Best Amusement Parks In Japan To Visit & Where To Stay

Best Amusement Parks In Japan To Visit & Where To Stay
Trip101 Editorial
Trip101 Editorial 
Updated
| 6 min read

Japan, known as the Land of the Rising Sun, has become a popular tourist destination for various reasons. It has something to offer for all types of travelers, whether they’re looking to learn more about the local culture or searching for tranquil nature views. You can time your visit to see one of the sumo tournaments at Ryogoku Kokugikan National Sumo Arena or head to Kabuki-za to catch enthralling Kabuki performances. If you’re more of an outdoor explorer, you’ll find a trip around Fuji Five Lakes to be right up your alley. Surrounding Mount Fuji, these lakes offer stellar vistas and a host of activities, including water sports, hiking, and cruises. Alternatively, thrill-seekers should consider visiting the country’s amusement parks for an adrenaline-pumping vacation. If you’re eager to give them a shot, keep reading to find the best amusement parks in Japan to visit & where to stay.

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Fuji-Q Highland

Fuji-Q Highland: Takabisha
Source: Photo by Flickr user Dick Thomas Johnson used under CC BY 2.0

If you find yourself in Fujiyoshida during your getaway to Japan, you should make time for a stop at Fuji-Q Highland. Since it opened as Fuji Goko International Skating Center in 1961, it has been thrilling visitors to become “the best park in the world”. It features a range of hair-raising attractions, including Takabisha - Steepest Roller Coaster which has a steep drop, and Nagashimasuka - Shoot the Chute, a fun water ride. During your day here, you might also run into the beloved Screaming Squadron Highlander, the park’s six quirky mascots.

Here are some lovely stays that you can consider for your time in Yamanashi and for easy access to Fuji-Q Highland.

1. Bright and stylish home with a private sauna, Yamanashi (from USD 179)

If you need a comfortable place to rest during your trip to Yamanashi, consider booking this stylishly decorated home with an expansive atrium. Spend a day exploring Fuji-Q Highland, which is about a six-minute drive away. Then, you can unwind in the private sauna or soak in the hot spring bath. The accommodation also offers a functional kitchen with various appliances so that you can whip up your meals or heat up some takeout. Laundry equipment and detergent will also be available for convenience.

Best of all, your furry friends are welcome to join you for your stay!

Japan
6.81 km (4.3 mi) from Oshino Hakkai
5 Beds 10 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

2. Well-decorated rental with a home projector, Yamanashi (from USD 187)

This well-decorated rental features plush beds and dining and kitchen areas, in addition to amenities that will take your stay to the next level. At night, you can cuddle up in bed while enjoying TV shows, thanks to the home projector and theater sound system. A jetted bath and provided toiletries also await you.

During the day, you can enjoy the view of Mount Fuji from the terrace or take your pooch for a few rounds in the dedicated dog run. Alternatively, drive about 3.1 kilometers (1.93 miles) for a fun time at Fuji-Q Highland.

Minamitsuru-gun, Japan
6.83 km (4.3 mi) from Oshino Hakkai
6 Beds 5 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

3. Compact rental with air conditioning, Yamanashi (from USD 84)

Approximately a 13-minute stroll from Fuji-Q Highland, this home promises restful nights after a day full of exploring. This compact rental features an open living and dining area, while the kitchen has a spacious dining table and a stove in case you’re craving home-cooked favorites. In addition, the bedroom and living space have air-conditioning units to keep you comfortable.

The property also features an area with floor mats and a low table for more casual snack breaks.

5-1-2 Matsuyama, Fujiyoshida, Japan
4.87 km (3.1 mi) from Oshino Hakkai
4 Beds 6 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan: Harry Potter World
Source: Pixabay

A trip to Osaka won’t be complete without a visit to Universal Studios Japan, one of the most well-known amusement parks in Japan that hosts a variety of themed events. The amusement park also features different worlds based on beloved characters such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. If you get hungry between rides, drop by any of the on-site eateries for tasty treats.

Even better, there are plenty of stays near Universal Studios Japan that you can retire to. Here’s our recommendation.

4. Minimalist accommodation with Wi-Fi, Osaka (from USD 97)

Just about a 30-minute drive from Universal Studios Japan lies this cozy rental with minimalist decor. It features the essentials for a convenient stay, including toiletries, Wi-Fi access, and even coin laundry. To relax after a full day of walking around the amusement park, dip into the roomy bathtub or have a movie marathon using the built-in projector.

The rental features several beds in a compact space, allowing guests to comfortably relive the day’s experiences together.

1-8-16 Oyodonaka Kita-ku, Osaka, Japan
315.6 km (196.2 mi) from Oshino Hakkai
4 Beds 6 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Nasu Highland Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Spend a day indulging in all of the activities that Nasu Highland Park has to offer. With over 40 attractions, it has more than enough to keep you busy. Hop on one of the 10 roller coasters or relish meals in the food court or other dining options here. It is also one of the amusement parks near Tokyo which is approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive away.

