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Thrills and Wonders: Tokyo's Top 5 Must-Visit Amusement Parks

Thrills and Wonders: Tokyo's Top 5 Must-Visit Amusement Parks

Last updated: 29 January 2024

Tokyo, a city where tradition meets futurism, is home to some of the world's most exciting amusement parks. These parks offer more than just thrilling rides; they are a gateway to unforgettable experiences, blending adrenaline-pumping adventures with captivating thematic attractions.

Here, we spotlight five of Tokyo's top amusement parks, each presenting a unique mix of entertainment, wonder, and cultural flair. Ideal for roller coaster lovers, fantasy enthusiasts, or families seeking fun, these parks are not just destinations but doorways to extraordinary moments.

Tokyo Dome City Attractions: Sing on the Karaoke Ferris Wheel

Tokyo Dome City Attractions: Sing on the Karaoke Ferris Wheel

Tokyo Dome City attractions is a big, exciting amusement park in the heart of Japan’s capital. There’s no entrance fee and instead, you pay for every ride individually, making it a perfect spot to just hop by for a thrill and a selfie or two while sightseeing.

Within Tokyo Dome City Attractions lies a true “Only in Japan” kind of experience. Since August 2017, the “Big-O” Ferris wheel has eight gondolas equipped with karaoke machines! Be inspired by the beautiful view over Tokyo and sing your heart out on this exciting 15-minute ride!

Another attraction that is particularly popular at Tokyo Dome City is the Sky Flower. It’s a beautifully shaped gondola that rises you up to 60 meters height, allowing you to enjoy the scenery for a bit, then brings you back to the ground at a thrilling speed. We especially recommend going after the sun has set and lining up for gondolas 9 to 12, as they overlook the entirety of Tokyo Dome City!

Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (varies depending on season, day of the week, and event)
Closed: always open

Tokyo Joypolis: The Most Exciting Indoor Amusement Park You’ve Ever Seen

Tokyo Joypolis: The Most Exciting Indoor Amusement Park You’ve Ever Seen

No matter if it's raining, snowing, or too hot outside, Tokyo Joypolis indoor amusement park is sure to cure your boredom. Will you dare to try the thrilling rides and attractions?

“Halfpipe Tokyo” puts you on a snowboard-like ride that glides and rotates just like the real thing! If you’re a fan of horror, take your courage in both hands and enter the “Mystic Mansion,” a 3D attraction of the spookiest kind!

After all the thrills, scares, and excitement, head over to “Frame Café” and enjoy a million-dollar view over Odaiba and Tokyo’s famous Rainbow Bridge? The night view is so spectacular and perfect for every photo and selfie, we even recommend making use of Joypolis’ Night Passport Ticket from 5 PM on weekdays and 4 PM on weekends and national holidays.

Asakusa Hanayashiki: Feel Retro Nostalgia at Japan’s Oldest Amusement Park

Asakusa Hanayashiki: Feel Retro Nostalgia at Japan’s Oldest Amusement Park

Asakusa Hanayashiki is Japan's oldest amusement park, operating since 1853. Its history of over 160 years is a unique experience to take in, as the nostalgic atmosphere alone is worth a visit. Hanayashiki has a variety of attractions, including riding a mechanical panda bear, roller coasters, and other retro rides.

One of the most popular attractions at Hanayashiki is Japan's oldest roller coaster. Unlike modern roller coasters that feature insane speeds and loops, this long-established scream machine has a maximum speed of only 42 kilometers per hour, making it a great choice for those who do not want to handle the intense speed. However, for those who are thrill-seekers, this grandpa of attractions should not be underestimated. Despite its age, it still offers a fantastic experience steeped in history.

During autumn and winter, Hanayashiki amusement park transforms into Lumiyashiki after sunset. This is when the park is beautifully illuminated with colorful lights. You can check the schedule for the light-up on the park's official website. The light-up event takes place daily from 6 PM to 9 PM, making Hanayashiki a perfect spot to visit and unwind after a long day of sightseeing in Asakusa. You can take selfies or simply enjoy the romantic atmosphere.

  • Hanayashiki
    • Address 2-28-1, Asakusa, Taitou-ku, Tokyo, 111-0032
      View Map
    • Nearest Station Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Toei Asakusa Line / Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Skytree Line) / Tsukuba Express)
      3 minutes on foot
    • Phone Number 03-3842-8780

Yomiuriland: Scream Machine Galore

Yomiuriland: Scream Machine Galore

Yomiuriland is an amusement park that keeps drawing in Tokyoites and tourists with its two scream machines: Bandit, a roller coaster that hits a speed of 110 kilometers per hour, and MOMOnGA, Japan’s first standing loop coaster.

Next to these wild rides, Yomiuriland also offers a large number of kid-friendly attractions for all ages, so you and your family won’t have a hard time spending an entire day full of excitement and fun.

From October to April, Yomiuriland hosts the annual "Jewellumination" event where the entire park is illuminated in a variety of colors. The fountain show is one of the main attractions of the event, and this year, the "Sweets Area" is also a new addition. You can indulge in a variety of delicious desserts and treats while enjoying the fantastic illuminations at Yomiuriland. Don't forget to take a unique selfie to capture the moment!

Sanrio Puroland: Enjoy a Day with Hello Kitty & Friends

Sanrio Puroland: Enjoy a Day with Hello Kitty & Friends

Opened in 1990, Sanrio Puroland has become a beloved destination for fans of the globally famous Hello Kitty and other adorable Sanrio characters. This enchanting theme park is renowned for its delightful shows and parades, where these cute characters come to life. Perfect for both children and adults, Puroland's attractions are all indoors, providing a weather-proof day of fun. Additionally, the park frequently hosts special events such as birthday and anniversary parties, which require same-day reservations, and various seasonal celebrations.

Sanrio Puroland also houses one of the world's largest Sanrio shops, offering a treasure trove of exclusive merchandise. Visitors can find a wide array of unique items, including original Puroland goods and limited-edition products that are only available at this location. For international visitors, the convenience is enhanced with a duty-free counter located on the fourth floor, making it easy to take a piece of the magic home.

Namja Town: Japan's largest indoor theme park

Namja Town: Japan's largest indoor theme park

Namja Town, Japan's largest indoor theme park, is a unique destination where the weather never dampens the fun. This one-of-a-kind park is divided into three distinct areas, each offering its own unique attractions and experiences for the whole family. Dokkingamu Plaza features a charming European-style townscape, symbolized by a large gummi tree. For a nostalgic journey, Fukubukuro Nana-Chome Shopping Street recreates a Japanese townscape from around 1955. Meanwhile, Mononoke Bangaichi immerses visitors in a mysterious town teeming with ghosts.

In addition to its diverse attractions, Namja Town is a haven for food lovers. Located on Fukubukuro Nana-Chome Shopping Street, Namja Gyoza Stadium is a culinary hotspot offering an array of local gyoza from different regions. For those with a sweet tooth, Fukubukuro Dessert Side Street serves a variety of decorated desserts. And before leaving, don't miss the opportunity to visit the souvenir shop, where you can find original character goods and other unique items to remember your visit.

  • Namja Town
    • Address The second floor of the sunshine city world import Mart Building, 3, Higashiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, 170-0013
      View Map
    • Nearest Station Higashi-Ikebukuro Station (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
      3 minutes on foot
    • Phone Number 03-5950-0765

Written by Haruko Nemoto

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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