Dodonpa, Fuji-Q Highland
At the amusement park Fuji-Q Highland in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, there is a steel roller coaster called Dodonpa. The Fujiyama, which until recently was the highest roller coaster in the world. It was the world's fastest roller coaster when it debuted on July 16, 2001. It was created by Mitsushige Nakai and constructed by Premier Rides. Its highest speed was 106 mph (171 km/h). It kept this record until Kingda Ka at Six Flags Great Adventure surpassed it in 2004. The world's fastest roller coaster, Dodonpa, accelerates riders from 0 to 106 mph (171 km/h) in 1.8 seconds using a compressed air launch mechanism.
During the launch, riders feel 4.5 times the force of gravity. You can see Mount Fuji, which is lazily perched on the horizon, if you can only force your eyes open for a moment. Dodonpa rides vary in price depending on the theme park you visit, but they normally cost $25 to $30. So Dodonpa is definitely worth a ride if you're searching for excitement and don't mind spending some money. It is the eighth-tallest, fifth-longest, and tenth-fastest roller coaster in the world as of 2007.
Location: Fujiyoshida, Shin Nishihara, Japan
