Rainbow Lights
Home
Disney
DisneyTokyo DisneylandTokyo Disneyland Attractions

Space Mountain The Final Ignition | Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland’s iconic Space Mountain attraction is embarking on a thrilling new journey, one that promises to take guests on an unforgettable cosmic adventure like never before. As the park prepares to bid farewell to the current version of the beloved indoor roller coaster, a grand celebration dubbed “Celebrating Space Mountain: The Final Ignition!” is underway, offering visitors a last chance to experience the classic ride before it undergoes a massive $400 million reimagining. 

This overhaul, set to debut in 2027, will not only transform Space Mountain Tokyo Disneyland into an entirely new ride experience but will also reshape the surrounding Tomorrowland area, creating a futuristic plaza that represents humanity’s harmonious coexistence with nature. With enhanced performance, immersive special effects, and a deeper connection to our planet Earth, the reimagined Space Mountain promises to be a roller coaster with both thrills and heart. 

In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the rich history of Tokyo Disneyland’s Space Mountain, delve into the exciting details of the upcoming transformation, and compare it to its counterparts at other Disney Parks around the world. Buckle up and get ready for a journey through time, space, and the boundless imagination of Disney’s Imagineers.

A Brief History of Space Mountain

Space Mountain has been a beloved attraction at Tokyo Disneyland since the park’s grand opening on April 15, 1983, making it the first Space Mountain to open concurrently with a Disney theme park. Originally built as a replica of the 1977 Disneyland version, Tokyo’s Space Mountain featured a speed ramp at its entrance, leading guests to the pre-show and loading area, as well as “escape pod” doors along the queue for those who chose not to ride. In 2007, the attraction underwent a major refurbishment, introducing new sci-fi elements like a spaceship docked in the loading area and a hyper-speed tunnel at the end of the ride. 

These enhancements were built on top of the original effects, creating a more immersive and visually stunning experience for guests. Over the years, Space Mountain has become an iconic part of Tokyo Disneyland’s Tomorrowland, captivating visitors with its thrilling indoor roller coaster experience and futuristic aesthetic. However, as technology advances and guest expectations evolve, the time has come for a complete reimagining of this beloved attraction.

Tokyo Disney

The Final Ignition Space Mountain

As Space Mountain prepares to embark on its next cosmic adventure, Tokyo Disneyland is hosting a grand farewell event called “Celebrating Space Mountain: The Final Ignition!” From April 9 through July 31, 2024, guests will have the opportunity to journey into space one last time aboard the current version of the ride. During this celebration, the park will offer a range of special experiences and merchandise to commemorate the iconic attraction. Guests can collect a special Space Mountain sticker in Tomorrowland, featuring the iconic ride vehicle and the event’s logo. 

A banner reading “The Final Ignition!” will adorn the entrance to Space Mountain, and a dedicated “Space Photo Place” will allow visitors to capture memorable photos with a ride vehicle against a space backdrop. Exclusive merchandise, including pouches, drawstring bags, tumblers, tissue box covers, and clear folders, will be available for purchase, featuring a spacey all-over pattern or an image of Space Mountain lit with rainbow light. 

Additionally, a badge keychain made from upcycled Space Mountain Cast Member costumes will be offered as part of Tokyo Disney Resort’s “Circulating Smiles” program. Foodies can indulge in special menu items like the Coca-Cola and lemon-vanilla Sparkling Jelly Drink at Tomorrowland Terrace, or the “Celebrating Space Mountain: The Final Ignition!”

Premium Sweets Set at Hyperion Lounge in the Disney Ambassador Hotel, featuring a plate of space-themed sweets inspired by planets. As the countdown to the final ignition begins, guests will have the opportunity to bid farewell to the current Tokyo Disneyland Space Mountain and create lasting memories before it embarks on its next cosmic adventure.

