20 Reasons Why This ‘Always Sold-Out’ Disney Hotel Will Blow Your Mind – And It Won’t Empty Your Wallet
Ever dreamed of staying at a Disney hotel without breaking the bank? Well, brace yourself because the Toy Story Hotel at Tokyo Disney Resort is all the buzz, and for good reason!
This mid-tier masterpiece has quickly become one of the most sought-after stays for Disney fans around the globe. But what makes it so irresistible? Read on as we dive into 20 jaw-dropping reasons why this hotel is a must-see. And yes, your wallet might even thank you.
1. Tokyo Disney Resort’s Toy Story Hotel – A Dream Come True!
What if I told you one of Disney’s most sought-after hotels isn’t even owned by Disney? It’s true! Tokyo Disney Resort, including the Toy Story Hotel, is operated by Oriental Land Co., Ltd. But don’t let that detail scare you away.
Why it matters: The Toy Story Hotel combines Disney magic with Japanese hospitality, giving you a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. And honestly, isn’t that blend of cultures part of what makes a trip to Japan so unforgettable?
Pro tip: If you’re a fan of Toy Story, you’ll feel like you’ve walked right into Andy’s playroom.
2. Staying Here Won’t Make You Smash Your Piggy Bank
Let’s be real: Disney hotels are usually pricey. But the Toy Story Hotel offers a sweet spot between luxury and budget-friendly. Rates range from $200 to $500 a night, which, for a Disney property, is pretty reasonable.
Yes, it’s more than staying at a budget motel, but here’s the deal: the value you get for that price—proximity to the parks, exclusive perks, and a playful, immersive experience—makes it worth every penny. Plus, there’s always a way to save.
Money-saving tip: Book a room during the week for lower rates and skip the weekend rush!
3. Booking Secrets You Need to Know
Want to stay here? You’d better plan ahead! Reservations for this popular hotel open exactly four months in advance. That means if you want to book a room for February 8th, you need to be online on October 8th.
Why the rush? Rooms sell out faster than tickets to a Taylor Swift concert. With Disney fans worldwide vying for a spot, it’s no wonder people set their alarms for reservation day.
Pro tip: Tokyo Disney releases bookings at 11 a.m. JST. If you’re in a different time zone, plan accordingly to snag your dream stay.
4. Why The Happy Entry Benefit Is a Total Game-Changer
Imagine strolling into Tokyo Disneyland before the gates officially open. With Happy Entry, hotel guests get a 15-minute head start over everyone else. It might not sound like much, but it means you’ll be first in line for that must-ride attraction or snagging the perfect Instagram shot with the castle.
And that’s not all. You can also buy park tickets directly from the hotel, even when they’re sold out elsewhere. It’s a little piece of magic that makes all the difference.
Takeaway: 15 minutes might seem small, but when it comes to beating the lines, it’s a huge advantage.
5. A Hotel Designed With Kids (and Kids-at-Heart) in Mind
Ever wanted to feel like a toy? At this hotel, you can! The entire place is designed as if Andy built a hotel for his toy friends before heading off to Cowboy Camp. From the giant LiteBrite in the lobby to pencil-shaped pillars, every inch is crafted to make you feel like you’ve shrunk to toy-size.
Why this matters: It’s not just for kids—any Disney fan will appreciate the attention to detail. If you’ve ever dreamt of living in a world where toys come to life, this is your chance.
Fun fact: You’ll even find giant “just-eaten” popsicle sticks being used as benches. It’s like stepping into a life-sized board game.
6. Rooms That Make You Feel Like You’re in Andy’s Bedroom
The guest rooms are like stepping into Andy’s room from Toy Story. Think blue sky and cloud wallpaper, whimsical bedframes, and playful touches inspired by the movie. It’s the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories, whether you’re snapping photos or just soaking in the nostalgia.
But there’s a catch: the beds are on the firm side. If you prefer a plush mattress, you might find it a bit uncomfortable. On the plus side, that means no noisy squeaks when the kids (or you) are jumping up and down.
Pro tip: Even though the beds are firm, the room stays blissfully quiet at night, perfect for a good night’s rest after a long day of park-hopping.
