Within the area, you'll find attractions and photo spots that let you experience the world of these characters, exclusive merchandise available only here, and adorable limited-edition foods and sweets. It's a space where you can feel both relaxed and excited, surrounded by your favorite characters.
It's highly recommended not only for those visiting Yamanashi Prefecture, but also for anyone planning a day trip from Tokyo. In this article, we'll introduce in detail all the charms we discovered during our visit!
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We Visited "San-X Paradise" the Newest Area at Fuji-Q Highland!
Opened on August 1, 2026, "San-X Paradise" is a permanent attraction inside Fuji-Q Highland, where visitors can fully step into the world of San-X characters. Conveniently located right in the heart of the park, it's easy to access even while exploring the high-thrill ride zones.
The Concept: "Where Cuteness Meets Chemistry"
San-X Paradise was created around the core concept of "Characters × Healing × Amusement Park = The Chemistry of Cuteness." The area faithfully recreates the heartwarming, soothing worlds of Rilakkuma and Sumikko Gurashi, so simply strolling through it brings an instant sense of joy.
While each character’s distinct universe is a delight to explore on its own, don't miss the rare crossover installations and special logo designs—where these beloved characters, who usually live in separate worlds, come together in one place!
The area is decorated with colorful ornaments and character statues, creating an atmosphere that is enjoyable not only for families with young children, but also for friends, couples, and solo travelers. While Fuji-Q Highland is famous for its thrill rides, in this area you can take your time taking photos, shopping, and enjoying a meal. Even if you're not a fan of thrill rides, there are plenty of ways to have fun at Fuji-Q Highland!
The Charm of San-X Characters
San-X is one of Japan's most iconic character creators, having brought over 1,000 original characters to date. Beyond their adorable designs, their true charm lies in the relatable, comforting, and laid-back stories woven around them.
"Rilakkuma" is a popular character with a relaxed personality and a soothing vibe, loved by fans both in Japan and abroad. "Sumikko Gurashi" was born from the unique idea that room corners are the most comfortable, gaining love from people of all ages. There are also many other characters with unique personalities, such as the super laid-back "Tarepanda," the whimsical "Sentimental Circus," and "Koronya," who serves as San-X's official PR mascot. When you step into San-X Paradise, you'll be greeted by all these charming characters!
When you think of Yamanashi Prefecture, home to Fuji-Q Highland, Mt. Fuji naturally comes to mind. The Sumikko Gurashi character "Yama" is a small mountain who admires Mt. Fuji. In honor of this, many Yama figures are placed in high spots across San-X Paradise, gazing at Mt. Fuji. Be sure to look for them as you stroll around the area!
Attraction Review: Step Right Into the Characters' World!
One of the must-try highlights at San-X Paradise is its attractions. Here, you can enjoy a special experience unique to San-X Paradise, immersing yourself in the world of the characters while enjoying the fun and excitement only an amusement park can offer.
Sumikko Gurashi Balloon & Cupcake
This outdoor attraction lets you enjoy a scenic sky stroll alongside Sumikko Gurashi characters aboard floating balloons and cupcakes.
At the entrance, you’ll receive a random character card, which determines which adorable cupcake ride vehicle you'll step into!
As the brightly decorated cupcakes gently spin and bob up and down, you can soak in a lovely, elevated view of the entire area.
Rilakkuma's Moku Moku Sweets Buffet
This outdoor attraction lets you enjoy a scenic sky stroll alongside Sumikko Gurashi characters aboard floating balloons and cupcakes.
The excitement starts before you even step on board, as you store your belongings in lockers decorated with adorable illustrations of Rilakkuma, Korilakkuma, and Kiiroitori!
Once the boat starts moving, you'll be thrilled by the wind and the pendulum-like swinging motion! Enjoy an exciting ride with Rilakkuma and friends.
Arcade Game WAKUWAKU CARNIVAL
Features a variety of arcade games that both children and adults can easily enjoy, including rolling balls to reach the goal and using a hammer to launch balls.
Greeting Photo Studio MEMORY STUDIO
At this indoor photo studio, you can meet Rilakkuma and Tokage dressed in San-X Paradise original costumes. Take commemorative photos with the characters and create special memories of your visit to San-X Paradise with them.
Spots and Menus Where You Can Buy Limited-Edition Food & Sweets
San-X Paradise offers a wide variety of cute and delicious exclusive foods and sweets, so you can enjoy them all day long, from lunch to snacks. Every menu item is very appealing and there are so many options, so it’s recommended to check what you’re interested in beforehand. With menus inspired by various characters such as Rilakkuma and Sumikko Gurashi, you’re sure to find your favorite dish or something featuring your favorite character!
Restaurant San-X Paradise Cafe & Diner
San-X Paradise Cafe & Diner features a pop-style interior reminiscent of an American diner. The space is filled with characters and motifs inspired by their unique worlds, making your heart flutter just by stepping inside.
To enjoy a meal in this special atmosphere, first select your order and purchase your meal ticket at the entrance ticket machine.
There are 180 seats in total, with both indoor dining and an outdoor terrace where you can eat while enjoying views of the park. On sunny days, it’s lovely to relax and enjoy your meal on the open terrace.
"Rilakkuma’s Moku Moku Curry" (1,800 yen) is an adorable plate of curry rice featuring Rilakkuma wearing a hat. The rich cheese on the rice pairs perfectly with the curry, making it satisfying in both appearance and taste. The mild spiciness makes it easy for both children and adults to enjoy.
