Do-Dodonpa Review DEFUNCT Worlds Fastest Accelerating Roller Coaster at Fuji-Q Highland

0 to 112 mph in 1.6 seconds on a roller coaster... just think about that for a second. That's EXACTLY what you would experience on Do-Dodonpa! This insane ride operated at Fuji-Q Highland for several years before officially closing in 2021. I had the opportunity to ride it in 2019- here is my experience!
You can also check out our other Coaster Studios branded merchandise here: shop.spreadshirt.com/coasterst...
Follow Coaster Studios on social media!
Facebook: / coasterstudios
Twitter: @coasterstudios
/ coasterstudios
Instagram: coaster_studios
Got a question for Taylor? Want to share a cool photo you took? Send all comments, questions, and concerns to [e-mail]
Coaster Studios is now on Discord! Join the chat now: / discord
Want to mail us something? Send it to:
Coaster Studios
P.O. Box 1354
Midlothian, VA 23113
Check out articles I've published to HuffPost here: www.huffingtonpost.com/author/...
MY GEAR:
Sony a6500 with an 18-105mm lens
Rode VideoMic Pro
MOZA AirCross Gimbal
Canon G7x Mark II
AT2020
Coaster Studios logo designed by Kristopher Werner.
www.kristopherwernerdesigns.com
Twitter: @kwernerdesigns
Instagram: @kristopherwernerdesigns
Thanks to Casey Rentmeester for creating the Coaster Studios intro and outro!
© Coaster Studios. All rights reserved. No part of this video can be reproduced or redistributed without permission from Taylor Bybee, Coaster Studios owner and creator. For permission requests, see email above. Use without consent with or without credit is in direct violation of copyright law. Cropping out the Coaster Studios watermarked logo is strictly prohibited.

[@Silvarret]

I 100% agree with your opinion! In addition, I thought the rubber tires provided a strange shuffle that made the layout even less enjoyable. But man, I've never been as scared of a rollercoaster as I was for that launch - and it definitely lives up to the hype. This is a one trick pony that does its one trick so well that I'll forgive it for the fact that it's otherwise not notable.

[@brianbrightside26]

This was probably the most painful coaster I've ever been on. The turn was absolute hell

[@kryn1030]

Agreed, after the launch the ride feels very rough and old.

[@quinlanroche342]

I'd also add that somehow this manages to be the least intense of the big 4 roller coasters at the park which is so crazy

[@thedigiseviper1330]

If it isn't the planet coaster king himself! Good to see you here silvarret

[@AirtimeThrills]

I dont even know if the launch would be enjoyable given how intense it is, if its just pure insanity. But definitely a bucket list experience for me.

[@destikos]

Airtime Thrills trust me it‘s super enjoyable

[@JBguitar-cj8pc]

Yeah it sounds like it would be painful almost. But it’s definitely something that needs to be experienced!

[@stanton1270]

from experience, don't put your head forward on this ride. Keep it back during the launch

[@tomwilsonn]

I can barely even remember what it was like. It’s over so fast it’s hard to process.

[@apothecurio]

Jordan Brown I bet if you just keep your ahead against the head rest. You’ll be fine.

[@taylordively4567]

I can tell you exactly why the trains slow down. The rubber is probably creating a ton of friction compared to polyurethane.

[@Bobcatflyfish]

One of the reasons that turn is so big is because it uses tires instead of regular wheels, this is because if the turn was tighter, the tires could rupture due to the pressure loading for the g-forces in a tighter turn

[@Hoosje]

Why does it have tires though

[@CEmanified]

@@Hoosje I believe that it's to reduce noise.

[@revimfadli4666]

@@CEmanified and maybe to compensate for S&S' early trackwork

[@VestedUTuber]

@@Hoosje Well, they're aircraft tires. S&S probably did some research and found that high performance aircraft landing gear tires were the only thing that could stand up to the launch. I honestly would love to read through the design docs on this thing.

