Japan Express Pass rides. Unfortunately this fact is something not widely publicised or realised until you are actually at the ride in the park.

We have numerous member reports of the Flight of the Hippogriff not suiting tall individuals. A 5’11” person fit, a 6’1″ did not.

For tall people, there is a good chance you can still ride Flight of the Hippogriff with the following hack…

Flight of the Hippogriff hack!

There is one trick with this ride, and that is – ask for the front carriage before you board! You may need to wait a little longer, but it’s the best chance for those who may otherwise be rejected.

I checked this out for myself and there is indeed extensive legroom in the front carriage, as the space extends right into the nose of the front carriage of the ride. You will need to ask to be seated there, otherwise you will be automatically issued with a replacement express pass instead of being given the option to move.

One group member writes, “Flight of hippogriff (express 1110 time slot). The wait was 120 mins in normal line which my kids wouldn’t have done if we didn’t have express. Quick and fun. Hubby is 192cm and 97kgs and fit in the front row but we just got lucky as they don’t move you to the front if you don’t fit.”

Which universal Studios Japan rides fit larger people?

Most universal Studios Japan rides still fit most people without issue. On the flip side, Donkey Kong Mine Cart Madness is known for being generous in seat area size, and whilst Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge can be more snug, the backseat of Mario Kart is larger than the front.

The website doesn’t include all the size information needed

The minimum heights for all attractions are listed on the official website, however the maximum dimensions are not.

Individual attraction website pages only carry general references to what the ride seat limitations actually are. For example, on the Flight of the Hippogriff Harry Potter ride website page there is no mention of it being of a smaller classification than the other thrill rides, even though this ride is known for being small. The only reference to guests not fitting into the seats are referred to as:

Guests who should not use the attraction including the options “a physical build not compatible with the seats” and of course “unable to secure the body by the safety bar” and include the notice that “You may be asked to refrain from experiencing the attraction for safety concerns due to your physical build”

Here are some more of our group member experiences:

I’m 5’11”, weigh 220 lbs, wear size 16/18 US pants and XL t-shirts, and carry my weight pretty evenly. …I was able to fit comfortably on every ride I tried. I rode Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff, Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure, Donkey Kong, The Flying Dinosaur, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Hollywood Dream, Spy X Family, and Jaws—all without any issues – Anonymous

I am top heavy and had no issues with any rides – Chloe

My partner is extremely tall – 6’4” – and was able to fit on both rides in Super Nintendo – the staff didn’t seem like they were being strict on letting him on either.

My partner is super tall and was not allowed on any rides in Wizarding World as he was too tall – his knees were the problem he was so tall that his legs wouldn’t fit into the rides in wizarding world 

Hubby is 6ft 8 and they made him sit in the demo chair to test for Mario cart ride – he fit! – Amanda

Super Nintendo World rides are tall-friendly

So you can see from the member comments above, the rides in Super Nintendo World are fine for a six foot tall, even 6’8″ individual. But for the rides in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, they may not suitable for the very tall (reportedly 6’3” up) or plus-sized.

What are the minimum ride heights allowed?

If you think you may be too short or your child is too young to ride because they may not have reached the minimum height requirement, you can check the official USJ ride list here for the minimum height requirements for each attraction.

What happens if I can’t fit in the ride seat?

If you encounter this issue with Flight of the Hippogriff, group members report that they were compensated with a replacement Express ride ticket for another attraction.

What rides can I go on if i’m pregnant?

This question gets asked by a lot of expectant mothers – are there any rides that are safe for pregnant women? Luckily the official USJ website carries a list of attractions with several being marked with an icon to show they are considered safe for pregnant park guests.

Will I fit into a Universal Studios Japan ride seat?

Each ride of concern usually has a test seat that you can try before queueing for the ride, so that if the ride seat isn’t safe for your size, then you don’t have to waste time queueing for a ride you can’t experience. The test seat is identical to the actual ride seat and includes any restraints or locking bars.

This is a photo of the Mario Kart test seat inside Super Nintendo World. The sign above it reads (in English and Japanese):

“Test this seat before riding. This ride employs safety restraints which may restrict certain guests from experiencing this attraction. Guests with certain body dimensions may not be accommodated on the ride and are strongly encouraged to try this test seat. Please see a crew member for further questions.”

Plus size group member experiences

The following comments regarding rider size screening and fitting into USJ ride seats are from the Universal Studios Japan holiday planning group .

When reading these comments, it’s important to remember that the following experiences and opinions may vary from person to person and sizes can also vary from country to country.

Others may not necessarily have the same experiences as each other, but these first-hand experiences are great for an overview on what to possibly expect on your day at Universal Japan.

Group member says:

I was 100kg/ 152cm tall when I went to universal last year. In the park I was pulled aside to be tested in the Hollywood dreams ride (which I passed). I rode the Harry Potter and Mario rides without any problems or requests for seat tests. I know we may not be the same ‘size’ but that’s an authentic experience from someone my size.

Group member says:

I think saying 50% of the rides is a lot and honestly it varies per person, it’s not just all plus size people. I have a large chest and wide hips (size 22) and I only missed one ride in the whole park. The disability pass will already get you into rides faster so why spend more on express that you might not need?

