The “Fantasy Springs – A New Chapter Begins” exhibit is now open at Ikspiari, a shopping and dining complex at Tokyo Disney Resort. The exhibit is on the second floor of Ikspiari at Trail & Track. It showcases the history of Tokyo DisneySea and a look at the new Fantasy Springs port.

Fantasy Springs – A New Chapter Begins

“Fantasy Springs – A New Chapter Begins” will be open through September 30. Guests can reserve tickets on the Tokyo Disney Resort site.

Tickets are ¥1,300 for adults, ¥1,000 for junior high and high school students, ¥700 for children, and free for children under 3. Discounts of ¥200 are available for those with park tickets during the exhibition window, “Funderful Disney” memberships, Disney Hotel or dining reservations, or a Disney JCB card.

A wrap around a column and display windows advertise the exhibit.

Imagery for the exhibit features the blue and gold Fantasy Springs storybook that has been present in advertising, merchandise, and beyond.

Outside are the four official attraction posters for the land’s rides: Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey, Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival, Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure, and Fairy Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies.

The exhibit does not allow eating, drinking, smoking, or filming. Flash photography is prohibited outside photo ops and photography in general is prohibited in some areas. Guests are also not allowed to touch the displays.

Introduction

On June 6, 2024, a new chapter in the story of Tokyo DisneySea began. Following the seven themed ports that have been present since its Grand Opening in 2001, the Park unveiled its eighth themed port, Fantasy Springs.

In this exhibit, you will have the opportunity to view concept art, sketches, models, as well as other items that were utilized in the creative process of crafting the magical springs that lead to a world of Disney fantasy.

Whether you are planning a visit to Fantasy Springs or have already had the pleasure of exploring it, we hope this exhibit enriches your experience in the park.

This wall features the Tokyo DisneySea and Tokyo Disney Resort wordmarks with the park’s tagline “Where adventure and imagination set sail.” The exhibit is split with the first half about the creation of Tokyo DisneySea and the second half just about Fantasy Springs.

The Story of How Tokyo DisneySea Was Created

The exhibit signage is a tan color like aged parchment. It features a golden filigree and a gold image of the Fantasy Springs storybook.

Tokyo DisneySea was born from the myths and legends of the sea. This project spanned 14 years, with individuals from Japan and the United States combining their passion and expertise to bring this dream to life in September 2001. How did this one-of-a-kind Disney Park themed to the sea become the Tokyo DisneySea Park as we know it today? Explore the story of how this Park was created.

Fill the sea, only to create another sea on top of it?

We may get laughed at, but this very paradox could be the catalyst for creating a park that nurtures a longing for the sea. A “Sea” to complement the “Land” — Isn’t this a wondrous notion?

Japan is a country surrounded by the sea. This is a theme that resonates deeply with the Japanese people.

Toshio Kagami, then President of Oriental Land Co., Ltd.
Excerpt from ‘Imagination Beyond the Seas: The Journey of Tokyo Disney Resort’s Creation’ Published by Kodansha, 2003

This section includes timelines of the park’s creation and additions, as well as displays for each original port.

Announcement of the Second Theme Park Project

As Tokyo Disneyland continued to grow, Masatomo Takahashi (then President of Oriental Land Co., Ltd.) announced plans for a second theme park at a press conference held for the 5th anniversary of Tokyo Disneyland on April 15, 1988.

Initial Plans Were to Build a Park Themed to Hollywood Studios

Initially under consideration was a theme park similar to the Disney-MGM Studios, which opened in Florida in 1989. Although plans seemed to be progressing smoothly at first, the concept was reconsidered in 1991.

Based on stories told by Disney Imagineers, the above is a rather nice way to phrase what actually happened. According to those on the project, the Oriental Land Company never really wanted an MGM-Studios Park, but it took a long time for them to admit to Disney that they weren’t enamored with their proposal.

Changing Direction to Create a Park Themed to the Sea

After further consideration, a new theme based on the idea of the “seven seas” emerged in 1992, which would serve as the cornerstone for the present-day Tokyo DisneySea Park.

