Janglia Okinawa Opens Today - Dual Pricing System with 1,870 Yen Higher Price for Visitors. Pricing, Reasons, and Tips Foreign Travelers Should Know

1. What Happened? — Okinawa's First Large-Scale Theme Park Opens, and the Buzzword of the Day Is "Dual Pricing"

On July 25, 2025, "Junglia Okinawa," a theme park set against the natural backdrop of northern Okinawa's Yanbaru, officially opened. A "dual pricing" system was introduced, setting different admission fees for domestic and overseas residents, with the price difference for adults reaching 1,870 yen, sparking discussion. Livedoor NewsJapan Wire by KYODO NEWSMainichi Shimbun

2. What is Junglia Okinawa? — Location, Scale, Concept, and Main Attractions

The park utilizes the mountainous area around Nago City in northern Okinawa Prefecture (reported to be located in Nakijin Village administratively), covering about 60 hectares with restaurants, shops, and 22 attractions and shows.

With attractions like the "Dinosaur Safari" where dinosaurs rampage, hot air balloon experiences, and a spa facility with an infinity pool offering breathtaking views called "SPA JUNGLIA," the theme of "Power Vacance!!" (Powerful Vacation) is a fusion of nature, adventure, and resort. ReutersThe Japan TimesPress Release Distribution No.1 | PR TIMES

The park is operated by Japan Entertainment Co., Ltd., and a commemorative ceremony was held the night before the opening. Press Release Distribution No.1 | PR TIMESPress Release Distribution No.1 | PR TIMES

3. How Do Prices Differ? — A List of "Domestic vs. Overseas" Rates

Below is a summary of the main ticket types and price differences (all tax included). Japan Wire by KYODO NEWSMainichi Shimbunhakotravel |

(Free for children under 3. Premium passes are set at 990 to 2,970 yen per attraction; no overseas price available) hakotravel |

4. Why "Dual Pricing"? — Understanding the Operator's Intentions

Although no official reason has been clearly stated in reports, the following background can be inferred.

• Exchange Rates and Purchasing Power Differences: With the yen depreciating, overseas travelers have relatively high purchasing power, and demand can be expected even with a price difference. This is a common strategy in the tourism industry targeting international tourists (e.g., "overseas rates" at national parks and museums).(This is a general knowledge inference)
  
  

• Maintaining Domestic Demand and Local Returns: By applying discounts to local and domestic customers, repeat visits are encouraged, aiming for long-term regional economic effects. The Japan TimesReuters
  
  

• Differences in Operational Costs: Multilingual support, overseas sales channel fees, and international marketing costs can be additional factors.(Inference)

5. Is It "Unfair"? — Organizing the Debate

According to reports from the Yomiuri Shimbun group, theme park expert Professor Yuji Yamaguchi (Obirin University) has commented on the point that "the price for visiting guests is high." How the price difference is perceived may vary depending on how tourism policies and international pricing practices are evaluated. Livedoor News

• Proponents' Perspective: If considered as a "discount for domestic residents," overseas guests are not "surcharged" but simply "do not receive the discount." Returning benefits to local residents and taxpayers is rational.(Interpretation)

• Opponents' Perspective: The large price difference and lack of explanation can create a "sense of unfairness." There is also the risk of negative perception among inbound tourists and social media backlash. Livedoor News

6. Practicalities of Ticket Purchase — How to Prove Residency?

To apply the domestic resident price, it is required to register a Japanese address and phone number at the time of purchase or present proof of residency on-site. Overseas residents must purchase at the regular price, and resale is prohibited. hakotravel |

Checkpoints

• Once your itinerary is set, make reservations early on the official site or authorized sales sites.

• Even if residing abroad, using a relative's address in Japan to purchase under the "domestic category" could violate the terms, so be cautious.(Caution based on interpretation of terms)

• Also check the cancellation and refund policy.(General caution)

7. "Price Difference Measures" for Foreign Tourists and How to Enjoy Smartly

1. Save by Skipping the Spa: The spa is a separate charge. You can save by opting for the 1-Day ticket only if you don't need it. hakotravel |

2. Avoid Busy Days: Aim for weekdays or off-seasons to avoid needing a premium pass.(General strategy)

3. Check Combination with Regional Coupons: Check if it can be combined with other discounts like Okinawa tourism campaigns.(Recommended action)

4. Combine with Nearby Sightseeing: Enhance cost-effectiveness by visiting places like the Churaumi Aquarium or Nakijin Castle Ruins.(Travel planning suggestion)

8. Opening Day Scenes — Ceremony and 200 "Navigators"

On the morning of the opening day at 9:15 AM, a ceremony was held where about 200 staff members, called navigators, welcomed guests. Press Release Distribution No.1 | PR TIMES

9. Access & Basic Information

• Location: Northern Okinawa Main Island, Nakijin Village (reported as "northern mountainous area") The Japan Times##HTML