I am a US size 20/22 and fit on everything except Hollywood Dream. I struggled on Flying Dinosaur, but the staff was so patient, and they got me in it all nice and snug, I knew I wasn’t gonna fall out  the only other place I struggled was in one of the theaters, the one for the Beetlejuice show, the seats were tiny, and I was basically sitting sideways. I have a large chest and wide hips if that helps at all.

Group member says:

You’ll be able to get on a handful of rides. Be prepared to be asked to try a test seat at some rides. Bonus if you have someone in your party that can squish the bar down on you.

I’m a size 18. I went on Minion Mayhem, Spiderman 4D, Harry Potter world of Wizarding (had to use a special entry for extra loading time), Mario Cart (my butt literally got sectioned to the seat & I couldn’t get out). We also went on the Carousel and Hello Kitty cupcake ride in the Sesame/Hello Kitty kiddie area.

Getting “fat checked” made USJ not enjoyable for me. If I could have a redo, I’d do another day at Tokyo Disney instead. Was denied at HP Hippogriff ride, Yoshi ride. So I gave up and called it a day. The queues were incredibly long for everything. Just trying to get food or drinks was a minimum 30 minutes in line. Went on a Thursday.

Group member says:

My boyfriend & i could not fit on the Flight of the Hippogriff ride but we were able to trade that ride for another express ride instead!

i just wanted to make an informative post about the Flight of the Hippogriff ride & if by chance you have an Express Pass (we had #7) for a ride that you do not fit on, the staff will offer you another free paper Express Pass with the same list of rides for you instead (only good for one ride use). We chose to ride the Flying Dinosaur again (which was our favorite ride so we were happy to get to ride it again!)

size information – i’m 5’7” & about 220 lbs. normally a size US XL, 12/14 in women’s clothing. the lap bar could not go tight enough on my stomach for me to ride. my boyfriend is 5’11” & 160 lbs. the lap bar couldn’t fit over his legs in the normal seat only. he could fit in the bigger seat up front, but i couldn’t so he chose not to ride without me.

just wanted to give out that information in case anyone is feeling unsure about fitting into the rides & getting their Express Pass worth. Not sure they offer to non-Express Pass holders but i don’t see why not. the staff were also super apologetic & of course i didn’t mind not riding, safety first!

i also don’t believe there was a ride testing seat at the line entrance, that could be why they offer the free extra Express Pass paper ticket. we also fit all other rides on our Express Pass.

Annoying though it may be, the main thing is that the guidelines are there to keep everyone safe. Even if you think you may not fit on all or some of the rides, don’t despair! There’s plenty to see and do at Universal Studios Japan without riding at all. Universal Studios Japan has a huge range of attractions including Super Nintendo World, a plethora of restaurants, exciting merchandise stores, fun snack and popcorn stands plus shows and parades. Theme parks are most definitely not just all about the rides – wander around, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy yourself!

The post Universal Studios Japan plus size ride limits appeared first on Holidayplanning.com.au.

A step-by-step guide

Step by step guide on how to add a credit card to your Disney App.

By Tokyo Disneyland holiday planning group members.

Article starts after this quick message about where to buy TDR tickets…

Where can I buy discounted Tokyo Disney Resort Tickets?

You can buy Tokyo Disney tickets from the official third party discount seller Klook .

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online at Klook here

You can get up to 10% off Klook Tokyo & Japan activities with our discount code

Use my discount promocode on Klook to get up to 10% off many Japan attractions by using our discount promocode:

LETSGOMUMKLOOK at Klook checkout

Klook existing customers can get 3% off. Klook conditions: $50 min spend, $50 max discount, 5 times use.

Klook tickets CAN be used with your Disney Hotel 15 minutes Happy Entry early entry pass!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I will receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!

How to add your credit card to the Tokyo Disney App

There are a couple of different work-arounds to pre-loading your credit card to the Tokyo Disney Resort App.

Method 1 – (If this doesn’t work, try method 2)

I learned this from someone who had figured it out and thought maybe good to share here to help even more people as it had helped me.

Having pre adding your card, you’re all set to buy your DPA passes the second you get in the park.

How can I add my international credit card to the Tokyo Disney app?

1. First you can only do it from the Tokyo Disney Resort Website on browser, NOT the App. (I did mine on desktop/laptop as i tried on my phone browser and failed)

(Click on “Reservations & Tickets in the right hand corner – circled in red here)

2. Login/Register your account

3. From the home page click “My Booking”

4. Under My Bookings, click “see here”

5. Click on “Menu” on the upper right hand corner and you’ll see a drop down menu to add a card.

I managed to set mine up before my trip and it was helpful as all I needed to do is to wait for my otp to send my payment and I am good to go

My partner and I both set our own credit cards into our own disney account but strangely, when checkout on his account it uses my credit card instead. We have no idea why because I clearly loaded his card in his account in case mine had trouble getting otp, we can always rely on his phone to receive his otp.

Otp didn’t come in until i restart my phone, so, you all probably have to restart your phones as well if otp don’t come in after waiting abit.

Happy booking your dpa or do mobile orders in park everyone!

Method 2 – another member work-around to add your credit card to the Tokyo Disney App!

Let’s Go Mum i’ve tried this but didn’t work for me. What worked was i pretended to buy tickets on the app. It asked me for payment and placed my credit card and it asked if i wanted to save my card details and I did. But didn’t proceed on my purchase. I know my credit card details are in there as i got a notification on my bank transactions of pending but no amount

The post How to add your credit card into the Tokyo Disney App appeared first on Holidayplanning.com.au.

