Nara Dreamland

Nara Dreamland, inspired by Disneyland in California, was a popular theme park near Nara, Japan, when it first opened in 1961. Unfortunately, on August 29, 2006, the theme park closed permanently because of low visitor numbers, possibly due to the popularity of Universal Studios Japan, which opened in nearby Osaka, and it’s been abandoned ever since. Continue reading for five cool facts you probably didn’t know about Nara Dreamland. Click here for a few more bonus images of the abandoned theme park.

5. Had Its Own Mascots

Nara Dreamland

Believe it or not, the park also had its own mascots that were semi-inspired by Disney characters: Ran-chan and Dori-chan, which were basically two kids dressed as bearskinned guards.

4. Popular with Urban Explorers

Nara Dreamland

Nara Dreamland is a popular destination for haikyoists, or urban explorers. Many have reported hearing strange noises near the park’s boats, and speculate that it may be caused by a running water pump or a type of bull frog.

3. Had 9 Attractions Before Closing

Nara Dreamland

Before the park closed in 2006, it contained several rides, including: Aska, a wooden roller coaster based on The Cyclone at Coney Island; Screw Coaster, an Arrow Development designed double corkscrew steel roller coaster; Bobsleigh, a steel roller coaster modeled after the Matterhorn Bobsleds; Fantasy Coaster; Kid’s Coaster; Figure-8 monorail; carousel; a Jungle Cruise styled ride, and a log flume.

2. Had a Matterhorn-Style Ride

Nara Dreamland

It also had a Matterhorn-type mountain (with a Matterhorn Bobsleds-type ride, called Bobsleigh), and the skyway running through it, as well as an Autopia-type pubs and a monorail.

1. Entrance Designed to Look Like Disneyland

Nara Dreamland

The entrance to the park was designed to look almost identical to Disneyland, including the Train depot, a Main Street, U.S.A. and the familiar Sleeping Beauty Castle at the hub.

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A technology, gadget and video game enthusiast that loves covering the latest industry news. Favorite trade show? Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.