Exciting news coming from Tokyo Disneyland, yet tinged with a bit of nostalgia and sadness for longtime fans: the beloved Splash Mountain store, Hoot & Holler Hideout, will close its doors permanently on November 30, 2024. Despite the closure of the shop, the iconic ride remains operational, continuing to offer its one-of-a-kind log-flume thrills.
Inside Hoot & Holler Hideout, the magic lives on through a variety of treasured cartoon merchandise. The store, enchantingly built to resemble a cave, has always been a hotspot for guests hunting for unique Disney memorabilia. Recently, a unique new item on display captured everyone’s attention – the exclusive Splash Mountain Ride Pin, which collectors are sure to cherish.
In a heartening twist amidst the closure announcement, Tokyo Disney Resort revealed they will release a brand-new Splash Mountain pin on October 24, 2024. Featuring the beloved characters Mickey Mouse and Pluto experiencing the ride’s thrilling drops, this pin is priced at ¥1,200 and promises to be a hit among Disney pin collectors. This release forms part of a broader collection celebrating various attractions, including favorites like Big Thunder Mountain, Toy Story Mania!, and The Magic Lamp Theater.
It’s worth noting the broader context of Splash Mountain’s place in the Disney Parks legacy. After the Disneyland and Walt Disney World versions closed in 2023 to pave the way for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the Tokyo Disneyland ride is now the last of its kind. The ride’s closure sparked discussions and rumors about whether Tokyo’s version might also see a retheme in the future. However, no official announcements have been made by the Oriental Land Company, the owner of Tokyo Disney Resort.
Disney’s gradual distancing from the “Song of the South,” the film that inspired Splash Mountain, reflects a cultural shift. While the movie, based on African American folktales collected by Joel Chandler Harris, faced significant criticism for its portrayal of race, Disney has methodically removed references and elements tied to the movie from its parks, including the iconic “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah.”
What are your thoughts on the closure of Hoot & Holler Hideout and the new Splash Mountain pin collection? Share your views in the comments below and engage with fellow Disney enthusiasts!
Source: WDW News Today