I put this together and thought it might be useful to some . Also kills some time while you wait to go on your trip

Here is a complete list of Movies to Watch Before Visiting Tokyo DisneySea to help you understand the settings, attractions, and themes of the park. Each movie connects to a specific land or area of the park, enhancing the immersive experience through its story and visual design.

Where can I buy discounted Tokyo Disney Resort Tickets?

You can buy Tokyo Disney tickets from official third party discount sellers Klook and KKDay.

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online at Klook here

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online at KKDay here

You can get up to 10% off Klook or KKDay Tokyo & Japan activities with our discount code

Use my discount promocodes on Klook or KKDay to get up to 10% off many Japan attractions by using our discount promocodes:

LETSGOMUMKLOOK at Klook checkout

LETSGOMUM at KKDay checkout

Klook existing customers can get 3% off. Klook conditions: $50 min spend, $50 max discount, 5 times use.
KKDay conditions: $10USD max discount, 1 time use.

Klook & KKDay tickets CAN be used with your Disney Hotel 15 minutes Happy Entry early entry pass!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!

1. Treasure Island (1950)

• Land Inspired: Tortuga Tavern (Mediterranean Harbor)

• Description: Since the Tortuga Tavern area and some of the pirate-themed attractions in DisneySea are rooted in pirate lore, this Disney classic is another good fit to enhance your understanding of the pirate-themed experiences.

2. Peter Pan (1953)

• Land Inspired: Fantasy Springs (Neverland)

• Description: Fantasy Springs will feature areas themed after Neverland. Peter Pan’s adventures, Captain Hook, and the Lost Boys all contribute to the immersive experience of this area.

3. 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954)

• Land Inspired: Mysterious Island (Port Discovery)

• Description: For Port Discovery and the steampunk-inspired areas of the park, this classic Disney film about Captain Nemo’s submarine adventures will give you the backstory of attractions like the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea ride.

4. Journey to the Center of the Earth (1959)

• Land Inspired: Mysterious Island (Mount Prometheus)

• Description: The park features a famous attraction inspired by this Jules Verne classic. The ride takes place inside the park’s iconic volcano, Mount Prometheus, which is part of the “Mysterious Island” area. Watching this movie will help you understand the adventurous, subterranean theme and the spirit of exploration.

5. Swiss Family Robinson (1960)

• Land Inspired: Lost River Delta

• Description: While not a direct influence, its themes of adventure and exploration mirror the park’s overall atmosphere and especially tie in with the tropical, adventurous settings of Lost River Delta.

6. The Mysterious Island (1961)

• Land Inspired: Mysterious Island

• Description: This film, based on Jules Verne’s novel, directly ties into the Mysterious Island area at DisneySea, along with Journey to the Center of the Earth. It adds to the background of the steampunk and exploration motifs found in the area around Mount Prometheus.

7. Captain Nemo and the Underwater City (1969)

• Land Inspired: Mysterious Island

• Description: Similar to 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, this film adds additional context to the steampunk-inspired undersea adventures you’ll encounter at Mysterious Island.

8. Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

• Land Inspired: Lost River Delta

• Description: Tokyo DisneySea’s Lost River Delta area is inspired by the Indiana Jones franchise, particularly with the Indiana Jones Adventure ride. This movie will give you the right sense of exploration and ancient ruins.

9. The Little Mermaid (1989)

• Land Inspired: Mermaid Lagoon

• Description: The Mermaid Lagoon area, though more child-friendly, draws heavily from this movie. Watching it will help you understand Ariel’s world if you visit that part of the park.

10. Aladdin (1992)

• Land Inspired: Arabian Coast

• Description: The Arabian Coast area of Tokyo DisneySea is heavily inspired by the world of Aladdin, with attractions and environments reflecting the vibrant, magical world of Agrabah. Watching the movie will help you appreciate the architecture and atmosphere.

11. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)

• Land Inspired: Tortuga Tavern (Mediterranean Harbor)

• Description: Since Tokyo DisneySea’s Mediterranean Harbor and Lost River Delta areas are influenced by the adventurous, pirate-laden worlds of this franchise, it will help you appreciate the setting and the pirate vibe, especially around Tortuga Tavern.

12. Finding Nemo (2003)

• Land Inspired: Port Discovery

• Description: Since Tokyo DisneySea also features a Finding Nemo-themed ride, watching this will help connect with the aquatic adventure vibe.

13. Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)

• Land Inspired: Mysterious Island and Port Discovery

• Description: While not directly tied to any single ride, the overall feel of “Mysterious Island” and Port Discovery has a similar aesthetic to this film, with themes of exploration and discovery of lost, ancient civilizations.

14. Tangled (2010)

• Land Inspired: Fantasy Springs (Rapunzel’s World)

• Description: There will be a section of Fantasy Springs based on Rapunzel’s world. Watching Tangled will give you insight into the whimsical, storybook-like setting and Rapunzel’s tower.

15. Frozen (2013)

• Land Inspired: Fantasy Springs (Arendelle)

• Description: A major part of Fantasy Springs is inspired by the Frozen universe, featuring Arendelle and its icy landscape. Watching this movie will help you understand the visual and thematic aspects of the area.

