The land of the rising sun is famous for its ability to entertain and provide an unforgettable experience.

Take, for example, all the bright and buzzing arcades within Akihabara, the crazy Robot Restaurant, the streets filled with cosplay-loving teens, or the fact that you’re allowed to ride through the city in go-karts dressed up as Super Mario Characters!

Only in Japan! But these aren’t your only opportunities to share laughs with friends and make new memories. The plethora of Japan’s theme parks also do just that!

What’s awesome is that many of Japan’s theme parks are in the heart of Tokyo, meaning you don’t have to travel far if you’d like to explore several of them, even in a single day!

In this post, I’m going to help you discover some of the best theme parks near Tokyo. Buckle up because there are actually quite a few of them! Here’s a sneak peek of everything we’ll dive deeper into:

1. Tokyo Disneyland
2. Tokyo DisneySea
3. Fuji-Q Highland
4. Sanrio Puroland (Hello Kitty Land)
5. Yomiuriland 
6. Tokyo Dome City
7. Joypolis
8. … and a lot MORE!

There’s a world of fun and adventure to experience, and Tokyo is one of the few places that can tick all the boxes! We’ll cover the most famous theme parks near Tokyo, the types of rides you can expect, and things you shouldn’t miss there.

It’s no secret that people like different things, so we’ll also cover which theme park is ideal for your preferences!

This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

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17 Best Theme Parks Near Tokyo, Japan

1. Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland (Tōkyō Dizunīrando, 東京ディズニーランド) is part of the Tokyo Disney Resort in Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture. It will take you 30 minutes by train, 15 minutes by taxi, and 15 minutes by car to travel from Tokyo Station to Tokyo Disneyland.

This is the ideal theme park for families with kids because there are many exciting Disney-themed attractions and rides, delicious food and snacks, and something fun to do for all ages. If you or someone you’re traveling with are Disney devotees (or just understand the Disney magic), Disneyland should be on your Tokyo itinerary!

The massive 115-acre theme park has a reputation for wide open spaces that host thousands of exciting visitors! In fact, 2019 statistics reveal that Tokyo Disneyland takes #1 as the most visited theme park in Japan and the third-most visited globally!

What Attractions & Rides Can You See At Tokyo Disneyland?

Visiting all the magical attractions and trying the rides are some of the best things to do at Tokyo Disneyland.

The park is home to seven fantastical themes to satisfy the child within you, namely the World Bazaar, Westernland, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, Adventureland, Toontown, and Critter Country.

• World Bazaar – the main entry and major shopping hub for Tokyo Disneyland.

• Westernland –  “old west” themed, includes Thunder Mountain, Audio-Animatronic animals, Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and Mark Twain Riverboat.

• Tomorrowland – science-fiction theme. You’ll find rides like Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters, and Space Mountain.

• Fantasyland – Cinderella Castle with dark (often scary) rides that take you through scenes from Disney films (Peter Pan, Pinocchio, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs).

• Adventureland – jungle-themed, mimicking New Orleans Square & Adventureland architecture and design.

• Toontown – draws inspiration from the movie “Who Framed Roger Rabbit .”Roger Rabbit and Minnie’s Style Studio, where enthusiasts can take pictures with Minnie, are the most popular attractions.

• Critter Country – a small area that houses Splash Mountain, a log flume ride.

Several of them replicate the magical mystery based on American Disney fantasies and films, such as Snow White’s Scary Adventures, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, and includes Peter Pan’s Flight.

Pro Tip: You can buy Disneyland tickets in advance on Klook to save a lot more money than buying directly from the Disney site. This is where I purchase all my Disneyland tickets for Asia! They are legit and you’ll get your Disneyland tickets immediately via email.

2. Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo DisneySea (Tōkyō DizunīShī, 東京ディズニーシー) is a part of Tokyo Disney Resort in Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture. It would take you roughly 29 minutes by bus, 15 minutes by taxi or car, and 35 minutes by train to travel from Tokyo Station to Tokyo DisneySea.

It’s Japan’s second-most visited theme park and the world’s fourth-most popular theme park! As the name suggests, Tokyo DisneySea primarily focuses on rides and themes relating to the ocean.

It’s an ideal theme park for anyone who loves water, the beach, and rides where they don’t mind a little water!

What Attractions & Rides Can You See At Tokyo DisneySea?

