The Ultimate Guide For Visiting Tokyo DisneySea: Especially For First-Timers

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So you’re visiting Japan, and thought it would be cool to visit the super unique and never been done before Tokyo Disneysea theme park? However, you have no clue what to expect: are the Tokyo versions of the infamous original California Disneyland up to par? Is there even a comparison? Is it a total bust and a waste of money because Disney doesn’t actually own this theme park? Well, rest assured those are all valid questions, but Tokyo DisneySea is absolutely amazing!

Take it from us, we are die-hard Disney fans and love exploring the latest Disney theme parks and newest additions, so we do know a thing or two when it comes to getting that crucial amazing theme park feel but also catering to our nostalgic childhood memories and filling our tummies with yummy delicious food. Well if all of that rang true for you, then you’re in luck! Tokyo DisneySea nailed it on the crucial requirements to be a great theme park!

Plus, the added touches that the oriental land company added to the theme park actually make it more unique and in our opinion better than a duplicate copy because it’s not a direct stamp of the other Disney parks: California’s Disneyland or Walt Disney World Florida. I mean how boring would it be to literaly just visit a copy of the American versions? Right?? Totally boring! The whole point of travel is to experience new things and that follows true for theme parks!

Anywho, this post is all about the nitty-gritty details and tips you need to know before visiting Tokyo DisneySea! We made sure to cover tickets, how to get them, prices, how to get to Tokyo Disney resort, and a comprehensive review of Tokyo DisneySea that includes rides, food, desserts, drinks, and attractions!

The Ultimate Guide To Tokyo DisneySea

pirate ship in water at disney theme park

Disclaimer: The oriental land company owns and operates the Tokyo Disney resort and pays fees and licensing to the Disney company for the two Disney parks: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. The Walt Disney Company owns and trademarks the Disney logo, name, and products and designs of Disney theme parks but the oriental land company owns the actual parks. All Respective trademarks of Disney belong to the Walt Disney company. This post is based on our own personal opinion and experiences when visiting the Tokyo Disney Resort and is not to be confused with professional advice. Always follow local laws, and discuss with your health professional before drinking or riding severe rides. Also, keep in mind, that things are constantly changing at theme parks so the rides, prices, attractions, and food items can change at any moment.

Commonly Asked Questions for Tokyo DisneySea

Is Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea better?

This question is subjective and completely based on personal preference. Personally, in our opinion, we prefer DisneySea just because it’s unique and it’s the only one of its kind in existence. Plus, who doesn’t love the Venetian design and vibes of DisneySea? Tokyo DisneySea also seems to cater more to older kids and adults with faster more thrilling rides and attractions.

How many days do you need for Tokyo DisneySea?

When visiting Tokyo DisneySea we definitely recommend at least two days for this park. The most time-consuming aspect of visiting any Disney park is the ride queue wait times, which is especially true during peak times like summer and holidays. The reason we recommend two days is because you can plan to dedicate one full day to rides. Then the next day you can dedicate yourself to touring the park, exploring the park, watching shows, and most importantly enjoying the amazing food, drinks, and snacks.

Atlantis part of the theme park

How much does it cost to go to the popular theme park in Tokyo?

Overall Expenses for Visiting

Food cost: Roughly $100 a day per person if you’re trying various snacks, have two meals, and get drinks throughout the day.

Tokyo Hotel Cost: Estimate between spending $150-$600 per room and per night for a location close to the park

Transporation: Est ¥1600 or roughly $16 per person. This cost includes a roundtrip rail ticket from Tokyo station and a roundtrip Disney monorail.

Tokyo Disney Sea Tickets Cost

Single-day use tickets

1- Day Passport

-Enjoy Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea

– From park opening

– Purchase this ticket during the time period: January 1- June 26, September 1- December 31

  • Adults: ¥7900-¥ 9400
  • Juniors: ¥6600- ¥7800
  • Children: ¥4700- ¥5600
  • Seniors 65+: FREE
  • Children 3 and under: FREE

1-Day Passport Kids Summer Fun!

-Enjoy Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea

– From park opening

– Purchase this ticket during the time period: June 27- August 31

  • Adults: 7900- 9400
  • Juniors: 6600- 7800
  • Children: 2350- 2800
  • Seniors 65+: FREE
  • Children 3 and under: FREE

Fixed Date and Time Passport Options

Fixed Date and Time Passport

-Enjoy from 10:30 am

-Enjoy either Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea

-Purchase this ticket during the time period: January 1- June 26, September 1- December 31

  • Adults: ¥7900- ¥9400
  • Juniors: ¥6600- ¥7800
  • Children: ¥2350- ¥2800
  • Seniors 65+: FREE
  • Children 3 and under: FREE

Fixed Date and Time Passport Kids Summer Fun!