7. Why You Need to Visit the Konbini Store (Yes, Inside the Hotel!)
Who knew a convenience store could be this magical? Inside the Toy Story Hotel, you’ll find a konbini (Japanese convenience store) that’s way more than your average 7-Eleven. It’s stocked with pre-packaged meals, Disney-themed souvenirs, and even Japanese snacks you won’t find back home.
Why it’s awesome: Prices are surprisingly affordable, even though you’re in a Disney hotel. So, if you’re looking to grab a quick breakfast or need a late-night snack, this is the place to go.
Favorite find: The egg salad sandwich. Trust us, it’s a thing in Japan, and it’s worth every bite.
8. A Buffet That’s as Cute as It Is Disappointing
Okay, let’s keep it real here: Lotso Garden Café is adorable, but the food? Not so much. The buffet is filled with Toy Story-themed dishes that look amazing, but the taste doesn’t quite match the presentation.
The price isn’t exactly cheap either: ¥5,500 ($39) for adults and less for kids. For that price, you might expect a little more flavor. But hey, at least the desserts are worth a try!
Verdict: Skip the dinner buffet and head to the konbini for a more budget-friendly (and tastier) meal.
9. Why the Staff Make All the Difference
One thing you’ll notice right away is how friendly and welcoming the staff are. They greet every guest with a smile, wave you through the lobby, and go out of their way to make you feel at home. And don’t worry if your Japanese is rusty—most of the staff can speak English, and all the signs in the hotel are in English too.
Why it matters: Great service can make or break a stay, and at this hotel, you’ll feel like a VIP from check-in to check-out.
10. Check Out the Play Areas – Even If You’re an Adult
Don’t have kids? No problem. The play areas at the Toy Story Hotel are so much fun that even grown-ups can’t resist. There’s Slinky Dog Park in the front and Toy Friend’s Square in the back, each filled with larger-than-life toys and quirky designs.
Why you should care: These spots are perfect for photo ops, especially at night when the play areas light up with colorful toy-themed lights. It’s like stepping into a whimsical, glowing toy world.
Pro tip: Even if you’re not a kid, let your inner child out for a bit and snap some selfies with the giant Slinky Dog. You’ll be glad you did!
11. No Closet? No Problem!
If you’re used to closets for all your vacation outfits, you might be surprised when you walk into your Toy Story Hotel room. There’s no traditional closet! Instead, you’ll find a row of colorful hangers on the wall, adding a playful touch to the room’s decor.
But don’t worry, it’s not a drawback! The lack of a closet is common in many Japanese hotels, and the hangers add to the room’s toy-like charm. Plus, it makes organizing your clothes easier—you’ll know exactly where everything is without digging through a wardrobe.
Fun fact: The hangers are designed to look like giant push pins holding them in place. It’s a small touch, but it adds to the overall theme in a fun way.
12. Those Little Extras That Make It Special
One of the best parts of staying at the Toy Story Hotel? The special, exclusive little details that make your stay even more magical. For example, the TV in each room is framed to look like an Etch-a-Sketch, bringing back childhood memories every time you switch it on.
And don’t forget the Buzz Lightyear-inspired pajamas! These are provided in every room, and they come in different sizes so the whole family can join in on the fun.
Bonus tip: You even get to keep the Woody slippers with Andy’s signature on the bottom as a souvenir. It’s the perfect reminder of your stay!
13. The Bathroom Design Will Surprise You
Japanese bathrooms are known for their innovative design, and the Toy Story Hotel is no exception. The bathroom is split into two areas: one for the toilet and sink, and another for the shower and tub. This setup means no waiting in line if someone’s taking a long shower—talk about convenience!
But here’s the twist: the bathtub is smaller than you might be used to if you’re taller than 5’4″. However, for kids, it’s the perfect size for a fun bubble bath after a day at the parks. The bathroom also has quirky touches like bubble-shaped light fixtures and a mural of Wheezy singing in the shower room.
Pro tip: Be careful with the hot water—it heats up quickly, so make sure to adjust the temperature before hopping in.
14. Gift Planet Is a Must-Visit
You might think you’ll find the same souvenirs in the parks, but Gift Planet at the Toy Story Hotel has exclusive items you won’t want to miss. From mugs and plush toys to a model set of the actual hotel, there’s something for every Toy Story fan here.
