The two Tokyo theme parks have been closed since last Friday’s earthquake and tsunami (they were used as shelters for park-goers stranded following the quake), and now the Burbank-based company is temporarily suspending operations in the city’s stores and administrative offices. “Our top priority is the well-being of our employees and their families during this challenging time and we will continue to closely monitor the situation as it develops,” Disney said in a statement. The decision comes as the U.S. Embassy today offered citizens safe transport out of the country, joining other nations in advising nationals to stay at least 50 miles from the unstable Fukushima Dai-Ichi nuclear plant, which lies about 130 miles to the north of Tokyo.


Darn it. I was looking forward to going this weekend.
With all the massive death and destruction in Japan… that’s hardly an inspired newsworthy decision by Disney!
It’d be real news if they were to announce they were donating a S1 billion to earthquake relief there!
If Disney had any class, they would continue to pay their Tokyo employees, even though they have shut down the parks. They are not financially on the ropes, so they can afford it. But I highly doubt that will happen. Maybe if Walt was still running things.
Yes mfan, my thoughts exactly, if the park is operational just keep it open so that the employees who were devastated by the quake can support their families. If it’s because they are in danger from radiation then I understand shutting it down, if not, then there is no point other than to save payroll.
An American friend of mine works at the park and she said all employees of the park continue to be paid with full benefits. Plus Disney gave a multimillion dollar donation to the Japan Red Cross. Disney made no official announcement because they don’t want to be seen as trying to make PR with this horrible event.
It’s good to hear Disney is doing the right thing. I’ll buy their products as a thank you.