Also left out of the story is that DisneySea was designed for Long Beach in California, on land adjacent to the Queen Mary, which Disney owned at the time. The S.S. Columbia in Tokyo DisneySea took the place of the real ship in the plans.

Cultural Differences Between Japan and the United States Help Shape the DisneySea AquaSphere

Extensive dialogue transpired during the planning stages, with participants noting the cultural differences between Japan and the United States. At one point during the process of determining the symbol of Tokyo DisneySea, those in Japan and the United States struggled to find a point of agreement. But ultimately, after passionate yet constructive dialogue, both sides were able to draw forth a fitting symbol that portrayed the “water planet” called the AquaSphere.

Famously, the park’s icon was envisioned as a lighthouse, but that was associated with death in Japanese culture. However, a lighthouse was still erected in the park for the Cape Cod section of American Waterfront.

Announcement of the Plans to Open Tokyo DisneySea, the Park Themed to the Sea

The outline of the Tokyo DisneySea project was announced to the media on November 26, 1997. The following day, along with the concept illustration of the completed Park (pictured left), the opening of the “Park of the sea” was extensively covered by numerous media outlets. And so, after nearly a decade since the concept was first revealed, the second Park’s vision was finally brought to fruition and introduced to the world.

This mural features black-and-white photos from the construction of Tokyo DisneySea, set over a larger blue photo.

A second similar mural features full-color images from the park’s Grand Opening. Before this is a screen you are not allowed to photograph which has a slideshow featuring never-before-released concept art for the original park. There are more films scattered throughout the exhibit that will not appear in this post due to the photography rules.

Since its Grand Opening on September 4, 2001, Tokyo DisneySea has continued to attract and welcome Guests to a sea of adventure and imagination.

The Timeline of Tokyo DisneySea

The Timeline of Tokyo DisneySea

The 23-year history of Tokyo DisneySea is one of evolution, filled with adventure and imagination. From a variety of special events and new attractions to exciting entertainment programs, which moments have left a lasting impression in your heart? As the years unfold and countless more await, Tokyo DisneySea will continue to journey alongside Guests in new adventures, forging unforgettable memories for years to come.

The timeline features a photo, caption, and year for each major event or addition to the park after its initial opening.

The first is the “BraviSEAmo!” nighttime water show, which debuted in 2004 and ran until 2010.

Raging Spirits opened on July 21, 2005.

Tokyo DisneySea celebrated its 5th anniversary in 2006.

Tower of Terror and The Legend of Mythica daytime show both debuted in 2006 as part of the 5th Anniversary festivities. Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage, with the beloved baby tiger Chandu, replaced the original Sindbad ride the following year.

In 2009, Tokyo DisneySea got their own version of Turtle Talk with Crush.

The 10th anniversary celebration in 2011 was called “Be Magical!” “Fantasmic!” and Jasmine’s Flying Carpets opened that same year.

In 2012, Toy Story Mania! came to Tokyo DisneySea.

2016 was the Year of Wishes for the park’s 15th anniversary.

In 2017, Nemo & Friends SeaRider opened replacing StormRider in Port Discovery.

Before Fantasy Springs, Soaring Fantastic Flight was the most recent ride to open at Tokyo DisneySea in the summer of 2019. You can take a full tour of this attraction below:

Tokyo DisneySea’s 20th anniversary was “Time to Shine!”

In 2022, “Believe! Sea of Dreams” premiered. You can watch this full show below:

Scenery of Tokyo DisneySea

Scenery of Tokyo DisneySea

One of the great charms of Tokyo DisneySea lies in its picturesque and exotic landscapes. When you take a leisurely stroll through each themed port, you can feel the passage of time throughout the day and experience the changing seasons, evoking a feeling of embarking on an extraordinary journey.

Take a look through the album featuring the beautiful scenery of each themed port. Do any of the images bring back your special memories of the Park?

There are large book-shaped displays for each port. The left side of each features a large photo and description of the port. On the right side are more photos, the port’s logo, and information about a select element of the port.

