In an exciting announcement, Tokyo Disneyland has revealed plans to transform its iconic “it’s a small world” attraction into a Marvel-themed experience called “it’s a small world with Groot.” This limited-time overlay, set to debut in winter 2025, promises to bring the beloved Guardians of the Galaxy character Groot and his superhero friends to the classic boat ride, marking the first appearance of Marvel characters in an attraction at Tokyo Disney Resort.
The Announcement
The news broke on March 27, 2024, when Tokyo Disney Resort officially unveiled the “it’s a small world with Groot” overlay through a press release and accompanying artwork. According to the announcement, the attraction will feature Marvel Studios characters designed in the endearing style of “it’s a small world,” blending the whimsical charm of the original ride with the excitement of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
In preparation for the overlay, the classic “it’s a small world” attraction will close sometime in Fall 2024 to undergo the necessary transformations. While specific dates have not been announced yet, the resort has promised to provide more details as the opening approaches. Read the official release statement:
“URAYASU, CHIBA—Tokyo Disney Resort® announced that “it’s a small world with Groot” will premiere in winter 2025 (the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024) featuring characters from across the Marvel Cinematic Universe designed in the endearing style of the Tokyo Disneyland® attraction “it’s a small world” for a limited period, marking the first appearance of Marvel characters in an
attraction at Tokyo Disney Resort.
In the attraction “it’s a small world,” guests board boats for the “happiest cruise that ever sailed ’round the world” and are welcomed by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ characters, as well as children and animals from around the world. In “it’s a small
world with Groot,” Groot from the Guardians of the Galaxy film trilogy and his friends from Marvel Studios films are visiting Earth
for vacation.
Groot encounters his friends in various locations on Earth and experiences their regional cultures and music with them as well as with children from all over the world. Enjoy all the fun moments Groot has spending his vacation with his friends. Guests will continue to see their favorite characters from Disney Animation films throughout the world. Don’t miss “it’s a small world with Groot” where, for the first time, characters from Marvel Studios will be featured in an attraction at Tokyo Disney Resort.”
The Storyline
As described in the press release, “it’s a small world with Groot” will follow Groot from the Guardians of the Galaxy film trilogy as he embarks on a vacation to Earth with his friends from the Marvel Studios movies. During his intergalactic adventure, Groot will encounter his superhero pals in various locations around the globe, experiencing their regional cultures, music, and traditions alongside children from all over the world.
The ride promises to be a delightful fusion of the classic “it’s a small world” experience and the Marvel universe, with Guests continuing to see their favorite characters from Disney Animation films throughout the attraction while also being introduced to the Marvel heroes in their adorable, “it’s a small world” style.
A First for Tokyo Disney Resort
This Marvel overlay marks a significant milestone for Tokyo Disney Resort, as it will be the first time that Marvel characters have appeared in an attraction at the resort. While Marvel has been steadily making its way into Disney Parks around the world, with attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! at Disney California Adventure and the upcoming Avengers Campus at Disneyland Paris, Tokyo Disney Resort has remained relatively untouched by the Marvel influence – until now.
The decision to bring Marvel to Tokyo Disneyland through the beloved “it’s a small world” attraction is a strategic move by Disney, introducing the popular superhero franchise to the Japanese market in a way that seamlessly blends with the park’s existing offerings. By integrating Marvel into an iconic attraction that has been a part of Tokyo Disneyland since its opening in 1983, the resort aims to create a unique and memorable experience that appeals to both longtime Disney fans and Marvel enthusiasts alike.
Reactions and Speculation
As with any significant change to a beloved Disney attraction, the announcement of “it’s a small world with Groot” has sparked a range of reactions from fans and Disney enthusiasts around the world. While some have expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing their favorite Marvel characters in a new and unexpected setting, others have voiced concerns about the potential impact on the integrity and charm of the original “it’s a small world” experience.
Speculation has also arisen regarding the possibility of this Marvel overlay eventually making its way to other Disney Parks around the world. While Tokyo Disneyland is currently the only confirmed location for “it’s a small world with Groot,” the success of the overlay could potentially pave the way for similar experiences at other resorts, further integrating the Marvel universe into the Disney Parks experience.
A Lasting Legacy
Regardless of the reactions and speculations, one thing is certain: “it’s a small world with Groot” represents a significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of the Disney Parks experience. By embracing the popularity of the Marvel franchise while paying homage to one of its most iconic and beloved attractions, Tokyo Disneyland is setting the stage for a truly unique and unforgettable experience. As the winter of 2025 approaches, Disney fans around the world will undoubtedly be eagerly anticipating the opportunity to embark on this Marvel-ous adventure with Groot and his superhero friends. Whether you’re a die-hard Marvel fan or a lifelong lover of “it’s a small world,” one thing is clear: this overlay promises to be a celebration of the magic that happens when two beloved worlds collide.
Conclusion
The announcement of “it’s a small world with Groot” at Tokyo Disneyland has sent ripples of excitement and anticipation through the Disney fan community. This limited-time Marvel overlay promises to deliver a truly unique and unforgettable experience, blending the whimsical charm of the classic “it’s a small world” attraction with the excitement of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As Tokyo Disney Resort prepares to welcome Groot and his superhero friends to the iconic boat ride, fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to embark on this Marvel-ous adventure.
Whether you’re a die-hard Marvel enthusiast or a lifelong lover of “it’s a small world,” one thing is certain: this overlay represents a significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of the Disney Parks experience, and a testament to the magic that can happen when two beloved worlds collide. So, mark your calendars for winter 2025, and get ready to experience “it’s a small world” like never before – with a little help from Groot and his Marvel friends.
