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Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea: Which Theme Park Should You Visit?

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Cheng Sim •  Apr 28, 2023

When it comes to things to do in Tokyo, a visit to Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea is an absolute must. These theme parks offer an immersive experience that will transport you to a world of fantasy and fun. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a fan of all things cute and whimsical, there's something for everyone. From exciting rides to colourful parades and lively shows, Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of your trip to Japan. We’ll be sharing Tokyo Disneyland ticket tips and more!

If you only have a day to spend at the Disney parks or you’re on a tight budget (a Disney park experience doesn’t come cheap!), it'll be tough to choose between purchasing a ticket to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea. But that's okay! We're breaking down the awesome things you'll find at these theme parks and leaving you to decide which one you should visit!

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Getting there

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: gwaar on Flickr

Tokyo Disneyland

By train: Alight at Maihama Station on JR (Japan Railway) Keiyo Line / Musashino Line. Then, take a 3-minute train ride on the Disney Resort Line to Tokyo Disneyland station. Walk for 1 minute to the main entrance of Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo DisneySea

By train: Alight at Maihama Station on JR (Japan Railway) Keiyo Line / Musashino Line. Then, take a 10-minute train ride on the Disney Resort Line to Tokyo DisneySea station. Walk for 1 minute to the main entrance of Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Alternatively, there are buses that run directly to both parks from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal which are convenient but a little pricier at 1,000 yen per adult.

P.S. If you’re planning on taking the train, make sure to purchase the 24, 48 or 72-hour Tokyo Subway Pass on Klook (from just SGD7.99!). You can easily redeem the ticket at any metro station in Tokyo.

P.S. If you’re looking for a pass that offers attraction bundles, check out the Klook Pass Tokyo! The premium passes include a general entry into popular add-ons such as Tokyo Disneyland, and Tokyo DisneySea, as well as Tokyo Subway Tickets and a round-trip ride to Narita Airport.

1. Ticket Prices

Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

If you’re wondering how much it is to visit Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, both have the same ticket price.

*Note: Multi-day tickets are temporarily unavailable

1-Day Passport

Spend one day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea

  • Adults above 18 (SGD 85.05 / ¥8569.07)
  • Juniors aged 12 to 17 (SGD 70.89) / ¥7142.40)
  • Children aged 4 to 11 (SGD 50.66 / ¥5104.16)

Save more and buy your 1-day passport on Klook!

#HHWTip: We would suggest you purchase tickets as soon as possible because they sell out rather quickly, especially when you’re visiting during peak periods. The best part is that it’s super convenient because there’s no printing needed, simply scan the QR code and get the re-entry stamp! Super easy isn’t it?

2. The Ultimate Experience

Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: @73mimimima73 on Instagram

There's something magical about stepping into one of the happiest places on earth. If you're a first-timer to the truly spectacular Disneyland experience, Tokyo Disneyland is perfect for you. While exploring the theme park and seeking joy from themed rides and attractions, you'll bump into Mickey and friends who will be happy to take pictures with you. Besides that, Donald and Daisy Duck may be around to cheekily steal the spotlight too. But that's fine, there's enough space in the theme park for everyone to make new friends at Tokyo Disneyland.

Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: @lat_duffy on Instagram

Did you know that there is only one DisneySea in the world? Now that's a one-of-a-kind experience right there. You'll also meet characters exclusive to DisneySea! There's Duffy (Mickey's stuffed bear) and his awesome friends - Stella Lou, ShellieMay, Gelatoni, and LinaBell merchandise, which can only be found at Disneysea!

P.S. Don’t miss out on posting the perfect Disney experience online. If you’re the planner of your travel troupe, you should buy an eSim (for a single user). ​​Alternatively, you can purchase a pocket WiFi if travelling in a group, - check it on Klook!

3. The Iconic Landmark

Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

If you absolutely want that classic shot in front of the castle, you know which park to choose! While Hong Kong Disneyland has its Sleeping Beauty Castle and Shanghai Disneyland has its Enchanted Storybook Castle, Tokyo Disneyland has its own Cinderella Castle. Step into the castle and you'll be surrounded by an immersive tale of Cinderella and more importantly, catch a glimpse of the Disney princess' famous glass slipper.

P.S. There's a new castle in Tokyo Disneyland, the Beauty and the Beast castle in Fantasyland!

Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: Vinit Panchal on Flickr

While DisneySea is short of a Disney castle, one of their popular landmarks is the Mysterious Island which has an 'active volcano' that stands over the visitors in the theme park. This island is also where two of their well-loved attractions are located, namely Journey To The Center Of The Earth and 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea.

4. Rides and attractions

Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: Ruth Hartnup on Flickr

Tokyo Disneyland is perfect for first-timers to the Disneyland experience as well as families with young children. That's because it has the classic attractions (like It’s A Small World and Dumbo The Flying Elephant) and way more relaxing and slow-paced kid-friendly rides compared to DisneySea, so your little ones can enjoy every single ride with ease. Tokyo Disneyland has 45 rides, and this park definitely wins in terms of quantity.

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Top rides in Tokyo Disneyland

  • Big Thunder Mountain
  • Splash Mountain
  • Star Tours: The Adventure Continues
  • Haunted Mansion
  • Monsters Inc. Ride & Go Seek!
  • Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast
  • Pooh Hunny Hunt

Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: @mt87ao on Instagram

Tokyo DisneySea is a great theme park for families with older children, thrill-seeking couples and adults who are young at heart. The theme park has faster rides and attractions compared to Tokyo Disneyland, so prepare yourself for some heart-pumping adrenaline. DisneySea has slightly lesser attractions than Tokyo Disneyland - with 30 rides in total.

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: Tosh Chiang on Flickr

Top rides in Tokyo DisneySea

  • Toy Story Mania!
  • Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple Of The Crystal Skull
  • Journey To The Center Of The Earth
  • Tower Of Terror
  • Soaring: Fantastic Flight

P.S. If you’re travelling with young children, plan your route well because the attractions in DisneySea are more spread out. Shuffling between lands to get to rides can feel more tiring with the crowds!

5. Rides suitable for kids

If you’re wondering if it’s worth it to take your kids to the Disney parks because they may not be able to take the rides, you’ll be glad to know that numerous rides don’t have any height restrictions in both parks! In other words, your one-year-old toddler will be able to take the rides.

It can be quite disappointing for children who visit Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea only to find out that they are not able to take the ride they’ve been looking forward to. For many kids, going on thrilling rides is the highlight of their visit to the theme park, and being told they're not tall enough can be a real letdown. That’s why it’s important to check the height restrictions before planning your trip to avoid any disappointment or tears on the day!

P.S You can refer to the official Tokyo Disney website for the breakdown on all the height requirements.

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

​​If your kiddies are absolutely bananas for Aladdin, Toy Story, The Little Mermaid, or Indiana Jones, then DisneySea is the place for you. With a whole Aladdin-based land, a Little Mermaid world under the sea, and a section dedicated to Toy Story, your kids will be transported into the magical worlds of their favourite movies. But if classic Disneyland is more your style, don't worry - all of your favourite characters still make appearances in the parade.

As for big fans of Beauty & the Beast and Big Hero 6, Disneyland is the place to be with a brand new area dedicated to these beloved movies. And of course, if your little ones can't get enough of Mickey and Minnie, don't forget to visit their houses in Toontown!

6. Single Rider Service

Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Another hack to skip the queue is to take advantage of the Single Rider service! Unfortunately, this is only available for certain rides and you’ll have to take the ride alone, which some guests prefer not to.

Tokyo Disneyland: No rides with Single Rider service

Tokyo Disneysea:

- Indiana Jones (Our Single Rider wait was only 5 minutes compared to the original 60 minute long queue)

- Raging Spirits

7. Disney Premier Access Experience Is The New FASTPASS

While the FASTPASS used to be free, the Disney Parks no longer run on this attraction pass! However, they did introduce a new system which has three tiers - Standby Pass, Entry Request, and Disney Premier Access. The Entry Request is essentially a “lottery” to experience select character greetings and shows, it's best for when your children are hoping to catch a glimpse of their fave Disney characters! And finally, the Disney Premier Pass which is essentially a paid FASTPASS, where you can skip the lines to attractions and even shows with this. For more info, check out Tokyo Disney Resort App!

