Best things to do in Urayasu

An original Japanese addition to Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea features nautically themed attractions, rides, and shows inspired by myths of the sea. The park contains seven different areas: Mermaid Lagoon, American Waterfront, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery, Arabian Coast, Mediterranean Harbor, and Mysterious Island. Check out the Venetian gondolas, an underwater world out of the imagination of the science fiction writer Jules Verne, and the S.S. Columbia steamship. Unlike its neighboring Disneyland, this park contains higher quality dining options where guests can order alcoholic beverages.

The first Disney theme park outside of the United States, Tokyo Disneyland opened in 1983 to provide the same magic and fun that makes Disney World famous. The park contains seven sections: a World Bazaar, the four classic Disney worlds (Westernland, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Adventureland), Critter Country, and Mickey’s Toontown. Featuring many of the beloved rides and attractions based on Disney’s classic films, the park draws tremendous crowds. Research tickets in advance and wear comfortable shoes to navigate the park’s vast open spaces.

Shopping, dining, and entertainment come together at Ikspiari, part of Tokyo Disneyland. Explore the expansive shopping center and browse through a wide array of big-name brands and chains. After you work up an appetite wandering the mall, grab a bite to eat or a drink at one of the many onsite cafes, restaurants, and bars, which serve everything from craft beers to traditional Japanese sushi, noodles, and tempura. Check the complex's website for information on special offers and frequently held special events, and be sure to ask about the discount card for foreign visitors.

Located just outside the Disney resort and shaped just like a gigantic suitcase (you can't miss it), Bon Voyage is a one-stop shop for all things Disney. Peruse row upon row of cuddly versions of the flagship characters, as well as some of the more unusual personalities in the brand's universe, along with lunchboxes, clothing, key chains, and much more paraphernalia. It's worth bringing along your camera in case the Disney fans you're traveling with want a photo with a life-size Mickey or Minnie model.

One of the largest complexes of its kind in the country, Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple represents one of the country's most important religious sites. The 10th-century Shingon Buddhist temple, just a short jaunt from the city's airport, sits within sprawling grounds dotted with many shrines, halls, and pagodas, each featuring classic swooping rooftops adorned with gold and red accents. Don't miss the complex's main pagoda, a 58 m (190 ft) tall structure erected in the 1980s.