Character Hugs Return to Tokyo Disney Resort • TDR Explorer

Since 2020, character greetings at Tokyo Disney Resort have been from a distance. Only recently have high-fives been allowed with characters, and mask-wearing is no longer required.

As of May 8, 2023, the Japanese Government has downgraded COVID-19, and prevention measures are left up to individuals and businesses. This includes border measures in Japan (since April 29, 2023), where visitors and residents do not need to test or show vaccination status to enter the country.

Tokyo Disney Resort has had many changes since 2020, and while some things are not likely to return, like FastPass, which is replaced with the Disney Premier Access, we have seen hugs come back!

You can once again hug characters.

Mickey inside Mickey’s House at Tokyo Disneyland

As of May 8, 2023, you can hug Mickey and other characters and distance markers are gone! It’s not clear whether the autographs are back yet. We’ll update you once we know.

Only a few weeks ago, we got the news that dinner shows are returning to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea! It’s a welcome return, and it’s great for guests to Tokyo Disney Resort to hug their favourite characters again. It’s a sign that we could see more changes at the Resort.

More Things to Do in Tokyo

My recommendations for things to do in and around Tokyo! Plan a day at the Hello Kitty theme park, Sanrio Puroland, and an afternoon at the popular TeamLab Planets TOKYO. Take a tour around Tokyo with the convenient hop-on and-off bus. Spend a rainy afternoon inside Japan’s largest indoor theme park, Tokyo Joyoplis, near Tokyo Disney!

More on Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo Disney Resort Guidebook

Are you planning a trip to Tokyo Disney Resort? If so, you need our digital guidebook! Our guidebook is the most comprehensive resource available, covering everything you need to know about the park, including tickets, hotels, restaurants, attractions, shows, seasonal events, and more! With our guidebook, you’ll be an expert on Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea before you even set foot in the Parks. You’ll know what to expect, where to go, and what to do. You’ll also be able to avoid the crowds and make the most of your time.

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Get tickets for Tokyo Disney Resort

It’s vital to buy your tickets ahead of time for Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. Read our comprehensive guide on tickets to learn how to purchase tickets. For recommendations on SIM cards, portable Wi-Fi devices, travel insurance, cheap flights, and hotel bookings, read our travel resources page.

Learn more about Tokyo Disney Resort

Want more Tokyo Disney content? Browser our dedicated page for everything Tokyo Disney Resort!

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