Japan’s 11 Best Theme Parks: Must Visit Amusement Parks 

Japan is not only the land of ancient temples, cherry blossoms, and sushi — it’s also home to some of the most imaginative and beautifully designed theme parks in the world. Whether you’re a die-hard anime fan, thrill-seeker, or a family looking for unforgettable memories, Japan’s theme parks offer something magical for every kind of traveler.

This definitive guide explores the best theme parks in Japan, including the must-visit attractions, travel tips, and insider recommendations to make your trip unforgettable.

11 Best Theme and Amusement Parks in Japan

From thrilling roller coasters to enchanting anime-themed worlds, theme parks in Japan offer an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and creativity. Whether you’re a fan of high-speed rides, immersive storytelling, or kawaii character experiences, Japan has something for every type of traveler. From globally acclaimed destinations like Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan to uniquely Japanese spots like Fuji-Q Highland and Sanrio Puroland, these parks are designed to impress. In this guide, we’ll take you through the 11 best theme and amusement parks in Japan, helping you plan your next fun-filled journey through some of the country’s most iconic and entertaining attractions.

#1. Tokyo Disneyland

The first Disney Park inaugurated outside the United States, Tokyo Disneyland is the king of Tokyo theme parks.

It houses 7 “lands” themed after Disney films and characters.

Main Attractions:

• Adventureland (Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean)
• Tomorrowland (attractions based on Star Wars and Big Hero 6)
• Toontown (Mickey Mouse and his friends)
• Fantasyland (includes rides based on Cinderella, Peter Pan, Beauty and the Beast and MORE)
• Critter Country (features the log-flume ride Splash Mountain)
• The World Bazaar (the main shopping area)
• Westernland (based on the American frontier and home to Big Thunder Mountain)

As in other Disney Parks around the world, the Tokyo site also features regular parades and spectacular fireworks shows.

How to get there: Use your JR Pass to travel from Tokyo Station to Maihama Station, on the JR Keiyo line. Travel time is 20 minutes and the park is a mere 5-minute walk from the station.

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#2. Tokyo DisneySea

Located in Tokyo Disney Resort, this waterside park contains 7 different “ports of call” themed after locations around the world:

• The American Waterfront captures the mystique of 20th-century harbor towns and boasts a Titanic-like steamship.
• Port Discovery is described as “the marina of the future,” with experimental watercraft available for use.
• The Lost River Delta mirrors ruins in the jungles of Central America, complete with Indiana Jones adventures.
• The Arabian Coast captures the adventures of heroic characters such as Sinbad and Aladdin.
• The Mermaid Lagoon, geared toward a younger audience, transports visitors to Ariel’s underwater world.
• The Mysterious Island brings to life the imagination of Jules Verne with a ride based on Journey to the Center of the Earth.
• The Mediterranean Harbor is modeled after the canals of Venice, Italy.

What’s more, Tokyo DisneySea is also home to several other iconic attractions such as The Tower of Terror, Toy Story Mania!, and the Nemo & Friends SeaRider.

How to get there: DisneySea is a 20-minute walk from Maihama Station, or you can take the Disney Resort Monorail from Maihama to Tokyo Disney Sea Station.

#3. Universal Studios Japan (Osaka)

The second-most visited theme park in Japan, Universal Studios Japan welcomes approximately 8 million visitors every year.

The park features a huge number of rides and attractions based on popular films and franchises, including:

• Despicable Me
• Jaws
• Jurassic Park
• Sing
• Waterworld
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The park also recently opened a Super Nintendo World area with rides including Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge. There’s also a Yoshi’s Adventures attraction aimed at the youngest guests.

How to get there: From Osaka Station, take the Osaka loop line to Universal City Station. From Nishikujo Station, you can also take the JR Sakurajima line (also called Yumesaki line). The park is a 5-minute walk from the station.

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#4. Fuji Q Highland

Whether you’re seeking the rush of a roller coaster or the charm of childhood favorites, Fuji-Q Highland delivers an exhilarating experience.

