My Tokyo DisneySea Experience

Tokyo DisneySea is very unique to Japan. In fact, it is the only amusement park of its calibre in the entire world. It takes inspiration from Disney characters, and it takes marine-themed entertainment to a whole new level. As an amusement park enthusiast, I knew I had to include this in my itinerary.

I grew up going to theme parks with my family during summer vacations. I would always think of it as a reward for all my hard work after a tough school year. I've been to some theme parks around the world, but the most memorable ones are Knotts Berry Farm (USA), Universal Studios (Osaka) and Hong Kong Disneyland.

During my previous trips to Japan, my family and I weren't able to visit Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea. I researched about both parks, which were under the Disney company, and it didn't take long for me to decide on which one I wanted to visit.

A picturesque view of the DisneySea harbor.

From what I knew, Tokyo DisneySea is akin to Japan's take on amusement parks. I was expecting a lot of locals in the park, and Japanese-inspired rides.

Before my Tokyo trip, I made sure that I bought a DisneySea ticket (Adult) online from the official website for 7000 Yen (66 USD). Klook was offering tickets at a discounted price, but when I checked its availability, the DisneySea tickets were sold out. The difference wasn't that much, though.

On my second day in Tokyo, I remember that I woke up really early (6 am) to prepare for my trip to Tokyo DisneySea. It was an hour away from my hotel, and it involved some train transfers as well. From Maihama station, I was able to ride the Resort Line to Tokyo DisneySea.

Iconic Mickey ears function as windows inside the Disney Resort Train.

I got a bit lost; I ended up in Tokyo Disneyland, but I was able to find my way after a few minutes of going in circles.

I was sooo excited. I couldn't contain my joy when I went inside the park. I literally fangirled over everything. Truly, visiting theme parks always brings out the child in me.

The first thing I saw when I went inside was this huge globe, like the one at Universal Studios. I'm very thankful for this kind Japanese student who took a photo of me here.

Even after a day of commuting, I was already losing weight!

And now, for the main attraction- the rides! I honestly had no plan on which ride to prioritize. I sort of just winged it when I got there.

The first ride I lined up for was The Tower of Terror. The line was very long, even though I arrived early at 10 am. I tried getting a fast pass, but the time slot I got was 4 pm-5 pm. Instead, I queued up and waited for two hours for the ride.

The line at the Tower of Terror. Good thing I brought a refillable water bottle and snacks while waiting in the queue.

Basically, the plot revolves around a museum of ancient relics where an evil force resides. The other details are quite sinister and haunting, and the ride itself was *intense*. I did not expect my backpack to be flying in mid-air. Hahaha. This ride is definitely not for the faint of heart.

The next ride I lined up for was the Nemo Searider ride. Many kids were lining up for this ride, so I figured that it would be milder than the first one.

The line outside the Nemo and Friends Searider.

I was not wrong. Although we were seated inside a theater with 3D glasses, the visuals and effects were stunning. Seeing as I grew up with Nemo, Marlin and Dory when I was young, the ride made me relive my childhood days.

I ate a late lunch afterwards. It was about 2 pm, and there were only stalls of cotton candy, popcorn and ice cream nearby. I wanted to eat a full meal, but when I looked at the menus of one of the restaurants, I balked at the prices.

A full meal inside a restaurant was 3000 Yen (USD 29) per person! My wallet was internally crying. Thankfully, I walked a bit to the medieval-looking castle flanked by a lot of old-era ships, and I saw a stall selling turkey legs for 800 Yen (8 USD).

There was a long line of people, so I had to wait a bit. My wallet thanked me for it. The turkey leg was delicious and sumptuous. I couldn't finish the one I bought, because the serving size was huge.

Smoked to perfection.

After lunch, I started queuing up for Journey to the Center of the Earth, one of the most anticipated rides in the park. As a sci-fi enthusiast, my heart leap with joy as I saw the signage and the intricate details inside the cave as I lined up for the ride.

I don't regret waiting for an hour. The details inside the waiting area were beautifully mesmerizing. I couldn't help but constantly fangirl.

One of the detailed exhibits inside the waiting area.

Captain Nemo's desk looks way more organized than mine.

The ride was amazing and awe-inspiring. I honestly don't think anything I write here will give justice to the feeling I felt during my time there. When you go to DisneySea, please make this ride a priority. You won't regret it!

When I went outside, I decided to take a break first and stroll around. I was surprised to run into Jasmine and the Genie who were having their pictures taken with families. I wanted to join the queue, but the park attendant told me that the line was filled and that I would have to wait for the next Jasmine and Genie encounter in the next hour.

Here's a picture I took of them from afar! I wonder where's Aladdin and Abu...

I walked a bit further until I reached Ariel's magnificent palace, which was right beside the Middle Eastern Agrabah Center, Aladdin's haven. Although not many people were taking pictures with it, I found it amazing and pretty.

All that's missing is for Ariel, Flounder and Sebastian to show up.

From Ariel's palace, I walked to Agrabah center and sat down beside a fountain. I saw a nearby dessert stall and decided to buy some ice cream.

The best selling desserts were the Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse fruit popsicles. But I wanted to try the sea salt and raspberry ice cream sandwich for 300 Yen (3 USD). It is an odd combination, I admit, but the flavors complemented each other. Who knew that sea salt would pair nicely with a fruit?

The ice cream was encased inside a pink seashell cover.

For the rest of the day, I took pictures and walked around. I also did a bit of shopping, but I made sure to stick to my budget of 1000 Yen or less for my miscellaneous expenses.

I bought a Nemo seagull folder for me and my sister. Remember the noisy seagulls in Nemo who kept saying, "Mine, mine, mine?" They were featured in exclusive Tokyo DisneySea merchandise, and I found them so adorable.

The seagull folders cost about 720 Yen (7 USD) in total. Not bad for limited edition merchandise.

I don't think one day is enough to explore the beautiful Tokyo DisneySea. I am very happy and proud to be able to experience the magic of Disney and relive my childhood.

This smol child is happy.

Given a chance, I would love to go back and experience it all over again.

Photo gallery