[@guicho271828]

@@VestedUTuber aircraft tires make sense. btw, after the renewal, there were 2 minor incidents due to tire puncture (both stopped safely). Having the right tires seem totally right! btw, the japanese wikipedia article links to an official interview that says the air compressor actually supports up to 200km/h (124miles/h) and the FujiQ CEO tested that configuration himself. The same interview also mentions that, if they do the same configuration to the old top-hat, there was a danger of beheading due to the negative G force at the top... conpetti.com/TP/?p=16455

[@Soggy__Milk]

Do-Dodonpa: Has rubber tires to reduce noise or something. Also Do-Dodonpa: Has the loudest brake run known to man.

[@bensanchez2105]

Clicked Faster Than DoDodonpa's Acceleration

[@benxyb2791]

Lol

[@jenryanburnette]

Same

[@benxyb2791]

@@jenryanburnette Your name is quite controversial xD

[@bensanchez2105]

@@benxyb2791 or is it

[@starburzt2054]

"I could feel the saliva shoot into the back of my throat" - Taylor Bybee, 2019 Edit: Thank you Taylor so much! I absolutely love your channel... almost as much as I love roller coasters!

[@JJ_07777]

LMFAOO

[@Nerdydolfin]

The tophat was rough and badly trimmed when I rode it. I haven't been back since the transformation, but I imagine the loop is much better.

[@SeanFlaharty]

I had no idea those off-ride stills included the different angles. Those were great shots! I miss that ride so much. It's still my fav.

[@EB-ny1ce]

Imagine if intamin had the air-compressed launch. Some crazy coasters would be made...

[@mwelchy9030]

E B oh geez i wonder

[@ThrillsofColdplay]

Would be very intimidating to anyone

[@TonyKimtheamusementparkfan]

This is a good example of how S&S has really experimented with coasters at that time. Of course this was one of their firsts to try and correct the failures of Hypersonic XLC, and so of course I gotta give it credit to be an example of how far S&S has come in the amusement industry.

[@MeNoGud]

Honestly I'm semi-glad the launch is short because had the do-dodonpa's launch be any longer my soul would've left my body. Its insane. Also; The video does the brake run loudness no justice. Its much much much louder in real life.

[@EarthquakeThrills]

I was kinda upset that my family announced we were gonna move to japan until I did some research then I found out they got these big name theme parks and some record breaking coasters!!!!! I flipped outtttt

[@jojo_hendriks]

Right now, it’s in my Top 3 Bucket List Coasters. Even if it ended right after the launch, I would still travel to Japan only for those 1.6 seconds. Sure, a long launch is fun. TTD has my favorite, but if you also have a high top speed, it perfection

[@JBguitar-cj8pc]

Having ridden Hypersonic XLC and experienced that launch, I cannot even fathom the intensity that must be felt on do-dodonpa 😯 it’s almost frightening to think about! And hypersonic breakrun was extremely noisy too. Definitely the style of ride.

[@360coasters3]

It’s sad knowing that this absolutely insane ride is gone for good

[@CoasterHipster]

I wonder if Do-dodonpa's record will ever be broken. Do-dodonpa feels like an experimental product. Testing the limits, and not exactly knowing what to do with a new technology. Now that S&S fleshed out their layouts with rides like Maxx Force and the Chinese launchers, I really hope they get the opportunity to outdo their old record!

[@Silvarret]

I wonder if you can even register a difference between Do-dodonpa and a potentially faster launch. Do-dodonpa is already too extreme to properly process.

[@spaceistheplace2293]

Coaster Hipster I think S&S said Maxx Force is the most intense launch they will do right now.

[@revimfadli4666]

Didn't a homemade coaster almost break its current record(and broke its previous one)?

[@galliumg8483]

In America

[@MattMcIrvin]

Given what's happened with Do-dodonpa, I suspect this launch acceleration may be beyond what any future coaster will do.

[@yankeedoodle1194]

Fun fact, Do Dodonpa pulls 3.2Gs on launch. for context of how insane that is. . . Kingda ka and formula Rossa = 1.7Gs Maxx Force = 2Gs Storm Runner and Xcelerator = 1.6Gs

[@justiceleaguebattleformetr9239]

This is basically Sonic The Hedgehog in real life. Super fast speed plus a vertical loop? Sign me up!

