10 Unique Theme Parks in Japan For Returning Travelers

Japan likes to wow its guests with unique attractions and activities, such as robot-themed restaurants and owl cafes. It's a country also noted for its natural beauty, which is why many tourists love hiking and camping in Japan.

But if you want to unleash your inner child, the theme parks in Japan will transport you to a world where your favorite characters and dreams come true. You can even add theme parks to your honeymoon in Japan itinerary if you're into fantastic shows and thrilling rides! 

You've got several options for Japanese amusement parks, especially if you're into the weird, unique, and in-between. Let me guide you through the wonderful and weird Japanese theme parks you cannot miss.

10 Best Theme Parks in Japan

You might wonder where to go next in Japan if you've been to Disneyland, DisneySea, and Universal Studios. Let me help you discover the top theme parks in Japan besides the mainstream ones to help you plan a trip to japan on Pilot!

10. Ghibli Park

Ghibli Park is the newest theme park in Japan, having just opened in 2022. But it's already a hit with anime-loving fans, even though it's unlike most theme parks because there are no rides here.

The anime theme park in Japan is designed to transport you into the world of the Ghibli movies. If you're a fan, you will want to experience this park! 

You can explore 3 areas within the park: Hill of Youth, Dondoko Forest, and Ghibli's Large Warehouse. You'll find faithful recreations of the scenes and characters from the Ghibli world, making it fully interactive and immersive. 

9. Sanrio Puroland

Located in Tokyo, Sanrio Puroland is a unique theme park for Hello Kitty-loving tourists. This theme park in Tokyo is dedicated to Hello Kitty and her friends, so be prepared to be spellbound by these adorable Sanrio characters!

It's an indoor theme park that's open all year round. While smaller than other theme parks on this list, you'll have enough attractions to enjoy for an entire day. The park consists of 4 floors, each offering themed rides, shows, and activities.

There are photo opportunities with Hello Kitty, an excellent souvenir from your trip to Tokyo. Be sure to experience the Sanrio Character Boat Ride as well! 

8. Hanayashiki

Hanayashiki theme park is located in Asakusa, Tokyo. It's Japan's oldest theme park, which dates back to the Edo period. The original theme park no longer exists, as it was rebuilt after World War II. 

This theme park' distinctive atmosphere transports you back to the 1950s. It has 19 attractions, including 3D and 4D theaters, roller coasters, and a haunted house. A one-hour ninja training is also available for those who are interested.  

7. Nagashima Spa Land

The Nagashima Spa Land is located just outside Nagoya. This amusement park in Japan houses a water park, a flower park, and a hot spring complex. It's also got the best roller coaster rides in western Japan!

You can choose from up to 40 rides, from relaxing to extreme. If you want to visit the water park, note that it's only open during summer. 

6. Edo Wonderland 

Travel back in time to 17th-century Japan when you visit Edo Wonderland. This one-of-a-kind tourist destination replicates an authentic Japanese village during the Edo period. Relive the history of Japan during this era and experience what life in Japan was like back then.

This unique theme park features water magic shows, ninjas, and more! You can even play the part and rent out costumes to dress up like the traditional Japanese during the Edo Period. A must-see when you visit this theme park is the 30-minute ninja battle at the Ninja Village! 

5. Huis Ten Bosch

The Huis Ten Bosch theme park in Nagasaki is a recreation of an authentic Dutch town. Unlike any other you'd find in Japan, you'll feel like you're in the Dutch countryside when you visit this theme park.

No need to travel outside of Japan to experience the beauty of the Netherlands. It features canals, windmills, and architectural features for which Dutch culture is known. You'll find 50 facilities within the park, making it well worth your money. 

The City of Flowers is one of the top attractions in this theme park. But don't skip the Kingdom of Light, which illuminates at night! 

4. Moomin Valley Park

The Moomin Valley Park in Saitama, Japan, is the first theme park with the Moomin theme located outside of Finland. Visit this park to be transported into the Moomin family's dream world. 

Your visit to the park starts with a lovely stroll through a Nordic-inspired village. Plenty of restaurants in the park serve Nordic treats, so you'll feel like you've traveled to the Moomin world. The park also boasts open and green spaces, making it an ideal park to visit if you want to escape the city. 

The Moomin House is the central attraction in the park, which also serves as an outdoor theater. Come to this area to watch performances or go on the house tour. The house tour has an added fee, but it's worth it! 

3. Tokyo Dome City

Tokyo Dome City is in Central Tokyo, and it opened in 1995. The park reopened in 2003 and is now part of the Tokyo Dome City entertainment complex, including a water park. The complex comprises the Tokyo Dome Hotel, a hot spring spa, and a few shopping and dining options. 

The Ferris Wheel and a roller coaster are the main attractions in this Japanese theme park. The Big-O Ferris Wheel is unique because it is centerless. Each ride takes about 15 minutes and offers excellent city views! 

Meanwhile, the Thunder Dolphin roller coaster goes for a top speed of 130 km per hour. Since the roller coaster is close to the buildings, it delivers an exhilarating experience, making you feel like you're running into the buildings!

2. Fuji Q Highland

The Fuji-Q Highland is another unique Japanese theme park known for its over-the-top thrilling rides. If that's your kind of theme park, book your ticket to Fuji Q Highland!

The theme park is built on the foot of Mt. Fuji, thus the name. It's home to the roller coaster with the fastest acceleration and the largest loop! If that's not enough, this roller coaster also holds the record for the sharpest falling angle.

There's also a haunted attraction in this theme park. The haunted hospital is a two-story building not for the faint of heart. 

Fuji-Q Highland is not for everyone, but it's a worthy stop if you're seeking more thrill and adventure.  

1. Nago Pineapple Park

Nago Pineapple Park tops my list of unique theme parks in Japan. It's located in Okinawa and is a must-visit for pineapple lovers!

The Nago Pineapple Park is a local attraction, a pineapple farm, and a theme park in one. Some of the notable activities in the park are riding the pineapple train, where you'll pass through pineapple fields. You can also learn about pineapple farming in Okinawa and explore the many greenhouses. 

As expected, the park also serves various pineapple-focused treats, such as pineapple shaved ice and soft-serve ice cream. If you're a fan of pineapple pizza, they serve that here, too!

Experience the Thrill of Japan With Pilot!

Unleash your imagination and realize your wildest dreams with these fun and exciting theme parks in Japan. Skip the popular attractions and avoid the long queues. You'll have an equally exciting time visiting these unique theme parks! 

Now that you know what Japan's theme parks offer, you can start to craft your ideal travel experience for you, your family, and your friends.