Premier Access for Disneyland:

  • The Happy Ride with Baymax
  • Enchanted Tale of Beauty and The Beast
  • Splash Mountain
  • Disney in Harmony in Color (Parade)

Premier Access for DisneySea:

  • Toy Story Mania
  • Tower of Terror
  • Journey to the Centre of The Earth
  • Believe! Sea of Dreams (Show)
Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

P.S. Find out how to purchase the Premiere Access here! If you purchased tickets on Klook, just scan the QR codes available using the app for purchase of the passes.

The Premier Access passes do run out so we recommend that you decide what rides you would like to get the passes for and get them early to avoid disappointment! You’re also more likely to be able to pick from a larger selection of timings.

We got them for the Enchanted Tale of Beauty and The Beast and skipped a 120 min long queue. Personally, we would recommend purchasing if it’s within your budget because there's so much more to explore in the park than waiting in line. We also paid for Tower of Terror in and the Believe! Sea of Dreams show in Disneysea.

That being said, having the pass for the show does not guarantee good seats! We arrived 15 minutes before Believe! Sea of Dreams started and the area already had guests who snagged the best viewing spots, but it ensured that we could at least watch the show from that spot, which is closer to the water features. Recommended if you have young kids who can't stand waiting for shows to start!

8. Entry Requests to special shows and experiences

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: @penguinwaiter on Instagram

Both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea have special shows where you can get reserved seats. You can queue up for the first show, but winning a reserved seat to the show's other timings can help you to make the most of your day!

Entry Access experiences at Disneyland include:

  • Disney Character Greetings
  • Club Mouse Beat
  • Mickey’s Magical Music World
  • Jamboree Mickey! Let’s Dance!

As for DisneySea:

  • Big Band Beat: A Special Treat
  • Jamboree Mickey! Let's Dance!

9. Parades and shows

Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: @mii_01122 on Instagram

In celebration of Disney's 40th anniversary, they've completely changed the lineup of shows! The festivities will begin from 15 April 2023 until 31 March 31 2024! You won't want to miss the Disneyland show called "Disney Harmony in Color '' and it's presented by NTT Docomo. The parade is all about a harmonious world of colours and features 12 amazing floats. Each float represents a different theme such as adventure, courage, family bonds, and friendship!

Here are some of the floats to look out for:

  • To a World of Colorful Dreams: Tinkerbell
  • Trying Everything: Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, Clawhauser from Zootopia
  • Finding Adventure: Russell, Dug, Carl and Kevin and her babies from Pixar’s ‘Up’
  • Showing Strength: Merida, Moana, Rapunzel and Pocahontas
  • Family Bonds: Miguel from ‘Coco’ and The Incredibles
  • With Your Best Friends: Woody and Buzz Lightyear from Pixar’s Toy Story films appear atop RC, Vanellope and Ralph from Wreck-It Ralph, Big Hero Six
  • Dreams Come Together in Harmony

If you think that’s fun, get ready to be dazzled by the vibrant colours of the "Let's Celebrate with Colors" harbour greeting at Tokyo DisneySea. Mickey Mouse and all his Disney friends will be decked out in the most colourful outfits you've ever seen as they appear on the Mediterranean Harbor. And to top it off, the Tokyo Disney Resort 40th anniversary theme song will be playing in the background, adding to the festive atmosphere.

#HHWTip: Starting April 15, 2023, you can score the ultimate Disney experience with the all-new Disney Premier Access. For just ¥2,500, you can get your hands on a pass that gives you access to designated viewing areas for all your favorite rides and entertainment at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea!

