Theme parks that have resumed business or are gearing up for reopening will look a little different in these times of a pandemic. Most, if not all, will limit admission capacity in the initial stages, step up disinfection in the parks (especially high touchpoint areas), make masks mandatory, and ensure that visitors keep a wide enough berth between themselves and others. But some are also adding a few more unusual but necessary measures for safety purposes. After all, theme parks are not like other places.
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Thrill-seekers at amusement parks in Japan are in for an added challenge if this set of reopening guidelines are put in place. A group of park operators have put together suggestions for the safe reopening of theme parks. These include no screaming on rollercoasters, and cast members in live shows should avoid drumming up support from audiences to prevent screaming and cheering. All this is in a bid to reduce the amount of droplets travelling through the air and potentially spreading the coronavirus. More conventional safety measures, such as face masks and keeping a safe distance from others, were also recommended. And just so we’re clear, even the ‘ghosts’ in haunted houses should also maintain a safe distance from their unsuspecting ‘victims’.
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When Universal Studios Japan opens its doors again with its soft reopening on June 8, guests will not be able to high five or hug staff in character costumes, Japan Times reported. This is among a slew of safe distancing measures in place at the park. Admission to the park will also be limited in the initial stages — only annual pass holders living in Osaka Prefecture who make reservations can visit from June 8 to 15 — and gradually expand to residents of nearby prefectures from June 15 onwards. Other safety measures include mandatory face masks for all visitors, temperature checks and keeping a physical distance of 1m from other guests in queues. Rollercoaster riders will also be seated in every other row.
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Guests at Shanghai Disneyland, which was among the first Disney resorts in the world to reopen in mid-May, will have to don disposable gloves at certain interactive attractions. This includes the Buzz Lightyear’s Planet Rescue ride where guests are involved in shootouts using blaster guns. Ride seats are also regularly disinfected, and alternate rows are left empty for social distancing purposes. The park has also reduced capacity, and like USJ, guests should not have physical contact with staff in character costumes. Yup, no hugs with Mickey and pals. Shows and parades that tend to attract large crowds have also been suspended.
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