Shanghai Welcomes Chinas First Disney Park
Chinas newest landmark opened on June 16th when the American giant Disney inaugurated its very first theme park in the country. For The Walt Disney Company, this represents the largest investment ever made abroad.
Chinas newest landmark opened on June 16th when the American giant Disney inaugurated its very first theme park in the country. For The Walt Disney Company, this represents the largest investment ever made abroad.
The American entertainment powerhouse Disney set its sights on the Middle Kingdom and officially opened its first Disney park in the Peoples Republic of Chinas on Thursday, June 16, 2016. Located in Shanghai, the park is now the sixth Disney park worldwide and the third in Asia, alongside those in Hong Kong and Tokyo.
The long-awaited project reportedly cost $5.5 billion to develop. In a statement, Bob Iger, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, declared: "The grand opening of Shanghai Disney Resort is one of the most magical moments in the history of The Walt Disney Company, and we have planned a truly spectacular celebration worthy of this historic achievement."
Indeed, the festivities unfolded over three days, featuring numerous shows and unprecedented performances. He continued: "It is by far the most creatively ambitious and technologically advanced entertainment destination we have ever built." Truly a spectacle to behold!
Today, Shanghai Disney Resort opens its doors and makes history! 🎊✨🎉 pic.twitter.com/V1sklIDAm0
— Disneyland Paris (@DisneylandParis) June 16, 2016
Disney Highly Anticipated in Chinas
Chinas had granted the rights to build its first Disney park in Shanghai as far back as 2009. The opening was eagerly awaited, attracting thousands of Chinese visitors who eagerly rushed through the gates, eager to be among the first to experience the enchantment of Disney magic.
Construction began in 2011, and the park now spans 3.9 km². Chinas takes pride in hosting the largest Disney castle, groundbreaking attractions, and capitalizing on the American entertainment giants recent blockbuster franchises: Frozen, Star Wars, and Pirates of the Caribbean, each featuring their own dedicated attractions.
The complex is divided into six themed lands and features two hotels, a major shopping center, restaurants, and relaxation areas complete with expansive gardens and a scenic lake.
American culture has finally pierced the iron curtain of the communist empire, and the entertainment giant hopes to capitalize on the worlds largest consumer market.
Ticket prices are notably comparable to those in Europe. Visitors can expect to pay 449 yuan—approximately 67 euros—during peak summer season and 370 yuan—roughly 50 euros—during off-peak periods.
Frequently asked questions
Shanghai Disney Resort officially opened its doors on June 16, 2016. It is Chinas first Disney park, the 6th Disney park in the world, and the 3rd in Asia, following those in Hong Kong and Tokyo.
Admission to Shanghai Disney Resort costs 449 yuan (approximately 67 euros) during peak summer season and 370 yuan (approximately 50 euros) during off-peak periods. These prices reflect those at the parks opening in 2016 and may have changed since.
The park spans 3.9 km². It includes 6 themed lands, 2 hotels, a major shopping center, restaurants, and relaxation areas featuring gardens and a lake.
Shanghai Disneyland features attractions dedicated to major Disney franchises including Frozen, Star Wars, and Pirates of the Caribbean. The complex is also home to the worlds largest Disney castle and exclusive attractions not available in other parks.
Construction of Shanghai Disney Resort represented an investment of $5.5 billion, making it The Walt Disney Companys largest foreign investment ever. Construction began in 2011, following approval granted in 2009.