Mediterranean Harbor
A romantic Southern European port town

The gateway to Tokyo DisneySea is a Southern European port town with an old-world charm. Composed of three distinct areas, this port of call invites Guests to a world of adventures and discoveries through its beautiful and scenic fishing village, enchanting neighborhood of romantic waterways and impressive Renaissance fortress.

Palazzo Canals

Meaning “Palace Canals” in Italian, Palazzo Canals is a neighborhood located in the southeastern port of Mediterranean Harbor. Wander through its narrow paths, and you will encounter romantic scenery that evokes the waterways of Venice, the Italian city of water.

American Waterfront
The nostalgia-filled American harbors of New York and Cape Cod

Here in the turn-of-the-20th century United States, there are two distinct harbor cities. The energy of a big city abounds in New York with its bustling streets and elevated railway, whereas the charming fishing village of Cape Cod is delightfully scenic, cozy and quaint.

Broadway Music Theatre

Broadway Music Theatre is a classic and elegent playhouse embodying the essence of New York at the turn-of-the-20th century. This theatre is constructed using cut stone and adorned with elaborate stone sculptures. The interior decor embraces the art nouveau style, incorporating fashionable motifs from that era, including botanical-inspired designs and arches.

Between the large albums are models, like this one for the staging of Donald’s Boat Builders in the American Waterfront. The show was open from 2001 to 2010.

The stage resembled a boathouse with fishing supplies everywhere. Donald’s boat, the S.S. Daisy, was in the center.

The model includes incredible, tiny details like this sign for Donald’s Fishing Tours.

Port Discovery
A futuristic marina located across the horizons of time

Port Discovery is a vision of a wonderful tomorrow: a time where science and nature are in balance. Come enjoy an unpredictable and zany ride on a water vehicle or embark on an adventure to the vast seas aboard a special submersible.

Did you know there is a plaque overlooking Aquatopia that bears the mission statement of Port Discovery? Welcoming many guests every day, the dedicated scientists here passionately embrace this mission and commit themselves to exploring the ocean in search of new discoveries.

These two models depict the spinning object on Discovery Gifts. A diagram of the structure is at the back of the display case, too.

Lost River Delta
The ruins of an ancient civilization in the Central American jungles

These are the jungles of 1930s Central America, where the remnants of an ancient civilization beckon explorers and fortune seekers in their quest to unravel the hidden mysteries. Immerse yourself in the excavation sites of the ruins and embark on an adventure through the colonial village.

El Rio Perdido

After a series of devastating hurricanes, the course of an unknown river was changed to dramatically reveal its presence. There are three bridges that span the river named “El Rio Perdido,” which is Spanish for “Lost River,” connecting the colonial village in the ancient ruins of the jungle.

Given how little has been published in English about the park over the years, there are sure to be some details or stories in the museum that you did not know.

This 3D paper craft depicts the Hangar Stage in Lost River Delta, complete with figures of Mickey, Goofy, and Donald getting read for Halloween at the park.

Arabian Coast
The world of The Arabian Nights filled with magic and mystery

An exotic and enchanting world created by Genie and his magic unfolds here. Set sail into unknown seas with Sindbad and partake in the caravan’s grand procession. Arabian Coast offers a plethora of magical experiences for all to enjoy!

Arabian Coast is a world created by the magic of Genie from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Aladdin. The Sultan, the father of Princess Jasmine, wished for all his subjects to experience the enchanted magic and excitement found in The Arabian Nights. With a flick of his wrist Genie conjured up an exotic and enchanting world featuring splendid tiles and elegant domes with gold ornaments.

This all-white model depicts Jasmine’s Flying Carpets.

Mermaid Lagoon
An undersea kingdom home to Ariel, the little mermaid, and her friends

A colorful and whimsical “under the sea” world can be found at Mermaid Lagoon. Enjoy a variety of fun rides along with shopping and delectable foods in this underwater kingdom home to Ariel and her friends from the Disney Animation film The Little Mermaid.