-Enjoy from 10:30 am

-Enjoy either Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea

-Purchase this ticket during the time period: June 27- August 31

  • Adults: ¥7900- ¥9400
  • Juniors: ¥6600- ¥7800
  • Children: ¥2350- ¥2800
  • Seniors 65+: FREE
  • Children 3 and under: FREE

Fixed Date and Time Passport

-Enjoy from 12 noon

-Enjoy either Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea

-Purchase this ticket during the time period: January 1- June 26, September 1- December 31

  • Adults: ¥6900- ¥8400
  • Juniors:¥ 5800- ¥7000
  • Children: ¥4100-¥ 5000
  • Seniors 65+: FREE
  • Children 3 and under: FREE

Fixed Date and Time Passport Kids Summer Fun!

-Enjoy from 12 noon

-Enjoy either Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea

-Purchase this ticket during the time period: June 27- August 31

  • Adults: ¥6900- ¥8400
  • Juniors: ¥5800- ¥7000
  • Children: ¥4100- ¥5000
  • Seniors 65+: FREE
  • Children 3 and under: FREE

Early Evening Passport

Enjoy from 3 pm

-Enjoy either Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea

-Purchase this ticket during the time period: September 3- December 31

  • Adults: ¥6500- ¥7400
  • Juniors: ¥5300- ¥6200
  • Children: ¥3800- ¥4400
  • Seniors 65+: FREE
  • Children 3 and under: FREE

Early Evening Passport Kids Summer Fun!

Enjoy from 3 pm

-Enjoy either Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea

-Purchase this ticket during the time period: July 9- August 28

  • Adults: ¥6500- ¥7400
  • Juniors: ¥5300- ¥6200
  • Children: ¥1900- ¥2200
  • Seniors 65+: FREE
  • Children 3 and under: FREE

Weeknight Passport

Enjoy from 5 pm

-Enjoy either Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea

-Enjoy on weekdays (excluding holidays)

  • Adults: ¥4500- ¥5400
  • Juniors: ¥4500- ¥5400
  • Children: ¥4500- ¥5400
  • Seniors 65+: FREE
  • Children 3 and under: FREE

Tickets for use along with a park ticket

-Enjoy early entry into Tokyo Disneyland up to one hour before park opening time

-Must have a valid ticket park ticket for Tokyo Disneyland to use along with this ticket

-Exclusively for Disney hotel guests

  • Adults: ¥3000
  • Juniors: ¥3000
  • Children: ¥3000

Tickets for guests with disabilities

1-Day Passport for guests with disabilities

-Must have applicable disability certificate

-Enjoy either Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea

-Enjoy from park opening time

  • Adults: ¥6500- ¥7400
  • Juniors: ¥5300- ¥6200
  • Children: ¥3800- ¥4400
Tokyo disneysea at night

Why is it called DisneySea?

This theme park was based on an undeveloped Disney theme park project meant to be built in California. The park is sea theme nautical with it being designed after Venice and with park area names such as Mermaid Lagoon, American Waterfront, and Lost River Delta for example.

Is Tokyo Disneyland different from DisneySea?

Yes! We like to compare Tokyo Disneyland to its American version of California Disneyland. The Tokyo Disneyland has features similar to the American versions such as a princess castle, similarly themed lands, and rides. However, the California version has much more jammed into space so more rides, and it’s the OG that can’t be beaten when it comes to that nostalgic feeling you get when visiting!

Now when we look at Tokyo DisneySea, this unique theme park is the only one that exists! Which is why we love Tokyo Disneysea! It’s based on Venice and incorporated various Disney elements into it while also tuning in Japanese favorites. (Hence why the Tokyo Disney resort is not actually majorly owned by Disney, thus they have room to make creative decisions that deter from the OG Park.)

Tokyo DisneySea vs Universal Studios Japan?

Honestly, both parks are amazing but if you’re planning on visiting something that is close to tokyo you’ll want to go to Disneysea or Disneyland. While if you are near Osaka then it makes sense to visit Universal Studios Japan. We are big fans of both but if you have kids then there are a ton of rides for them at Universal, while Disneysea is a good mix of both.

Is Tokyo DisneySea worth it?

Is that even a question? Of course, we recommend visiting Tokyo DisneySea if you’re already in Tokyo. However, planning a trip to Japan solely to visit a theme park is a little insane even for us die-hard Disney fans.

