When we tackled Cannibal at Lagoon in Utah, which was the tallest, fastest, steepest dive coaster, we knew which roller coaster we wanted to ride next: Takabisha at Fuji-Q Highland. This incredible ride held the world record for the steepest in the world for a long time. Are you ready to ride? We’ll answer the question: How scary is Takabisha at Fuji-Q Highland?
Takabisha at Fuji-Q Highland
Takabisha translates to \”high-handed\” or \”domineering\” in English, but if you read Japanese you’ll see that the three kanji characters literally mean “high fly car.” It’s a pretty apt name for this ride!
If you’ve read posts about Dododon-pa and Fujiyama, you’ll know that you have to travel west of Tokyo to get to Fuji-Q Highland. You can learn more about visiting the park in our guide. It’s a little bit of a trek, but we think Fuji-Q is entirely worth it!
Is Takabisha a Roller Coaster?
Takabisha is definitely a roller coaster. More specifically, it’s a Euro-Fighter, which is one of my favorite types. The steel coaster was known as the steepest in the world, with a drop angle of 121° but was unseated by TMNT Shellraiser at American Dream in New Jersey. The TMNT ride is just 121.5° so it’s barely steeper and it’s an inferior ride so it annoys me that it has replaced Takabisha, but that’s how the story goes!
Related post: How to Overcome Fear on Roller Coasters
Here are some quick facts about Takabisha:
- Opening date: July 16, 2011
- Length: 1,000 m (3,300 ft)
- Height: 43 m (141 ft)
- Duration: 1:52
- Inversions: 7
- Drop: 42 m (138 ft)
- Max vertical angle: 121°
- Lift/launch system: Linear motor launch, chain lift hill
- Max speed: 100 km/h (62 mph)
- Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 2 seconds
- Ride Height Requirement: 125 cm (4 ft 1 in)
- Trains: Eight riders per train, seated 4 across in 2 rows.
Queue Area
The queue area is typical for Japanese theme parks. It’s a ramp (maybe some stairs?) that gradually leads up to the platform.
Loading Area, Seats & Restraints
The loading area has lockers where you will be asked to store everything including your jewelry and glasses. There is a seatbelt and over-the-shoulder harness system on this ride.
Is Takabisha at Fuji-Q Highland Scary?
Queue
There is nothing scary about the queue.
Acceleration
This rides starts two different times. The ride begins with a slow inversion that leads straight into a launch when you become right-side up. It’s a lot so be prepared for that! The second acceleration is from the top of the drop mid-way through the ride.
Vertical Lift
There is a lift halfway through the ride. It’s completely vertical so you will be flat on your back facing straight up at the sky (like Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Florida).
Darkness
There is a brief moment of darkness right at the start of the ride where you’ll also be experiencing a slow, rolling inversion.
Inversions
There are SEVEN inversions on this roller coaster. Most of them are large and swooping which is typical with a Euro-Fighter roller coaster. This might be a lot for some people.
Drop
Takabisha’s world-record-breaking drop is 121° which means you will be more tucked in than a dive coaster like Griffin or Yukon Striker. The height is not very tall, though, so this moment passes very, very quickly. You will stop at the top for a few seconds, though, and on a clear day, you’ll be able to see Mount Fuji right in front of you!
Speed
It’s a fast ride, but it’s not blistering. It’s a nice speed if you can tolerate it.
Non-Inverting Elements
This is a big roller coaster. There’s the beyond-vertical drop, lots of banks and turns, and a fast speed. Everything about this roller coaster is intense.
Mist/Water
I don’t remember any water or mist on this ride.
Restraints
There are both seat and over-the-shoulder harnesses on this ride. You’ll feel secure!
Best Things About Takabisha
Compared to other roller coasters, Euro-Fighters offer a fun feeling that makes you feel like you’re flying and cartwheeling through the air. The elements on Takabisha are large, well-designed, and have a lot of flair. It’s super exciting and this is one of my favorites in the world. I’d ride it once a week if I could!
