Hi everyone! Apologies for the being MIA for the last 8-month. I got a new job earlier in the year, which derailed a lot of our writing plans. But now I’m back and excited to share all our adventures with you. Over the past few months, we’ve actually been busy traveling to some incredible places: Hawaii, Cabo, Cancun, Southern California for Disneyland and Universal Studios, and even a short cruise! These trips have inspired me to dive back into blogging, continuing where we left off from our trip last year through Tokyo Disney Japan, Seoul South Korea, and Taipei Taiwan!
In the last post, we wrote about 3 Must Know Tips Before Staying at Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta! Let jump back where we left off with Top DisneySea rides for our kids that are 5 year old and under and/or vertically challenged.
Tokyo DisneySea is a treasure trove of magical experiences, even for our super petite kids. Here are some rides that our toddlers really enjoyed. PSA: this trip happened on November 2023, before the opening of the Fantasy Spring area. Therefore, we don’t have any advice on that area.
1. Toy Story Mania!: A Fun-Filled Carnival Adventure
Located in the American Waterfront, Toy Story Mania! is an interactive 4D ride where guests put on 3D glasses and compete in carnival-style shooting games alongside beloved Toy Story characters. The colorful, oversized toys and playful atmosphere make this attraction irresistible for kids.
- Why it’s great for kids: The interactive gameplay and familiar Toy Story characters are a big hit with young fans. The ride’s movements are smooth and manageable for little ones.
- Parent tip: This ride is similar if not exactly the same as the one at Disney California. However, this is still one of the most popular rides in the park. Be sure to head there early to minimize wait times. After entering the park, make a left all the way down American Waterfront! This was the 1st ride we got on and our kids loved it.
2. Aquatopia: A Splash of Fun and Whimsy
Aquatopia is a delightful water-based ride in Port Discovery, where guests glide through whimsical waterways in trackless hovercrafts. It’s an unpredictable yet gentle journey with twists, turns, and splashes.
- Why it’s great for kids: The slow pace and lack of a height requirement make it a fun and safe option for young children.
- Parent tip: After Toy Story Mania!, make your way up the pier to Port Discovery. There are two sides of the ride with two separate lines. The experience of the ride will be different depending on the side and the hovercraft that you get on. We went on this ride at least 4 times, and each time we experienced something different.
3. Nemo & Friends SeaRider: An Underwater Adventure for All Ages
Dive into the world of Finding Nemo and Finding Dory with Nemo & Friends SeaRider, an immersive simulator ride located in the Port Discovery area. Guests board a fish-shaped vehicle that “shrinks” to fish-size and embarks on an underwater journey alongside Nemo, Dory, and their friends. The ride is packed with gentle movements, vibrant visuals, and a storyline full of heartwarming fun.
- Why it’s great for kids: The movements are smooth and gentle, and the visuals are bright and engaging, making it perfect for young fans of the beloved Pixar movies.
- Parent tip: This ride is right next to Aquatopia, making it super easy to hop from one to the other. This ride did have a height requirement at minimum of 36 inches. My daughter was not able to ride, but my son did and he loved it. It can feel slightly enclosed and cramp, so do encourage your kids to focus on the familiar characters and the playful underwater adventure!
4. Jasmine’s Flying Carpets: Magic in the Sky
We looped around pass the Indiana Jones ride as our young ones were definitely not tall enough. In the Arabian Coast, Jasmine’s Flying Carpets invites families to soar on a magic carpet. We can control the height and tilt, making the ride interactive and exciting.
- Why it’s great for kids: The vibrant colors and gentle motion make it perfect for young riders.
- Parent tip: Remember the number that you are standing on while waiting to get on the ride. The number indicate the Carpet you will ride on when its your turn. Don’t be like us and go to a random Carpet! Hehe… Also use this ride as a fun photo opportunity for the whole family.
5. The Mermaid Lagoon: is a magical indoor and outdoor area inspired by The Little Mermaid
This was probably where we spend most of our day. It is right across from Arabian Coast, practically impossible to miss. Its beautifully themed land transports guests beneath the waves to King Triton’s undersea kingdom, complete with vibrant coral reefs, glowing seashells, and playful aquatic creatures. Its design is captivating for guests of all ages but is especially enchanting for younger children.
