SE Asia may be next stop for Japan Disney operator

TOKYO (Reuters) - For some lucky Disney fans in Southeast Asia the days of flying long distances between countries to get a whiff of the magic kingdom might soon be over.

The operator of Tokyo Disney Resort, which opened the first Walt Disney Co theme park outside of the United States 25 years ago, said it may expand into Southeast Asia as it seeks new markets for growth.

Oriental Land Co operates Tokyo Disney Resort, comprising Tokyo Disneyland, water theme park DisneySea, two hotels and a shopping mall. Of the resort's 25.8 million annual visitors, around 4 percent come from overseas.

The number of guests is expected to dwindle as Japan's population declines unless the resort can win over a new customer base or persuade regulars to visit more often.

Oriental Land Chief Executive Toshio Kagami told reporters following a ceremony to mark the 25th anniversary of Tokyo Disneyland on Tuesday that Southeast Asia would likely be key to the company's overseas strategy in the future.

Oriental Land may also look into creating a ski resort or some other recreational facility in Japan, he said.

In Asia, Walt Disney also has a Disneyland in Hong Kong, while it is pondering setting up a park in mainland China.

(Reporting by Sachi Izumi; Editing by Brent Kininmont)