Tokyo DisneySea has seven impressive themed areas, each with a unique spin on the Disney universe. They include Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, American Waterfront, Lost River Delta, Mysterious Island,  Mediterranean Harbor, Port Discovery, and Fantasy Springs (Future).

• Mermaid Lagoon – the dwelling place of characters from The Little Mermaid,  resembling King Triton’s palace with seashell architecture. All rides are for kids and include Scuttle’s Scooters, The Whirlpool, Flounder’s Flying Fish Coaster, Blowfish Balloon Race, and Jumpin’ Jellyfish.

• American Waterfront – mirrors the New York Harbor and Old Cape Codregions of northeastern US. A passenger ship, SS Columbia, hosts shows & events, and you can enjoy a fantastic Broadway-themed theater. Tower of Terror’s free-fall ride is the most popular ride!

• Toy Story Mania is a new 4-D attraction at the American Waterfront, inspired by Pixar’s Toy Story, and forms part of Toyville. 

• Lost River Delta – Aztec pyramid aesthetic that includes the infamous “Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull” thrill ride.

• You can also view a show called Out of Shadowland, about a young girl called Mei who lives in a world of shadows. The daring can go on Raging Spirits, an Intamin roller coaster.

• Mysterious Island – Victorian style. Mount Prometheus, a giant volcano fortress, is the centerpiece and relates to the book Vulcania. It has three rides called 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,  Journey to the Center of the Earth, and a dark ride.

• Mediterranean Harbor – an Italian port aesthetic with rideable Venetian gondolas. Numerous restaurants and shops to enjoy! The Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta also exists in the same style within the Mediterranean Harbor and intends to create a more immersive city experience!

You can also enjoy yourself with Soaring: Fantastic Flight, a neat flying simulator, and the expansive Fortress Explorations, an area full of unique attractions and activities that have you pursue exploration! 

• Arabian Coast – contains an Aladdin theme. You can experience five primary attractions: Caravan Carousel (double-decker carousel holding 190 enthusiasts); Magic Lamp Theater (combines 3D, animatronic, and live-action);  Jasmine’s Flying Carpets, and an indoor dark boat ride called Sinbad’s Storybook Voyage.

• Port Discovery – host of the Marine Life Institute in a retro-futuristic style. The most famous attractions are Aquatopia (a boat ride with “trackless” LPS) that moves, spins, and braves whirlpools. The Nemo And Friends SeaRider is also a major attraction since 2017.  

• Fantasy Springs – to open in 2024. Includes themes relating to the films Tangled,  Peter Pan, and Frozen. Other exciting attractions to come are a new luxury hotel and three restaurants to fill up after an energetic day of rides and sightseeing!

Pro Tip: You can buy Disneyland tickets in advance on Klook to save a lot more money than buying directly from the Disney site. This is where I purchase all my Disneyland tickets for Asia! They are legit and you’ll get your Disneyland tickets immediately via email.

3. Fuji-Q Highland

Fuji-Q Highland (Fujikyū Hairando,富士急ハイランド) is in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi — located about 2 hours away from Tokyo. It would take you 1h 53m by bus, 3h 17m by train, and 1h 32m by car to travel from Tokyo Station to Fuji-Q Highland.

This theme park is more suited for those who enjoy thrill rides and anime fans who might be familiar with anime like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Hamtaro, and Gundam!

You can expect several adrenaline-filled roller coasters (including several that hold world records for their speed and height) and two haunted attractions for those who have always wanted to immerse themselves in a horror film!

What Attractions & Rides Can You See At Fuji-Q Highland?

First off, get scared! The Haunted Hospital holds the title of the world’s first & largest haunted attraction. The other attraction is the Hopeless Fortress, a maze where you’ll deal with innumerable doors, halls, and rooms designed to test your imagination, deducing ability, and wisdom – all within a time limit, of course!

There are some exciting anime attractions and themed rides that manga and anime fans will appreciate, too. You can expect to see attractions themed around Hamtaro, Mobile Suit Gundam, and even Neon Genesis Evangelion, among others! Thomas, the Tank Engine, also makes an appearance, as does Thomas Land.

