Tdr Now

Themed cafes are a staple throughout Japan. From crafty 3D Art Latte to Pokémon to even dog cafes. You'll be hard-pressed to find a themed cafe that doesn't intrigue you in some way. Trust me. In this episode, Trish and I discuss all the different themed cafes we've experienced. Sharing with you our favourite locations and more importantly, information on how these cafes work. They all don't work how you think! Have you visited a themed cafe in Japan? Share with us your favourite one!

This doesn't need much introduction. Places around the world continue to close temporarily in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19). This includes Tokyo Disney Resort, Universal Studios Japan, Hong Kong Disneyland, Shanghai Disneyland over in Asia. We also have Disneyland Paris, Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and the Disney Cruise Line also closing. This means every Disney Park in the world is going to be closed at the same time. We're living history. In this special episode of the TDR Now Podcast, Trish and I discuss what the closures mean for the Disney Parks in Asia. Also, what steps to take for refunds and what the Resorts are doing. Stay updated on what's going on with our page regarding these closures.

Get caught up with the news that happened in February 2020 at the theme parks in Asia! A lot is going on and we recap it for you. Tokyo DisneySea Expansion delayed until 2023Tokyo Disney Resort ticket price increaseHarry Potter "Theme Park" may be coming to TokyoUniversal Studios Beijing NewsHong Kong Disneyland & Shanghai Disneyland close due to CoronavirusSuper Nintendo World opens summer 2020 at Universal Studios Japan Let us know if you enjoy these types of recaps episodes in the comments!

Cool Japan 2020 is underway at Universal Studios Japan. It started on January 21 and runs until June 28, 2020. Featuring mega-hit franchises such as Lupin the Third, Monster Hunter, Conan the Detective, and Attack on Titan. Trish was at Universal Studios Japan bright and early on the first day. In this episode, she shares her thoughts on why Cool Japan 2020 is worth visiting at Universal Studios Japan. Don't worry, we explain everything you need to know.

It's on the news around the globe. You know what I'm talking about. Coronavirus. Sadly, it's affected theme parks in Asia including Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park in Hong Kong. Followed by Shanghai Disney Resort in Mainland China. In this episode, we discuss what this could mean for your trip. What to do. How to stay safe and more importantly, how to stay informed. Read our updated information on the theme parks and the coronavirus.

There's a lot of stress that comes with planning a trip to an unfamiliar country. One of which is knowing how to be a good guest in the country you're visiting. I totally get it, it's stressful. Japan has a lot of written and unwritten rules when it comes to etiquette and manners. As a traveller, it's up to you to inform yourself. We all want to be good guests right? Right. As a visitor, you aren't held up to the same standard as the locals. You're forgiven for making mistakes. But, having a little knowledge goes a long way. In this episode, we dive deep into etiquette and manners at the theme parks throughout Japan (a lot applies outside the Parks too). What you should and shouldn't do. It makes not only for a pleasant trip for you but for everyone around you. Ready? Let's go!

The winter months at Tokyo Disney Resort see lower crowds due to the cold weather. To tempt locals and tourists alike to visit during this time, the Resort offers fun and engaging events. New for 2020 is the "Very Very Minnie" event that is all about our queen, Minnie Mouse. While over at Tokyo DisneySea we see the return of Pixar Playtime & Duffy's Heartwarming Days. Trish and I discuss these winter events and tell you why the "Very Very Minnie" event is fantastic for Minnie Mouse fans.

We're still allowed to talk about Christmas right? Right? Well, we're kicking off 2020 with Trish sharing her time at Universal Studios Japan during their Christmas event. Universal Studios Japan is a must-visit on your next trip to Japan. If this wonderful Park in Osaka wasn't on your radar, it really needs to be.

Without a doubt, Starbucks is one of the most recognizable brands in the world. The first Starbucks outside of North America opened in Japan back in 1996 (at the height of the Spice Girls' fame). Japan has been home to many "firsts" such as the first Disney Park to open outside the United States with Tokyo Disney Resort in 1983. The country has a way of taking a familiar essence and creating a new-yet-familiar experience. In this episode, we take a break from theme parks and discuss our favourite Starbucks locations throughout Japan. From the megacity of Tokyo to the lesser-known spots. Japan has a bustling coffee culture so it comes at no surprise that Starbucks Japan has its own spin on familiar favourites.

