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Officials Respond to Emergency Surge at Disney Resort With Major Upgrade

Disney parks are built to transport visitors into a world of wonder, but even the most magical destinations are not immune to real-world concerns.

Over the years, Disney parks worldwide have dealt with various emergencies that temporarily disrupted operations. Medical emergencies are particularly common, with guests experiencing sudden illnesses or injuries while navigating attractions.

The 'Frozen' section of Fantasy Springs at Tokyo Disney Resort
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

Surge in Emergency Calls at Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo Disney Resort, home to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, has seen a particularly sharp rise in emergency calls in recent years.

According to MSN, the resort has recorded more than 1,900 emergency calls in recent years, primarily from guests experiencing health-related issues. Approximately 90% of these calls come from park visitors requiring medical attention.

In response, officials in Urayasu, the city in Chiba Prefecture where Tokyo Disney Resort is located, have announced plans to build a new fire station. Construction is set to begin in August, with the station expected to open in 2027. The facility will be equipped with a fire truck and an ambulance and staffed by around 20 personnel, improving emergency response times within the resort and the surrounding area.

Five Disney characters, Donald Duck, Mickey Mouse, Pluto, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy, stand and pose together in front of a picturesque castle backdrop, smiling widely. The characters are brightly costumed and appear cheerful and welcoming at Tokyo Disney Resort.
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

The development of this fire station coincides with discussions about a potential lodging tax in Urayasu. If approved, tourists staying in the city—including those at Tokyo Disney Resort hotels—would face an additional fee on top of their accommodation costs.

This tax would apply to Tokyo Disney properties (Tokyo Disneyland Hotel, Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel, Disney Ambassador Hotel, Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta, and Tokyo Disney Resort Toy Story Hotel) and other nearby hotels off-property.

Exterior of Tokyo Disneyland Hotel
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo Disney Resort Experiences Surge of International Visitors

Tokyo Disney Resort has seen a surge in international visitors, fueled in part by the Japanese yen’s weak position against the U.S. dollar. Even those who are locals to the likes of Disneyland and Disney World travel to Japan specifically to experience the resort, which is widely considered one of the best Disney destinations worldwide.

Despite not being owned by The Walt Disney Company, Tokyo Disney Resort – operated by The Oriental Land Compay – is known for its exceptional attractions and immersive design. Guests can explore unique rides such as Journey to the Center of the Earth, which takes riders deep inside a volcanic cavern, or Pooh’s Hunny Hunt, an innovative trackless dark ride that stands apart from other Winnie the Pooh rides around the world.

The 'Peter Pan' area of Fantasy Springs at Tokyo DisneySea
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

The resort has also expanded significantly, with Tokyo DisneySea opening Fantasy Springs in 2023. This ambitious new land features three immersive areas based on Frozen (2013), Tangled (2010), and Peter Pan (1953), each packed with attractions that bring Disney’s beloved stories to life.

Initially, access was limited to guests with designated passes, but Fantasy Springs is now open to all visitors.

With more tourists arriving each year, the decision to improve emergency services is a necessary step. The new fire station is expected to enhance response times, ensuring that Tokyo Disney Resort remains both a magical and safe destination for all who visit.

Have you ever had to call emergency services while visiting a Disney park?

Chloe James

Chloë is a theme park addict and self-proclaimed novelty hunter. She's obsessed with all things Star Wars, loves roller coasters (but hates Pixar Pal-A-Round), and lives for Disney's next Muppets project.

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