Nestled at the base of the iconic Mount Fuji, Fuji-Q Highland is a haven for adrenaline junkies and anime enthusiasts alike.

This park is famed for its 6 record-breaking roller coasters and anime-themed attractions.

Main Attractions:

• Fujiyama: Once the world’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, it continues to thrill visitors.
• Eejanaika: A 4D coaster with the most inversions of any roller coaster.
• Takabisha: Known for its steep 121° drop, it was formerly the steepest roller coaster in the world.
• Zokkon: Twisting and turning roller coaster with cars designed like motorbikes.
• The Haunted Hospital: The world’s largest haunted attraction.
• Thomas Land: A delightful area for younger guests, featuring train rides and shows based on the beloved Thomas the Tank Engine.
• Anime Attractions: Various rides and attractions themed around popular anime series.

Enjoy the thrills with stunning views of Japan’s most famous mountain and the surrounding Five Lakes Region.

How to get there: From Tokyo, take the Chuo Line-Limited Express to Otsuki Station. Then, take the Fujikyu Railway Line to Fujikyu Highland Station.

#5. Nagashima Resort

Roller coasters? Check.
Water park? Check.
Hot spring spa? Check.

It could only be the Nagashima Resort. Located just outside Nagoya, this expansive leisure destination caters to all. Whether you’re traveling alone or as a family, this resort offers a variety of attractions suitable for all ages.

Main Attractions:

• Nagashima Spaland: Home to the Steel Dragon 2000, one of the longest roller coasters in the world, and 40+ other thrill rides like the Acrobat and Arashi.
  
• Joyful Waterpark: A summer favorite featuring numerous pools and slides, perfect for cooling off in the heat.
  
• Yuami no Shima Onsen: This hot spring complex provides a tranquil experience with multiple indoor and outdoor baths, themed around different scenic views of Japan.
  
• Nabana no Sato: Renowned for its seasonal flower displays and spectacular winter illuminations, offering a more relaxed pace with breathtaking views.
  
• Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima: A large outdoor shopping mall with a wide range of international and local brands — ideal for some retail therapy.
  

How to get there: Travel from Nagoya to Kuwana Station on the JR Kansai line. Then take a bus to the park itself. Buses run 2–3 times per hour.

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#6. Legoland Japan (Nagoya)

The Legoland Japan Park opened in April 2017, and features over 40 rides and attractions, as well as 10,000 Lego models constructed from 17 million bricks, inspired by the Danish toy company.

Main Attractions:

• Bricktopia: Interactive attractions, including Lego robot-building and DUPLO Play.
• Observation Tower: Get a 360° view of the park from 60 meters in the air.
• Miniland: Japanese cities and landmarks built from Lego pieces.
• Ninjago World: An area of the park based on Lego’s “Ninjago” line. It includes rides such as the Flying Ninjago rollercoaster.
• Knight’s Kingdom: A medieval-themed area with the famous Dragon rollercoaster.
• The Factory: Souvenirs, shops, restaurants, and a museum telling the story of Lego, with machines that make Lego pieces.

How to get there: Take the Aonami Line from Nagoya Station to Kinjo Futo Station, then take the pedestrian walkway to the park. Travel time is around 30 minutes (10 stops).

#7. Rusutsu Resort (Hokkaido)

The Rusutsu Resort covers 3 mountains on the island of Hokkaido. It’s very well regarded among Japanese tourists.

Enjoy outdoor activities for the entire family, including:

• Ski slopes
• Water park
• Roller coasters
• Golf courses

How to get there: From Tokyo, take the Tohoku/Hokkaido Shinkansen to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto. Transfer to the Hokuto limited express to Sapporo. From Sapporo, shuttle buses will take you to the resort.

#8. Meiji Mura

Meiji Mura is an open air village museum which has preserved more than 60 historic buildings from around Japan.