We recommend dedicating 85% of your available time to exploring the country and then reserving 15% for theme parks such as Tokyo Disney and Universal Studios in Osaka. Despite that, we did thoroughly enjoy the Tokyo version of the Disney theme parks they have to offer. Especially when comparing it to the European France version of Disneyland Paris.

Also, keep in mind, that perspective on worth is a matter of opinion, while we make it a requirement to visit theme parks when they are nearby. we also understand some do not value theme parks as much as others. So if you’re not usually impressed with roller coaster rides and prefer exploring the beautiful cities that Japan has to offer that we recommend forgoing the Tokyo Disney resort altogether.

mermaid lair at tokyo disneyresort with seashell lights, corral ride and more

How To Get Tickets For Tokyo DisneySea

Can I buy a Tokyo DisneySea ticket at the gate?

Yes, you can, however, during the pandemic buying park tickets for either Disney theme park has been suspended or severely limited. We heavily recommend buying your theme park tickets for Tokyo DisneySea online and it is super easy!

Plus, you can manage your trip and things to do when at the theme park if you download the Tokyo Disney app! Make sure to also research the best time to visit the Tokyo Disney resort if it’s your first visit because it can be a little overwhelming if you do not understand Japanese, although they do have a great number of English translations. It also can get severely packed with people, and the rides can take hours for the ride queue!

How to buy Tokyo DisneySea tickets

Tokyo Disney website: You can buy tickets after 2:00 pm on the day you plan on going but two months ahead of time for example if you plan on visiting on October 1st – you could buy your ticket on August 1st. Keep in mind tickets sell out quickly and they can be resold later without notice.

Tokyo Disney app: Download the Tokyo Disney Resort App: Thre you can purchase tickets with the same rules as the website listed above.

Convenience stores: You can get tickets for the park at any of the various convenience stores in Japan such as the popular worldwide 7/11. Also can try family mart a popular small store that offers groceries, convenience food, and other things.

Tokyo Disney hotels: If you’re staying at a Tokyo Disney hotel or partner, then you can buy tickets at the hotel fairly easily.

Tokyo Disney flagship store: The Huge Disney Flagship store located in Shinjuku, Tokyo also sells theme park tickets. Keep in mind you’ll need a reservation to visit this massive store.

How To Get To Tokyo Disney Sea

From Tokyo Station: Take the Keiyō line from Tokyo Station for 3 stops and get off at Maihama Station. Walk for a few minutes until you reach the Resort Gateway Station. From here take the Disney Resort Line to Tokyo DisneySea station. This trip will take roughly 40 minutes from Tokyo Station to Tokyo DisneySea station, this can change depending on crowds, weather, time of year, traffic ,and other factors.

Regular Ticket: Board only once on the resort line

Adults (junior high aged students and older): ¥260

Children (elementary school-aged children): ¥130

Free Ticket: Multiple boarding uses per day for a specified number of days

1-Day ticket

Adults (junior high aged students and older): ¥660

Children (elementary school-aged children): ¥330

2-Day ticket

Adults (junior high aged students and older): ¥850

Children (elementary school-aged children): ¥430

3-Day ticket

Adults (junior high aged students and older): ¥1200

Children (elementary school-aged children): ¥600

4-Day ticket

Adults (junior high aged students and older): ¥1500

Children (elementary school-aged children): ¥750

Also available are commuter passes and large group tickets. For further information on disability discounts, group discounts, bulk ticket purchases, and more detailed ticket information visit Tokyo Disney Resorts’ website.

20,000 leagues under the sea ride

Tokyo DisneySea Theme Park Overview

Tokyo DisneySea has hints of Venice, Mount Prometheus, Aladdin, the little mermaid and so much more built into its nautical based design. The park is split into seven themed areas: Mediterranean Harbor, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, Mysterious Island, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery, and American Waterfront. All of these “ports” and themed areas were built with 3 things in mind: overall nautical exploration theme, and adventure. Random, but make sure to save your Tokyo Disneysea map, they are hard to come by!

Within the park itself, there are roughly 29 attractions/rides and 5 shows/parades to experience. There are roughly 38 restaurants, wagons, dining areas, and drink stands within the park. There are about 35 shops and 5 character greeting opportunities within the park. There are also 5 Disney Resort Hotels near the park and about 19 other Disney-affiliated hotels nearby as well.

Below we will list our top 5 foods, drinks, desserts, rides ,and attractions. This is completely subjective and based off our personal preference and opinions. And just because we only listed 5 of each category doesn’t mean there aren’t loads more of these things that are equally as amazing. Also remember that every menu item, event, ride ,and attraction will not always be available as things are constantly changing.