Shibuya Sky is the newest attraction in Tokyo directly on the rooftop the brand-new Shibuya Scramble Square. This rooftop attraction boasts one of the best views of the city. In this episode, Trish and I talk about our experience visiting Shibuya Sky along with a few tips for your visit. Shibuya Sky is by advance tickets through the official website. I recommend booking well in advance to get the day and time you want. https://www.shibuya-scramble-square.com/sky/brand/en/

Trish and I answer the biggest question everyone wants to know, "When is the best time to visit Tokyo Disneyland in 2020?" We discuss when we think are the best and worst times. Including what we think the crowds will be like for the opening of Beauty and the Beast at Tokyo Disneyland. Also what our thoughts on what's going to happen with the Summer Olympics in July and August. You won't want to miss this episode if you're thinking about visiting in 2020. If you're visiting this coming year, make sure to preorder the "TDR Explorer Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort" 2020 edition! It'll be the only resource you need when planning a trip to Tokyo Disney Resort. If you preorder today, you'll receive a bonus download of our "15 Essential Snacks at Tokyo Disney Resort." PREORDER NOW

Christmas is well underway at Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo DisneySea now until December 25, 2019. Read our guide to Christmas at Tokyo Disney Resort for more details and travel tips. Merchandise, food, entertainment, and decorations, there's plenty to do this holiday season in Tokyo. Trish and I give our review of Christmas 2019 at Tokyo Disney Resort with what we loved and didn't love this year. Don't forget to preorder our 2020 edition of the TDR Explorer Guide to Tokyo Disney Resort that's coming out this December! If you're visiting next year, this is an absolute must to perfect your planning.

Typhoon Hagibis was the largest typhoon in recent years to hit Japan this past October. The typhoon caused disruptions to transportation, businesses, and damage in many areas of the country. Tokyo Disney Resort took no chances and decided to close the Parks on October 12, 2019. In episode 177 of the TDR Now Podcast, Trish shares her experience of Typhoon Hagibis in the Tokyo Disney Resort area. We also discuss ways to stay safe during the typhoon season (August through October).

Halloween Horror Nights 2019 is on now at Univeral Studios Japan in Osaka until November 4, 2019. Trish makes her way to Osaka to experience one of the best Halloween events in Japan. From what she ate, the merchandise, and most importantly, how all the mazes and unique experiences stack up. If you're a horror fan, then you don't want to miss this episode.

Halloween 2019 is underway at both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea until October 31, 2019. Trish shares her experience of the event this year at both Parks. What food to try, the frustrating experience of buying merchandise, and the excellent brand-new show "Festival of Mystique." at Tokyo DisneySea. There's a lot to know, so this is an episode you don't want to miss!

Tokyo Disney Resort offers an official app for both Android and iOS devices. It's a fantastic tool that makes your time in the park much easier. The only catch is, it's only in Japanese and a lot of the functionality is only accessible if you live in Japan or can read the language. In episode 174 of the TDR Now Podcast, Trish and I discuss our thoughts about the app and what we think should change to help make this better for non-residents (tourists) to Japan. For additional information on the app we have a full guide on how to download and use it:

A must-do when you're in Tokyo is the Digital Art Museum in Odaiba. It's a complete sensory adventure and is great for the entire family. In episode 173 of the TDR Now Podcast, we talk all about this digital experience. Along with tips on how to make the most of your visit and what our favourite parts were. Getting tickets is easy and are available through the official website or at a discount through Voyagin.

Universal Studios Singapore was another Universal Park that I've crossed off the list! In this episode, we talk all about my trip to Universal Studios Singapore. What hotel I stayed at (Genting Hotel Jurong), what I ate, what I rode, and most importantly how were the crowds! Let us know if you'd like to see a full episode dedicated to visiting Singapore in the comments!

Toy Story & Pixar Pals Summer Splash is on now until September 1, 2019 (I know we're a bit late with this episode) at Hong Kong Disneyland. Trish and I talk about my time at Hong Kong Disneyland during their summer event! I also share my experience of touring Hong Kong during the protests and how to keep yourself safe and informed.

Soaring: Fantastic Flight is the newest attraction at Tokyo DisneySea that opened on July 23, 2019. Patricia and I talk all about this wonderful attraction in the Mediterranean Harbor. What we thought, how it differs from the other versions around the world, and of course, our thoughts on the limited-time food and merchandise. You can watch our full video here that shows the queue, food, and merch! To learn more about Soaring: Fantastic Flight, read our post here.