This list includes all the movies that are thematically connected to various lands and attractions at Tokyo DisneySea. Watching these films will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the park’s immersive environments.

By Tokyo Disneyland Holiday Planning group member Ryan Jarosek

The post Movies to Watch Before Visiting Tokyo DisneySea appeared first on Holidayplanning.com.au.

We stayed in the Grand Chateau Alcove Room on the 5th floor . The room is comfortable and is kinda big ,Also, our room faced the frozen kingdom which the view is great and magnificent.

Does Fantasy Springs Grand Chateau have room service?

Yes, Grand Chateau has room service.

Let’s talk about the services of the hotel . The cast member would serve the welcome drink and treats in the room and they were delicious .

We had ordered the room service breakfast from La Libellule and I would recommend you to try it because it is cheaper than you eat in the restaurant and the food is yummy too.

Moreover , the room will include 8 Disney Premier access pass and 4 show viewing pass which you could enjoy the ride from the Disney premier access plan too. Special entrance in Fantasy Springs would be provided when you live there . It’s convenient because you can go back to your room in few mins.

Grand cheatau would send a survey to ask your visiting purpose and the request from your trip which I think is kinda warm.

I would recommend you to try the Grand Chateau because you can get a good service from the cast members and you can enjoy a well-planned trip which you don’t need to worry about the quota of show and the ride .

Enjoy the journey in Tokyo Disney Resort

This question was asked in comments:

How much did it cost to stay in the Grand Chateau?

The room in the beginning of June would be ¥315000 and the price would change depending on the time

I also lived in the fantasy springs hotel in the rose court room for vacation package , it costs near ¥283,000 .

By Tokyo Disneyland Holiday Planning group member Ho Ting Chin – Mike and Stephanie

This group post was republished with the permission of Ho Ting Chin (Mike and Stephanie)

The post Fantasy Springs Grand Chateau Hotel Review appeared first on Holidayplanning.com.au.

What are the nearest hotels to Tokyo Disney Resort?

Tokyo Disney has some beautiful resort hotels that are located closest to Disneyland and Disney Sea. They take up prime position around the Tokyo Disney Resort, with some of the Tokyo Disney Hotels being situated on the edges of or even opening directly to the inside of the Tokyo Disney theme parks.

Where can I buy discounted Tokyo Disney Resort Tickets?

You can buy Tokyo Disney tickets from official third party discount sellers Klook and KKDay.

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online at Klook here

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online at KKDay here

You can get up to 10% off Klook or KKDay Tokyo & Japan activities with our discount code

Use my discount promocodes on Klook or KKDay to get up to 10% off many Japan attractions by using our discount promocodes:

LETSGOMUMKLOOK at Klook checkout

LETSGOMUM at KKDay checkout

Klook existing customers can get 3% off. Klook conditions: $50 min spend, $50 max discount, 5 times use.
KKDay conditions: $10USD max discount, 1 time use.

Klook & KKDay tickets CAN be used with your Disney Hotel 15 minutes Happy Entry early entry pass!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I will receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!

The problem is, unlike Disneyland in California the entrances to the two Tokyo Disney Parks are at opposite ends of the Disney precinct! Therefore you can’t be in a hotel that is located conveniently to both parks, and need to travel from one to the other via some form of transport (or prepare for a twenty minute walk!).

Most people opt to base themselves in one hotel and use the Disney monorail or shuttle buses to get from one Park to the other each day. Given the travel distance and size of the parks, same-day park hopping is rare.

Which Tokyo Disney Hotels have a free shuttle?

All Tokyo Disney Hotels either have a free Disney Parks shuttle (such as Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel and the Ambassador Hotel) or are located on the Disney Resort Line monorail at – or to – the two Tokyo Disney parks.

Which Tokyo Disney Partner Hotels have a free Disney shuttle bus?

Whilst Tokyo Disney Resort Hotels are outstanding accommodation options at Tokyo Bay, many visitors still opt to stay at the nearby partner hotels. Official Disney Partner Hotels also all have either free shuttle buses to the Tokyo Disney Parks unless they are located close to the Bayside Disney Resort Line Monorail.

Grand Nikko Tokyo Bay Maihama

Shuttle bus to the Bayside Disney Resort Line station

Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay

Shuttle bus to the Bayside Disney Resort Line station

Hilton Tokyo Bay

Shuttle bus to the Bayside Disney Resort Line station

Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel

Shuttle bus to the Bayside Disney Resort Line station

Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel First Resort

Shuttle bus to the Bayside Disney Resort Line station

Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel

Shuttle bus to the Bayside Disney Resort Line station

Tokyo Disney Partner hotels usually offer cheaper room rates, however their location can be more inconvenient to the Disney Parks. To learn the difference in benefits between Tokyo Disney Hotels and Tokyo Disney Partner Hotels, read this Tokyo Disney Hotels article here.

See the full list of Official Disney Partner Hotels here.

Which non-Disney Hotels have free Tokyo Disney shuttle buses?

Ibis Styles Tokyo Bay

Henn na Maihama Hotel

Hotel Mystays Maihama

Hiyori Hotel Maihama

Comfort Suites Tokyo Bay

Spa & Hotel Maihama Eurasia

How far away from Disneyland are the Disney Hotels on the monorail?