Popular roller coasters include:

• Fujiyama – 259 ft. (79 m), 80 mph (130 kph)
• Do-Donpa – 160 ft. (49 m), 111 mph (180 kph)
• Eejanaika – 249 ft. (76 m), 78 mph (126 kph)
• Takabisha – 141 ft. (43 m), 62 mph (100kph)

Fuji-Q Highland has several other rides adored by visitors, namely:

• Panic Clock – Vekoma Air Jumper
• Nagashimasuka – Hafema River Rapid Ride
• Steel Chief – Zamperla Sky Flyer
• Tentekomai – Gerstlauer Sky Roller
• Red Tower – S&S Space Shot
• Tondemina – Huss Giant Frisbee

4. Sanrio Puroland

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Sanrio Puroland (Sanrio Pyūrorando, サンリオピューロランド) is an indoor theme park in Tama New Town, and also goes by the name Hello Kitty Land. It would take you 1h 10m by train, or 35 minutes by taxi & car, to travel from Tokyo Station to Sanrio Puroland.  

Sanrio Puroland is right up there in popularity with Fuji-Q Highland and Tokyo Disney Resort, attracting more than 1.5 million people annually. Sanrio also owns Harmonyland, another popular Sanrio-themed amusement park in Oita Prefecture.

What Attractions & Rides Can You See At Sanrio Puroland?

Sanrio Puroland hosts plenty of exciting live shows dedicated to the famous Sanrio characters: Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, My Melody, Aggrestuko, and Gudetama. You’ll also find numerous shopping outlets for merchandise, souvenirs, and unique Sanrio-themed restaurants!

This is the ideal theme park for those who adore the Sanrio characters and those who love Japan’s kawaii (cute) culture! Kids will also have a fascination with the unique personalities of the characters!

Sanrio Puroland offers a fantastic collection of attractions ranging from live events to fun rides, immersive walkthroughs, and even parades. Some of the most popular rides include:

• Sanrio Characters Boat Ride (dark ride) – the ride involves storytelling about various Sanrio characters who prepare for a party Hello Kitty’s party.  

• Mymeroad Drive – with a rental car representing Kuromi, My Melody’s rival, participants tour My Melody’s homeland, called Mariland.  

You may also purchase commemorative photos of your experience, sold separately.

Lady Kitty House and Kiki & Lala Twinklingtour are favorites among visitors for walkthrough attractions.

• Lady Kitty House – explore a residence with several attractive Hello Kitty designs, some of which are designs from Japanese graphic designer and art director Yuni Yoshida! Afterward, you take a photo with Helly Kitty, which you can print for an extra fee.

• Kiki & Lala Twinklingtour – explore Little Twin Stars, the birthplace of Kiki and Lala.

5. Yomiuriland 

Yomiuriland (よみうりランド, Yomiurirando) is an amusement park situated on the hillsides of Inagi. It would take you around 1h 32m by train, and 30 min by taxi or car, to travel from Tokyo Station to Yomiuruland.

During spring, you’ll be able to experience around 1,000 sakura (cherry blossoms) splash eye-catching pinks and whites across the theme park!

While adults pay the regular price for their ticket, children and seniors over the age of 60 pay a discounted fee!

You may also opt for a One-day pass, which includes the sea lion show, a free pass for all the attractions. Children and seniors aged 65+ also get a discounted fee on the day pass.

What Attractions & Rides Can You See At Yomiuriland?

There are a plethora of attractions to enjoy at Yomiuriland – up to 44 attractions and adrenaline-inducing rides! You’ll have access to roller coasters, family-friendly rides, water flumes, and more!

All the rides are suitable for families wanting to bond or friends who want to share some laughs together.

If you love water slides and splish-splashing fun, you’ll want to visit Yomiuriland during summertime, from July to September. Pool WAI (Water Amusement Island) is available for visitors for an additional fee.

As you browse the shops and food courts for exciting trinkets and delicious Japanese cuisine, you may notice Jewellimunation, which sets the park ablaze with exceedingly beautiful LED lights. They set a pleasant atmosphere, enhancing your experience when you’re on your favorite ride.

Yomiuriland has a few notable roller coasters, namely:

• Wan Wan Coaster Wandit
• Spin Runway
• Space Factory
• Bandit – 256 ft. (78 m), 68.3 mph (109.9 kph)

Bandit, in particular, is one of the highlights of Yomiuriland. It passes through hundreds of cherry blossom trees during spring, beautifying the landscape while you’re screaming your head off! The entire coaster course lights up at night with LED lights, creating a spectacular experience that you shouldn’t pass up!

6. Tokyo Dome City

Tokyo Dome City (Tōkyō Dōmu Shiti, 東京ドームシティ) is a vibrant place situated in Kōraku, Bunkyo City, Tokyo. You might have trouble choosing between the number of unique spots available in this area!

This entertainment complex is located in the heart of Tokyo and offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages, including an amusement park, a baseball stadium, a concert hall, and a shopping center.

The amusement park, known as Tokyo Dome City Attractions, features a variety of thrilling rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and a haunted house set in a classic Japanese-style house (sounds terrifying already if you ask me!).

The baseball stadium, known as the Tokyo Dome, is home to the Yomiuri Giants baseball team and is a popular destination for sports fans. The stadium also hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.

The concert hall, known as Tokyo Dome City Hall, is a popular destination for music fans and hosts a wide range of concerts and events featuring both Japanese and international artists. There can be lots of concerts during certain times of the year, so make sure you check beforehand so that you can catch your favorite band!

The shopping center, known as LaQua, is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, including a spa and a hot spring facility.

The Big O Ferris wheel is a unique ride where you get a spectacular view of the entire Tokyo skyline while at the same time enjoying a hearty bout of karaoke! Afraid of heights? Sing the fears way with a sweet lullaby or energetic electric guitar!

The CuBar Lounge is an exciting establishment that combines the best of your favorite alcoholic beverages with the fun of ten-pin bowling! This bowling alley serves draft beers, smooth whiskeys, and a collection of exciting cocktail mixes that will explode with delicious flavor and satisfaction.

Work up the courage and test your nerves of steel on the Thunder Dolphin – a monstrous rollercoaster that travels through (literally) the LaQua business building! Remember to try it after enjoying your favorite drink and not before, alright?

7. Joypolis

Joypolis (Joiporisu,ジョイポリス) is a theme park created by the famous video game company Sega and exists in Daiba, Minato City, Tokyo. It will take you approximately 25 min by train, 48 min by bus, 7 min by taxi or car, and 1h 36m on foot to travel from Tokyo Station to Joypolis.

What Attractions & Rides Can You See At Joypolis?

The park has many exciting amusement rides and arcade games indicative of Sega’s intellectual properties, original themes, and licensed franchises. There are three exciting floors to explore, each with fun activities, games, and sights to enjoy.

Joypolis would be a fantastic place for anyone who enjoys video games, especially if you grew up playing games created by Sega. Expect roller coasters, simulators, arcade games that you probably grew up with, and virtual reality experiences! The park also features a variety of other interactive attractions, such as a laser maze and a haunted house.

Interestingly, Sega announced Joypolis Sports in January 2022. They plan to build it in Sendai City on the Sendai Nakayama complex, and it will prioritize sport-related attractions. You’ll also find some non-sport facilities and an attractive Comic Book Section.   

On floor 1 of the Joypolis, you’ll find attractions and games such as:

• Spicy Taxi –  A driving simulator that has 360-degree cars.
• The Joypolis Explorer –  A mystery attraction to discover the treasure.
• Gekion Live Coaster – roller-coaster and music game all in one.
• Halfpipe Tokyo – a snowboarding ride that plays with a musical rhythm.  
• Zero Latency VR – an attraction where you visit space with VR headsets.
• Pirate’s Plunder – A shooter with a pirate theme.

On floor 2, you’ll find some games with a fun and nostalgic premise, like:

• Storm-G – a bobsleigh simulator that can rotate 360 degrees.
• TOWER TAG – a multiplayer VR PvP (player vs. player) laser-shooter.
• House of the Dead: Scarlet Dawn: The Attraction – based on the video game.
• Transformers: Human Alliance Special – a ride version of the arcade shooter released in 2013
• Sonic Athletics – a treadmill-powered racer with a Sonic theme.

Floor 3 keeps the fun going with even more games and activities to satisfy your curiosity, like:

• Attack on Titan: Attraction – walkthrough based on the manga series, Attack on Titan.
• Fortune Forest – virtual forest that can tell the future.
• Ace Attorney in Joypolis – relates to the visual novel series Ace Attorney.

After only covering half the list of extensive attractions, you know you’ll have a great time at Joypolis! Of course, there are restaurants, too, notably the famous Frame Café, which often hosts live events and themed food & drinks.

Think you’re going to want to play a lot here? Opt for the Tokyo Joypolis ticket — it gives you access to thrilling rides, including 3D attractions and over 20 games. This passport gives you unlimited readmission to the park during the day, so take the time to explore Odaiba then come back as you please!

8. Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa

Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa (Makuseru Akua Pāku Shinagawa, マクセルアクアパーク品川) is a public aquarium inside the Shinagawa Prince Hotel in Minato, Tokyo.

It takes approximately 20 min by train, 9 min by taxi or car, and 1h 30m on foot to travel from Tokyo Station to Maxwell Aqua Park Shinagawa.

This public aquarium is trendy among a Japanese and global audience, with annual visitation numbers exceeding 1.5 million people.

What Attractions Can You See At Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa?

If you’re a fan of marine life, you’re in for a treat at Maxwell Aqua Park Shinagawa! You’ll get to experience dolphin shows featuring bottlenose & Pacific white-sided dolphins, plus false killer whales. Shows during the day are also different from those in the evening.

The park also has multiple floors, each with exciting rides and activities that are ideal for those who have a keen interest in the ocean, marine life, and sea creatures.

While on the ground floor, you’ll gain access to the following attractions:

• Park entrance
• Stellar ball
• Coral cafe bar
• Magical ground
• Jerry Fish Rumble

The upper floor keeps fun flowing with attractions that showcase unique sea creatures:

• Wild street
• The stadium
• Little paradise
• Friendly Square
• Wonder tube
• Aqua Shop Luce
• Aqua jungle
• Life Museum

Other rides around the venue include:

• Port of Pirates (Viking) – enjoy a bumpy ship ride like a Viking pirate!
• Dolphin party – a merry-go-round featuring dolphins

The Wonder Tube, in particular, is a popular attraction where you can catch a glimpse of 15 species and even manta rays. It’s also the only place on earth where you can gaze upon Dwarf sawfish in captivity. Once you have your fill of these beautiful creatures, you can feed them at the feeding corner.

You’re in luck if cute penguins are your thing – Wild Street has penguins, fur seals, and sea turtles that make for an exciting visit! The fur seals, sea lions, and otters are on full display in Friendly Square, with all their glorifying cuteness!

Stellar Ball is a live hall where the park hosts special events. The impressive events consist of 750 seats, 1758 standing seats, plus a second floor with 126 seats and a terrace with VIP seats.

9. Seibuen Amusement Park

Seibu-en (Seibuen Yuenchi, 西武園ゆうえんち) is in Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture,  outside the Seibuen-yūenchi Station. It takes 1h 27m by train, 34 min by taxi or car, and 1h 36m by subway to travel from Tokyo Sation to Seibuen Amusement Park.

The entire amusement park exists around a Showa era themed marketplace with exciting attractions like a Godzilla motion simulator and a kid’s play area. They also have an Ultraman attraction in the works that will release sometime in 2023.

If you’re unaware, Ultraman is the first tokusatsu superhero who debuted in Japan in 1966, created by Tsuburaya Productions. He utilizes solar power to fight against evildoers.

What Attractions Can You See At Seibuen Amusement Park?

Seibu-en Yūenchi is a modest amusement park compared to giant parks like Tokyo Disney Resort, but don’t let that dissuade you from pouring yourself into this park! You’ll get to ride Ferris wheels, carousels, swing rides, pirate ship-style rides, and roller coasters, and enter a house of mirrors.

Some rides might be non-operational if the weather makes a turn for the worst. Partially for this reason, the park has you pay an admittance fee per attraction you want to try. The most extensive package includes unlimited admission on most of the rides.

Some attractions that are accessible during the day but not the evening are:

• Viking pirate ship
• Magic mirror maze
• Pyon Pyon trampoline
• Wave swinger

Here are some fun rides to enjoy that are also open during the evenings:

• Astro Boy’s Moontrip roller coaster
• Leo and Leiya’s Sunset train
• Fortune-Telling Two Atlas
• Search! Legendary Atlast (treasure hunt)

Pro Tip: If you have a tattoo, you will want to skip this one — or show up with your tattoos concealed. They’ve been known to kick visitors out for having visible tattoos.

10. Mother Farm

Mother Farm (マザー牧場) is an exciting venue in Chiba Prefecture that caters to those who adore everything about animals! It would take you 1h 19m by bus, 53 min by taxi or car, and 2 hours by train to travel from Tokyo Station to Mother Farm.

The entire place is a beautiful open field with a lot of green, and it remains one of Chiba’s most popular attractions, surrounded by Boso Hills. Kids love to see and interact with the animals up close, and there are various other fun activities!

