There are 4 Disneylands in Asia — Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disneyland. Each one has its own magic, from Japanese precision to Hong Kong charm and Shanghai’s futuristic flair. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan, there are clever tips and tricks that can save you hours in line and hundreds of dollars on hotels. This guide will show you what to do, what not to do, and when to book so your Disney trip stays fun, smooth, and stress-free.
Table of Contents
🎢 1. Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea (Japan)
Tokyo has two parks side by side — Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, and many fans say these are the best in the world.
Best time to go:
Avoid Japan’s Golden Week (late April to early May) and local school holidays. Spring (March–April) and late autumn (October–November) have the nicest weather and shorter queues.
Booking tip:
Hotel reservations for the official Disney hotels open around five months ahead, and they sell out fast, especially for DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta which sits inside the park. You can still find partner hotels in Urayasu area with free shuttle buses.
Do’s:
- Buy tickets online from the official site before arriving (they often sell out).
- Download the Tokyo Disney Resort App for wait times and digital entry.
- Try “Priority Access” (Japan’s version of Genie+).
Don’ts:
- Don’t expect to pay with cash only; Japan is cash-friendly, but the parks take card and Suica.
- Don’t skip DisneySea — it’s the only one of its kind worldwide.
Bonus tip:
Try the Alien Mochi and Sea Salt Ice Cream Monaka — both viral snacks from DisneySea!
🐭 2. Hong Kong Disneyland
Hong Kong Disneyland may be smaller, but it has its own charm, with fewer crowds and the new World of Frozen area that just opened.
Best time to go:
October to March offers cooler weather and fewer rain showers. Avoid Chinese New Year if you dislike heavy crowds.
Booking tip:
Official hotel bookings usually open six months ahead, but you can sometimes grab early deals on third-party sites like Klook or Expedia. The Disney Explorer’s Lodge is family-friendly and filled with tropical details.
Do’s:
- Bring your own refillable water bottle — water stations are everywhere.
- Watch the Momentous Nighttime Show; it’s one of the best Disney fireworks in Asia.
- Get the Disney Premier Access for popular rides like Frozen Ever After.
Don’ts:
- Don’t plan everything last minute — some rides require advance virtual queue booking.
- Don’t underestimate the heat in summer; hats and fans are a must.
Bonus tip:
Stay an extra night to explore Lantau Island — visit Big Buddha or shop at Citygate Outlets nearby.
🐉 3. Shanghai Disneyland (China)
Shanghai Disneyland is the newest of the four and home to the largest castle in the world — the Enchanted Storybook Castle. It’s also where you’ll find the Tron Lightcycle Power Run, now copied in Florida.
Best time to go:
April–June and September–October are ideal. Avoid public holidays like National Day (Oct 1–7).
Booking tip:
Hotels open about three to six months before travel. The official Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Toy Story Hotel offer park view rooms and character dining.
Do’s:
- Bring your passport — it’s required for ticket verification.
- Use the Shanghai Disney Resort App to check wait times and join virtual queues.
- Try local snacks like Donald Duck buns and Chinese BBQ skewers in Mickey Avenue.
Don’ts:
- Don’t assume all staff speak English; translation apps help a lot.
- Don’t buy tickets from unofficial resellers — use the official website or app.
Bonus tip:
Stay until night for the Ignite the Dream fireworks show — it lights up the castle beautifully.
🐢 4. Tokyo DisneySea (Japan) — Worth Its Own Mention
Though technically part of Tokyo Disney Resort, DisneySea deserves its own shout-out. It’s the most unique Disney park in the world, designed more for adults with themed cocktails, ocean-themed rides, and detailed ports of call like Venice, Arabia, and Mysterious Island.
Tips:
- Arrive early and head straight to Journey to the Center of the Earth or Soaring: Fantastic Flight.
- For couples, this park is more romantic — sunset by the Mediterranean Harbor is unbeatable.
🧳 General Tips for All 4 Disneylands in Asia
✅ What You Can Do:
- Book hotel + ticket packages early for extra perks.
- Download each park’s mobile app before arrival.
- Bring portable chargers — most rides allow you to use your phone in the queue.
- Use lockers to store big bags.
🚫 What You Shouldn’t Do:
- Don’t bring selfie sticks or large tripods — they’re banned in all parks.
- Don’t expect refunds for rain; most rides stay open.
- Don’t assume your ticket works for multiple parks — each one requires a separate purchase.
🏨 Hotel Booking Windows (Quick Summary)
| Disneyland | Hotel Booking Opens | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo Disneyland / DisneySea | ~5 months before | Check 2pm JST refresh time |
| Hong Kong Disneyland | ~6 months before | Often cheaper via Klook |
| Shanghai Disneyland | 3–6 months before | Use official app for promo |
| Tokyo Disney Partner Hotels | ~6 months before | Free shuttle buses available |
🎟️ Money-Saving Tricks
- Use multi-day passes if visiting both Tokyo parks.
- Compare rates on local booking apps (like Klook or Trip.com).
- Bring your own poncho or snacks to avoid high park prices.
- Watch for special seasonal events like Halloween or Spring Festival discounts.
✈️ Final Thoughts
Visiting all 4 Disneylands in Asia is a dream for many families — each park offers a different flavor of magic. From the elegance of Tokyo DisneySea to the family charm of Hong Kong Disneyland and the futuristic thrills of Shanghai, planning ahead makes all the difference. With these tips, you’ll spend less time queuing and more time smiling (and snacking on alien mochi).
💡 FAQ
Q1: Which Disneyland in Asia is best for kids?
Tokyo Disneyland and Hong Kong Disneyland are best for younger kids — rides are gentler and characters are more visible.
Q2: When is the cheapest time to visit Disneylands in Asia?
Between January and March (non-holiday months) when crowds are smaller and hotel prices drop.
Q3: Can I visit more than one Disneyland in Asia on one trip?
Yes, but plan at least two weeks if you’re visiting more than two parks. Japan + Hong Kong is the most convenient combination.
Q4: Do I need visas for visiting each park?
Singaporeans can visit Japan, Hong Kong, and China visa-free or with simple eVisas, but always double-check current rules.
