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Yomiuriland

Yomiuriland Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Tokyo Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Yomiuriland is one of Tokyo’s premier amusement parks, renowned for its dynamic mix of thrilling rides, immersive cultural attractions, and spectacular seasonal events. Established in 1964 atop the scenic Tama Hills by the Yomiuri Group, Yomiuriland was envisioned as a leisure retreat combining Western-style amusement with the warmth of Japanese hospitality. Its proximity to central Tokyo and Kawasaki ensures both convenience and popularity, drawing crowds year-round to its ever-evolving attractions.

This comprehensive guide details Yomiuriland’s history, visiting hours, ticketing, transportation, major attractions, seasonal highlights, and practical tips, as well as nearby cultural sites, to help you plan an unforgettable visit.

Introduction to Yomiuriland: History and Cultural Significance
Historical Background and Development
Visiting Yomiuriland: Practical Information
Top Attractions and Experiences
Seasonal Highlights and Events
Dining, Shopping, and Facilities
Photography and Guided Tours
Tips for Families and Groups
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Introduction to Yomiuriland: History and Cultural Significance

Yomiuriland stands as a testament to Japan’s postwar leisure culture and modernization. Opened in 1964, it was designed to provide Tokyo’s expanding suburban population with a space for recreation and entertainment, blending innovative amusement park rides with Japanese seasonal celebrations. Over the decades, Yomiuriland has become a cultural landmark, famed for its cherry blossom hanami in spring and massive Jewellumination event in winter (MATCHA; JW Web Magazine).

The park’s ongoing evolution reflects both Western amusement trends and deep-rooted Japanese values, notably “omotenashi,” or hospitality. Its layout, event schedule, and themed areas such as “Goodjoba!!” highlight Japan’s craftsmanship and spirit of innovation, making Yomiuriland a destination that bridges entertainment with cultural education.

Historical Background and Development

Origins and Growth
Yomiuriland was founded by the Yomiuri Group to meet the recreational needs of Tokyo’s growing suburbs. The park’s original attractions included classic rides like a Ferris wheel and merry-go-round, offering families a taste of Western amusement culture within a Japanese context (Kanpai Japan). Its location atop the Tama Hills was chosen for both scenic beauty and accessibility.

Expansion and Modernization
As demand grew, Yomiuriland expanded its repertoire with high-speed roller coasters like the iconic “Bandit,” interactive experiences such as “Goodjoba!!,” and one of Tokyo’s largest summer water parks, Pool WAI (Just About Japan). The park’s dedication to celebrating each season—hanami in spring, illumination in winter—has kept it relevant and popular across generations.

Visiting Yomiuriland: Practical Information

Visiting Hours

Regular Hours: Typically 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Extended Hours: Until 8:00 or 9:00 PM during major events such as Jewellumination
Seasonal Variation: Always check the official website for current schedules, as hours shift for special events and holidays.

Ticket Prices and Types

Yomiuriland offers flexible ticketing to suit different needs:

Ticket Type	Adults (18–64)	Middle/High School (12–17)	Children (6–11)	Preschoolers (3–5)	Seniors (65+)
Admission Only	¥1,800	¥1,500	¥1,000	¥1,000	¥800
One-Day Pass (Unlimited)	¥5,800	¥4,600	¥4,000	¥2,400	¥4,000

Gondola/Sky Shuttle: Separate ticket required for the scenic cable car from Keio-Yomiuriland Station.
Special Offers: Discount coupons are sometimes available online (Yomiuriland Official).

Access and Transportation

By Train:
- Keio Line: From Shinjuku to Keio-Yomiuriland Station (~30 min), then the Sky Shuttle gondola (5–10 min) offers panoramic park views.
- Odakyu Line: To Yomiuriland-mae Station, then a short bus ride to the park.
By Car: Ample parking available (fees apply), but spaces fill quickly on weekends and holidays.

Accessibility

Yomiuriland is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly, with accessible restrooms and rental services. Ramps and elevators are available throughout the park, and the Sky Shuttle gondola is suitable for guests with mobility needs.

Nearby Attractions

Jindaiji Temple: Historic Buddhist temple with traditional soba shops (Yomiuriland Local Guide)
Fujiko F. Fujio Museum: Dedicated to the creator of Doraemon
HANA・BIYORI: A digital botanical garden and onsen
Machida Squirrel Garden: Family-friendly wildlife experience

Top Attractions and Experiences

Roller Coasters and Thrill Rides

Bandit: Once the world’s fastest coaster, Bandit is famed for its “fastest cherry blossom viewing” during spring (tickets-tokyo.com).
Spin Runway: A spinning coaster themed around fashion (att-japan.net).
Looping Starship: Gravity-defying spaceship ride.
Hashibiro GO!: Japan’s first mega Disc’O ride.
Bungee Jump: 22-meter jump for adrenaline seekers.

Family and Interactive Zones

Goodjoba!!: Hands-on manufacturing-themed attractions, including splash rides, tram journeys, and interactive workshops (Hey Japan).
Hero Training Center: Physical challenges for children.
Merry-Go-Land Dog: Animal-themed carousel.
Giant Ferris Wheel: 60 meters high, with views of Tokyo and Mt. Fuji.

Water Attractions

Pool WAI: Open in summer, with five pools, slides, and a lazy river.

Seasonal Highlights and Events

Spring: Sakura Festival

Over 1,000 cherry trees create a stunning hanami setting, especially from the Ferris wheel and Bandit coaster.
Night Cherry Blossom Jewellumination: Combines sakura with illuminated displays (MATCHA).

Summer: Pool WAI

Water park with pools, slides, and summer events (yomiuriland.com).

Autumn: Halloween & Seasonal Events

Halloween parades, costumes, and themed attractions.

Winter: Jewellumination

Kanto’s largest illumination event—over 6.5 million LEDs transform the park into a dazzling spectacle (JW Web Magazine).
Themed zones, fountain light shows, and aerial views from the gondola.

Dining, Shopping, and Facilities

Dining: Japanese and international cuisine, seasonal sweets, and themed treats (Klook).
Shopping: Souvenirs, Ghibli merchandise, Yomiuri Giants baseball goods, and seasonal items.
Facilities: Coin lockers, baby care rooms, accessible restrooms, Lost & Found, and first aid.
Payment: Cash (JPY), major credit cards, and electronic payments accepted.

Photography and Guided Tours

The park is rich in photo opportunities, especially during cherry blossom and illumination events.
Occasional guided tours are available—check the official website for updates.

Tips for Families and Groups

Arrive early to avoid queues.
Download the park map in advance.
Stroller/wheelchair rentals available.
Baby care facilities and group discounts offered.
No outside food—ample dining options inside.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Yomiuriland’s hours?
Typically 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; extended hours for events. Check the official site for updates.

How do I buy tickets?
Purchase online, at the entrance, or via authorized vendors. Special discounts may be available.

Is Yomiuriland accessible?
Yes, with accessible facilities and rentals for strollers/wheelchairs.

What’s the best time to visit?
Spring (sakura) and winter (Jewellumination) are peak seasons. Weekdays are less crowded.

Are there lockers?
Yes, at the entrance and near major attractions.

Can I bring pets?
Generally not, except certified service animals.

Conclusion

Yomiuriland offers an exceptional blend of amusement, seasonal beauty, and cultural enrichment. Its accessible location, diverse attractions, and year-round events make it a standout destination for visitors of all ages. Plan ahead by checking current hours, ticket options, and event schedules on the official website. For the latest updates, download the Audiala mobile app and follow Yomiuriland on social media.