What Attractions Can You See At Mother Farm?

Mother Farm offers plenty of fun activities for the entire family, like horseback riding, a petting zoo, and fruit picking! You’ll get to see Patagonian mara (rabbits) scurrying around, sheep, cows, and alpacas.

You may enter the area with the tortoise, rabbits, and sheep. Traveling a little farther north will bring you to a gigantic tent with pigs, alpacas, and ostriches.

Regarding horseriding, wear trousers and closed shoes for a pleasant experience! Horseriding is a favorite among families with kids and teens and a bonus for anyone who enjoys the challenge. There are different options for novices and intermediate riders, too.

You’ll also be able to buy various snacks and foods from the café, like Ichigo ice cream (strawberry) and crouton soup. The fields are decorated with beautiful flowers, and you may also purchase candies and other goodies exclusive to Mother Farm.

If you have a little daredevil in you, why not try the zipline and bungee? The bungee has a majestic 69 ft. (21 m) view of Boso mountains, while the zipline will keep you in suspense for a total of 372 yards (340 m)!

11. Tobu Zoo

Tobu Zoo (Tōbu dōbutsu kōen, 東武動物公園) is both an amusement park and zoo located in Miyashiro, Saitama Prefecture. It would take roughly 1h 21m by train, 1h 29m by subway, and 40 min by taxi or car, to travel from Tokyo Station to Tobu Zoo. 

Tobu Zoo is also home to Grape-kun, a famous Humboldt penguin who lived up to age 21!

What Attractions & Rides Can You See At Tobu Zoo?

Tobu Zoo is a wonderful theme park that combines the best parts of a zoo with fun & thrilling rides at a theme and water park!

When visiting Tobu Zoo, ensure you don’t miss the firefly theatre! This brilliant theatre showcases a staggering 10,000 fireless in all their blazing glory. They’re a rare sight in Japan in recent years, so you will want to take advantage of the chance to see one of Japan’s treasures.

After the firefly theatre, you may choose to attend one of the exciting geese marches or take a ride on a pony!

You’ll adore Tobu Zoo for its plethora of animals, including white tigers, elephants, lions, kangaroos, ducks, and more! Children are especially fond of seeing their favorite animals, so families with kids will have a blast at Tobu Zoo!

The amusement park side offers a great value-for-money package where a small fee will net you an entire day of free rides.

When it comes to roller coasters, Tobu Zoo has thrilling rides that are sure to get the adrenaline pumping, namely:

• Tentomushi (Kids coaster) – 19.7 ft. (6 m), 19.9 mph (32 kph)
• Diggy & Daggy’s Tram Coaster (Kids coaster) – 11.5 ft. (3.5 m), 15.5 mph (25 kph)
• Kawasemi – 102 ft. (31 m), 53 mph (85 kph)

12. Hanayashiki Amusement Park

Hanayashiki (Asakusa hanayashiki, 浅草花やしき) which means “Flowery Mansion” is in Asakusa, Taitō. It will take you approximately 18 min by bus, 34 min by subway, 39 min by bus, 6 min by taxi or car, and 1h 3m on foot to travel from Tokyo Station to Hanayashiki Amusement Park.

It’s one of Japan’s most dated parks, and upon your visit, you can expect to meet Panda Car (パンダカー), the unofficial mascot. 

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What Attractions Can You See At Hanayashiki Amusement Park?

Hanayashiki Amusement Park has 17 different attractions that offer many opportunities for fun, thrills, and exciting screams! The dainty rides have whimsical designs, with children riding in flying ships, shooting stars and helicopters.

The game area is popular for hosting multiple stalls where you can buy tasty treats and other carnival-style foods to fill up and keep the fun going.

Another famous attraction you shouldn’t miss, gives kids the chance to learn what it means to be a ninja!

Kids aged 5 and over may participate and experience the skillset to necessary to become real-life ninja by visiting the Ninja Training Dojo. Remember that this activity requires that you have a reservation.

Hanayashiki also comes with a magnificent rooftop with views of Tokyo Skytree and the famous Senso-ji Templeights, making it the perfect location for those who would enjoy Asakusa sightseeing.