The backs of the giant books that are visible also feature designs inspired by their respective ports. The Blowfish Balloon Race is represented on Mermaid Lagoon.

Mysterious Island
The eccentric genius Captain Nemo’s secret base

Inside the caldera of a smouldering volcano is a hidden scientific base established by an eccentric genius Captain Nemo, where he can prove possible things that others have declared impossible. Journey into the world of mystique and unknown aobard vehicles of Captain Nemo’s design.

The Neptune

Suspended from a gantry crane inside the caldera is the Neptune, a small submarine used by Captain Nemo for personal research. Named “Neptune” for the Roman god of the sea, it embodies Captain Nemo’s ambition to discover the mystique of the deep sea.

A Mount Prometheus symbol is on the back of the book.

Beginning of Fantasy Springs

This is the beginning of a new chapter.

Magical springs that lead to a world of Disney Fantasy — Experience the process of bringing Fantasy Springs to life as you embark on a voyage to explore the source of Disney’s imagination.

The Fantasy Springs section sees guests entering a storybook through white “paper” cutouts resembling a forest. There are various projection effects on these. There’s then a video introducing the backstory of Fantasy Springs.

They then encounter more giant books, these featuring Fantasy Springs covers, with Fantasy Springs stories inside.

This book’s pages feature Mickey, Pocahontas, and Peter Pan. These same designs are on Fantasy Springs merchandise.

“Tangled,” “Frozen,” and “Peter Pan” are the featured IPs in Fantasy Springs, but the land also includes references to other Disney classics.

The second book references “Sleeping Beauty,” “Cinderella,” “Bambi,” and “Brave Little Tailor.”

There are exquisite models of the rock carvings at the main entrance of Fantasy Springs, which depict the characters of “Tangled,” “Frozen,” and “Peter Pan.” Pictured above are the models of Elsa and Anna carvings.

Here is part of the Peter Pan carving.

Rapunzel’s carving features her long, flowing hair.

Fantasy Springs concept art is displayed on the walls.

There’s also a complete model of the port’s entrance, complete with animated lighting.

Rapunzel is on this side of the entrance area, with her hair curving down the rockwork toward a pond.

Anna and Elsa are in the center with Olaf.

Peter Pan is on the left next to a waterfall.

The Path to the Grand Opening of Fantasy Springs

The Path to the Grand Opening of Fantasy Springs

Since the announcement of the Tokyo DisneySea large-scale expansion project on June 14, 2018, it took approximately six years for the realization of the eighth themed port.

Day after day, Disney Imagineers, employees of Oriental Land Co., Ltd. and construction workers tirelessly experiemented and learned from their mistakes. It was the unwavering trust and boundless passion of these individuals that ultimately paved the way for the Grand Opening of Fantasy Springs, the magical springs that lead to a world of Disney fantasy.

Photos in this area show the construction of Fantasy Springs. Above is a group photo of crew members with Captain Hook’s pirate ship behind them.

This collage includes photos of the Never Land mountains, a Never Land Adventure vehicle, Rapunzel’s Tower, and crew members in various locations.

Some of the photos include signatures from Imagineers who already visited the exhibit.

Some also have dates, like the photo of crew members with the Native American village tents labeled January 13, 2023. Across from this display is an incredible video with behind-the-scenes footage from the creation of all of the port’s attractions (which again, we sadly can not show you).

This version of the Fantasy Springs logo is made up of photos of cast and crew.

World-Building in Fantasy Springs

World-building in Fantasy Springs

Within Fantasy Springs, you will discover three distinct areas that allow you to fully experience a world of Disney fantasy, as well as the sixth Disney hotel in Japan.

Here, you can explore a 1/25 scale model of the expansive area, accompanied by an array of props that enhance the immersive experience. You’ll also have the opportunity to admire the Cast Members’ costumes. Prepare to indulge in a treasure trove of materials that showcase the creative process behind bringing Fantasy Springs to life.

We then cross through a curtain into the largest section of the entire exhibit, filled with giant scale models, concept art, costumes, photo-ops and more.