- Rides and Attractions:
- The Whirlpool: A spinning teacup-style ride with shell-shaped cars.
- Blowfish Balloon Race: A gentle, slow-moving “air race” that’s perfect for little ones.
- Scuttle’s Scooters: A bouncy ride that mimics riding a crustacean through the ocean.
- Interactive Play Areas:
- Ariel’s Playground: A hands-on play area with climbing structures, tunnels, and slides, where kids can explore hidden treasures and interact with undersea props.
- Toddler-Friendly Zones: There are quiet nooks for younger children to crawl and explore safely.
- Live Entertainment:
- Mermaid Lagoon Theater – King Triton’s Concert: A musical show featuring Ariel, Sebastian, and other beloved characters, with stunning puppetry and acrobatics.
6. The Whirlpool: Ariel’s Spinning Fun
The Whirlpool, located in Mermaid Lagoon, is a teacup-style ride where riders spin in shell-shaped vehicles. It’s whimsical and playful, with cheerful undersea music to accompany the experience.
- Why it’s great for kids: The ability to control how much your shell spins makes it adaptable for kids of different comfort levels.
- Parent tip: This can get pretty fast, even I was getting dizzy. For kids who prefer a calmer experience, keep the spinning minimal.
7. Blowfish Balloon Race: High-Flying Adventure
Also in Mermaid Lagoon, this colorful, slow-moving ride has guests “floating” in blowfish-shaped balloons as they rotate gently around a central pole.
- Why it’s great for kids: It’s vibrant, slow-paced, and perfectly safe for little ones.
- Parent tip: Lines here are usually shorter, making it a great filler attraction between bigger rides. This gives you good view of the entire lagoon.
7. Caravan Carousel: Arabian Nights Magic
This two-level carousel in the Arabian Coast features beautifully decorated horses, camels, and mythical creatures. It’s a classic carousel experience with a magical twist.
- Why it’s great for kids: It’s a timeless attraction that delights children of all ages.
- Parent tip: Opt for the upper level for added excitement and a unique view.
8. Mermaid Lagoon Theater – King Triton’s Concert
This live musical show brings Ariel’s underwater world to life with music, acrobatics, and puppetry. It’s an immersive experience that captivates kids and adults alike.
- Why it’s great for kids: Familiar songs and stunning visuals make it perfect for keeping young children entertained.
- Parent tip: Arrive early to ensure good seats, as the show is popular with families.
9. Ariel’s Playground: A Kid’s Wonderland
This interactive play area in Mermaid Lagoon is designed specifically for young children. It features slides, climbing structures, and themed sections inspired by Ariel’s world.
- Why it’s great for kids: It allows them to explore and play in a safe, engaging environment.
- Parent tip: This is an excellent spot to let kids burn off energy while parents take a breather.
10. Venetian Gondolas: A Romantic Calm Ride for Families
The Venetian Gondolas in the Mediterranean Harbor take guests on a tranquil journey through the park’s canals, complete with singing gondoliers and beautiful scenery.
- Why it’s great for kids: The gentle rocking motion and cheerful gondoliers make this a soothing yet fun experience.
- Parent tip: Perfect for family photos, but keep in mind that this ride may close during inclement weather.
Conclusion: A Magical Day for the Littlest Guests
We had great time at Tokyo DisneySea. It definitely a change of pace and attractions from the typical Disneyland theme park. They have something for everyone, including attractions that cater to the our little ones. From the colorful fun of Toy Story Mania! to the serene beauty of the Venetian Gondolas, each ride and attraction offers a unique way for our kids to experience the magic of Disney. We stayed at the Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta, which is the only Disney hotel in the world to be located inside their theme park. This made it super convenient to go back to the room to get some rest and return to the park at night to enjoy the night time shows, or do last minute rides without having to worry about taking the last train home.
I hope this offers some great tips for your trip planning to Tokyo DisneySea. We can’t wait to finish this series and tell you about all the other travels we have done this year!