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: @chidepon83 on Instagram

Tokyo Disneyland also has 6 amazing shows where various Disney characters take the stage. You can spot Lilo and Stitch dancing to the beat at Lilo's Luau & Fun or catch Mickey and the Chipmunks keeping you entertained at Mickey's Rainbow Luau.

Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: @alyfrancis88 on Instagram

While Tokyo DisneySea organizes the seasonal daytime parade, the shows are spectacular nonetheless. Come in the evening to see a spell-binding nighttime performance named Fantasmic! that takes place on the waters of the Mediterranean Harbour. They also have their version of Disney Light The Night complete with a massive fireworks display against the volcanic backdrop of the Mysterious Island.

P.S. We recommend purchasing your tickets to DisneySea on Klook for a stress-free experience!

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: @ayapandaaaaaa on Instagram

Tokyo DisneySea has 3 main shows that also shine the spotlight on Disney and Duffy characters. Say hello to Duffy and her pals at My Friend Duffy or follow the adventure of Mickey and friends at the city of gold in Song of Mirage.

10. Disney character greetings

Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: @yukkkky21 on Instagram

Half the fun of exploring Tokyo Disneyland is the chance to bump into your favourite Disney characters. Mickey, Minnie and friends are always roaming the theme park to take pictures with the kids and greet their fans, so find them in the locations below.

Tokyo Disneyland has 4 locations for Disney character greetings:

  • Tokyo Disneyland main entrance - Mickey, Minnie and friends
  • Woodchuck Greeting Trail - Donald and Daisy Duck
  • In front of Plaza Pavilion Bandstand - Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde from Zootopia
  • Mickey's House - Mickey Mouse

Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: _22_0905 on Instagram

Another reason to be excited about Tokyo DisneySea is meeting the theme park's exclusive characters besides Mickey, Donald and the gang. Tokyo DisneySea offers more locations to meet your favourite characters than Tokyo Disneyland.

Tokyo DisneySea has 7 locations for Disney character greetings:

  • Tokyo DisneySea main entrance, Waterfront Park and Arabian Coast - Find out the surprise guest on the day of your visit!
  • Village Greeting Place - ShellieMay
  • Saludos Amigos Greeting Dock - Duffy and Friends
  • Mickey & Friends Greeting Trails - Mickey, Minnie and Donald Duck
  • Ariel's Greeting Grotto - Ariel from Little Mermaid

P.S. We highly recommend getting your Tokyo Disneyland tickets on Klook to skip the queue and also to purchase in advance as tickets can run out during the busy seasons!

11. Muslim-friendly/Halal food in Tokyo Disney Parks

Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

There is no halal-certified food in Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea but the allergens at each eatery are stated on the website (we recommend that you dine at your discretion) and there are eateries that can heat up your food in retort pouches/packed food.

Check out our guide to 6 Muslim-Friendly Restaurants in Tokyo DisneySea For Your Next Adventure. Or, you order a halal bento delivery right to the park! Check out 13 Spots To Get Delicious Halal Bento In Tokyo.

BONUS! Red Lobster At Tokyo Disney Resort

Much to the delight of Muslim travellers, Red Lobster at Tokyo Disney Resort is now offering a Muslim-friendly menu. Situated at Ikspiari, a shopping mall located between Maihama Station and the Disney Ambassador Hotel, diners can choose from these Muslim-friendly set menu!

Muslim-friendly menu at Red Lobster, Tokyo Disney Resort:

  • Beef Bowl (1,080 yen)
  • Butter Chicken Curry (1,280 yen)
  • Vegetable Penne (1,280 yen)

#HHWTip: Check out our article about the Muslim-friendly menu available at Red Lobster, Tokyo Disney Resort!

Halal status: Muslim-friendly menu available. All ingredients in Muslim-friendly menu are from halal-certified suppliers and although it’s prepared in the same kitchen as non-halal meals, separate kitchenware is used to prepare the meals. Do note that dining utensils are the same as non-halal meals but you can request for disposable utensils.