There’s also a number of recreations of props you’ll find throughout Fantasy Springs.

The Peter Pan’s Never Land section is decorated with fake foliage and pirate swords.

There’s a poster for Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure. This attraction follows Peter and the Lost Kids as they rescue Wendy’s brother, John, from the pirates.

A flat sign for the attraction features seashells and ship’s wheels.

A TV screen cycles through different concept art for the attraction. The above piece depicts the Lost Kids in their hideout.

This piece depicts Wendy and her brothers flying with Tinker Bell past Big Ben. Peter is in front of the clock, pointing.

Models of the ride vehicles, which we first saw at D23 Expo 2022, are in display cases. The pirate ship-inspired vehicle is for Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure while the one resembling a woven basket is for Fairy Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies.

There are photo ops for each attraction. The Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure photo op puts you behind clouds, in front of a look down at Never Land with characters flying around you.

Fairy Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies has a similar display including a poster and concept art.

There’s a Pixie Hollow map. The same map is in the queue of the attraction.

This concept art shows Tinker Bell on screen at the beginning of the ride.

Other pieces depict riders in their spinning buggies traversing different scenes.

There are also large decorations of different busy bugs working in Pixie Hollow.

A large model depicts Peter Pan’s Never Land. This section of Fantasy Springs is the most expansive, with Captain Hook’s ship, Skull Rock, and the Never Land mountains.

The backdrop behind the model sometimes projects a rainbow. There are tiny people to provide scale.

Guests can walk on the pirate ship and through Skull Rock.

This is the entrance to Fairy Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies.

The Never Land mountains have fake clouds floating around them.

The Native American village is visible among the hilltops.

Here is the entrance to Lookout Cookout, the quick-service restaurant.

Cast Member costumes for each attraction are on display. Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure Cast wear pirate-inspired looks with brown pants, vests, and straw hats.

The Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies Cast Members wear more leaf-like clothing.

They even get wings on the backs of their vests.

There’s a display dedicated to Lookout Cookout, too. The TV screen cycles through pictures of food. Read our Lookout Cookout review.

The silhouettes of the Lost Boys are on a nearby wall, leading guests through the exhibit.

Next is Rapunzel’s Forest. This section’s attraction is Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival. A photo op shows Flynn and Rapunzel in their gondola in front of the Corona kingdom.

This display features The Snuggly Duckling sign and a screen showing different elements of the restaurant. Read our Snuggly Duckling review.

The area is decorated with flyers and wanted posters featuring the Snuggly Duckling thugs. This one advertises Hook Hand’s “I’ve Got a Dream” world tour.

Another display features lanterns, Corona bunting, and ship supplies stacked on crates. Flynn’s wanted poster is on the wall behind the crates.

Another wanted poster is for Fang, who is suspected of sock stealing.

Fang advertises his puppet performance on this flyer.

The Rapunzel’s Forest Cast Members wear purple vests or jackets with brown pants and boots. The tops are decorated with golden accents and sun-shaped buttons.

Parts of the tops feature textured designs.

Rapunzel’s Forest is a relatively small area. Rapunzel’s Tower looks down at the pathways leading to the attraction’s entrance and The Snuggly Duckling.

The restaurant, as depicted on the model, has a giant tree growing into it.

There are tiny figures of Flynn and Maximus on the model. These coincide to real-life animatronics on the ride.

Lighting on the model shifts and lanterns are projected on the back wall.

A singing animatronic of Rapunzel is at the top of her tower.

This is visible both during the ride and from outside the attraction.

The displays in this area feature lanterns and colorful artwork reminiscent of Rapunzel’s paintings.

This concept art is of the boathouse queue for Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival.

The queue area features lanterns and flags.

Guests ride in wide gondolas with blue seats.

This map is also a mural at Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival, showing the path guests take to and from the tower.

Moving onto Arendelle, these displays feature the Golden Crocus — the kingdom’s symbol — and red velvet curtains. There are plates and other props below artwork.

One side features concept art of the castle while the other side features the Royal Banquet of Arendelle. Read our review of everything the Royal Banquet offers.