Each building has been moved from its original location and carefully reconstructed here.

The village showcases buildings from 3 major periods of Japanese history:

• Meiji (1867–1912)
• Taishō (1912–1926)
• Early Shōwa (1926–1945)

Main Attractions:

• The main entrance and lobby of Tokyo’s old Imperial Hotel, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright
• Cabinet Library of Tokyo Imperial Palace
• “Kikunoyo” Brewery
• The former Kanazawa Prison
• The Sapporo Telephone Exchange
• Mie Prefectural Office
• St. John’s Church from Kyoto
• St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral
• Kureha-za Theater

This is a fantastic place if you’re looking for an insight into Japanese history and architecture.

There are also cafés, candy stores, and traditional game stalls.

How to get there: This park is located in Inuyama, about an hour from Nagoya. Take the Meitetsu Inuyama Line from Nagoya Station to Inuyama Station. You will then take a bus.

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#9. Toei Kyoto Studio Park (Toei Uzumasa Eigamura)

Japan’s Toei Kyoto Studio Park

Also known as “Movie Land,” this theme park is also used as a movie set for historical films and television shows. You might even see filming in progress when you visit!

Watch ninja performances, dress as a samurai, ninja, or geisha, and test your skills in a ninja maze.

Main Attractions:

• Evangelion Kyoto Base: Interactive attraction based on the Evangelion anime.
• Transformation Experience: Dress up in Edo-period costumes
• “The Cursed Doll”: Described as “the most terrifying Haunted House in history”
• Ninja Fort Maze: A 3-storey wooden indoor maze and obstacle course.
• Ninja Climbing: Colorful and unique climbing walls to ascend with a harness.
• Ninja Mystery House: Fun interactive walk-through attraction with revolving doors and hidden passages
• Ninja Shuriken Dojo: Learn how to use throwing stars (shuriken) and hit targets.

See the Toei Kyoto Studio Park site for more details.

How to get there: From Kyoto Station, travel to Hanazono Station. The park is a 15-minute walk from the station.

#10. Nikko Edomura (Edo Wonderland)

This popular attraction north of Nikko is a history theme park depicting the Edo Period (1603–1868).

Staff and guests dress in period costume.

Main Attractions:

• Traditional theater performances: Plays, ninja, and oiran shows
• Outdoor live shows: Open-air performances and events, including parades and festivals
• Henshin Costume House: Dress in Edo period costumes
• Edo Wonderland Studio: Film studios used for historical films and TV dramas

See the Edo Wonderland site for more information.

How to get there: From Tokyo Shinjuku, Ikebukuro or Omiya Stations, take the direct express Kingawa-go or Spacia Kinugawa-go to Kinugawa-Onsen Station. Travel time is 2 hours, although these trains are not covered by the JR Pass. Alternatively, from Kinugawa Onsen Station, take the Tobu bus to Edo Wonderland.

#11. Asakusa Hanayashiki

Asakusa Hanayashiki, the oldest theme park in Japan.

Asakusa Hanayashiki holds the title of Japan’s oldest amusement park, delighting visitors since 1853 in the heart of Tokyo.

This compact park blends historic charm and modern excitement, all within a stone’s throw of the famous Sensoji Temple.

The top attractions include:

• Japan’s oldest roller coaster
• The iconic Panda Car
• Haunted House attraction
• The Disk-O ride
• Sky Ship
• Live performances at the Asakusa Hana Gekijyou theater

For a family-friendly day out that captures the essence of historical Tokyo while providing contemporary fun, Asakusa Hanayashiki is a must-visit.

How to get there: Take the Yamanote line to Ueno Station, then transfer to the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line. Asakusa Hanayashiki is just a 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station.

This all-in-one travel guide to Japan covers transport tips, language basics, and sightseeing advice for a smooth journey.