[@mulinhuan8410]

I've got a chance to ride this back in 2015 with the top hat, I love the airtime that it gives since it wasn't trimming very hard when I was there (or because I didn't feel the trims, idk). I enjoyed the ride, that launch freaked me out, the lap bars are very comfy. Though the train shakes around a little, I didn't think a little roughness impacts the ride.

[@th3thrilld3m0n]

KD used to be my home park until 2018 when I moved to Orlando! I was lucky enough to ride XLC in its final year, and I nearly chickened out! I'm very glad I didn't now! I hope to visit Japan within the next few years and, just because of my connection to KD, Fuji-Q already holds a special place in my heart.

[@sodburyhouse]

Shame then that ITV in the UK has reported on 25th August 2021 it is CLOSED until further notice due to too many broken bones during the ride. I thought it was anything but smooth and was a bit rough, although very fast, it has to be a smooth ride too! ! !

[@360coasters3]

It has been announced that the ride will never reopen :(

[@richey0995]

I knew about the new loop, but i’m just now figuring out about the name change

[@TheKurtsPlaceChannel]

Very cool video. I rode Hypersonic XLC at Kings Dominion and the launch was brutal and fun all in one. The launch intensity though short was one I will never forget. Thanks for posting and have a nice day too.

[@madelinegarber7860]

This is definitely on my bucketlist. Nothing gets my nerves going like a launch coaster. King de Kah was the most nervous I’d ever been for a ride followed by I305. I’m trying to imagine how that launch must feel and my neck hurts thinking about it. And the fact that you said you should be scared of the launch doesn’t help ha ha.

[@jjmailman]

Having ridden the original Dodonpa, Hypersonic XLC, Xcellerator, Storm Runner, TTD and KK, overall I would rate Dodonpa probably the lowest. Like you said, it’s NOT a bad coaster - it’s just different. The launch IS the best part of the ride. However we described the launch as “being hit in the chest with a sledgehammer!” The top hat (back then) was so intense, the ejector time so severe, (Nothing will ever compare!) and physically painful. That’s why they removed the top hat. It was painful. So was Hypersonic’s for that matter. I would’ve thought that you’d get some decent hangtime, but Sean said the same thing you did. The reason the turn is so wide was the the rubber tires couldn’t navigate a much tighter turn at that speed. They (evidently) exploded quite a few during testing. I think your rating is right on, as it’s all about the launch. That being said, I prefer Xcellerator’s launch overall, then TTD, Dodonpa, Storm Runner and KK. Yeah, I hated KK’s launch. It’s like it was shifting gears to go faster. If I still ranked coasters - Only Xcell and TTD *might* crack my top 100. They’re all one or two trick ponies. Good trick, but lacking in overall enjoyment.

[@SamuelH105]

Your explanation of the launch on Kingda Ka is perfect. I felt the same. It felt so shifty in the second half of the launch track.

[@thelenning]

I actually liked the straight track behind the launch, it was more like an opportunity to catch breath. Apart from this, I pretty much agree with you. Nice video!

[@adtpg1348]

Did it back when it had the top hat, with a front row seat the bump was my favorite part, even over the launch

[@andrewschannel4259]

Air Powered Coaster 1 looks too intense for me! Basic test results: Excitement rating: 1.26 (Low) Intensity rating: 10.20 (Very High) Nausea rating: 25.78 (Ultra-Extreme)

[@larsfroelich]

is it really nausea-inducing though? Intense maybe, but not nauseating

[@JorgeBCanchola]

I waited for this review since you announced your trip, and I knew it wasn't going to have a 10 because is a one-trick pony but I must say it's my #1 one-trick pony bucket list coaster

[@Luca-ph2yg]

It's for sure on my bucket list. Probably like #4 or #5

[@CC-xy8nn]

Luca 2512 i want to go to fuji Q but i would actually go crazy on a 14 hour flight

[@sethvlogs7751]

This ride looks genuinely terrifying and being a thrill seeker that’s saying something I really cannot wait to ride this coaster it looks awesome the launch looks absolutely insane and I am looking forward to riding it

[@silasboyden1268]

this was so fun. that first second is crazy. cant even describe it.