The main Disney partner hotels are clustered around the Bayside Station of the Disney Monorail Resort Line. The closest of the Bayside Hotels are the two Disney Hotels, Fantasy Springs Hotel and the Toy Story Hotel. The Bayside Station is one stop away from Tokyo Disney Sea and three stops away from Tokyo Disneyland on the one-way monorail loop.

Is the Tokyo Disney Monorail free?

No, the Tokyo Disney Monorail is not free, however it was free for a period around the Pandemic. There is now a fee to use the monorail.

How much does the Tokyo Disney Monorail cost

Each Journey on the Tokyo Disney Monorail Resort Line is charged at 300 yen, or cheaper for multiple trips if you purchase a multi-pass ticket from the machines at the monorail stations.

Why should I stay at a Tokyo Disney Partner hotel?

Reasons for choosing a hotel other than a Disney Hotel at Tokyo Bay vary – from no interest in all the theming and extras, right down the the hardness of their Japanese mattresses! But there are two major reasons people don’t end up booking a Tokyo Disney Hotel. Price – or difficulty getting the Disney Hotel dates they’re after!

Which is the closest hotel to Tokyo Disneyland?

The Tokyo Disneyland Hotel is the closest hotel to Tokyo Disneyland. The rear of the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel is situated directly opposite the Disneyland main entrance.

How far is it from Tokyo Disneyland Hotel to Tokyo Disneyland?

In the morning you simply walk outside and across the paved area (right past the attached Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique), underneath the monorail to the Happy Entry area.

What is Tokyo Disneyland Happy Entry?

Tokyo Disney Resort Happy Entry – otherwise known as 15 minute Early Entry or Tokyo Disney Rope Drop – is a slip of paper that accompanies your general park entrance ticket and allows you access to a special area to enter the Tokyo Disney Resort theme parks 15 minutes earlier than other park guests.

What time does Tokyo Disney Happy Entry start?

The exact time of Happy Entry opening for that day will be printed on your Happy Entry ticket which you receive at hotel check-in the day before.

Can you get Tokyo Disney Early Entry on your check in day?

No. Tokyo Disney Happy Entry always starts from the morning after your check in day – never the day you check in to the hotel, no matter how early you get there to check in!

What if I arrive late to Happy Entry?

If you arrive late to Happy Entry there’s a good chance the Happy Entry entrance has already been converted back to a general entrance gate, so you will be processed the same as the general park guests entering at the time you arrive.

For more detailed information about Happy Entry you can read this beginner’s Happy Entry guide here.

How do you get from the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel to Disney Sea?

Guests of the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel can catch the Disney Resort Line monorail two stops to Disney Sea. The Tokyo Disneyland Monorail Station is located at the rear of the Disneyland Hotel.

Which is the closest Hotel to Tokyo Disney Sea?

Tokyo Disney Sea Miracosta has always been the closest hotel to Disney Sea, because it is located half inside and half outside the Disney Sea Park!

Now there is also another hotel with this location, but on the other side of the Disney Sea theme park. The Fantasy Springs Hotels front entrance is located next door to the Disney Resort Line monorail station Bayside, but it also enjoys a direct entrance to the Fantasy Springs area of Disney Sea which is currently only available to hotel guests.

Can you get into Disney Sea from the MiraCosta Hotel?

Yes, you can directly access Disney Sea from the Disney MiraCosta Hotel, however guests may only use the hotel entrance in and out after 10am in the morning. Guests still need a valid Disney Sea ticket to enter.

Which hotels give Tokyo Disney Sea Happy Entry?

Luckily all guests of the MiraCosta Hotel are given Happy Entry to access the park 15 minutes earlier than general guest entrance tickets. Fantasy Springs Hotel guests also receive Disney Sea Happy Entry.

You can see how Disney Sea Happy Entry works in our YouTube video here.

There are some days when Happy Entrance, or perhaps the better known term Rope Drop early entry, to Disney Sea is withheld. Always check the official Tokyo Disney Resort website here for Happy Entry updates before booking your stay.

How do you get from the MiraCosta Hotel to Tokyo Disneyland?

To get from the Tokyo Disney MiraCosta Hotel to Disneyland, catch the Disney Resort Line monorail two stops. The Tokyo DisneySea Monorail Station is located a short walk across the Tokyo DisneySea Entrance to the monorail Station.

Which are the cheapest Tokyo Disney Hotels?

It may surprise you to know that there are two budget or moderately priced Disney Hotels – and sometimes their nightly room rates come in well-below some of the Bayside Disney partner hotel room rates. But these cheaper Disney Hotels do have their disadvantages.

Value type: The Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel offers good availability a lot of the time, however the main reason for this is that the Celebration is located 20 minutes drive away from Disneyland, which can add unnecessarily wasted time added to your busy Disney parks day. The good news is, that in Disney Hotel terms the Disney Celebration is cheap, starting from around 26,000 yen for two adults with two children 11 and under staying free.

Moderate type: The Disney Toy Story Hotel is far more conveniently located than the Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel. The Toy Story Hotel is situated directly across the road from the Disney Resort Line monorail at Bayside Station.

The Tokyo Toy Story Hotel is in high demand, priced from around 41,000 yen per night for two adults, two children under 11. Although priced significantly more than Celebration Hotel, due to it’s outstanding theming, location and reasonable price booking your preferred dates may need to be a bit of a military operation of several devices ready to go right on the rooms release date.

