Art and Entertainment in Japan

When I told my Japanese friends that I was going to Tokyo, one of the first questions they asked was if I was going to Tokyo Disney. My speaking partner just can't get enough of the Disney characters, and constantly mentions that we should go sometime. She always gets so excited and talks about how she went a few years back and it was so much fun for her. Personally, I would rather spend time enjoying natural or historical wonders, rather than ones built by the Disney corporation, but when I went to visit my family they planned a day with Disney for my mom, cousin, and I. Although I was hesitant, I obliged and prepared for a day of long lines and foreigners. When I got there, I noticed a completely different atmosphere than what I am used to at Theme parks in America. The overwhelming majority of people there were Japanese, in fact I think I only saw three other gaijin there. The park itself was a very popular spot for what seemed to be young people going on dates. I am used to dinner and a movie, but I suppose in Japan they go straight to the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea attraction. Not only was there a large population of young people, but they were all sporting Disney fashion. Girls had on Mickey earmuffs, boys Mickey ears, and little kids had Disney everything. This Disney mania seems to be a very popular as a means of entertainment in Japan. Even here in Osaka, USJ is quite the popular spot, and many friends go several times per year. I think that overall, the accessibility and guaranteed enjoyment are what drive thousands of Japanese people to the theme parks every day.

Here is some more information about what Tokyo DisneySea has to offer: http://gojapan.about.com/cs/tokyoentertain/a/tokyodisneysea.htm