There are plenty of fun rides for kids to enjoy, such as:

• Swan – a large rowboat in the image of a swan, where kids and parents can go around a course
• Haunted House – test your nerves of steel  
• Roller coaster – kids coaster that’s suitable for adults, too
• Disk O – a ride where you sit in a cart and move up and down a half-loop
• Sky ship – a cart shaped like a ship, similar to a roller coaster, but the ship hangs from a rail

You can also expect kids’ rides shaped like helicopters, stars, and horses!

13. Shinyokohama Ramen Museum

The Shin-Yokohama Rāmen Museum (Shin-Yokohama Rāmen Hakubutsukan, 新横浜ラーメン博物館) is a famous ramen food amusement park, abbreviated Rahaku for short, in the Shin-Yokohama district of Kōhoku-ku, Yokohama.

It takes approximately 28min by train, 27 min by taxi or car, or 1h 26m by bus to travel from Tokyo Station to  The Shin-Yokohama Rāmen Museum.

If you already had plans to visit Yokohoma, visiting this museum is a must because of its convenient location! The museum is within walking distance of Shin-Yokohama Station.

What Attractions Can You See At Shinyokohama Ramen Museum?

This spectacular food court commits itself to showcasing Tokyo’s tastiest ramen which dates back to 1958 – the same year that brilliant minds created instant noodles! As you make your way through the museum, you’ll get to see some of the most famous restaurants from Hokkaido and Kyushu, namely:

• Ide Shoten
• Komurasaki
• Hachiya
• Fukuchan
• Ryushanhai
• Shinasobaya
• Keyaki

The recreation has plenty of ramen stalls and other street food vendors, making this a unique part of Japanese cuisine you wouldn’t want to miss! You can learn how Japan adopted ramen as part of its cuisine and taste all the ramen flavors Japan has to offer in one place!

If you’re a ramen connoisseur, you should know that the museum also allows you to make your own ramen right down from the flour to the bowl, and you get to take home the leftovers!

14. NamjaTown

Namco NamjaTown (Namuko NanjaTaun, ナムコ・ナンジャタウン) is an indoor theme park opened by Namco in 1996. The park is on the second floor of the Sunshine building complex in Toshima, on the second floor.

Getting here would take 27 min by subway, 41 min by train, 6 min by taxi or car, and 1h 37m on foot to travel from Tokyo Station to NamjaTown.

What Attractions & Rides Can You See At NamjaTown?

While Namco is famous for creating video games, the park itself does not solely focus on them as a theme. Surprising, right? Instead, you’ll get to try exciting carnival-style activities, themed dining experiences, and haunted houses, and enjoy the company of the theme park’s exclusive cat mascots!

The male cat’s name is Najavu, and the female is Najamy. In case you ever run into them, that would be good information to know!

Remember that the games, restaurants, and attractions are all in Japanese, with minimal English explanations. If you want to commit yourself to really exploring NamjaTown, start brushing up on your Japanese!

The park is an excellent fit for families with young children, with plenty of easy-to-learn games and activities to enjoy. Young dating couples, ladies in their early twenties and late teens are also a famous sight.

Your ticket also includes access to the Mazaria VR arcade above, which older kids will appreciate. They might also want to visit the Pokemon Center right next door!

Ticket information and all that good stuff can be found here.

15. Edo Wonderland

Edo Wonderland is a unique theme park located in Nikko, Japan, that transports visitors back in time to the Edo period of Japanese history (1603-1868). The park is designed to look like a traditional Edo-era town, complete with samurai warriors, geishas, and merchants dressed in period costumes!

Visitors can explore the town’s many shops, restaurants, and attractions, including a ninja training school, a samurai sword museum, and a theater that showcases traditional Japanese performing arts.

One of the highlights of Edo Wonderland is that you get the chance to dress up in period costumes and take part in various traditional activities, such as archery, calligraphy, and traditional crafts.

The park also hosts seasonal events, such as cherry blossom viewing in the spring and Halloween celebrations in the fall. It’s so much fun, especially if you love being whisked away to different time periods in an instant!

Edo Wonderland is about 150 kilometers (93 miles) north of Tokyo, which takes about two hours by train from Tokyo’s Asakusa Station. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Tokyo to Edo Wonderland, which takes about two and a half hours. The bus departs from Tokyo Station and stops at various locations in Nikko, including Edo Wonderland.

16. Tokyo SEA LIFE Park

Tokyo Sea Life Park is a unique theme park located in Tokyo, Japan, that offers visitors the chance to explore the fascinating world of marine life. The park is home to a wide range of sea creatures, from colorful tropical fish to majestic sharks and rays.