That said, bookings are easier to secure than ever now that the Toy Story hotel is 18 months old and Fantasy Springs Hotel is newly opened, and so attracting a lot of attention.

Which Tokyo Disney hotels fit larger families?

Then there can be some other considerations that steer visitors away from Tokyo Disney Hotels and in the direction of Tokyo Disney nearby partner hotels. A major reason is the lack of capacity for larger families who don’t want to bed share with their kids or pay huge prices for a larger capacity room or family suite.

Whilst some larger family rooms in the official Disney Hotels such as the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel have rooms with even five single beds accommodating up to seven people this requires families with three or four children to bed share with up to two of the under-twelve year olds. Given the size of the Disney Hotel twin beds, this can get a little squashy! These rooms are also subject to heavy demand.

The answer may be one of the competitively-priced family rooms at the Toyo Bay Hilton Hotel or Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay, for example. These hotels can have several full-sized beds or bunk beds in one large family room, plus greater availability – without the often characteristically hard beds of Japanese Disney Hotels.

What are the Tokyo Disney Bayside Monorail Hotels?

Tokyo Toy Story Hotel and Fantasy Springs Hotel use the Disney Resort Line to transport their guests to Tokyo Disney Sea. The station is 5 minutes walk from the Toy Story Hotel’s door, down the path and across the road to the station. Bayside Station is right next door to the Fantasy Springs Hotel.

If you have had any experience staying in any of these hotels or would like to ask a question, I would love you to comment below!

I hope this article helps you plan your hotel stay at Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea. They are really great Disney theme parks with lots of fun things to do and see – have a great time!

The post Tokyo Disneyland Hotels with a free shuttle appeared first on Holidayplanning.com.au.

Disneyland Parades: The general best spot is here at the transition from Fantasy Land to Critter Country. There is a slight upslope, so even if you are standing behind 10 rows of people because you arrived only 10 minutes before the parade starts, you should still get a good view of the parade.

Where can I buy discounted Tokyo Disney Resort Tickets?

You can buy Tokyo Disney tickets from official third party discount sellers Klook and KKDay.

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online at Klook here

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online at KKDay here

You can get up to 10% off Klook or KKDay Tokyo & Japan activities with our discount code

Use my discount promocodes on Klook or KKDay to get up to 10% off many Japan attractions by using our discount promocodes:

LETSGOMUMKLOOK at Klook checkout

LETSGOMUM at KKDay checkout

Klook existing customers can get 3% off. Klook conditions: $50 min spend, $50 max discount, 5 times use.
KKDay conditions: $10USD max discount, 1 time use.

Klook & KKDay tickets CAN be used with your Disney Hotel 15 minutes Happy Entry early entry pass!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I will receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!

Where does the Tokyo Disneyland parade start from?

The transition from Fantasy Land to Critter Country is also at the starting of the parade route, which means you get to finish the parade before the rest of the park, and get back on rides while the queue times are lower because everyone is still watching the parade. This spot also has the back of the Disney castle in the background, which makes for a nice backdrop.

Where can I eat and see the Tokyo Disney Parades?

The next best spot if you’re eating is Captain Hook’s Galley. There’s a lot of green and lamp-posts and stuff, so it’s not the best, but you could sit at a table and munch away while the parade goes by and if your feet are killing you, this really isn’t a bad idea at all.

By Tokyo Disneyland Holiday Planning group member Skyy Sia

The post The best spots to watch Tokyo Disneyland Parades appeared first on Holidayplanning.com.au.

Which are the Tokyo Disney Partner Hotels?

Not all Tokyo Disney hotels are created equal, and unlike other Disney Parks they can sometimes have a different labelling system altogether! This is where things can get a little confusing, so let’s sort them out to see what extra perks each group offers its guests…

Where can I buy discounted Tokyo Disney Resort Tickets?

You can buy Tokyo Disney tickets from official third party discount sellers Klook and KKDay.

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online at Klook here

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online at KKDay here

You can get up to 10% off Klook or KKDay Tokyo & Japan activities with our discount code

Use my discount promocodes on Klook or KKDay to get up to 10% off many Japan attractions by using our discount promocodes:

LETSGOMUMKLOOK at Klook checkout

LETSGOMUM at KKDay checkout

Klook existing customers can get 3% off. Klook conditions: $50 min spend, $50 max discount, 5 times use.
KKDay conditions: $10USD max discount, 1 time use.

Klook & KKDay tickets CAN be used with your Disney Hotel 15 minutes Happy Entry early entry pass!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I will receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!

When an official Disney hotel actually isn’t an official hotel!

At Tokyo Disney Resort, there are three main Disney Hotel groups. Disney Hotels are the actual Disney brand hotels – but what Tokyo Disney call Official Disney Hotels are actually what we call Partner Hotels elsewhere. Then there are the – you guessed it – Partner Hotels! Plus while there are, ostensibly Disney Good Neighbour Hotels.

Are there Tokyo Disney Resort Good Neighbour Hotels?

There are Tokyo Disney Good Neighbour Hotels, however they feature little more than free shuttle buses to the parks from outer-lying Tokyo precinct areas. Therefore for this article we’re just going to concentrate on the hotels located nearest to Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea in Tokyo Bay.