Future Rendering

The Reimagined Space Mountain: A Cosmic Transformation

The reimagined Space Mountain Tokyo, set to open in 2027, promises to be an exhilarating and immersive experience like no other. While maintaining its original concept as an indoor roller coaster, the new attraction will feature enhanced performance and cutting-edge special effects that will take guests on a thrilling journey through space. According to Walt Disney Imagineering Producer Kathleen Davis, “It’s not only a whole new ride experience, but the story also has so much emotion. Through the queue and then on the ride, we see our connection to our planet and gain a new perspective for how special it is in all the universe.

It’s a roller coaster with both thrill and heart.” The reimagined Space Mountain will be part of a larger transformation of Tomorrowland, with an all-new plaza representing a future where humans are in harmony with nature. This plaza will offer guests areas to rest and relax, surrounded by various icons and design elements that create a sense of hope for the future.

At night, the area will come alive with stunning lighting and sound effects, further enhancing the immersive experience. “With the overarching story of appreciating our home (Planet Earth), we are making this change to spread awareness of caring for our Earth and what she’s gifted us throughout time as we know it,” said Owen Yoshino, Senior Creative Director for Walt Disney Imagineering. 

While details about the ride system and specific enhancements are still under wraps, rumors suggest that the reimagined Space Mountain may incorporate a ride system similar to Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT, which features a unique rotating roller coaster system. However, it’s important to note that this is merely speculation, and Disney has not confirmed any specific details about the ride system.

Comparing Space Mountain Across Disney Parks

As one of Disney’s most iconic attractions, Space Mountain can be found at various Disney Parks around the world, each with its own unique twist. Here’s a brief comparison of the different versions:

Space Mountain Magic Kingdom

The original Space Mountain opened in 1975 at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, featuring two separate tracks named Alpha and Omega. Unlike the Tokyo and Disneyland versions, the Magic Kingdom’s Space Mountain does not feature an on-board soundtrack, relying instead on the sounds of the ride and the screams of fellow riders. The ride vehicles seat guests in a single row, and the overall experience is often described as jerky and intense.

Guests in cart

Space Mountain Disneyland

Disneyland’s Space Mountain, which opened in 1977, features a single track and ride vehicles that seat guests side-by-side. This version is often praised for its smoother ride experience and the inclusion of an on-board soundtrack that enhances the immersive experience. The Disneyland version also underwent a major refurbishment in 2005, introducing synchronized audio by Michael Giacchino and projection capabilities throughout the ride.

Space Mountain Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris’ Space Mountain: De la Terre á la Lune (From the Earth to the Moon) opened in 1995 and is unique among the Space Mountain attractions. Inspired by the Jules Verne novel, this version features a steampunk aesthetic and a storyline that takes guests on a journey from the late 19th century to the moon. The ride vehicles are designed to resemble rocket ships from that era, adding to the overall theming.

Star Wars

Space Mountain Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland’s Space Mountain, which opened in 2005, is a near-replica of the Disneyland version, featuring a single track and side-by-side seating. However, it incorporates some unique elements, such as a launch system that propels the ride vehicles from the loading station. As the reimagined Space Mountain at Tokyo Disneyland takes shape, it will be fascinating to see how it compares to its counterparts and how it will stand out as a truly unique and immersive experience.

Seal

Final Thoughts

Tokyo Disneyland’s Space Mountain is embarking on an exciting new chapter, one that promises to redefine the boundaries of what a theme park attraction can be. With its enhanced performance, immersive special effects, and a deeper connection to our planet Earth, the reimagined Space Mountain will undoubtedly become a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and Disney fans alike.

As we bid farewell to the current version of the ride during the “Celebrating Space Mountain: The Final Ignition!” event, we can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia and excitement for what’s to come. The transformation of Tomorrowland and the creation of a futuristic plaza that celebrates humanity’s harmonious coexistence with nature is a testament to Disney’s commitment to innovation and storytelling.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Space Mountain or a newcomer to the world of Disney Parks, the reimagined attraction promises to be a cosmic adventure like no other. So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a journey that will take you to the stars and beyond, all while reminding us of the beauty and fragility of our own planet Earth.