Visiting amusement parks is almost always a part of anyone’s travel itinerary. Whether you would like to go on a thrilling ride, see different animals up close, or simply have a leisurely walk in a park, we know just the place. Here are five fun and exciting amusement parks to visit while you are in Japan. 

 

1. Yomiuriland (Tokyo)

 

 

Looking for an amusement park that is easily accessible from central Tokyo? Then Yomiuriland is the place to be! 

 

Located in Inagi City, Tokyo, Yomiuriland has been open since 1964, offering 43 attractions that both adults and children will definitely enjoy. With an admission fee of 1,800 yen, you get to enter the park, enjoy fun activities, and even see a thousand cherry blossom trees in spring. Separate tickets are also available for those who want to enjoy thrilling rides.

 

One of this amusement park’s highlights is the Bandit, a terrain roller coaster that passes through trees. This ride will take you over cherry blossom treetops in spring. How cool is that?

 

Another thrilling activity to try is the Bungee Jump, said to be the only one available in Tokyo. With this, you will be able to experience jumping off a 22-meter-tall ramp.

 

In the evenings from autumn to spring, you can be sure of a bright night as the park begins Jewellumination, one of the largest winter illumination displays in Tokyo.

 

2. Yokohama Cosmoworld (Kanagawa)

 

 

Are you looking for an amusement park with free admission? Then you should head over to Yokohama Cosmoworld, which is located in the Minato Mirai district of Yokohama.

 

As entrance is free, visitors get to choose which specific attractions they would like to try. The amusement park is divided into three zones, namely Kids Carnival Zone, Burano Street Zone, and Wonder Amuse Zone.

 

As the name suggests, the Kids Carnival Zone is a place with child-friendly rides such as bumper cars and a merry-go-round. Meanwhile, bigger kids will enjoy the Burano Street Zone where there are thrilling rides, arcade games, and even a haunted mansion. The Wonder Amuse Zone has a large Ferris wheel and roller coaster rides, as well as a 3D theater and a virtual reality ride.

 

Aside from games and rides, a variety of snack stands are also available in the park.

 

3. Fuji-Q Highland (Yamanashi)

 

 

One of the most popular amusement parks in Japan, Fuji-Q Highland sits at the base of Mt. Fuji. The park has developed a reputation for its epic roller coaster rides, as well as its anime-themed attractions.

 

The park has four main roller coaster attractions that will definitely make you scream out loud. Two of which are the famous Fujiyama and Do-Dodonpa. Fujiyama - King of Coasters is said to surpass the height of a 20-story building, allowing you to see a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji once you have reached its summit. Meanwhile, you must hold tight when you ride Do-Dodonpa as it is said to be the speediest there, launching you with an acceleration of 180 kilometers per hour in just a matter of 1.56 seconds. Whew!

 

Likewise, children can also have fun in this place as there are many family-friendly attractions available such as Thomas Land, inspired by the animation Thomas and Friends, and Lisa and Gaspard Town, inspired by the French book of the same name.

 

Aside from the thrilling rides and other fun attractions, visitors do not need to worry about food for there are many restaurants around the place, even offering exclusive menus as well.

 

4. LEGOLAND Japan (Aichi)

 

 

The famous LEGOLAND is also in Japan! You can find it in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture. 

 

This outdoor theme park has eight areas, namely Factory, Bricktopia, Adventure, LEGO City, Knight’s Kingdom, Pirate Shore, Miniland, and LEGO Ninjago World, each having their own unique features. 

 

Factory is where you can purchase LEGOLAND Japan exclusive items, while Bricktopia is where visitors can play around and build using LEGO blocks. Adventure is where you can become part of the LEGO Divers Team and explore the “Lost Kingdom,” while children can earn a LEGO Driver’s License when they learn to drive at LEGO City. Kids can also imagine their own dragon tales at Knight’s Kingdom, and ride Anchors Away! at Pirate Shore. Now, if you would like to see the LEGO version of Japan, then you must not skip Miniland. Finally, be a ninja and ride Flying NINJAGO at LEGO Ninjago World.

 

5. Adventure World (Wakayama)

 

 

Are you an animal lover? Would you like to see adorable pandas and smart dolphins and sea lions? Then you should head over to Adventure World, located in Nishimuro, Wakayama. This place takes the definition of a theme park to the next level as it also has an area for pandas, wild land animals, and sea creatures. 

 

Tourists who come to Adventure World should not dare miss the chance to see the famous family of giant pandas. The park has a panda breeding center where people can see the adorable bears interact with each other. How cute is that?

 

Smart dolphins and sea lions will show you tricks when you come and watch them at Marine World. Meanwhile, you can also take a tour around Safari World onboard the Kenya Train and see a variety of land animals up close.

 

These are just a few activities that you can do at Adventure World. Surely, there are plenty more once you arrive, so be sure to maximize the opportunity and have fun!