Here’s a list of Tokyo Disney Resort Hotels, Official Hotels and Partner Hotels.

Which are the Tokyo Disney Resort Hotels?

The Tokyo Disney Resort Hotels are:

• Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel
• Tokyo Disneyland Hotel
• Disney Ambassador Hotel
• Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta
• Tokyo Disney Resort Toy Story Hotel
• Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel

What are the Tokyo Disney Resort Hotel benefits?

The Tokyo Disney Resort Hotel benefits are:

• Usually offer Happy Entry (from your first morning onward during your stay – see the official page for updates on which hotel gets what park Happy Entry)
• Always offer guaranteed park tickets for the duration of your stay
• Will transfer luggage to and from other Disney hotels for free
• Bags can be dropped off at the Welcome Center at Maihama Station to be transferred to the hotel for free (upstairs) with the exception of Disney Celebration – you can drop your bags downstairs at the Boy Voyage store nearby for an extra transportation fee.
• Bags can be sent to the Welcome Center when checking out for a fee of 800y per bag
• Can leave your bags in your room and the hotel will move your bags from one room to another for room changes or to another hotel for Disney Hotel changes (with the exception of Disney Celebration and the Toy Story Hotel where you must take your bags down to reception in the morning yourself to be transported)
• Have free Shuttle Buses and/or paid (300y) direct monorail access that go right to both Disney Parks and Maihama Station – Disney Celebration and Disney Ambassador Hotel have free shuttles to both parks, Disney Toy Story Hotel, Disney Sea Miracosta Hotel and Disneyland Hotel are all located at monorail stations.
• Have Limo bus to/from airports pick up/drop off
• Authentic Disney hotel and room theming
• Complementary Disney toiletries and slippers
• Disney themed hotel restaurants and (vacation package) included or early access to dining reservations
• Are the only hotels which offer Tokyo Disney Resort Vacation Packages.

How do you change Disney hotels?

For the Celebration Hotel and Toy Story you take your bags down to the baggage counter – all other hotels you can leave your bags in your room and call the service number on the phone before you leave, telling them the Disney Hotel you are moving to. When you get to your next Disney Hotel go to the Reception desk and they will arrange for your bags to go to your room.

How do you move your luggage from Disney Celebration Hotel?

Disney Celebration Hotel (read our Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel review here) is located in Urayasu which is a nearby area, however its location is the furthest away (20 minutes shuttle bus) from Tokyo Disney Resort. Therefore the Disney complimentary luggage transfer service runs an hour later than the other Disney Hotels.
The Celebration Hotel is also not serviced by the Welcome Centre at Maihama Station as the other Disney Hotels are.
There is the option to transfer your bags from the Bon Voyage store (near to Disneyland) for a fee.

Which are the Tokyo Disney Resort Official Hotels?

The Tokyo Disney Resort Official Hotels are:

• Grand Nikko Tokyo Bay Maihama
• Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel First Resort
• Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel
• Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel
• Hilton Tokyo Bay
• Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay

What are the Tokyo Disney Resort Official Hotel benefits?

Updated to note that since 31/05/2024 any Disney Official partner hotels will no longer accept or transfer baggage to other Official and Disney hotels for free.

The Tokyo Disney Resort Official Hotel benefits are:

• Have Disney Fantasy shops in the hotel
• Sometimes offer the ability to pre-order park tickets before your stay (Currently Sheraton and Hilton)
• Bags can be dropped off at the Welcome Center at Maihama Station to be transferred to the hotel for free (downstairs)
• Bags can be sent to the Welcome Center when checking out for a fee
• Some Tokyo Disney Resort Official Hotels offer an international home delivery service (ask at the hotel)
• Have official Disney Shuttle Buses that go to the Bayside Disney Resort Line Monorail Station and Maihama JR Railway Station for free
• Have Limo bus to/from airports pick up/drop off

Which are the Tokyo Disney Partner Hotels?

The Tokyo Disney Partner Hotels are:

• Urayasu Brighton Hotel Tokyo Bay
• Oriental Hotel Tokyo Bay
• Hotel Emion Tokyo Bay
• Mitsui Garden Hotel Prana Tokyo Bay

What are the Tokyo Disney Partner Hotel benefits?

The Tokyo Disney Partner Hotel benefits are:

• Have official Disney Shuttle Buses to the Disney Parks for free
• Have your baggage delivered to your Disney Partner Hotel from the Service Counter on the lower level of Bon Voyage, located in front of JR Maihama Station for 600yen per bag.

Whichever Disney hotel you choose at Tokyo Bay you will benefit from the convenience of staying nearby to Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. Even from the cheapest Disney partner hotel.

I hope this article helps you plan your hotel stay at Tokyo Disney Resort. It’s a really wonderful Japan theme park with lots of amazing attractions – have a magical time!

If you have had any experience staying in any of these hotels or would like to ask a question, I would love you to comment below!

By Barbara Bryan, HolidayPlanning.com.au
Photos: Barbara Bryan, HolidayPlanning.com.au

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I will receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!

The post A beginner’s guide to Tokyo Disney Partner Hotel benefits appeared first on Holidayplanning.com.au.

By Tokyo Disneyland Holiday Planning Facebook group member Gladys Tai Si Hui

There has been lots of previously asked questions about show restaurants but not many people could provide any insight. Hence, I am writing about my experience today.

