One of the bright spots for Japanese citizens in the bleak aftermath of the Pacific War was cinema. The occupying United States forces prohibited Japanese films that glorified their old empire and its “golden days” and replaced them with Hollywoord movies that promoted American ideals and values. Among these included the animated Disney movies of the time, namely Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. This not only heavily influenced the animation industry in Japan, but also created a national love for the Disney characters and brand.

In April 1983, Tokyo Disneyland opened to immediate success, welcoming its 10 millionth guest in just one year. The park was especially popular with young women and was considered a romantic location for a date, a place where you took a lady if one was “serious” about the relationship. The popularity of the park has not diminished in the years since its opening, and even today couples can be seen spending the day together at the park.

Tokyo Disneyland was only about a year and a half old when this ad appeared in Fall 1984. The entrance fee for adults was ¥2,800 and ¥1,600 for children, including 5 ride tickets. (Disney parks originally used a ticket system rather than free entry to all attractions as is done now.)