Best Tokyo theme parks beyond Disney

Why look beyond Disney

The Tokyo Disney resort deservedly gets the headlines, but the greater Tokyo area is packed with parks that are cheaper, quieter and often better suited to a specific kid. On a longer stay, mixing in one or two of these breaks up the big-park fatigue nicely.

The right pick depends on your kids' ages and appetite for thrills. Check each park page for current ticket details.

For thrill-seekers

If you've got teens chasing adrenaline, Fuji-Q Highland is the one — home to some of Japan's most intense record-holding coasters, with Mount Fuji as a backdrop. It's a day trip west of the city.

Closer in, Yomiuriland blends coasters with a huge illumination season and the hands-on Goodjoba!! area, while Tokyo Dome City Attractions squeezes proper rides into the middle of the city, handy if you don't want a long day trip. Sagamiko Resort Pleasure Forest adds a more outdoorsy, adventure feel.

• Fuji-Q Highland — big coasters, teens and up.
• Yomiuriland — rides plus the Goodjoba!! making-things area.
• Tokyo Dome City Attractions — central and easy, no day trip needed.
• Sagamiko Resort Pleasure Forest — outdoor adventure and seasonal lights.

For younger kids and characters

Sanrio Puroland in Tama is an indoor wonderland of Hello Kitty, My Melody and Cinnamoroll — gentle, weatherproof and adored by little fans. For Harry Potter families, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo is a walk-through studio experience rather than a rides park, and it's genuinely superb, though best for kids who know the films.

Seibuen Amusement Park has a retro, nostalgic charm that works well for younger children, Asakusa Hanayashiki is Japan's oldest amusement park with a lovely old-fashioned feel, and Yokohama Cosmoworld — with its giant waterfront Ferris wheel — is an easy add-on to a Yokohama day.