nordic notes in japan

If you don´t spend time watching Japanese social media creators and posts, you might have missed the, might I say, true love that Japanese have for Disneyland. Girls in their teenage to 20s are waking up bright and early to queue hours at the entrance, in order to be the first one to enter the theme park that day. Yes, it can be seen as a slight obsession for the observers eye. But why are Japanese people in love with this American brand of fantasy and dreams?

For many in Japan, Disneyland is not just a physical theme park — it’s an escape. Beyond the long workdays and crowded trains lies a world where music never stops, where castles glow at night, and where every detail feels touched by magic.

Japan has always had a deep affection for characters, from Hello Kitty to Kumamon (my bestie), and Disney’s beloved icons fit perfectly into the Japanese kawaii culture. Visiting the park is for some, a chance to meet Mickey, Minnie, and friends — but maybe most importantly; a reason to dress up, match outfits with friends, and step into a storybook for a day.

There’s also a romance to it. A date at Disneyland, especially ending the day watching the fireworks, is an ideal date for many young couples.

In the end, Disneyland in Japan is more than imported fantasy. It has become a bridge between East and West, a place where fairytales meet everyday life — and where both children and adults can believe, if only for a moment, that magic is real. – Nordic Notes in Japan