While Universal Studios Japan and smaller parks like Sanrio Puroland and Yomiuriland close their gates due to the start of the third State of Emergency in Osaka, Kyoto, and Hyogo Prefectures as well as the Tokyo Metropolis, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea remain open as they reside quite literally next to the border between Tokyo and their home, Chiba Prefecture. Although exempt from orders to close at present, a minor adjustment has been made to operations—all alcohol sales are now suspended at the resort through May 11th.

The third State of Emergency measures call for the suspension of all alcohol sales in bars and restaurants, and although Chiba and other bordering Prefectures are still under a quasi-Emergency rather than a full declaration, the areas surrounding Tokyo have agreed to adopt the measure in order to prevent potential border-hoppers from spreading COVID-19 in search of alcohol sales. Through May 11th, all alcoholic beverages will be removed from restaurant menus at Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea, the Disney Hotels, and all dining outlets at Ikspiari. Alcohol was only introduced to Tokyo Disneyland last November, bringing an end to a 37-year tradition.

All eyes are on Tokyo Disney Resort, as the two parks remain the only major theme parks still operating in Japan amid the latest State of Emergency. Only time will tell if Tokyo Disney Resort will eventually face a second closure. Stay tuned to WDWNT as this story develops.