A photo op has a wooden archway carved with the trolls and Kristoff.

An Arendelle map is framed in the center of the display.

Arendelle includes the castle on the water, a mountainscape, and Elsa’s Ice Palace in the distance.

The model has icy projections on the wall behind it.

The Frozen Kingdom attraction is Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey, a boat ride telling the story of “Frozen.”

Concept art for Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey includes this moment from the end of the ride and film.

Another piece depicts Anna and Elsa during the “For the First Time in Forever” number.

A photo op puts guests in front of a mural of Anna and Elsa with Arendelle Castle.

This model depicts part of the magical spring near the Fantasy Springs Hotel. The springs feature more rock carvings inspired by other Disney films.

Maleficent as a dragon is carved into this rockwork.

There are also various Disney Princesses.

Water features are throughout the spring.

In real life, the Magic Mirror’s face emerges from this cave.

The Magic Mirror in the waterfall appears every so often in Fantasy Springs at Tokyo DisneySea pic.twitter.com/FFuVSbbmC0

— WDW News Today (@WDWNT) May 16, 2024

There are also models of other carvings throughout the exhibit. This piece is a sculpture of Ariel.

This mossy piece depicts Cinderella.

Belle and the Beast are depicted holding the Enchanted Rose at the Fantasy Springs Hotel.

Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel

Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel

Situated near the magical springs, Guests can delight in a world of fantasy at this Disneyhotel. Motifs depicting Disney Princesses as well as flora and fauna adorn the interior, allowing Guests to soak up the ambience of Fantasy Springs for an immersive overnight experience. Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel comprises two buildings: the “deluxe type” Fantasy Chateau with 419 guest rooms, and the “luxury type” Grand Chateau with 56 guest rooms that offer the finest accommodation experience at Tokyo Disney Resort.

Concept art of the hotel adorns the walls, which feature the same wallpaper as the hotel. A TV screen shows clips of the hotel.

These golden statues are props from Fantasy Springs Gifts, the land’s gift shop on the hotel’s first floor.

This piece describes the dual backstories of Fantasy Springs, centered on a water spirit and a Duchess. The same stories are on display in Fantasy Springs Gifts.

Once upon a time in a land far away, there was a magical spring, where a spirit lived. While the spirit fed beautiful gardens, she was curious and flowed great distances where she encountered enchanted stories. Upon returning home, the spirit used her powers to sculpt stone, branch, and bank into intricate shapes resembling those she met. As she bubbled and sparkled in pools, fountains, and waterfalls, the spirit often sang melodies discovered on her many journeys.

One day a Duchess, who loved travel and adventure, discovered the beauty of the springs. Wandering along the rivers and streams of the springs, the Duchess found herself transported to magical places. The Duchess loved the enchanted springs so much that she built a little summer home nearby. As more of her friends visited, the Duchess built a grand palace to host them all. Even today, should you follow the water flowing from the spring’s source, you would come to fabled kingdoms found in storybook tales.

Signs of the beloved Duchess who created the palace for her royal friends reveal the Duchess to be an avid explorer, drawn to adventure and embodying the spirit of exploration that led her to discover this one-of-a-kind land.

This model depicts the spring and center of Fantasy Springs Hotel — the grand palace the Duchess built.

This part of the spring features Sorcerer Mickey moving the water.

There are four Disney Princess-inspired dresses on display. These were used during the design production for the ball gowns displayed in the hotel’s arcade. At the hotel, the dresses are in elaborate display cases beneath individual dome ceilings. Within the land’s lore, the gowns were worn by beloved princesses who visited and enjoyed their stay at the Springs.

Concept art of each dress hangs alongside the dress. These two are inspired by Belle and Tiana.

The other two are inspired by Aurora and Cinderella.

The dresses are followed by a room with an emotional montage set to music for the finale of the exhibit.

The exhibit ends with flat cutouts of Mickey and Minnie in their sparkling Fantasy Springs looks.

Check out our full guide to Fantasy Springs and Tom’s honest review.

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Shannen Ace