One of the highlights of Tokyo Sea Life Park is the massive aquarium tank, which is one of the largest in the world and houses a variety of marine life from around the globe. The park also offers various shows and performances featuring dolphins, sea lions, and other animals.

What Attractions & Rides Can You See At Tokyo Sea Life Park?

• Aqua Gallery: This massive aquarium tank is one of the largest in the world — definitely the main attraction here.
• Dolphin Stadium: Watch as trained dolphins perform acrobatic tricks and stunts in this large stadium.
• Sea Lion Pool: Sea lions show off their swimming and diving skills in this outdoor pool.
• Penguin Parade: Watch as a group of penguins waddle and swim around their habitat. In fact, their penguin exhibition has over 150 penguins to see!
• Touch Pool: Touch and interact with various sea creatures, such as starfish and sea cucumbers, in this hands-on exhibit.
• Jellyfish Ramble: This exhibit showcases the beauty and diversity of jellyfish, with various species on display in a colorful and mesmerizing exhibit.
• Coral Reef Tank: See a variety of colorful coral and fish species in this exhibit, which recreates a tropical coral reef environment.
• Underwater Tunnel: Offering a unique and immersive view of the marine life inside!

17. Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan (Yunibāsaru Sutajio Japan, ユニバーサル・スタジオ・ジャパン) is a theme park located in Osaka. While it may not be as close to Tokyo as the other items on this list, it deserves a mention for its exhilarating attractions!

Traveling from Tokyo Station will take 2h 59m by train, 9h 15m by bus, and 5h 30m by car to travel from Tokyo Station to Universal Studios Japan. You also have the option to fly from Tokyo Haneda (HND) to Osaka Itami (ITM), which will take you approximately 4 hours.

What Attractions & Rides Can You See At Universal Studios Japan?

This massive amusement park has eleven sections dedicated to different video games, movies, and fantasy universes!

Universal studios are famous for its exciting movie concepts like Jurassic park and for working on iconic video game characters like Mario from Super Mario. It’s the place for entire families with kids and offers a lot of attractions that will pique the interest of adults, too! You can expect to see the following:

• Hollywood – represents the Hollywood neighborhood in Los Angeles, with several roller coasters, live musical events, stores, cafés, and a 4-D theater.

• New York City – has a 3D dark ride of The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman and live-action shows of Terminator 2.

• San Fransisco – home to a special effects attraction based on the movie Backdraft.

• Minion Park – draws inspiration from the Despicable Me franchise, which includes computer-simulated rides.

• Jurassic Park –  has a thrilling coaster and water-based park.

• Amity Village – inspired by the movie Jaws, featuring a boat ride with special effects.
• Universal Wonderland – for families with children, which includes Hello Kitty’s Fashion Avenue, Sesame Street Fun Zone, and Snoopy Studios.

• Water World – based on the 1995 film Waterworld: A Live Sea War Spectacular and contains a live water stunt show.

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – a motion ride featuring segments of the books and movies, plus a junior coaster called Flight of the Hippogriff.

• Super Nintendo World – features themed restaurants, augmented reality (AR) rides, and a themed factory with purchasable merchandise.

• Seasonal Overlays – hosts seasonal events like Halloween Horror Nights and current-trend movie-themed rides, like Back to the Future rides with special effects.

• Western – a showcase of wild-west stunts.

• Land of Oz – inspired by the book series of L. Frank Baum’s Wizard of Oz features animal trick shows, live musicals, and an Oz-themed carousel.  

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As you can tell, Tokyo’s theme parks are packed with thrilling rides, live performances, and exciting attractions sure to satiate an adventurous spirit!

Some may appeal more to families with kids, while other wilder ones cater to adults and have extreme coasters that cause many to scream in fear and terror! No matter what you’re looking for, at least one of these Tokyo theme parks should be on your Japan itinerary!

Looking for more Japan travel tips? You may also like:

• Disney Tokyo vs. DisneySea: Which One Is Right For You?
• 18+ Best Attractions In Tokyo For Anime Lovers
• Best Of Tokyo: The Perfect 5 Days In Tokyo, Japan
• 2 Days In Tokyo, Japan: Best Things To Do
• Best Of Japan: The Perfect 2-Week Itinerary For First-Timers
• 10 Amazing Onsen Towns In Japan To Visit On Your Next Trip

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