Get ready to be whisked away to a world of Disney magic! We’re taking a deep dive into two iconic Disney Resorts in Japan: the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel and the Toy Story Hotel. Both offer themed rooms that will leave you spellbound, but which one reigns supreme?
The Price of Magic: A Comparison
Cost is a major factor when planning your Disney getaway. Let’s see how the two resorts stack up:
- Alice in Wonderland Room: A Monday night stay for two in June set you back ¥58,000 ($400.81 USD), requiring a hefty ¥20,000 deposit ($138.23 USD). This experience screams luxury.
- Toy Story Room: A Tuesday night stay for two in June came in at ¥30,000 ($207 USD) with a ¥15,000 deposit ($103.66 USD). A more moderate price point for a Disney escape.
Interestingly, rooms at the Toy Story Hotel booked up faster. Could it be because it’s the newer resort with a more approachable price tag? 🤔
A World of Wonders: Exploring the Hotels
Both resorts offer unique experiences, from the moment you step inside.
- Alice in Wonderland: Everyone is welcome at this grand hotel, with its spacious and elegant design. It evokes the sophistication of Club 33, with high ceilings and a magnificent central fountain. Disney’s 40th Anniversary celebrations are evident everywhere, with banners and statues of Mickey and friends gracing the lobby. There’s even an elaborate Disney-themed dollhouse on display.
- Toy Story: Only guests staying at the Toy Story Hotel are allowed on property. Proof of reservation is required. The lobby is a burst of color, with a board game-inspired ceiling featuring Bo Peep and her sheep. The pillars resemble colored pencils, and two themed elevator entrances transport you to either space or cowboy territory.
Both hotels boast welcoming features: a check-in desk located at the back, comfortable seating areas, and spacious, pristine bathrooms on the first floor.
Outdoor Oasis: Courtyards for Every Occasion
Take a stroll through the courtyards and be enchanted by these charming outdoor spaces.
- Alice in Wonderland: This courtyard is a picture of elegance, located near the valet entrance. The geometrically-shaped shrubbery is meticulously designed to resemble card suits, adding a touch of whimsical charm.
- Toy Story: Two courtyards provide a playful escape. One features a playground with giant Jessie, Buzz, and Slinky Dog’s Doghouse, while the other showcases a Woody and Bo Peep scene. With ample space for kids to run around, it’s a paradise for families.
Fueling the Magic: Dining and Shopping
Enjoy delicious meals and unique souvenirs at these resorts’ delightful eateries and shops.
- Alice in Wonderland: This hotel boasts two restaurants, offering both buffet-style and fine-dining experiences.
- Toy Story: The Lotso Garden Cafe is a buffet-style restaurant exclusive to Toy Story Resort guests. Reservations are recommended, but you can pay at the vending machine outside.
Both hotels have convenience stores where you can find snacks, drinks, and even bento boxes. A shopping spree is a must!
- Alice in Wonderland: A large gift shop features a variety of Tokyo Disneyland merchandise.
- Toy Story: A smaller gift shop offers a curated collection of Toy Story Hotel exclusive items.
Checking In: A Touch of Disney Hospitality
The check-in experience is just as memorable as the rest of the resort.
- Alice in Wonderland: The high-end feel of this hotel is reflected in the professional and multilingual staff, who are ready to assist guests from around the world.
- Toy Story: The playful atmosphere of the Toy Story Hotel continues at the check-in counter. The staff is friendly and approachable, though their English skills may be slightly limited.
Both resorts feature convenient check-in locations near the back of the entrance, and you can easily drop off your key when checking out.
The Magic Continues: Room Amenities
Step into a world of Disney magic with these enchanting themed rooms.
- Alice in Wonderland: This spacious room, reminiscent of a typical US hotel, boasts a whimsical charm. It features a closet, vanity, full bathtub, and is carpeted for added comfort.
- Toy Story: Every detail in this room screams Toy Story! From the pushpin wall detail to the etch-a-sketch TV, you’ll feel transported to Andy’s room. While it doesn’t have a closet, it offers an area to hang clothes. The bathroom features a half bathtub, and the floor is made of wood.
Both rooms share common features: twin beds, comfortable bedding, separate toilet and shower/tub, a mini fridge, excellent water pressure, bidets, and nightgowns (not for taking home).
Details That Matter: Special Touches
These little details add a touch of magic to your stay.
- Alice in Wonderland: Guests are welcomed with two eco-friendly reusable bags featuring the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel design and souvenir cups. The closet includes six pairs of Mickey Mouse slippers.
- Toy Story: The slippers have Andy’s name written on the bottom, staying true to the Toy Story theme. There are three pairs of slippers in each room.
Both resorts provide guests with a complete set of toiletries (washcloths, toothbrush/toothpaste, and cups), as well as television sets (though all channels are in Japanese).
Beyond the Room: Park Access and Extras
These resorts provide easy access to the Disney Parks, and some special perks.
- Alice in Wonderland: Happy Entry for both Disneyland and DisneySea. Guests can enjoy a separate entrance, allowing them to bypass the general public line.
- Toy Story: Happy Entry for Tokyo Disneyland only. You can take the monorail to both parks, as the resort is directly across from the park entrance.
Both resorts offer assistance with purchasing park tickets, and staying at either allows you to earn a “Happy Entry” voucher, which grants you 15 minutes extra time in the park before general admission.
Which Resort is for You?
Both the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel and the Toy Story Hotel provide an unforgettable experience. But which one should you choose?
- Tokyo Disneyland Hotel: This resort offers a luxurious escape, with a classic Disney charm. The multi-themed rooms, including Alice in Wonderland, Beauty and the Beast, and Pixie Hollow, add an extra touch of magic.
- Toy Story Hotel: This hotel offers an immersive Toy Story experience, with details that will bring out the child in everyone. It’s perfect for families looking for a more affordable and engaging getaway.
Ultimately, the best resort for you depends on your personal preferences and budget. Whichever you choose, get ready for a magical Disney adventure!
