When Chris noticed that there was a real need for more information in English on how to visit theme parks in Japan, he decided to do something about it! What was at first a personal blog where he could share his experiences visiting USJ in Osaka and the Tokyo Disney Resorts - to name a few - grew to become TDRExplorer, a go-to resource for theme park fans made by theme park fans! We talk to Chris about the humble beginnings of TDRExplorer, popcorn and top tips and tricks from a Japan theme-park veteran!
Hi Chris, thanks so much for joining us today. To kick things off, please tell us a little about yourself and TDRExplorer!
Hi! I’m Chris and I’m a Canadian who has been living in Japan for a decade. Initially, my plan was to be in Japan for one year on a Working Holiday Visa, but as you can see things didn’t go to plan. In a good way, of course. TDR Explorer began as an outlet for me to share my outings throughout Japan and its theme parks. Eventually, it took off into a hub for theme park fans wishing to visit!
The Cinderella castle at Tokyo Disneyland, one half of the Disney Resorts in Chiba prefecture; the other being Tokyo DisneySea
How did TDRExplorer grow into what it is today?
When I began TDRExplorer, I had no plans to grow it to what you see today. Organically, I noticed there was a need for information on how to visit the theme parks in Japan. At the time, there wasn’t much information in English, so I noticed the need and leaned into it! We’ve grown into not only a blog but offering guidebooks, podcasts, and a YouTube channel.
What was the thing that first got you into Japan? (Was it the theme park culture?)
As with a lot of people around my age, I first learned about Japan through anime as a child. If you grew up in Canada, you’re familiar with YTV, a children’s TV station. In the mid to early nineties shows like Dragon Ball Z, Sailor Moon, and Pokémon were part of my afternoon entertainment because it was vastly different to other cartoons at the time. Eventually, I learned that this style of cartoon was called anime and originated from Japan. That lead me down a path of reading more and becoming interested in Japan.
Your first experience with Japan was as an exchange student in Tochigi prefecture, right? Do you have any recommended things to do/see in Tochigi that travellers should consider making a day-trip from Tokyo out of?
Tochigi holds a special place in my heart. I have plenty of fond memories living there when i was only 18 years old in the early 00s. The most well-known destination in Tochigi is Nikko where you’ll see gorgeous temples, shrines, and where the Three wise monkeys originated. It makes for an forgettable day-trip. When you’re in the city of Utsunomiya stop inside one of the vast selection of gyoza (dumpling) restaurants in the city, as that’s what they’re famous for!
The temple at Lake Chuzenji (also known as the 'Sea of Happiness') in Nikko National Park, Tochigi prefecture
You’ve visited Tokyo Disneyland AND Sea, Universal Studios, the Ghibli Museum etc. multiple times and counting; is there any particular visit that stands out to you the most and why?
The one visit that stands out the most if Super Nintendo World inside Universal Studios Japan. I was incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to visit the new land before it opened to the public back in late 2020. I’ll never forget the first time I stepped foot and I was instantly transported back to being 5-years-old and getting my first Nintendo console. It’s a mixture of nostalgia and excited for something new yet familiar. A feeling I’ll never forget.
So, what’s the deal with all the popcorn at Tokyo Disneyland and Sea? Any wacky flavours that surprised you, either pleasantly or…not-so-pleasantly?
I’m not sure where the popcorn flavour varieties stemmed from exactly, but I’d say it has to do with the cultural aspect of “gentei” or “limited-time” where there’s always something new to try each time you visit. One flavour that I’m fond of and sad that it’s gone was the Jalapeno Cheese, I could have eaten that every day for the rest of my life. As for a flavour that’s still there and I get each time I visit is the honey flavour, it’s perfection on a kernel. One flavour that I avoided at all costs was the Garlic Shrimp, I’m just not a fan in the slightest. I have friends who swear by it but I’ll do everything I can to avoid it, haha.
What is your favourite season to visit a Japanese theme park?
My favourite is during the Halloween and fall season. The weather is comfortable with warm days and light jacket evenings and the fall foliage is a delight (which is often overlooked for the sakura season). I’m a huge horror fan, so the spooky season at the theme parks is an absolute must. Japan knows how to blend Halloween into something cute yet terrifying.
What would you say are the biggest mistakes people tend to make when visiting a Japanese amusement park, and therefore the main things to keep in mind when planning a trip?
Underestimating the crowds, even on a seemingly normal and benign weekend. Have your park tickets bought in advance and arrive at least one hour before the official opening time. These simple tips make your day that much easier as you’re able to ride a few major attractions before everyone else arrives later in the morning.
The Mermaid Lagoon at Tokyo DisneySea
Are there any similar but lesser-known attractions in Japan that you think theme-park and pop-culture fans should definitely check out?
Awaji island is a fantastic destination that’s not talked about enough. It’s an island in the Kansai area that has anime-themed attractions such Dragon Quest, Naruto, Godzilla, and Hello Kitty. Awaji Island is often overlooked and absolutely should be on your radar.
Known as the Godzilla Interception Operation Awaji, visitors can zipline right into the mouth of Godzilla at this amusment park on Awaji Island in Hyogo prefecture
Is there anything you and/or TDR Explorer have in store for the upcoming months that people should keep on their radars?
With tourism back in full swing, the team and I are working on a variety of video and additional guidebook projects that I’m excited to share with you all soon! I’m super excited to be able to help with everyone’s travel plans to Japan.
Thank you for talking with us!
To see more from Chris and get the latest scoop on Japan theme-parks, check out his Instagram, YouTube channel, Twitter or TikTok!
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