Tokyo Disney Resort is planning an estimated $2.68 billion expansion in response to overcrowding and the increasing threat from competitors.
The Nikkei Asian Review reports that Oriental Land has begun discussions with the Walt Disney Co. to increase the park’s footprint by around 30%. This would include new facilities geared towards Japanese and overseas visitors.
Last year, Tokyo Disneyland’s attendance figures smashed those of any other park in the Asia-Pacific region at 16.54 million. In total, the resort welcomed 30 million visitors.
However, the resort is proving a victim of its own success, with increased congestion having a negative impact on customer satisfaction.
Tokyo Disney Resort is eager to redress the balance and attract more of the country’s international tourists. With income levels continuing to rise in Asia, consumers are increasingly looking to spend their money on experiences and leisure.
If the expansion goes ahead, it will be the resort’s most expensive project since Tokyo DisneySea.
Possible attractions for the new space include a zone inspired by the hit movie Frozen.
Bloomberg reports that Disney have not responded to requests for comments. Oriental Land have issued a statement saying that it was not the source of the news reports, however it continues to consider all options to increase the value of its resort.
Image courtesy Tokyo Disney Resort
https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Companies/Tokyo-Disney-eyes-biggest-expansion-in-nearly-20-years