The next day was Tokyo Disneyland: wrangling three generations for parades, fireworks, and a 2 pm sharp sit-down at Crystal Palace for a buffet lunch. For the budget-minded individuals, credit card payments and Suica loaded on an iPhone was key. In my opinion, Tokyo Disneyland is most like Disneyland in California, but without the large crowds. Sure, some rides were crowded, like Beauty and the Beast, but overall, we hardly waited more than 30 minutes for a ride.

We started off the day by securing a DPA for Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast and then proceeded to The Happy Ride with Baymax. It was already blistering hot when we entered the park so we had our cooling towels, portable fans, and loads of electrolyte drinks on hand. The Baymax ride is very similar to Mater's Junkyard Jamboree. While the line felt long because we were standing in the sun for part of the ride, we were entertained by the castmembers, as well as the 2 energetic elderly guests full-on dance choreography to the songs being played through the speakers. This ride was decent. Beauty and the Beast ride was beautiful and starts as you enter the Beast’s castle. You sit in giant teacup saucers that take you through the castle as the story of Beauty and the Beast unfolds. There are a few spins like the traditional teacup ride so if you are prone to motion sickness, this ride might not be for you.

For lunch, we opted for a buffett at the Crystal Palace. Although it did not have a widespread of options like a traditional buffet in the USA, we left with our bellies happy and full. Plus, we were able to try the popular alien mochi snacks. We proceeded to go on more rides, such as Splash Mountain, Pooh’s Honey Hunt, Big Thunder Mountain. And ended the evening watching the “Sky Full of Colors” fireworks show in fron to Cinderella’s Castle.

Our main goal for both parks was to go on the rides that were not available in the USA. And this was definitely accomplished. Yes, we walked about 25-30k steps each day. But our compression socks, Lions foot patches and general rest the next day, were a great help.