Report: Tokyo Disneyland to resume nighttime operations on April 23, 2011

A return to evening operations could help the Tokyo Disney Resort attract larger crowds. Image © Tokyo Disney Resort

The operator of Tokyo Disneyland has reportedly confirmed that it will restore the park's closing time to 10pm from Saturday, April 23, 2011.

The park reopened on April 15, having been closed for over a month following the devastating earthquake that hit north-east Japan in March. It is currently operating a reduced schedule, closing at 6pm and not running its nightly parade. However, this is set to change from Saturday, according to Kyodo News, which cites sources at the Oriental Land Company.

The report also claims that the Tokyo Disney Resort's other theme park, Tokyo DisneySea, is due to reopen before the Golden Week holidays in Japan. These run from late April to early May, making the previously-reported April 28 reopening date look increasingly likely. However, the Oriental Land Company is yet to confirm this.

Tokyo Disneyland received thousands of visitors when it returned to action last week, defying expectations that it would struggle to attract guests in the aftermath of the earthquake.

The park is currently trying to conserve energy by reducing lighting in both indoor and outdoor areas, while air conditioning, escalators and water fountains are also being used in a restricted way. Some electrical equipment, such as hand dryer units, are switched off altogether due to the impact of power shortages in the surrounding Urayasu City area.

Around 20,000 guests spent the night at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea on March 11 after the earthquake caused massive disruption to public transport systems. No injuries were reported, with staff providing supplies for those who needed to stay overnight. This included food, water, blankets, heaters and even free merchandise to help entertain and calm frightened children.

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