Few Disney attractions are as universally recognized as “it’s a small world,” and yet one version of the ride is changing from tomorrow.
The Legacy of “it’s a small world”
The original “it’s a small world” ride still stands in Disneyland Park’s Fantasyland, where it opened in 1966 following its success at the 1964 World’s Fair.
From its iconic theme song by the Sherman Brothers to its vibrant displays of global unity, the ride has captured the hearts of millions since its debut. The ride’s charm lies in its simplicity—a celebration of global cultures through hundreds of animatronic dolls dressed in traditional costumes, accompanied by the famous earworm theme.
Versions of the ride have since been introduced at Magic Kingdom Park, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Tokyo Disneyland, each offering unique touches while staying true to the ride’s core message of unity.
Groot Steps In
Tomorrow, Tokyo Disneyland takes a bold step in its history with a Marvel Cinematic Universe-inspired overlay: “it’s a small world with Groot.”
Tokyo Disneyland is the first to add a Marvel twist to this beloved attraction. The new overlay, running until June 30, 2025, replaces the usual scenes of international harmony with a storyline featuring Groot from Guardians of the Galaxy.
As the ride’s new host, Groot explores the world while interacting with characters like Star-Lord, Thor, Captain Marvel, and Gamora.
Thanks to @DtimesDeparture, we recently received our first proper look at the attraction. Each animatronic character has been reimagined in the distinctive Mary Blair style that defines the ride’s aesthetic, blending Marvel’s high-energy universe with Disney’s classic whimsy.
It’s a Small World with Groot Marvel characters make their first appearance at Tokyo Disney Resort ☆
イッツ・ア・スモールワールド with グルート
マーベルキャラクターが東京ディズニーリゾートに初登場☆https://t.co/8pMbDWpnzF pic.twitter.com/32CfpuxAiO— DtimesDeparture (@DtimesDeparture) January 14, 2025
A Divisive Change
The initial announcement of “it’s a small world with Groot” came in March 2024 and sparked mass debate among Disney enthusiasts.
While some have applauded the park’s innovative integration of Marvel into its attractions, others argue that the overlay disrupts the spirit (and aesthetic) of a cherished classic. Early glimpses of the ride, however, suggest a playful and visually stunning adaptation that respects the ride’s artistic roots.
Tokyo Disneyland “It’s a Small World with Groot”
Captain America (Sam Wilson), Drax, Star-Lord, Captain Marvel, and Thor appear in the Latin America area ☆
東京ディズニーランド「イッツ・ア・スモールワールドwithグルート」
中南米エリアにはキャプテン・アメリカ（サム・ウィルソン）、ドラックス、 スター・ロード、キャプテン・マーベル、ソーが登場☆
詳細→https://t.co/R8lX8GKKZx pic.twitter.com/QvdSCZkXWj— DtimesDeparture (@DtimesDeparture) January 14, 2025
Considering the overlay’s short lifespan, it also feels a bit extreme to dismiss “it’s a small world with Groot” completely.
Recent Developments at Tokyo Disney Resort
To celebrate the overlay’s debut, Tokyo Disney Resort released an exclusive comic, it’s a small world with Groot: Take Off, and a new music mix that blends the attraction’s original melodies with Marvel scores, including Alan Silvestri’s “Avengers Theme” and “Agatha’s Theme” from Agatha All Along.
The Marvel overlay is just one of several major updates at Tokyo Disney Resort. In 2024, Tokyo Disneyland began demolishing and rebuilding its Space Mountain ride and retired Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters. It is set to be replaced by a Wreck-It Ralph (2012) attraction—the first of its kind at any Disney park.
Meanwhile, Tokyo DisneySea recently opened Fantasy Springs, featuring mini-lands inspired by Frozen (2013), Tangled (2010), and Peter Pan (1953). While the land is now open to all, access initially proved challenging, with some guests arriving as early as 2 a.m. to secure their spot.
How do you feel about “it’s a small world with Groot”?
