Space Mountain Earthrise: Everything We Know About Tokyo Disneyland’s New Coaster

Tomorrowland at Tokyo Disneyland is undergoing a major transformation, marking a significant change for an area that has retained much of its original retro-futuristic aesthetic since the park opened in 1983. Now, the nostalgic land is entering a new era with a completely redesigned Space Mountain, a new Tomorrowland Plaza and additional dining options planned as part of the redevelopment.

At the heart of the project is Space Mountain Earthrise, the all-new version of the iconic attraction. The new indoor roller coaster will replace Tokyo Disneyland’s original Space Mountain, which opened with the park in 1983 and closed permanently in 2024. While the new attraction retains the Space Mountain name, it has been rebuilt from the ground up with a new show building, ride system, story and special effects.

Space Mountain Earthrise is scheduled to open in 2027, with an exact date yet to be announced.

Space Mountain Earthrise

Space Mountain Earthrise will be an indoor roller coaster that has been completely redesigned, from the building itself to the ride system. The attraction will take guests on a thrilling journey from Earth into outer space, combining a new story with dynamic light and sound effects designed to create an immersive experience. The new attraction will also feature onboard audio, a first for an attraction at Tokyo Disney Resort.

The journey will begin with guests being launched from Earth into space before travelling through the universe and encountering a variety of cosmic phenomena represented through light and sound effects. The attraction’s name, Earthrise, refers to the sight of Earth appearing above the horizon of the Moon when viewed from space.

The attraction’s new exterior will also represent a major departure from the original Space Mountain. Rather than simply recreating the familiar futuristic design, the new building incorporates curves inspired by elements found in nature, including the movement of celestial bodies, trees and flowers. The sleek new show building stands in stark contrast to the classic design of the previous version, which had taken on a yellowed appearance over the years.

The redevelopment of Space Mountain and the surrounding area represents an investment of approximately ¥70.5 billion, or US$443.1 million. The figure covers the broader redevelopment project rather than the Space Mountain attraction alone, making it one of the largest single attraction redevelopment projects in Disney Parks history.

A Closer Look at Space Mountain Earthrise

A scale model of Space Mountain Earthrise was recently showcased at the D23 Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase, giving guests a closer look at the new attraction’s design. The model also provided a look at the new coaster vehicles, which have been developed specifically for the new attraction.

A New Tomorrowland Plaza

Space Mountain Earthrise isn’t the only major change coming to Tomorrowland!

At the centre of the redesigned Tomorrowland will be Tomorrowland Plaza, a new open space intended to connect the past and future of the land. The plaza will feature futuristic sculptures and updated landscaping inspired by four natural elements: fire, water, earth and wood. The design also incorporates the sun, moon and other celestial bodies, creating a connection between the natural world and the vastness of space.

Tomorrowland Plaza will take on an entirely different atmosphere after dark. Dramatic lighting and sound effects will transform the plaza into an immersive nighttime environment, with the design intended to evoke a sense of hope, dreams and wonder. The new plaza will provide a new central area where guests can pause, take in the surroundings and experience Tomorrowland’s new identity.

Guests at the D23 Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase were also given a closer look at a scale model of the plaza’s main icon. The structure draws inspiration from both nature and the cosmos, continuing the design language that will connect the new plaza with Space Mountain Earthrise.

Tomorrowland Plaza will also be home to a new snack and drink shop called Element Express. The new location will offer a selection of food and beverages designed to be enjoyed while relaxing in the plaza, providing another place for guests to take a break during their visit.

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