Tokyo Disnesea view of Aladdin's bazar

Rides: Top 5 Rides at Tokyo DisneySea

Make sure to keep a Tokyo Disneysea map on you, the park is pretty big and confusing to navigate.

  • 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea- Located on the Mysterious Island
    • For this ride, you get to board a submarine vehicle and explore the depths of the ocean! The ride is based on the novel of the same name and is a very dark and loud attraction.
    • Guests under 7 years of age must be with someone 16 years or older to ride.
  • Indiana Jones: Adventure of the Crystal Skull- Located in the Lost River Delta
    • This dark thrill ride is personally one of our favorite all-time Disney rides. It’s super thrilling, high speed, and fills you with adrenaline.
    • For this ride, you’ll board a typical car-like vehicle. The ride is pretty dark, fast, and loud so be prepared!
    • Guests shorter than 117cm will not be able to ride.
    • Guests under 7 have to be with an adult or person 16 years of age or older.
  • Tower of Terror- Located on the American Waterfront
    • Okay, this ride we can literally ride all day. It’s loud, scary and gives you one of the best views in the park! The tower of terror is an abandoned new york hotel elevator drop ride!
    • For this ride, you’ll be sitting on an elevator type of vehicle and will be raised and dropped at high speeds. The ride’s inertia will even have your bags floating in the air so hold onto them!
    • Guests shorter than 117cm will not be able to ride.
    • Guests under the age of 7 will have to be with someone 16 years of age or older to ride.
  • Raging Spirits roller coaster- Located in the Lost River Delta
    • This ride is a high-speed roller coaster that even has you do a full 360 loop meaning you’ll be upside down for a split second.
    • Because you do loops on the roller coaster you will have to utilize the free 3- hour onsite storage lockers for your personal belongings or leave them with someone who isn’t riding so you can have fun! The ride is loud, high speed, and shaky so be prepared!
    • Guests shorter than 117 cm and taller than 195cm can not ride.
    • Guests under 7 must be with someone 16 or older to ride.
  • Journey to the Center of the Earth- Located on the Mysterious Island
    • The popular thrill ride journey to the center of the earth is a dark thrilling ride that takes you through caverns and through the inside of Mount Prometheus.
    • Guests shorter than 117 cm can not ride.
    • Guests under 7 years of age will need someone 16 years or older to ride with them.
20,000 leagues under the sea, Water ride at Tokyo Disney sea

Food: Top 5 Foods at Tokyo DisneySea

  • Curry with rice and naan
    • Available at Casbah Food Court in the Arabian Coast
    • This eatery offers different curries with rice and naan which are all super delicious.
  • Smoked Turkey Leg
    • Available at Refrescos in the Mediterranean Harbor.
    • Smoked Turkey Legs are a classic snack and are often so huge they can even be considered a meal. They’re also great for eating on the go.
  • Bacon and Egg burger Gratin with coleslaw and spicy harissa sauce
    • Available at the Dockside Diner on the American Waterfront.
    • This is a super tasty and spicy menu item so be careful! It consists of a burger, topped with egg, cheese, and a spicy sauce.
  • Seafood Pizza egg and salmon trout
    • Available at the Zambini Brothers Ristorante in the Mediterranean Harbor.
    • This is a seafood pizza topped with salmon trout, shrimp, and egg. Sounds weird but it’s a must try if you’re a seafood fan.
  • Pulled Pork Cheeseburger set
    • Available at Cape Cod Cook-Off on the American Waterfront.
    • This is a burger with a beef patty, BBQ-flavored pulled pork, sauce, and the usual lettuce and tomato. The pulled pork definitely makes it more than just a normal burger.

Drinks: Top 5 Drinks- Non-Alcoholic Drinks to try when visiting Tokyo DisneySea!

  • Matcha Tapioca Drink
    • Available at Dockside Diner in the American Waterfront AND Horizon Bay Restaurant in Port Discovery.
    • This is a delicious matcha-flavored drink with tapioca in it.
  • Sparkling Tapioca Tea Strawberry
    • Available at Hudson River Harvest in American Waterfront.
    • This refreshing drink is sparkling and filled with flavorful tapioca, perfect for a hot summer day!
  • Sparkling Tapioca Tea Mango
    • Available at the Lost River Cookhouse in the Lost River Delta
    • This mango-flavored drink is sparkling and has tapioca in it!
  • Coffee Tapiocarate
    • This drink is available at Mamma Biscotti’s Bakery in Mediterranean Harbor.
    • The perfect drink for those wanting a tasty mid-day pick-me-up. This is a creamy coffee drink with tapioca!
  • Sparkling Peach Drink Bean flower & cheese cream
    • Available at Vulcania Restaurant on the Mysterious Island
    • This is a Sparkling peach-flavored drink with bean flower and cheese cream. The fruity flavors combined with cheese cream seem to compliment each other perfectly.
Arabian open air bazaar- tokyo disneysea
Arabian open-air bazaar

Drinks: Top 5 Drinks- Alcoholic – Perfect if you love trying different mixed drinks!