Planning Tips for Visiting Theme Parks in Japan

Visiting theme parks in Japan can be an unforgettable experience, but a little planning goes a long way in making your trip smooth and enjoyable. First, always check the official website of the theme park for the latest updates on operating hours, ticket prices, ride maintenance, and seasonal events. It’s wise to purchase tickets online in advance, especially during weekends, holidays, or peak seasons like Golden Week and cherry blossom season. 

• Buy Tickets in Advance: Many popular parks like USJ and Disney sell out fast, especially during holidays and weekends.
  
• Use a JR Pass or IC Card: Trains are the most efficient way to reach most theme parks across Japan.
  
• Download the Official Park Apps: They help with maps, wait times, ride closures, and mobile food orders.
  
• Avoid National Holidays: Theme parks can get extremely crowded during Golden Week, Obon, and New Year.
  

FAQs: Japan Theme Parks and Scenic Attractions

1. Which Japan theme park is best?
The “best” theme park in Japan depends on your interests. Universal Studios Japan (Osaka) is a favorite for movie and anime lovers with attractions like Super Nintendo World and Harry Potter World. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea offer a magical Disney experience and are often ranked among the best theme parks globally, with DisneySea being especially popular for its unique nautical theme and adult-friendly atmosphere.

2. What is Japan’s biggest theme park?
Tokyo Disney Resort, which includes Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, is the largest theme park complex in Japan. Spanning over 200 hectares, it’s packed with rides, entertainment, themed lands, and hotels, attracting millions of visitors annually.

3. What is the most visited theme park in Japan?
Tokyo Disneyland holds the record as the most visited theme park in Japan. It consistently ranks among the top theme parks in the world in terms of annual attendance, with Tokyo DisneySea also close behind.

4. What is the most popular park in Japan?
In terms of general parks, Ueno Park in Tokyo is one of the most popular due to its museums, zoo, and cherry blossoms. For theme parks, Tokyo Disney Resort is the most popular, both domestically and internationally.

5. What are the top 3 most scenic places in Japan?
Japan is filled with breathtaking sights, but three of the most iconic scenic spots are:

• Mount Fuji – Japan’s most famous natural landmark, best viewed from Lake Kawaguchi or Hakone.
  
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Kyoto) – A serene, photogenic forest of towering bamboo stalks.
  
• Miyajima Island (Hiroshima) – Home to the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine and stunning ocean views.

6. What is a famous park in Tokyo?
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of Tokyo’s most famous parks. It combines traditional Japanese, French, and English garden styles and is especially popular during cherry blossom season.

7. What is the coolest national park in Japan?
Nikko National Park in Tochigi is often considered one of the coolest national parks, offering a combination of historical temples, scenic mountains, waterfalls (like Kegon Falls), and lakes (like Lake Chuzenji). Another contender is Shiretoko National Park in Hokkaido, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its untouched wilderness and wildlife.

8. Does Tokyo have any theme parks?
Yes, Tokyo is home to several theme parks. While Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are technically located in Chiba, they are easily accessible from central Tokyo. Within Tokyo itself, Asakusa Hanayashiki is Japan’s oldest amusement park, offering nostalgic charm in the heart of the city.

9. Where to see sakura in Tokyo?
Top cherry blossom (sakura) viewing spots in Tokyo include:

• Ueno Park – Over 1,000 cherry trees line its main pathways.
• Chidorigafuchi – A picturesque moat filled with fallen petals, near the Imperial Palace.
• Shinjuku Gyoen – Beautiful variety of cherry trees with a peaceful garden atmosphere.
• Meguro River – Cherry trees line both sides of the river, creating a tunnel of blossoms.

Final Thoughts

From the magic of Disney and movie thrills of USJ to anime-themed forests and roller coaster capitals, Japan’s theme parks blend fantasy, culture, and technology like no other country. Whether you’re exploring as a family, a group of friends, or a solo traveler, there’s a world of fun waiting for you in every corner of the country.

So pack your camera, grab your tickets, and get ready to unlock the fantasy worlds that Japan’s best theme parks have to offer.