Here are a couple of great accommodation options if you want to stay close to Nasu Highland Park.

5. Comfortable accommodation with artificial hot springs, Nasu (from USD 208)

If you’re traveling with a large group, then this may be the vacation rental for you. The property features stylish bedrooms with cozy linens. You’ll also find an artificial hot spring bath for late-night relaxation and a terrace with barbecue equipment for cookouts with your loved ones. If you want to try your hand in the kitchen, test out the provided yogurt maker, too.

When you’re feeling refreshed after good eats, drive about 10 minutes to Nasu Highland Park for a day of thrilling adventure.

204-60 Yumoto, Nasu-Machi, Nasu-Gun, Japan
209.23 km (130.1 mi) from Oshino Hakkai
5 Beds 10 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

6. Gorgeous pet-friendly rental, Nasu (from USD 222)

When you book a stay in this accommodation, you won’t have to worry about leaving your four-legged buddies behind. The gorgeous property boasts calm and scenic surroundings with a dog run for you to take advantage of.

Additionally, the rental features tasteful interiors with comfy furniture and a spacious bath. Depending on which room you avail of, your children may also have different types of toys to look forward to. Guests will also have access to a common building with table tennis equipment and a vending machine. If you feel like venturing off-site, Nasu Highland Park is just a 10-minute drive away.

204-60 Yumoto, Nasu-Machi, Nasu-Gun, Japan
209.23 km (130.1 mi) from Oshino Hakkai
5 Beds 10 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Huis Ten Bosch

White Ferris Wheel in Huis Ten Bosch 20140118-2
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user そらみみ used under CC BY-SA 3.0

If you happen to be visiting Sasebo during the spring, you’ll love a trip to Huis Ten Bosch. Among the most beautiful Japan theme parks, it is blooming with flowers all year round and is especially captivating during the spring when a Flower Festival is held. Among the must-visit attractions here is Sky Carousel, a three-story merry-go-round decked out in lights and intricate designs.

Check out this rental for a convenient stay near Huis Ten Bosch.

7. Fully furnished rental near Huis Ten Bosch, Nagasaki (from USD 112)

Find the space to truly unwind in this well-kept home just 3.4 kilometers (2.11 miles) from the idyllic Huis Ten Bosch. The Japanese-style space is fully furnished so you won’t have to worry about finding a place to cook or bringing your toiletries. In case you’re planning on staying in Sasebo for a while, you can take advantage of the washer for your clothes.

This accommodation also has a TV and Wi-Fi to keep you entertained throughout your stay.

2583-1 Sakiokacho, Sasebo, Japan
870.11 km (540.7 mi) from Oshino Hakkai
4 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Smile Glico Park

Smile Glico Park Entrance 2018
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mai Kana Chan used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Looking for somewhere to take your kids? Smile Glico Park in Sendai will offer an entertaining time, thanks to its Ferris wheel and merry-go-round. It also boasts a playground for kids to enjoy and a ton of events throughout the year. To make your experience even better, some of the amusement park’s rides may be free depending on when you visit.

Here’s our recommendation if you’re looking to stay within walking distance of Smile Glico Park.

8. Modern home with a rooftop balcony, Sendai (from USD 188)

This modern rental in Sendai is only a one-minute drive from Smile Glico Park so you can spend your afternoons enjoying the attractions before retiring to well-decorated quarters with a spacious couch and wide-screen TV. The property also features air conditioning to ensure you can cool off after a whole day outside.

The highlight of this accommodation is undeniably the private rooftop balcony overlooking the Ferris wheel. This space also features outdoor furniture for romantic alfresco meals.

2-11-35 Miyagino Miyagino-ku, Sendai, Japan
361.28 km (224.5 mi) from Oshino Hakkai
6 Beds 8 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Kamogawa Sea World

Walrus - Kamogawa Seaworld - 2
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Max Smith used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Kamogawa Sea World offers a unique experience for those who have always wanted to get up close and personal with undersea creatures. The park works with local fishermen to put up exhibitions on various sea animals, including dolphins, sea lions, and killer whales. You may even feed some of the critters found here.

Opt to stay in the rental below for quick and easy access to Kamogawa Sea World.

9. Sprawling property with private sauna, Chiba (from USD 208)

Sit back and relax in this property with Japanese- and Moroccan-inspired interiors. The three-story space is perfect for large groups of friends and families, and the top floor showcases a rooftop terrace for cookouts.

Furthermore, the rental is only 600 meters (1,968.50 feet) from the wonders of Kamogawa Sea World. When you return from the attraction, let your muscles loosen up with a session in the private sauna followed by a bath in the artificial hot spring.

Japan
122.84 km (76.4 mi) from Oshino Hakkai
8 Beds 12 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Have an exhilarating stay in Japan

Japan has many adventures waiting for tourists to take on. If you want to indulge in activities that will get your blood pumping throughout your visit, why not spend a day in one of the nation’s amusement parks? Afterward, retire to one of the above nearby accommodations with restful amenities.

Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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