[@idontknowimlostforwords4715]

I feel like this coaster is parody material....

[@revimfadli4666]

Do-Do-Do-Do-Do-Do...

[@coastercountdowns7736]

I’ve been on MaxxForce and I thought that was crazy and that was like 0-80 in 1.8 and this is 0-111 or something like that in 1.6! This is a ride that will scare the hell out of you every time you go on it.

[@mad17196]

I agree with the layout thing that they should’ve done more with it but I’m still really excited to ride this!

[@kirmesjosef2074]

It is the Same Problem with fluch von novgorods launch. It's intensiv, but to short. I prefer desert race's launch over FvN launch

[@stevec653]

This would make me as nervous as I was at the top of Lex Luther Drop o’ Doom before it dropped. Bonus... the name of this coaster is a ball to say.

[@brianmacdonald7297]

I've only had one ride on Maxx Force, and zero on Do-Dodonpa, but I agree with you that the launch on Maxx doesn't feel as sustained as on Ka or Dragster. The initial "punch" is about the same, but it feels like it stops accelerating much more quickly.

[@shadowprince4482]

Totally on my bucket list!

[@Ytkingofmarblespl]

Mine too shadow prince

[@chicagun2915]

"Do Dodonpa is the only coaster that you can compare to Hypersonic XLC" *Laughs in Maxx Force*

[@ayycorrupt]

SFGAM Gang

[@CoasterStudios]

Hypersonic and Do-Dodonpa were sister coasters. They did everything the same, with the exception of layout. But even that wasn't that far off, as they both had the same type of top hat. Their similarities were very distinct. Maxx Force has the same style of launch, but everything else is different.

[@gladiatordragon9219]

Your opinion is basically just what I guessed. The main thing you ride this for is the launch, and everything else is nice, but not really necessary. This is a one-trick pony, even more so than Kingda-Ka and TTD, as it doesn't have the height that those two have (though you could make a case for the loop making up for it).

[@zacg_]

So essentially, it needs to go into an element quicker and have more going on. Glad to hear that because I hear so many people rave about it and the POV always make me think more needs to happen. So I've always just assumed that it's one of those situations where the POV doesn't capture the experience well. And to be fair, it's not like a POV will capture a compressed air launch feel. But I've always thought that this coaster needed more to it so I'm glad to hear that I'm not off base. So here's my crazy proposal: how about an Intamin Blitz style coaster that starts with a compressed air launch from S&S? Someone make that happen!

[@HockeyGUY66871]

I would love to ride this. I had the same feeling you had before the launch when I rode Top Thrill Dragster for the first time. Just curious do they let you choose your row?

[@Studio732JRL]

It's considered rude to request a row in Japan.

[@dylansader758]

I feel like everytime someone talks about full throttle's loop, they always say that it feels like your going to roll back everytime

[@gothicdragonwarriorqueen5819]

Cool Coaster ride!!!😊🤟❤

[@TheCraftyJ]

I would be scared af to do it 😂😂 it looks like pure insanity

[@louiselanthier5135]

That ride looks fun. I like the idea that it slows down because I am a senior citizen!

[@Howlingburd19]

“But outside of the launch the ride is not that interesting.” Ring Racer: “hold my beer…”

[@Bothomas-vm5hz]

i got to ride the top hat experience and the new experience it was amazing prior to now it had huge ejector airtime it all depended the time of the day and the weather, i went on the latest one back in 2018 and that i agree it is the best launch i have ever experienced, i would call it getting rammed by a semi truck

[@kmvstudios9072]

I think this ride is parody material. anybody else?

[@funtimeswithtom4108]

I rode Dodonpa and loved everything but the tophat. This was probably the only coaster that had my heart beating fast while in line, the launch is scary fast but amazing. I like the turnaround because it feels like you are flying and I believe it is so large out of necessity because of the speed it takes that turn and the rubber wheels on the train. The tophat was tight and whipped you over it and threw you forward out of the seat, I did not like that. I cant wait to go back and try it as Do-Dodonpa because I think the loop will make it a perfect coaster for me. You should go find the first run videos of this version when it would barely clear the loop and had the hangtime you were looking for, thats why there is a kicker wheel on top of the loop. There were later tweaks made to the ride to get it through the inversion faster.

