Japan’s five best can’t miss amusement parks to add to your trip

Calling Japan interesting might be one of the greatest understatements of all time. This island nation has a population of more than 124 million people in a space roughly the same size as the Eastern Seaboard of the United States with a rich culture dating back centuries.

Possibly the most surprising thing about Japan, outside of their national passion for baseball, is their obsession with amusement parks. There are more than one hundred spread across the country. And they can be as diverse as they are plentiful.

Sanrio Puroland

Japan has produced some of the greatest animated characters and universes of all time. That includes the work of Sanrio, the home of characters like Hello Kitty, Gudetama, and Aggretsuko. She is one angry red panda, so maybe give her some space at the amusement park.

Sanrio Puroland, aka Hello Kitty Land, is a massive park devoted to all of the company's characters. It opened in 1990 in Tokyo, offering rides, walkthrough attractions, parades, shops, and restaurants. This is an absolute must-stop for any fans of Sanrio characters.

Ghibli Park

Founded in 1985, Studio Ghibli has been responsible for some of the greatest animated films and TV series in the world. This has led to legions of fans and numerous award wins for the filmmakers. The company has won Golden Globes, BAFTAs, and Academy Awards.

The perfect place to celebrate this legendary studio is Ghibli Park in Nagakute. It's only been open since 2022 but it has a lot to offer. It features areas devoted to different films and characters. Do not miss Mononoke Village and keep your eyes open for Totoro.

Nago Pineapple Park

Okinawa is the smallest and least populated major island in Japan, not to mention one of the country's southernmost islands. It's a culturally magnificent place with a lot to explore, particularly if you are a huge fan of pineapples.

Nago Pineapple Park isn't the biggest amusement park in Japan but it's definitely one of the most unique. There isn't exactly much for rides, outside of an automated vehicle that helps you explore the grounds. But there's still a surprising amount of pineapple shenanigans to get up to.

Asakusa Hanayashiki

As previously mentioned, Japan is an incredibly old country with traditions that go back hundreds and hundreds of years. As such, it comes as no surprise that there would be an amusement park that's been around since the 1800s. Don't worry. It's been updated since then.

Asakusa Hanayashiki has numerous rides and attractions, most of which are directed at younger kids. It also has a few shops and restaurants to enjoy. If you're traveling with kids, or at least kids at heart, this can be a fun experience.

Hirakata Park

When it comes to eating big and having a good time, it's hard to beat Osaka. Honestly, eating and drinking is basically a sport in this city. It's definitely a work hard, play hard kind of place. That's why Hirakata Park should be part of the experience.

This park opened in 1910 and covers more than 40 acres. After going through some financial difficulties in the early 2000s, Hirakata has been going strong for the last 15 years. It features 45 rides and attractions, including two classic rollercoasters.