Credit: Tokyo Disney ResortA bizarre Disney theme park experiment has concluded.
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The Disney theme parks are home to a number of legendary attractions, but one ride in particular likely stands tall above the rest: “it’s a small world.” Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying just how iconic the slow-moving, music-filled boat ride is.
The first version of the attraction opened at the original Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, on May 28, 1966. Since then, versions of the ride have been built around the globe. Today, guests will find “it’s a small world” at Walt Disney World in Florida, Disneyland Paris in France, and Tokyo Disney Resort in Japan.
Tokyo Disneyland recently renovated its version of “it’s a small world,” giving it a Marvel makeover called “it’s a small world with Groot.” That’s right, everyone’s favorite tree baby took over the attraction for a limited time, giving the classic ride a unique twist.
Of course, not everyone was happy about the Marvel brand coming to such a historic Disney attraction, but for the most part, fans enjoyed the overhaul.
“it’s a small world with Groot” started on January 15, 2025 and ran through June 30. This marked the first time something like this was done to “it’s a small world,” and it may not be the last, though it’s unclear if the Marvel overhaul will return to Tokyo Disneyland next year.
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The Tokyo Disney Resort opened in 1983 and initially only featured one theme park, Tokyo Disneyland. Filled with classic rides, Tokyo Disneyland likely feels familiar to those who have visited Disneyland and Walt Disney World in America.
In 2001, Tokyo DisneySea opened, adding to the resort in a major way. This park is filled with aquatic-based experiences and adventures, with some of the most popular rides being Journey to the Center of the Earth and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.
In other news, Tokyo Disneyland is currently rebuilding its version of Space Mountain. The classic roller coaster closed permanently in 2024 to allow the resort to completely rebuild the ride, along with the rest of Tomorrowland.
The new Space Mountain coaster is set to be a thrilling new adventure through the stars and looks to be just as incredible on the inside as the outside. The new and improved Space Mountain is set to open in 2027.
Have you ever visited Tokyo Disneyland? Do you enjoy riding “it’s a small world?”