"Neko’s Full Belly Ramen" (1,600 yen) is a special ramen featuring a Sumikko Gurashi Neko pick dressed in a diner uniform. This dish is delicious and serves as a great choice if you’re unsure what to order, letting you enjoy authentic Japanese ramen.
Yama no Tapioca Blue Soda (750 yen)
The drink and sweets menu is also extensive. Sodas and floats come with original straw picks, making them perfect for photos.
The picks are actually removable stickers you can take home, so you can keep them as a trip memory or stick them on your favorite items to remember your time at San-X Paradise!
Food Truck
At the kitchen cars stationed throughout the area, you can grab adorable, exclusive ice cream and refreshing drinks!
The "Lemonade Float" is a perfect drink for hot days, featuring sweet and tangy lemonade topped with ice cream. As the ice cream melts over time, it adds a mellow sweetness, allowing you to enjoy the changing flavors.
The "Character Ice Cream" lineup includes designs of Rilakkuma, Tokage, and "Ishiyowa-chan" a dog character known for being weak-willed and spoiling herself after giving up easily. With their adorable appearances, these treats are perfect for grabbing on the go or taking photos!
Clover Palace Shop: Top 3 Recommended Goods!
Clover Palace Shop is a fairytale-like store with a palace-inspired interior, featuring clover designs on the ceiling and heartwarming decorations of characters gathered together. The shop offers over 150 types of San-X Paradise exclusive goods, featuring a wide selection perfect for yourself or as souvenirs that are sure to delight anyone.
There is a rich variety of plush toys, mascot keychains, stationery, tote bags, pouches, T-shirts, and more. Many exclusive items can only be found here, making it a must-visit shop for San-X fans.
Here are three recommended products we’ve picked out for you!
Headbands and Mini Headbands
If you want to fully immerse yourself in the world of San-X Paradise, we recommend purchasing a headband as soon as you enter. When you put it on, the character sitting on top looks irresistibly cute and soothing.
The characters stand out clearly in photos, making your memories in the area even cuter!
Mini headbands made especially for plush toys are also very popular in Japan. You can put them on your plush toy’s head or use them as a keychain by attaching them to your bag with the included ball chain. Despite their small size, their fluffy texture and adorable expressions make them so charming you’ll definitely want to take them home.
Rilakkuma with "Yama" on its head, dreaming of Mt. Fuji
These unique items from San-X Paradise let you feel the charm of Yamanashi Prefecture, where Fuji-Q Highland is located. The rare combination of these popular characters makes them perfect as memorable souvenirs. They come in various sizes, from small to large, so you can choose according to your preference!
Printed Character Cookies
The package features a heartwarming design with all the characters gathered together, which is soothing just to look at. The cookies inside are also printed in full color with character designs, making them almost too cute to eat. Since each cookie is individually wrapped, they are easy to share as souvenirs, and so charming that you'll want a box for yourself as well.
Visit Fuji-Q Highland to Meet Your Favorite San-X Characters!
San-X Paradise is a new spot where you can fully enjoy the world of San-X characters, including Rilakkuma and Sumikko Gurashi. Packed with attractions, photo spots, exclusive food, and limited-edition goods, it’s a must-visit for any San-X fan. As a place where you can experience Japan’s unique character culture, I can confidently recommend it to visitors from overseas!
Surrounded by adorable characters, you can also enjoy the excitement and fun unique to amusement parks. This area offers a new way to enjoy Fuji-Q Highland beyond just the thrilling rides.
Why not spend some time immersed in the world of San-X, searching for your favorite characters throughout the area and letting their cuteness melt your heart?
Getting to Fuji-Q Highland from Tokyo
You can easily access Fuji-Q Highland, where San-X Paradise is located, from Tokyo by train or highway bus.
To celebrate the grand opening of the new area, special buses wrapped in San-X character designs are currently in service! If you’re lucky, your magical San-X journey might begin the moment you step on board.
Access by Train
From Shinjuku Station, take the JR Chuo Line and transfer to the Fujikyu Railway at Otsuki Station. Get off at "Fuji-Q Highland Station," where the park entrance is just a short walk away. The total trip takes around 3 hours.
Access by Bus
Direct highway express buses run to Fuji-Q Highland from major Tokyo hubs, including Shinjuku, Tokyo, Shibuya, Shinagawa, and Akihabara. Traveling by bus is seamless and stress-free if you’re carrying heavy luggage, with no transfers required. Depending on traffic, the trip from Shinjuku takes about 1.5 hours.
If you choose to travel by bus, reserving your tickets online in advance is highly recommended.
Ticket Information
Admission to Fuji-Q Highland is free, but you’ll need a 1-Day Pass or individual tickets for the attractions.
You can buy a 1-Day Pass online or at the ticket counter on the day of your visit, while individual tickets are available at machines near each ride. Make sure to purchase tickets for your desired attractions before getting in line.
Official website: https://www.fujiq.jp/ticket/index.html
- [kkday] (Official) Direct Bus to Fuji-Q Highland & One-Day Pass / Priority Admission Ticket | Instant Booking Confirmation [Departing from/Arriving in Tokyo]
- [klook] Fuji-Q Highland Ticket
San-X Paradise
- Address: Fuji-Q Highland, 5-6-1 Shin-Nishihara, Fujiyoshida-shi, Yamanashi
- Access: Right next to Fuji-Q Highland Station
- Opening hours: 9:00–19:00 (Operating hours may change without prior notice depending on crowd levels. Click here for details.)
- Tickets: Free entrance (Attraction tickets required for rides. See details here.)
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