The theme park trade is experiencing a growth in new openings and expansions, such because the much-anticipated new space at Tokyo DisneySea. Despite rising costs and a development in direction of client financial savings, theme parks proceed to see rising gross sales. This report delves into the

The new “Fantasy Springs” space at Tokyo DisneySea, opened on June 6, recreates the worlds of Disney movies “Frozen,” “Tangled,” and “Peter Pan.” The growth, which took 5 years and an funding of about 320 billion yen, is the most important for the reason that park’s opening.

The focus is on creating an immersive expertise, which can also be evident within the sights.

In “Frozen Journey with Anna and Elsa,” a customer remarked, “Anna and Elsa seemed very lifelike. It was like a dream to see Elsa during ‘Let It Go.'”

The consideration to element extends to the environment, from the fortress to the pure parts.

Another customer famous, “The towers are faithfully recreated from the movies, enhancing the immersion.”

Director Yuka Shoga reported, “To the right are colorful buildings, and directly ahead is Arendelle Castle, accurately reflecting the movie world.”

Inside the fortress, the grand corridor the place Elsa’s coronation celebration was held is meticulously recreated.

Manabu Suzuki, Head of Fantasy Springs Opening Preparation at Oriental Land, said, “The natural elements, such as the rocky surfaces, waterfalls, and trees, are crucial to creating a realistic world. We worked hard to make it as authentic as possible.”

To enter this space, guests want a standby cross for sights, both free or paid, after coming into Tokyo DisneySea.

Why the Rush of New Openings?

The enlargement and new openings proceed to develop. Last yr, the Harry Potter expertise facility “Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter” opened on the former Toshimaen website. This yr, “Immersive Fort Tokyo” opened. Future plans embrace the addition of “Donkey Kong Country” at Universal Studios Japan and the opening of “Junglia” in Okinawa, a spot beforehand with out theme parks.

Despite rising costs, final yr’s amusement park and theme park gross sales hit an all-time excessive. So why is the theme park market thriving?

Professor Yuji Yamaguchi of Obirin University’s Business Management Department defined, “The per capita spending has significantly increased. The theme park market has always had latent demand, with people willing to spend money on their idols, such as ‘oshi activities,’ leading to substantial consumption, including accommodation.”

However, the scenario for smaller theme parks is more difficult, particularly in regional areas.

Huis Ten Bosch’s Strategy

Despite these challenges, Huis Ten Bosch in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture, which replicates a European townscape, noticed a 1.5 instances enhance in guests throughout this yr’s Golden Week in comparison with final yr.

A vacationer from Nagasaki stated, “I come here almost every month. It feels like being abroad.”

A customer from Yokohama famous, “It’s much larger than I expected and feels very authentic.”

Having confronted a number of monetary crises, Huis Ten Bosch returned to profitability for the primary time in three years in 2022, with a rise in home guests.

Kumiko Nonaka, Marketing Director at Huis Ten Bosch, stated, “We created a new brand, ‘Dreamy Otherworld,’ leveraging the original strengths of Huis Ten Bosch.”

Previously, the park’s enchantment was not absolutely conveyed. Last yr, they determined to rebrand. Utilizing the genuine buildings from its inception, the park enhanced its attraction by eradicating indicators that clashed with the European theme.

Nonaka defined, “There was a large map sign here. By removing it, we improved the scenery, making it more beautiful.”

In whole, they recognized 1,000 areas for enchancment. Recently, new sights and a brand new space with fountain exhibits and water play have been added.

Nonaka said, “We aim to enhance the beautiful townscape of Huis Ten Bosch and create an engaging environment.”

Host Commentary

Aya Takashima, Anchor: “The appeal of major theme parks is increasing, potentially boosting inbound tourism.”

Announcer Tomoki Itakura: “Theme parks are becoming key attractions. According to a survey by the Japan National Tourism Organization, theme parks were the second most popular reason for overseas travel after food. However, entrance fees for Tokyo Disney Resort and Universal Studios Japan can exceed 10,000 yen on peak days.”

Takashima: “Variable pricing is beneficial for users, though it may seem high compared to past prices of around 5,500 yen. This reflects the higher quality of entertainment.”

Journalist Hideo Yanagisawa: “For parents and grandparents, it’s worth loosening the purse strings to give children these magical experiences.”

Source: ANN