Where can I buy discounted Tokyo Disney Resort Tickets?

You can buy Tokyo Disney tickets from official third party discount sellers Klook and KKDay.

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online at Klook here

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online at KKDay here

You can get up to 10% off Klook or KKDay Tokyo & Japan activities with our discount code

Use my discount promocodes on Klook or KKDay to get up to 10% off many Japan attractions by using our discount promocodes:

LETSGOMUMKLOOK at Klook checkout

LETSGOMUM at KKDay checkout

Klook existing customers can get 3% off. Klook conditions: $50 min spend, $50 max discount, 5 times use.
KKDay conditions: $10USD max discount, 1 time use.

Klook & KKDay tickets CAN be used with your Disney Hotel 15 minutes Happy Entry early entry pass!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I will receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!

What is a good Mickey’s Rainbow Luau Show seating plan?

We went to Rainbow Luau at Tokyo Disneyland under Seating plan A with 2 adults and 2 children ages 5 years and a 20 month old toddler)

How much does the Polynesian Restaurant Show at Tokyo Disneyland cost?

We booked the 4.05pm show and paid 16,000 Japanese Yen for 2 adults and 1 child – we did not get a child meal for the 20-month-old baby.

How do you book the Rainbow Luau Show at the Polynesian Terrace Restaurant?

I booked it 1 month in advance exactly at 10am JST. They are gone really quickly especially Seating S and A plan. Best to select the later slot to be able to grab better seats. Aim for Seating A rather than S because S are sold out in seconds. There is a higher chance if u take later slot and book Seating A that was how I managed to get our show booking. Previously I tried to book S but couldn’t and only ended up with B Seating and tried again next day and got Seating A hence I cancelled Seating B.

Can you get vegan or vegetarian meals at the Polynesian Terrace Restaurant?

We can’t eat beef; hence we were asked to be at the restaurant 1 hour in advance to let the staff take note of our diet restrictions.

My Husband was quite furious when he found out that we won’t be getting any meat just additional few shrimps as a replacement, and we paid 16,000 yen for meatless meal. (This was clearly stated in FAQ, I know about it, and I have reminded my husband, but he forgot)

Is the food good at the Polynesian at Tokyo Disneyland?

Honestly, we weren’t full from our meal, adult rice had no sauce it was very plain and dry, but the salmon salad helped, and it was delicious and so was the shrimp! Even the kid’s meal was good. They didn’t give any meat or shrimp for 5-year-old purely just rice with sauce and vegetables, still it tasted good but 5 year old wasn’t interested in the food and neither was the 20 month old (luckily I didn’t book another child meal for him). Afterall, we don’t eat usually eat at 4pm.

What Disney characters are at the Rainbow Luau Show?

Seating A is pretty good. I really liked how all the characters go rounds each table to greet everyone at the start of the show (Chip and Dale, Clarice, Mickey and Minnie) though slightly rushed through. At the end of the show 1 or 2 characters would also make their rounds to say goodbye to the guest. Even if u don’t get seating A but B, characters still make their rounds to greet, just the view might not be as good depending where you were seated.

What child ages suit Mickey’s Rainbow Luau Show at Disneyland?

My 5 year old enjoyed the show very much. 20m only watched some parts of it and was all over, had to use social media to engage him so he would stay seated.

It is probably best for children at least age 3 and up who are able to sit through without leaving their seats.

Is the Polynesian Terrace better than the Chef Mickey restaurant?

Food is good, show is great to watch, really enjoy the character Greetings thou short. But I personally feel much more worth it than Chef mickey as the food isn’t that good.

By Tokyo Disneyland Holiday Planning Facebook group member Gladys Tai Si Hui

You can learn more about Mickey’s Rainbow Luau Show at the official website here.

The post Polynesian Terrace Restaurant – Mickey’s Rainbow Luau review appeared first on Holidayplanning.com.au.

How do you get into the Snugly Duckling & other Fantasy Springs restaurants?

Pro tip, these restaurants require a mobile order to even go inside, so just order a drink and you can go in and explore!

by Tokyo Disneyland holiday planning group member Tate Hollis

Exciting new Fantasy Springs photos from the soft launch

Photos by Tokyo Disneyland holiday planning group member Tate Hollis

The post Snuggly Duckling, Royal Banquet of Arendelle – take a look inside! – Fantasy Springs restaurants appeared first on Holidayplanning.com.au.

Fantasy Springs Soft Opening facts

Not sure if the soft opening is now a permanent thing until the official opening on 6th June. I guess it gives them the freedom to close it if they need to, so you just need to check on the day.

You can reserve a return time for rides or mobile ordering using the standby pass option jn the app. They are not available via DPA or PP.

The area if it is open is like any other area, you can just walk in and explore, follow the crowds 

Bizarrely, the gift store is open but only for browsing, my wife tried to buy a t shirt and they said nothing is for sale, so you can look and not touch!

If you eat in the Arendelle cafe I would avoid the fish pie! I will eat almost anything, but this was not nice.

by Tokyo Disneyland holiday planning group member Matt Dredge

Exciting new Fantasy Springs photos from the soft launch

Photos by Tokyo Disneyland holiday planning group member Matt Dredge

The post Fantasy Springs soft opening on 17th May 2024! appeared first on Holidayplanning.com.au.