When Reality is Better Than Imagineering Art: Tokyo DisneySea's Mermaid Lagoon

Back before its revision, the Disney Parks Blog featured jaw droppingly beautiful concept art not seen by most people outside the halls of Imagineering.  Take a look at this piece from Tokyo Disney Sea! Here's Mermaid Lagoon in all it's splendor. Now, that's how you design an area primarily for children and young families.  (Click on it to see it in the largest size.)   

Although gorgeous, this is nothing compared to what they really built. Here's a photograph to prove it is possible for the  marketeers to deliver what is promised:

Tokyo DisneySea continues to be the summit of what can be  accomplished by Imagineering when Imagineers are supported by the suits and accountants with the appropriate funding. 

Unfortunately, Ariel doesn't have as spectacular a home in California or Florida. Ariel's Undersea Adventure is a "D" Ticket at best, with an "E" Ticket exterior in a prime location, giving guests the expectation of an attraction on par with Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean but delivering an experience that is a hybrid of these with Peter Pan's Flight.

Yes, concept art can be wishful thinking or even intentionally deceiving. When it comes to Tokyo DisneySea, however, brick and mortar is more beautiful than the artistic vision!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)