12. Popcorn

Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland is famous for its uniquely flavoured snacks ranging from caramel and milk chocolate to matcha white chocolate. For Muslim-friendly flavours, you can go for salt or honey flavoured popcorn! Make sure to check for allergens and which flavours are Muslim-friendly too.

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: sstrieu on Flickr

Tokyo DisneySea is just as passionate about their popcorn! This theme park has slightly more flavours that'll raise your eyebrow. What do you think about Chinese spice or garlic shrimp popcorns? Do remember to check for allergens as the flavours do change over time. Classic flavours (that are Muslim-friendly!) to try at Tokyo DisneySea are also salt and honey popcorn.

Splurge on a Disney-themed popcorn bucket too! Not only will you be able to carry your favourite snack around, but you'll also get to flaunt this quirky and fun design. Some Disneyland fans go as far as collecting them all!

If you're spending most of your afternoon queuing at Tokyo Disneyland, you may as well munch on some popcorn! Did you know that the popcorn buckets are different across both theme parks? Following the characters you can find at the two theme parks respectively, you can buy a Buzz Lightyear-themed bucket at DisneySea and Pooh-themed bucket at Tokyo Disneyland!

Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

At Tokyo DisneySea, the refillable popcorn buckets have better variety and nicer designs, thanks to the adorable characters like Duffy and ShellieMay (which is exclusive to this park only!). Walk around with a cute DisneySea popcorn bucket, you might make a Tokyo Disneyland fan go green in envy.

11. Prayer rooms

Disneyland & DisneySea

You can do your prayers in the Quiet Room, located outside the park - right side of the main entrance. Remember to get a re-entry stamp!

P.S. Check out our 10 tips for planning the perfect Disneyland trip!

12. Kid-friendly facilities

Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Kid-friendly facilities at Tokyo Disneyland

  • Hand washing area
  • Stroller rentals
  • Baby centre
  • Toontown baby centre

There's a baby centre (a dining area to prepare infant's meals, changing area, toilets) where parents can catch a breather. It’s located in Tomorrowland and Toontown. The baby centre sells infant formula, baby food, diapers, rain covers for the stroller and more!

We love the dining area where there's hot water, a microwave oven, ice water to cool baby bottles, a sink to wash bottles/utensils, high chairs with trays, and baby seats. Find out more about the baby centre here!

#HHWTip: Get a “My 1st Visit” sticker for your child from any cast member or a special sticker if it's his/her birthday!

Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: Tzuhsun Hsu on Flickr

There are baby changing rooms at Baby Center at the Mediterranean Harbor, Baby Care Room at Mermaid Lagoon (you’ll feel like you’re Under The Sea here!), Nursing Mother's room at the American Waterfront (right next to the Tower of Terror).

Kid-friendly facilities at Tokyo DisneySea

  • Hand washing area
  • Stroller rentals
  • Baby centre and nursing mother's lounge

12. Shopping

Tokyo Disneyland

If you're looking for awesome souvenirs to take home, Tokyo Disneyland is peppered with many shops selling merchandise, t-shirts, soft toys and more. Swipe your credit card at the Grand Emporium (the largest selection of merchandise), shop for clothes at Town Center Fashions (the park's largest apparel shop) and get a plush toy at the Toy Station (the park's biggest toy shop). If you ask us, Tokyo Disneyland wins by having 43 shops across the theme park.

Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: @hajimodamoyo on Instagram

After spending an awesome day at Tokyo DisneySea, bring home something thoughtful and adorable for your friends and family. With 37 shops across the theme park, shop at Galleria Disney for one-of-a-kind Duffy merchandise, Figaro's Clothiers for a ShellieMay t-shirt, and mini wagons for Mickey headband and light-up items.

Tokyo Disneyland vs DisneySea

Credit: Hiu Yan Chelsia Choi on Unsplash

Just between you and I, it's tough to decide between visiting Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. Whether you're up for the magical experience of Disneyland or the thrilling rides at the world's only DisneySea, YOU decide which theme park you love the most. Or if you ask us (we are Disney fans), you have to visit both!

This article was brought to you by Klook.