Society | Jul 18

Tokyo DisneySea's new flight simulator attraction to open next week

Tokyo DisneySea will launch a new flight simulator attraction Tuesday that promises to make visitors feel as if they are soaring over famous landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and the Egyptian pyramids.

The indoor attraction takes guests, seated in an airplane-like vehicle, on a virtual journey shown on a huge screen while they take in the breezes and scents that match the various landscapes.

The five-minute ride, called “Soaring: Fantastic Flight” will also swoop over natural wonders such as the African savannah and tropical seas. The ride tilts and shakes to make those on board feel like they are actually flying.

The new attraction was unveiled to the media on Wednesday ahead of the launch.

Although similar rides exist at other Disney theme parks, the attraction at Tokyo DisneySea will “feature new scenes and visuals for an experience exclusive to the park in Japan,” including the view from the skies of Tokyo, according to the operator Oriental Land Co.

Tokyo DisneySea invested some ¥18 billion to build the new attraction, which is based on Soarin’ Around the World, a popular flight-themed attraction at overseas Disney parks.

A new stage show titled Song of Mirage will also run from Tuesday. It features a live performance by Mickey Mouse and his Disney friends. The characters go on an adventure, with projection mapping depicting a journey to a legendary city.


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