Japan is known for its quirky side, and we often view it with amusement or even curiosity when it encounters new trends, technologies, and other developments. Amusement parks and theme parks are no exception and also have their own unique characteristics, as we will see. While parks like Disney (Tokyo Disneyland and Sea) and Universal Studios Japan in Osaka are the most famous and frequented, Japan is full of unique, locally owned parks with distinct themes, especially theme parks.
Thus, we find more than a hundred parks of various sizes from the island of Hokkaido in the north to the prefecture of Okinawa in the far south.
Theme park Huis Ten Bosch
Located in Nagasaki Prefecture in the southwest of Japan, Huis Ten Bosch is a theme park inspired by European cities, particularly those of the Netherlands. It is the largest theme park in Japan, comparable in size to Monaco. The park features remarkably realistic replicas of buildings, streets, and parks from the Dutch capital. Visitors can stroll through the park's streets and discover formal French gardens, Venetian canals, Dutch windmills, and much more.
The park also offers roller coaster-type attractions, VR (Virtual Reality) experiences, water rides, children's rides, and bike or boat rides. In addition to the attractions, you'll find seasonal events such as fireworks and light and flower shows.
Amusement park Fuji-Q Highland
Fuji-Q Highland is an amusement park located in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture. It is best known for having some of the most thrilling roller coasters in Japan. Some of these coasters are recognized worldwide and even listed in the Guinness Book of Records for their height or speed. Another distinctive feature of the park, reflected in its name (Fuji), is its location relative to Mount Fuji. Therefore, no matter which ride you choose, you'll have an incredible view of the mountain.
Among the park's main attractions are:
«"Fujiyama" is one of the tallest and longest roller coasters in the world. It stands 79 meters high and is 2045 meters long.
«"Dodonpa" is one of the fastest roller coasters in the world. It has a top speed of 180 km/h and holds the world record for the fastest acceleration (0 to 180 km/h in 1.56 seconds) and the longest loop.
«"Ejanaika," which can be translated as "Why not?" or "It'll be alright!", is a four-dimensional roller coaster where the seats rotate 360 degrees. Don't miss it!
Bonus: You will also find in the park a recreated alley from the village of Konoha, a famous location from the Naruto manga.
Theme park Edo Wonderland
Located in Tochigi Prefecture, Edo Wonderland is a theme park that recreates Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868). Visitors can stroll through the park's streets dressed in traditional costumes and experience the buildings and lifestyles of the era. The park also offers ninja experiences, sword and martial arts demonstrations, and numerous other shows. You can even try your hand at shuriken throwing and Japanese archery. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of restaurants and shops selling traditional Japanese souvenirs.
Theme park Sanrio Puroland
Located in the suburbs of Tokyo, Sanrio Puroland is a theme park dedicated to the popular characters of the Sanrio company, with the famous Hello Kitty as its star attraction. Visitors can stroll through whimsical and kawaii settings (as only Japan knows how), meet Sanrio characters, watch live shows, and even eat dishes shaped like their favorite characters.
In addition to Hello Kitty, you'll find characters from Gudetama, the lazy egg we wouldn't want to eat, Cinamaroll, and Pompompurin. The park also offers attractions, including themed rides, colorful carousels, children's roller coasters, and a virtual reality room.
