Another Disney expense has gone up.
For years, Disney fans have watched the cost of a theme park vacation steadily rise. Admission prices have increased, annual passes cost more than ever, and extras once considered optional have become a larger part of the overall bill.
Parking has not been immune. Last year alone, both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort increased their parking fees. Walt Disney World raised standard parking from $30 to $35 per day, while preferred parking increased to between $50 and $60. Disneyland also raised its standard parking rate from $35 to $40.
The latest increase, however, is taking place elsewhere in Disney's global portfolio.
Parking Costs Jump for First Time in a Decade
Tokyo Disney Resort has officially increased its parking prices effective June 16.
Guests arriving by car now pay 4,000 yen ($25) to park standard vehicles. Previously, the same parking cost 3,000 yen.
Parking for larger vehicles has increased from 5,000 yen to 6,000 yen ($37).
The change amounts to a 33% increase across both categories.
Unlike many Disney destinations around the world, Tokyo Disney Resort had kept its parking prices unchanged for the past 10 years.
The resort's operator, Oriental Land Company, said that “the price revision was decided in consideration of increased maintenance costs, usage patterns, and market prices.”
Although the increase is substantial, the new rates remain lower than those charged at Disney's American parks.
Guests visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland currently pay significantly more for standard parking than visitors to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea.
Resort Prepares for Busy Summer Season
The timing of the increase comes as Tokyo Disney Resort prepares for one of its biggest seasonal events of the year.
The Summer Cool-Off celebration begins July 2 and runs through September 14, bringing water-focused entertainment and seasonal offerings to both parks.
This year's event will include Baymax's Mission: Cool Down, Splash Mountain Get Soaked MAX Plus, Gadget's Go Coaster Get Soaked Version, and Get Soaked Toontown.
A special version of the nighttime spectacular Reach for the Stars will also be offered before the show concludes its run.
Even with the parking increase, Tokyo Disney Resort remains one of the most affordable Disney destinations in the world.
One-day tickets to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea start at 7,900 yen ($49), a fraction of what guests can pay at peak periods in the United States.
Hotel rates also remain comparatively low. Rooms at Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel start at approximately 21,500 yen ($134) per night.
Food and merchandise are similarly known for offering better value than many other Disney resorts. Mickey ears, for example, often sell for between $10 and $15.
That reputation has helped Tokyo Disney Resort become a popular destination for international Disney fans seeking a lower-cost alternative to the company's U.S. parks.
Which Disney price increase bothers you the most?
