Kao Ends Sponsorship of Tokyo Disneyland’s Splash Mountain, Clouding Future of Last Original Ride
Stalled talks over who pays for a retheme leave the attraction’s long-term fate uncertain.
Overview
- Tokyo Disney Resort’s website no longer lists Kao Corporation as Splash Mountain’s sponsor after years of support.
- Tokyo Disneyland now operates the world’s only original Splash Mountain, with U.S. versions reimagined in 2024 as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
- Reporting from multiple outlets says Disney has limited the attraction’s music use and scaled back related merchandise, a move some interpret as pressure on the park operator.
- Negotiations between Disney and the Oriental Land Company have reportedly stalled over responsibility for retheme costs.
- The ride continues to draw strong crowds in Japan, though the closure of its Hoot & Holler Hideout gift shop in November 2024 fueled speculation about future changes.