Shanghai Disney Resort

Visiting Information

Overview

Shanghai Disney Resort is the first Disney park in mainland China and the largest international Disney resort. It features Shanghai Disneyland Park, two themed hotels, Disneytown, and Wishing Star Park. The resort combines classic Disney storytelling and characters with Chinese culture and aesthetics, creating a unique experience for visitors.

Historical Background

The idea for Shanghai Disney Resort was first announced in 2009, following years of negotiation between The Walt Disney Company and the Shanghai government. Construction began in 2011, and the resort officially opened on June 16, 2016. It was designed to be larger and more ambitious than previous international Disney parks, reflecting China’s growing importance in the global entertainment market.

Architectural Features

• Enchanted Storybook Castle: The centerpiece of Shanghai Disneyland, this is the largest and most interactive castle in any Disney park. It incorporates elements from multiple Disney princesses and features a unique golden finial with a peony flower, representing China.
• TRON Lightcycle Power Run: This futuristic attraction features a unique canopy structure that changes colors and patterns, creating a striking visual effect both day and night. The ride system, where guests board individual lightcycles, is a technological marvel in theme park design.
• Treasure Cove: The first pirate-themed land in a Disney park, it features intricate details in its Caribbean-style architecture and includes the innovative Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure ride, which combines traditional boat rides with state-of-the-art projection technology.
• Garden of the Twelve Friends: This area showcases twelve mosaic murals depicting Disney and Pixar characters as the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac, beautifully blending Chinese culture with Disney storytelling.
• Disneytown: This shopping, dining, and entertainment district features architecture inspired by the 1920s-1930s era of Shanghai, creating a nostalgic yet modern atmosphere.

Cultural Importance

Shanghai Disney Resort represents a significant cultural bridge between East and West. It has become a symbol of China’s growing influence in global entertainment and tourism. The resort’s design carefully incorporates Chinese cultural elements, from the use of feng shui principles in the layout to the inclusion of Chinese zodiac characters. This blend of Disney magic with Chinese aesthetics and values has made the resort a unique cultural landmark, attracting millions of visitors annually and influencing theme park design worldwide.

Surrounding Attractions

• Shanghai Wild Animal Park: Located about 10 kilometers from Disney Resort, this park offers visitors a chance to see a wide variety of animals in spacious, natural-like habitats. It’s particularly known for its drive-through safari area where visitors can observe animals roaming freely.
• Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park: Situated in the Pudong New Area, this marine theme park features various aquariums, animal shows, and rides. It’s a great complement to the Disney experience, especially for marine life enthusiasts.
• Dishui Lake: This artificial lake, also known as “Droplet Lake” due to its teardrop shape, offers a peaceful retreat with scenic walking paths, boat rides, and picnic areas. It’s an excellent spot for those looking to enjoy nature after the bustling Disney experience.
• Shanghai Science and Technology Museum: While a bit further from Disney, this museum is worth a visit for its interactive exhibits on natural science, technology, and space exploration. It’s particularly engaging for children and science enthusiasts.

Photography Opportunities

• Enchanted Storybook Castle: The castle provides stunning photo opportunities throughout the day. For the best shots, try photographing it during the “golden hour” just after sunrise or before sunset, or capture its magical illumination during nighttime shows.
• Gardens of Imagination: This area offers beautiful landscapes and iconic Disney elements like the Fantasia Carousel. The Mickey Avenue entrance also provides great photo opportunities with its colorful, whimsical architecture.
• TRON Lightcycle Power Run: The futuristic canopy of this attraction is particularly photogenic at night when it’s illuminated with changing colors and patterns.
• Character Meet and Greets: Throughout the park, you’ll find opportunities to photograph Disney characters in uniquely themed settings. Some characters wear special outfits that blend Disney style with Chinese elements.
• Fireworks and Nighttime Spectaculars: The nightly fireworks and projection shows on the castle offer breathtaking photo opportunities. For the best shots, use a tripod and experiment with long exposures.

Modern Importance

• Economic Impact: Shanghai Disney Resort has become a major driver of tourism in Shanghai and the surrounding region. It has created thousands of jobs and stimulated economic growth in the Pudong New Area, contributing significantly to Shanghai’s position as a global tourism destination.
• Cultural Exchange: The resort serves as a platform for cultural exchange between China and the West. It has introduced millions of Chinese visitors to Disney stories and characters while also showcasing elements of Chinese culture to international visitors.
• Technological Innovation: Shanghai Disney Resort has pushed the boundaries of theme park technology. Attractions like TRON Lightcycle Power Run and Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure showcase cutting-edge ride systems and immersive storytelling techniques that have influenced the industry worldwide.
• Sustainable Development: The resort has implemented various environmentally friendly practices, from water conservation to energy-efficient buildings. It serves as a model for sustainable large-scale tourism development in China.
• Entertainment Industry Growth: The success of Shanghai Disney Resort has spurred growth in China’s entertainment and theme park industry. It has raised the bar for quality and guest experience, influencing other theme park developments across the country.

FAQ

• What is Shanghai Disney Resort famous for?
  Shanghai Disney Resort is famous for being the first Disney park in mainland China, featuring unique attractions like TRON Lightcycle Power Run, the largest Disney castle (Enchanted Storybook Castle), and a blend of Disney magic with Chinese cultural elements.
• What’s inside Shanghai Disney Resort?
  Shanghai Disney Resort includes Shanghai Disneyland Park with seven themed lands, two themed hotels (Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Toy Story Hotel), Disneytown shopping and entertainment district, and Wishing Star Park.
• Is Shanghai Disney Resort free?
  No, Shanghai Disney Resort is not free. There are entrance fees for the park, with prices varying depending on the day (regular or peak) and age of visitors.
• Is Shanghai Disney Resort worth visiting?
  Yes, Shanghai Disney Resort is worth visiting for its unique blend of Disney magic and Chinese culture, state-of-the-art attractions, and immersive themed lands. It offers experiences not found in other Disney parks worldwide.
• What to do in Shanghai Disney Resort?
  In Shanghai Disney Resort, you can enjoy thrilling rides, watch shows and parades, meet Disney characters, explore themed lands, dine at various restaurants, shop for souvenirs, and stay at Disney-themed hotels.
• How do I get to Shanghai Disney Resort in the local city?
  In Shanghai, you can reach Shanghai Disney Resort by taking Metro Line 11 to Disney Resort Station. Alternatively, you can take Bus Lines 50, 51, or 52 to the resort, or take a taxi from downtown Shanghai, which takes about 40-60 minutes.
• How to visit Shanghai Disney Resort?
  To visit Shanghai Disney Resort, purchase tickets in advance (online or at the gate), arrive early to make the most of your day, download the Shanghai Disney Resort app for wait times and maps, prioritize must-see attractions, and consider staying at a Disney hotel for extra park time and benefits.