Porto Europa, just outside of Wakayama City, is without doubt a playful place to visit and offers a wide range of entertainment, action rides, cuisines and new technology games, but don't expect it to duplicate your last sojourn overseas.

It sits on a man-made island that is part of a larger post-bubble development complex known as Marina City, which includes high-rise condos, canal-side homes and, naturally enough, a marina. The original site was developed for the World Resort Expo of 1994.

Any theme park pilgrim intent upon exploring the full range of Porto Europa attractions will find this to be a mission that can be accomplished within a single day, provided that day is not a school holiday. Unlike some of its larger cousins, Porto Europa is just extensive enough to ensure diversion without overexertion. There is a decent mix of enticing experiences to please a wide variety of thrill seekers, without being repetitious.