[@shadowprince4482]

I'm DYING to ride DO-dodonpa but I can imagine it not being as good as TTD because Xcellerator at Knott's which is slower but much quicker isn't as good. Currently Top Thrill is my favorite coaster of all time that I have ridden. I just LOVE acceleration.

[@larsfroelich]

try KingdaKa!

[@tomgopsill3356]

DO DODONPAAAAAAAAA

[@RemixedVoice]

I rode this ride once, before the loop and acceleration increase. I came off shocked that civilians are allowed to ride this lol. I know lots of other coasters reach 4g's like this one, but I don't know, there is just something about Do-Dodonpa! ;)

[@jjmailman]

Dosware Pictures - Yup!! Moonsault Scramble!

[@ber936]

According to Google Maps, Do-Dodonpa's turn radius is about 210-220 feet. For comparison, Intimidator 305's first turn has a radius of about 130-140 feet.

[@CoasterStudios]

That's pretty insane

[@fuzz7981]

I rode this back when it had the top hat. The air time and pressure on my legs keeping me in my seat was pretty extreme from memory. I'm going back there next month but looks like its out of action.

[@curta3083]

I can’t wait till Friday for Busch Gardens

[@tjex1]

Unfortunately on my visit to Fuji Q we miss-planned and didn't get a ride on both this and Ejanaika because they both had over 3 hour waits and we messed up the busses and had to leave early. Oh well :p

[@benxyb2791]

Over 3 hours?????

[@tjex1]

@@benxyb2791 Unfortunately yes, we went at the end of the summer holidays a few years ago as part of a family holiday to Japan and China. It was very last minute as our trip wasn't focussed at all on going to theme parks; we waited 2 hours for Takabisha and around 2 for Fujiyama. All in all very poorly thought out but still nice to visit!

[@benxyb2791]

@@tjex1 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

[@alexanderfritz3326]

You got some analysis to do on the 2 new sea world coasters. Iron Gwazi... the new rmc at Busch gardens tampa...and texas something at sea world san antonio

[@nathanlamoreaux1272]

I think one of the main reasons for the massive curve is to kill some speed. Otherwise they would have to create some giant element to accommodate the 112mph speed. By the end of the curve, I’m sure the train is only going around 70-75mph since the loop is about the same size as Full Throttle’s. The train also doesn’t keep its speed well because tires have a much higher coefficient of friction than regular nylon/polyurethane wheels. Not totally sure why S&S opted for tires on these prototypes.

[@SamuelH105]

The wheels aren't slipping on the track that much. Higher coefficient of friction means better grip on the track. What affects the speed are the bearings.

[@nathanlamoreaux1272]

Sam Hammond True. I was mostly speaking of static friction though (since wheels don’t have kinetic friction if there is no slippage). That still has an effect. For example, steel wheels vs nylon/polyurethane have a big effect on wooden coasters even though they presumably have the same bearings. Some GCIs that run nylon wheels (like Wodan at Europa Park) lose speed faster than typical GCIs. I imagine there is a similar effect with tires. But bearings definitely make the difference too.

[@suepierce4478]

Are the tires pneumatic (air-filled) or solid? Pneumatic tires will lose speed quickly. Solid tires will lose less. Either way, the tires give a smoother ride than polyurethane wheels.

[@the_professor5329]

There is actually a "failed launch" mechanism where sometimes the train will not launch on time, but launch a bit after as a surprise

[@Tribenix]

Next coaster parody: Maxx Force

[@reelfishing2263]

Craziest launch ever, but I agree about the rest of the layout

[@nathandroppedoff]

This is basically the GP’s idea of a roller coaster.

[@LucasNinoMusic]

That loop looks like it gives great hang time

[@animeleek]

Gotta say it was the strongest coffee you can have

[@TS_Mind_Swept]

They use actual tires on this ride? I thought they used regular wheels to prevent the constant popping like on XLC...

