Tokyo Disney Parks Visitors: Maximize Your Experience With Key App Features

Understanding the New Access System at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea have made significant changes to their queue systems, moving away from the traditional FastPass system in favor of paid line-skipping options. While free paper FastPasses are no longer available, the parks now offer a digital alternative that can be accessed through the official Tokyo Disney Resort App. This change means visitors must download the app and link their park tickets to take full advantage of the new features.

One of the key features in the app is Disney Premier Access, which functions similarly to a paid FastPass. This service allows guests to gain one-time entry to select attractions at a fee. The cost varies depending on the ride's popularity, with the most sought-after attractions costing around 2,000 yen (about $13.60) and others priced at 1,500 yen (around $10.20). It’s important to note that you can only purchase Premier Access once you’ve entered the park gates, so planning ahead is essential.

For those looking to maximize their time at the park, arriving early and “rope dropping” the park can be beneficial. If you arrive later in the day, there's a higher chance that the Premier Access attractions you want may already be sold out. This strategy is particularly useful for popular rides like Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast, the Happy Ride with Baymax, and Splash Mountain at Tokyo Disneyland.

Premier Access at Tokyo Disneyland

At Tokyo Disneyland, Premier Access is currently available for three rides: Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast, the Happy Ride with Baymax, and Splash Mountain. These rides are unique to Tokyo and not found in other Disney parks. Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast is especially notable as it has never been seen anywhere else. The Happy Ride with Baymax is also unique but is more of a family-friendly attraction that may not appeal to all visitors.

In addition to rides, Premier Access is available for parades and shows at a cost of 2,500 yen ($17.00). However, this option can be hit-or-miss depending on how early you get into the park. Staying at an official resort hotel and using the Happy Entry guest benefit can provide an advantage by allowing access to the park 15 minutes before the general public.

Premier Access at Tokyo DisneySea

At Tokyo DisneySea, Premier Access is available for three of the four attractions in Fantasy Springs, the new expansion area that opened in June 2024. The app recommends prioritizing Anna and Elsa's Frozen Journey and Peter Pan's Never Land Adventure for Premier Access. Other attractions, such as Journey to the Center of the Earth, Soaring: Fantastic Flight, Tower of Terror, and Toy Story Mania, also offer Premier Access, with some differences from their U.S. counterparts.

Outside of Fantasy Springs, visitors can also use Premier Access for shows like Big Band Beat: A Special Treat, Dreams Take Flight, and the nighttime harbor spectacle, Believe! Sea of Dreams. These options provide additional flexibility for guests who want to enjoy the entertainment without waiting in long lines.

40th Anniversary Priority Pass

During the 40th anniversary celebration in 2023, Tokyo Disney Resort introduced a complimentary Priority Pass that functioned similarly to the old FastPass. Although the celebration has ended, this pass is still available and can be accessed through the app. It offers a one-hour return window for selected attractions, allowing guests to bypass the standby line.

The Priority Pass is available for several rides at both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, with some unique options like Monsters Inc. Ride & Go Seek and Pooh's Hunny Hunt at Tokyo Disneyland. At Tokyo DisneySea, Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull and Raging Spirits are recommended for Priority Pass usage.

Entry Request and Standby Pass

For those who miss the days of free FastPasses, there is an alternative called Entry Request, which functions like a lottery system for shows. Guests can attempt to win a seat for specific performances, offering a chance to attend without paying extra. Some shows allow first-come, first-served entry for the first performance of the day, which can be a good option if you don’t win the lottery.

Additionally, during the pandemic, Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea introduced virtual queues requiring a Standby Pass. Currently, only the Happy Ride with Baymax at Tokyo Disneyland requires a Standby Pass, while some gift shops at Tokyo DisneySea may also need one on crowded days.

Restaurant Reservations and Priority Seating

Dining at table-service restaurants is another aspect of the experience that can be enhanced through the app. Features like "Book Restaurant" and "Book Show Restaurant" allow guests to reserve Priority Seating up to a month in advance. Even if you miss the initial booking, checking the app after 9 a.m. can sometimes reveal last-minute cancellations.

Popular restaurants like the Blue Bayou and Magellan's offer Priority Seating, making it easier to secure a spot during peak times. By following these tips and utilizing the app effectively, visitors can enhance their experience at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea.