The magical world of Disneyland fascinates many all over the world, from young to old. The Disney brand has become such a global success that Donald Duck's fame exceeds that of Barack Obama. Well, certainly that of Donald Trump. Disneyland is even expected to open in Shanghai in 2014. Hong Kong has already opened its doors to Mickey Mouse in 2005, while Tokyo's Disneyland Resort has been around since 1983.

If you're in Japan and interested in immersing yourself in all the magic and fantasy, the Disneyland in Tokyo, which expanded in 2001 to include DisneySea, is still a tough competitor to even the newer parks out there like in Hong Kong. Divided into 7 parts - Mickey's Town, Critter Country, World Bazaar, Tomorrow Land, Adventure Land and Fantasy Land - it is a miraculous world where people feel young at heart and engross in fantasy. Numerous roller-coaster rides, and various other attractions, including a glamorous night parade, are there to keep any family, couple, or group of friends fully entertained at all times. You'll be greeted at the entrance by the "World Bazaar," the reminiscent of older American towns. Here you will discover shops, restaurants, and outlets selling souvenirs that entice vacationers who want something to remember their Disney holiday by. Oh, and do not worry about the dining options. After all, this is Japan we are talking about. Tokyo Disneyland has a wide assortment of restaurants and food stands on offer.

In general, all Disney theme parks present similar themes and attractions, and Tokyo Disneyland is no exception. You'll get to meet mighty icons of Disney, such as Donald Duck, Captain Hook, Snow White, Peter Pan and Goofy, while going through not-so-scary haunted houses and riding slightly toned-down roller-coasters. Yet, there is a Japanese twist to all of it that to feel you just have to be there. Just remember: Never visit Tokyo Disneyland on Japanese holidays or on weekends, unless you happen to be writing a PhD thesis on the mathematical models of queue lines that run to infinity.

Josh Shulman, Author of All-You-Can Japan [ http://smartjapantravel.wordpress.com]