1. Plan your trip: There is a lot to see and do at Tokyo Disneyland, and it is impossible to get to all of it in one day. Before you go, familiarize yourself with the general park layout, and look for attractions appropriate for your whole family. Check to see if there are boarding restrictions that will prevent your child from being able to participate, and make advance reservations if necessary. You may not be able to do everything on your list, but this way you won’t miss a special attraction that you really want to see. Plan a few indoor options in case of rain. The official Disneyland Tokyo website has some great maps online at http://www.tokyodisneyresort.co.jp/en/access/mapdownload/
Tokyo Disneyland
2. Baby center: There are two baby centers located in the park, one between World Bazaar and Tomorrowland, the other in Toon Town. These convenient facilities have diaper-changing stations, nursing spaces, hot water, and microwaves. Formula, disposable diapers, and other useful products are also for sale here. The baby centers are good places to stop with an infant for some quiet time away from the crowds.
Stroller parking at Tokyo Disneyland
3. Strollers: You can bring your own stroller into the park, though not all attractions are accessible. To the right of World Bazaar as you enter, you can also rent strollers for children under 15 kg/100 cm (about 33 pounds/40 inches). Strollers cost ¥700 per day. Stroller rain covers are available for sale
4. Lost children: Crowds are dense in the park so it is not hard for families to get separated. To help reduce panic and confusion, discuss a plan with your children before arriving. It is good if your child can give a simple description of your features or clothes to help staff find you. If you are separated, go to a staff member, as the park is well-equipped for these situations and areas are in good contact. There is a lost children center to the right of World Bazaar as you enter, which is where children under 12 will be taken for safekeeping until reunited.
5. Take breaks or naps: Disneyland is exciting, with lots to see and do. Children can easily get would up and get cranky and irritable, especially waiting in long lines. When you notice the signs, take a break. Bring or rent a stroller so younger children can sit or even nap while waiting. If your child needs to burn off some energy, consider playing in Toon Park or joining a Plaza Pavilion Bandstand show. If the stimulation is overwhelming, turn the stroller away from the action and sit together for some quiet time.
6. Plan on food and drinks: There is no problem with bringing your own drinks and snacks to the park, so plan on doing so. Especially in the hot summertime, liquids are very important. A snack can help shorten the wait for a ride, but be careful not to eat too much before one that is very active. Familiar treats are not only comforting, but you can pull them out when needed, which is important since many restaurant and food carts have waiting lines to compare with the rides. However, it is also wise to budget for food as well as bringing some of your own. Yummy treats are very appealing, especially in cute Disney shapes. An ice cream or shaved ice can revive a lagging child on a hot day. Meals in a restaurant can provide a good break to sit and relax as well. Enjoy the scenery and watch the crowds, or even take in a show while dining. Food can be a fun and memorable part of the park experience. See more info on food in Tokyo DisneyLand by clicking the link.
7. Bring a change of clothes: A soggy child is not happy. Even if you avoid all the rides with water, you still may want extra layers in case the weather changes. A sunhat and light jacket can help prevent sunburn. Rain is common in the summer in Japan, and often falls in torrents, not just a light shower. The intense humidity often leaves clothes drenched with sweat. Bring a plastic bag for used garments; it can also keep your camera dry if you go on a water ride.
8.Follow safety instructions: This may seem obvious, but most accidents occur when people ignore safety instructions. If a staff member says that your child is too small for a ride, there are reasons for it, though they may not be immediately understandable. Everyone wants a happy, safe experience, so stay within the rules.
Tokyo Disneyland Parade
9. Be flexible: No matter what you have planned, things can go astray. It can be extremely humid, the show you want to see might have no seating, your child might suddenly be inconsolable without a certain treat. Be prepared to go with the flow and change plans as needed. For example, you may want that perfect photo with Cinderella Castle, but accept that there are other people in the background. A rigid plan is setting the stage for disappointment. Disneyland is full of fun details, enjoy the things you are able to see and do. If your baby needs a nap and not a ride on Dumbo the Flying Elephant, remember there is always a chance to return again someday. It helps if you are staying at a hotel close to the Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea parks so you can go back for a nap and then venture out later if everyone is up to it. The Disney Resorts hotels as well as the Official Disney hotels are a good choice for convenience.
10. Digital Photo Express: Looking for the perfect souvenir? One fun option is to print your favorite photos with an exclusive Disney-themed border at one of the 5 locations available throughout the park. Pick it up at the Camera Center in World Bazaar when you leave. At only ¥52 per print and adding almost no weight to your luggage, these can be nice gifts for relatives.
