Travel

New Okinawa Theme Park to Open in July Featuring Dinosaur Escapes

NAHA, Jan 29 (News On Japan) - A new theme park spearheaded by Takashi Morioka, known for his role in revitalizing Universal Studios Japan (USJ), is set to open in Okinawa this July.

During a press conference held in Tokyo, Morioka, credited with planning popular attractions such as the "Harry Potter" area and "Super Nintendo World" at USJ, shared details about the upcoming park. Dubbed "JUNGLIA," the park is being constructed in Okinawa's northern Yanbaru region, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site.

With the theme of "Power Vacations," JUNGLIA will offer a range of attractions designed to immerse visitors in the island's natural beauty. Highlights include a dinosaur escape experience and hot air balloons providing panoramic views of Okinawa’s sea and forests from 200 meters above sea level.

The park is slated to open on July 25th, with Morioka expressing his enthusiasm, stating, "We aim to make this park the highlight of any trip to Okinawa."

Source: Okinawa News OTV

Cyber Bill Passes Japan's Lower House

A bill to introduce a proactive cyber defense system, allowing preemptive measures against cyberattacks, was passed by the Lower House on April 8th with majority support from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, the Constitutional Democratic Party, and others.

Trump Praises Ohtani as Dodgers Visit the White House

The Dodgers, winners of last year’s World Series, paid a courtesy visit to President Trump at the White House on April 7th, with Shohei Ohtani, 30, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, 26, among the participating players.

Methane Gas Detected Again at Osaka-Kansai Expo Site

Methane gas was detected at levels exceeding safety standards in the western area of the Osaka-Kansai Expo site around 4 p.m. on April 6th, raising concerns due to the potential risk of explosion. Ventilation measures have since been implemented, bringing gas concentrations back below the threshold.

Bear Sightings in Hokkaido Surpass Last Year as Temperatures Rise

Bear activity is increasing in Hokkaido as spring temperatures rise, with sightings in 2025 already surpassing last year's total at over 100 cases.

Electric Bus to Debut on Tateyama Kurobe Alpen Route

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpen Route, linking Toyama and Nagano prefectures, will reopen on April 15th with the new Tateyama Tunnel Electric Bus set to begin service between Murodo and Daikanbo along a 3.7-kilometer stretch.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Travel NEWS

Luxury Meets Tradition: Inside Fukuoka’s Upcoming One Fukuoka Hotel

The One Fukuoka Hotel, soon to open on April 24th, has recently granted the media a preview of its lavish accommodations set between the 18th and 19th floors of the One Fukuoka Building in Fukuoka City's bustling Tenjin district. Just two weeks shy of its grand opening, the hotel promises a blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern luxury, offering expansive views across the cityscape.

Historic Yubari Coal Museum Reopens After Fire Damage

The Yubari Coal Museum in Hokkaido will reopen its 'simulated mine' exhibit to the public on April 19th, marking the end of extensive restoration work following a fire in 2019.

Ginza Expressway Closed to Create Pedestrian-Friendly Zone

The KK Line expressway running through Tokyo's Ginza district was officially closed on Saturday night, as part of a larger plan to transform the area into a pedestrian-centered public space.

Edo-Style River Cruises Capture Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom

The 21st Edo Fukagawa Sakura Festival concluded Sunday, with walkways and boat trips offering magnificent views of cherry blossoms in full bloom along a 1.3 kilometer stretch of the Oyoko River.

Atami’s New Lodging Tax Aimed at Foreign Visitors Draws Criticism from Japanese

As Japan enjoys the economic boost from a surge in foreign tourists, the hot spring town of Atami has introduced a lodging tax in April to tackle overtourism—prompting backlash from Japanese travelers who question why they, too, must pay a fee meant for inbound tourism.