[@benxyb2791]

0:34 *Over twice as long :)

[@LukeE94]

I’m not sure if I’d ever have the guts to ride this again - that launch is absolutely terrifying 😂

[@Brandon-qd2lb]

Is that why the train is so short? The track is so large as well wow! Why is there a tire drive at the top lol? Is this coaster rough as well? There’s a lot friction on the wheels of course the train will slow down fast lol

[@ryanshaivitz2050]

When are you posting your top 20/25 parks and roller coasters.

[@SchrodingersCat8813]

Seems fair. Launch must be insane. I did get get to ride Hypersonic and thay was nuts. To think this is 32 mph faster and in an even shorter time...I cant even. The rest did always look boring though. I'm sure it was better with the top hat but still. Would love to know what that launch is like though

[@CrazyNerd-dj2jz]

@coasterstudios have u seen the anounment for rmc gwazi yet

[@bahamasc]

It felt like someone grabs your lungs and throws it in your back, you honestly can't breath during that 1.6 seconds :D

[@Sepperd]

We want The Beast Parody!

[@paulinthailand]

got to do it again

[@takepan631]

here after this ride shattered more than 100 guests' spine and the coaster got closed

[@Sonic-gy7kq]

Can anyone answer this? Why dosnt S&S build coasters that accelerate like this anymore? They still install air launch coaster like maxx force and all of the other ones in China... and powder keg

[@Adar69420]

now its takabisha time,my 2nd favorite euro fighter

[@samklug]

have you riden maxx force yet, and if so is there a review or parody coming out about it?

[@CoasterStudios]

I have not, but after I ride it, there will be a review

[@toughmanrandysavage3077]

Keep in mind that tires act differently that wheels. If it made a sharp turn the tires would stress and wear out quicker. That's why it has a wide turn

[@CoasterStudios]

I figured that was probably one of the contributing reasons. Hypersonic had the same and had some decent turns, so I'm sure they could've made it less gradual, but not quite as sharp as some coasters do these days.

[@toughmanrandysavage3077]

@@CoasterStudios well hypersonic was also removed quite early in its life so maybe the tires were a contributing factor. Keep in mind the only thing that keeps a tire on the wheel is air pressure. Unless they were solid rubber which they might have been.

[@harrisonschneider8333]

Where did you get that video footage of Maxx Force?

[@CoasterStudios]

My friend Chad from OhioValleyCoasters filmed it when he went to ride it.

[@diimsim4358]

The new dododonpa didn't just remove the tophat, they doubled the launch acceleration.

[@iceblade019]

Is the relationship between hypersonic and dododonpa like leviathan and fury?

[@CoasterStudios]

In a way!

[@stanton1270]

The one thing I'm surprised you didn't mention is how loud the launch is from the station.

[@CoasterStudios]

It is pretty loud, that’s for sure

[@stanton1270]

@@CoasterStudios yeah I wish you got some footage of the sound because I didnt when I went.

[@Verminity]

Hate the layout. Hate the loop Dont keep speed Gose 112 AWSOME RIDE!

[@SuicideSauceNoodles]

Maxx force

[@jeffsteinborn2201]

How does it feel with rubber tires? Smooth? Also will we be seeing a Steel Dragon review?

[@CoasterStudios]

It is not as smooth as coasters that have the standard polyurethane wheels, but I wouldn't call it 'rough.' Yes, there will be a Steel Dragon 2000 review.

[@SkyrushFanboy]

Do you still think I305 is the most intense coaster? That giga is the only ride I’ve been on that physically drains me

[@peterg644]

Aren't there like mini trims throughout the entire track length slowing it down?

[@CoasterStudios]

nope

[@729MendicantTide]

I rode this back when it was Dodonpa.

[@anthon2915]

I would love a review of Taiga

[@CoasterHorizons]

How tall is the loop?

[@elofkjellson3906]

Yep that is 100% the largest turn I have seen on a coaster lol. Can't think of anything bigger...

[@ev7d167]

You should review Flying Dinosaur next!

[@jamescollings5515]

I feel like using tyres will cause a lot of traction on the track which will cause it to slow down a lot

[@splasquid7304]

idk why but i think i predicted this review x)

[@genericnameryan]

Can't wait for this parody lol