My entire Disney Parks upbringing began as a child in Walt Disney World. As I grew, so did Disney World. Later, I would become a Disneyland Annual Passholder for two decades. Disney Parks have always been my home, a place I rely on for escapism, self care and fun, lots of fun.

That said, we are being outright cheated in the U.S. What I saw in Tokyo was an example of Disney Magic executed to perfection. The domestic parks have been operating at status quo for quite some time. They have been relying on their most ardent supporters to absorb price increases and have done little to improve the parks, the attractions, or “gasp” the guest experience. Things that were once an “added bonus” are now additional costs tacked on to what, in my opinion, is a subpar Disney experience.

The true Magic of Disney exists in Tokyo. The Oriental Land Company spared no expense in catering to the purest of Disney fanatics. From the vast Merchandise, to the Mickey shaped food, and the absurdly detailed Popcorn Buckets, this place is doing Disney better than Disney!

Here are 5 Reasons Tokyo does Disney better:

1. Tokyo Disney tickets are about $70 a day, per park. Even without park hopping (currently unavailable) this is a deal for even two parks a day. (Which we did at least once.)
   
2. Food is priced BELOW expectations. You can get a decent size meal for about ten bucks! Plus there is Mickey shaped food EVERYWHERE!

3. Popcorn is superior in every way in Tokyo and the lines reinforce that notion. Sure there is traditional popcorn but there are also some pretty fun concoctions like Soy Sauce & Butter, Berry Cheesecake, and of course Cheddar Cheese. Not to mention the buckets are incredibly underpriced for the detail. Everywhere you turn is a different flavor Popcorn cart with a unique Popcorn Bucket for sale. Look closely, you may find your popcorn is shaped like a certain someone as well!

4. MERCHANDISE! You will find things here you would never find in the domestic parks. Country Bear chopsticks? Mickey sunglasses? Sure no one actually “needs” anything when it comes to frivolous park merchandise. That said, you will discover things you can’t say no to owning. Yes, I need a Fantasia toilet brush!

5. The rides and shows are beyond anything we have. The detail, precision, execution – The Beauty and the Beast ride is proof that we are missing out on a lot at WDW. There are three different Parades currently at Tokyo Disneyland, each day!

I love living in Disney World but it would be disingenuous to not express the reality of what I saw in Tokyo Disneyland. At home, the Disney Company is undeserving an experience and overcharging their most loyal guests. Perhaps it’s time to change this approach. You even get a 40th pass in Tokyo, which is a free “Lightning Lane” onto available attractions! It’s the little things that make a difference and these enhancements could go a long way at home. Sure Disney should implement these ideas but they know they don’t need to do anything.

So if you are thinking about splurging on that next big Disney vacation, consider Tokyo Disneyland. The parks are clean, efficient, and far more magical! With the right airfare it may even be cheaper! Don’t worry about the language barrier; just be patient, listen, and download the Google app to help you. (Cast Members also carry tiny translator devices.)

Of course, as always, I can help you BOOK your trip too!

SEE MORE PICTURES FROM MY TOKYO TRIP HERE