by Joe Tracy, editor of Theme Park Magazine
In a significant boost to Okinawa’s tourism and entertainment landscape, a new theme park named “Junglia” is set to open its gates in the summer of 2025. Nestled in the northern part of Okinawa, close to the Marine Corps bases and the Jungle Warfare Training Center, this upcoming attraction promises an unparalleled adventure amidst the lush backdrop of Yambaru National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Junglia to Use Forest Region as Selling Point
Announced by the Japanese marketing company Katana in Tokyo, the park aims to offer an immersive experience highlighting the natural beauty and biodiversity of Okinawa’s subtropical forest region. Unlike traditional theme parks that rely on artificial attractions, Junglia is designed to integrate seamlessly with its natural surroundings, offering visitors a chance to engage directly with the environment.
“We must provide something that people cannot experience in urban areas,” says Katana CEO Tsuyoshi Morioka. Morioka believes the immersive jungle experience will set it apart from other theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan.
Hot Air Balloon Rides and Dinosaur Safari Part of Experience
Spanning approximately 150 acres on a repurposed golf course, the park’s attractions are set to include balloon rides, zip lines, and a unique safari experience where guests will find themselves “chased” by dinosaurs. This approach emphasizes adventure and brings attention to the Yambaru region’s rich ecosystem, which has been relatively underexplored by tourists despite Okinawa’s popularity as a beach resort destination. When it opens in 2025, the park won’t occupy the entire 150 acres as room will be left for expansion and other themed experiences.
Japan Entertainment Co., Ltd, is handling the initiative. It was established specifically for the Junglia project, and its largest shareholder is Katana. The project’s overall cost is estimated at close to $500 million. Beyond the thrills and excitement, Junglia is expected to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region, partnering with the prefecture, Nago City, and Nakijin Village for branding and employment efforts.
Junglia’s concept, called “Power Vacance!!,” encapsulates the essence of a luxurious escape into nature, offering experiences that diverge from the virtual reality prevalent in everyday life. The park aims to amplify the intrinsic energy of the natural world, providing a space where the excitement of adventure and the tranquility of nature coalesce to offer a unique sense of freedom and exhilaration.
While the final ticket pricing is yet to be announced, the park’s developers are keen on attracting a global audience, hoping to make Junglia a must-visit destination for international and local tourists. A massive “forest spa” will provide spectacular views of the park, with themed seating in what looks like Pterodactyls-like nests.
As Okinawa continues to recover its tourism industry post-COVID-19, Junglia stands as a beacon of innovation in an area that doesn’t normally attract many tourists.
The initial attractions/rides for the opening of Junglia include:
- Hot air balloon rides.
- Safari rides where guests not only see dinosaurs, but are chased by them.
- Zip-line rides over the park.
- A “forest spa” where guests can relax, eat, and enjoy great views of the park.
Development and construction of the park started in February 2023.
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Promo video for Junglia
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(Website) Japan Entertainment Co, Ltd
About Joe Tracy
Joe Tracy, the creator, and editor of Theme Park Magazine, is a lifetime enthusiast of theme parks and immersive experiences. The publication was launched under his leadership on June 1, 2021, as a manifestation of his deep-seated love for all things themed. Joe has amassed over 20 years of expertise in both traditional print and online publishing.