The store is small, but the decor is absolutely adorable, with a theme centered around the Green Little Men. You’ll find giant alien-themed decorations and walls covered with colorful board game designs. It’s worth visiting just to check out the creative design, even if you don’t plan on buying anything.
Money-saving tip: With the yen being weaker right now, you might find some good deals on souvenirs compared to what you’d pay in the States!
15. This Hotel Is More Than Just a Place to Sleep
Most hotels are just a place to rest your head after a long day of sightseeing. But the Toy Story Hotel is an experience all on its own. Between the beautifully themed rooms, whimsical lobby, and immersive play areas, you could easily spend hours exploring the hotel without even stepping into the parks.
And with so many thoughtful details, you’ll find yourself wanting to discover every corner. Each time you turn around, there’s a new little touch that makes you smile—like a giant LiteBrite in the lobby or toy-themed murals.
Takeaway: Don’t just use the hotel as a place to sleep! Take time to explore and enjoy all the magic it has to offer.
16. Can You Believe It’s Just a Short Ride Away from Tokyo Disneyland?
Location, location, location. One of the biggest perks of staying at the Toy Story Hotel is its prime spot on Disney property. With a dedicated monorail stop, you’re just a quick 5-10 minute ride away from Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea.
This means less time traveling and more time experiencing the magic! And if you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time, the convenience can’t be overstated. It’s perfect for families with little ones who need to rest in the middle of the day or anyone who wants to maximize their park time.
Pro tip: The monorail pass isn’t included, but it’s super easy to purchase one at the station.
17. Get Ready for Photo Ops Around Every Corner
It’s no secret that Disney fans love taking photos, and the Toy Story Hotel is packed with Instagrammable spots. From the Buzz Lightyear-themed elevator areas to the playful outdoor spaces, you’ll find photo ops everywhere you look.
The best time to snap those perfect shots? At night! The play areas light up with toy-themed decorations, making everything look even more magical. Whether you’re posing with a life-sized Slinky Dog or taking selfies in front of the giant building block facade, your social media feed is about to get a serious upgrade.
Takeaway: Bring your camera and have fun capturing the magic—your followers will thank you!
18. You Don’t Have to Speak Japanese to Have an Amazing Time
If you’re worried about language barriers, don’t be. The Toy Story Hotel is designed with international guests in mind. Most signs and menus are in English, and the majority of staff members can speak English as well.
Of course, learning a few basic phrases in Japanese is always appreciated, but you’ll find that you can get by just fine with a smile and a few friendly words. It’s all part of the incredible service that makes this hotel feel like a home away from home.
Bonus tip: Learning words like “Konnichiwa” (hello) and “Arigato gozaimasu” (thank you very much) can go a long way in making connections with the staff!
19. Why You Shouldn’t Wing It with Reservations
If you’re someone who likes to be spontaneous with travel plans, you’ll need to change gears here. The Toy Story Hotel is one of the most popular hotels at Tokyo Disney Resort, and that means you have to plan ahead—way ahead.
Rooms become available exactly four months in advance, and they go fast. Set a reminder on your phone and be ready to book as soon as the website opens. This is one place where “winging it” won’t get you far!
Pro tip: Tokyo Disney releases reservations at 11 a.m. JST. Plan for the time difference to maximize your chance of snagging a room.
20. A Magical Stay Without the Hefty Price Tag
Why does the Toy Story Hotel stand out among Disney properties? It offers an experience that’s rich in detail, family-friendly, and surprisingly affordable. You’ll find the same level of Disney magic, but with a fresh twist that only Tokyo can provide.
It’s not perfect—the beds might be firmer than you’d like, and the buffet may leave you wanting more flavor—but the whimsical atmosphere and thoughtful design more than make up for it. Whether you’re a lifelong Toy Story fan or simply looking for a unique stay, this hotel is worth adding to your bucket list.
Are you ready to book your stay yet? With its immersive design, great location, and budget-friendly rates, the Toy Story Hotel is one of Tokyo Disney’s best-kept secrets—though probably not for long. Let us know in the comments if you’ve stayed there, or if you have any other Tokyo Disney tips to share!