Splash Mountain has been marked for closure.
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Splash Mountain has been scheduled to close on February 12 at the Tokyo Disney Resort. The ride will remain shuttered for refurbishment and is set to reopen on March 19.
During the closure, guests at Tokyo Disney might experience a shift in crowd dynamics. With Splash Mountain closed, visitors may flock to other attractions, impacting wait times and experiences throughout the park. Those who are frequent visitors have noted that this adjustment can often lead to unique experiences and less crowded pathways, offering opportunities to explore more of what the resort has to offer.
While details about the refurbishment remain under wraps, the anticipation of what enhancements might be underway is palpable among guests. Historical precedent suggests that past refurbishments of Splash Mountain have led to significant improvements in operations and technical performance.
The Attraction’s History and Controversies
Splash Mountain has a rich and complex history within Disney’s theme park repertoire, becoming an iconic attraction since its debut in 1989. The ride invites guests on a vibrant journey, taking them through the adventures of Br’er Rabbit as he dodges the watchful eyes of Br’er Fox and Br’er Bear. Its thrilling drops and catchy tunes made it a centerpiece for many park-goers.
However, the ride has also been embroiled in controversy due to its connection to Disney’s 1946 film, Song of the South, which has long been criticized for its racial themes and portrayal of African Americans.
Over the years, Disney’s efforts to distance themselves from the problematic aspects of the film led to significant discussions surrounding the ride’s future. Eventually, in 2020, Disney announced plans to retheme Splash Mountain as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, drawing from the beloved 2009 movie The Princess and the Frog. This decision sparked lively debates among fans, with many expressing their attachment to the traditional ride while others welcomed the new direction.
Transition to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
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Tiana’s Bayou Adventure eventually opened in 2024 at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts and has proven to be a big hit among guests of all ages.
As for Tokyo Disney’s Splash Mountain, it remains unclear whether it will undergo a similar transformation. Current speculation leans towards maintaining the ride’s original theme while implementing improvements. Guests will undoubtedly keep a close eye on any future announcements regarding Tokyo Disney’s plans for their iconic attraction, with the hope that the essence of what made Splash Mountain special will continue to shine through in any updates.