*Must be over 21 to drink alcohol. Do Not Drink and Drive. Follow laws in the area. Do not overdrink, especially if going on rides. Follow the directions of your health professional.

  • Sparkling Cocktail- Orange Liqueur & frozen beads
    • Available at Cafe Portofino in Mediterranean Harbor.
    • This sparkling cocktail is flavored using an orange liqueur and is topped off with frozen flavorful beads.
  • Sparkling Cocktail- Sake & Orange
    • Available at the Dockside Diner on the American Waterfront.
    • This is a sparkling cocktail that is orange flavored and contains Japanese alcohol called sake.
  • Rum and Pineapple Cocktail
    • Available at the Nautilus Gallery in the Mysterious Island.
    • This is a delicious pineapple drink flavored with melon syrup and topped off with pineapple fruit
  • Sparkling Cocktail Rum & Pink grapefruit
    • Available at Refrescos in the Mediterranean Harbor.
    • This is a rum-based drink flavored with pink grapefruit and lemon syrup, topped off with crystal salt.
  • Sparkling Cocktail apricot liqueur & mango
    • Available at Vulcania Restaurant in the Mysterious Island.
    • This is a sparkling cocktail flavored with apricot liqueur and mango making it fruity and perfect for a refreshing adult drink.

Desserts: Top 5 Desserts at Tokyo DisneySea

  • Fondant chocolate-style churros
    • Available at Bayside Takeout in Port Discovery and Open Sesame in the Arabian Coast.
    • These chocolatey churros are a little pricier than regular potato churros and mickey churros but they are special churros! These churros aren’t just any churro, they have a hot chocolate fondant filling inside and are covered with sprinkles.
  • Mochi Little Green Man
    • Available at Expedition Eats in the Lost River Delta and Yucatan Base Camp Grill in the Lost River Delta.
    • These mochis are a nice cold treat for a hot day. They’re filled with different flavored custards such as Chocolate, Strawberry, and regular Vanilla Custard.
  • Mickeys Castella Cake strawberry
    • Available at Gondolier Snacks in the Mediterranean Harbor and Sebastian’s Calypso Kitchen in Mermaid Lagoon.
    • Okay, who doesn’t love themselves a nice fluffy Castella cake? To make things better it’s shaped like Mickey and is Strawberry flavored!
  • Peach and cheese cream donuts
    • Available at Mamma Biscotti’s Bakery in the Mediterranean Harbor.
    • This is a Mickey-shaped peach and cheese cream donut. It’s got a creamy white glaze on top and has a peachy, cheese cream filling inside.
  • Tipo torta Chocolate, Sweet Potato
    • Available at Miguel’s El Dorado Cantina in the Lost River Delta.
    • These are essentially flavor-filled pastries in a long stick form. The inside is filled with a sweet potato cream that complements the outer pastry shell perfectly.
Tower of terror in tokyo Disneysea at night
Tower of Terror at night

Attractions: Top 5 Attractions

  • Disney Light the Night
    • This is colorful fireworks show that literally lights up the night sky. The fireworks are accompanied by lights and Disney music.
  • Mickey & Friends Harbor Greeting “Time to Shine!”
    • Mickey and his friends will greet you from a boat to Disney music.
  • Jamboree Mickey! Let’s Dance!
    • A dance show where Mickey and friends dance along to music on stage where children can also join in and have fun!
  • Tokyo DisneySea 20th “Shining with You”
    • This is a live performance on stage where you celebrate the 20 years of Tokyo DisneySea.
  • Mickey & Friends’ Greeting Trails
    • Travel through the trails of the Lost River Delta Jungle where you’ll find Mickey and his friends at the end. Along the trails, you’ll get to explore and participate in fun activities along with meeting Mickey and friends and you’ll get to take a photo.

The End!

That wraps up our post on Tokyo DisneySea! We hope you enjoyed this guide and if you’re looking for other related Tokyo Disney posts then read some of the ones below! Happy Travels! ☺️

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