Disneyland shanghai blog — The useful Disneyland Shanghai guide & how to spend a day in Disneyland Shanghai

Shanghai Disneyland is a world-renowned theme park located in Pudong, Shanghai, China. It is the first Disneyland resort in mainland China that opened its doors to the public on June 16, 2016. Shanghai Disneyland provides an enchanting and immersive Disney experience, blending beloved Disney characters and stories with Chinese culture. It has become a popular destination for locals and international visitors alike, attracting millions of guests each year. So, what to do in Disneyland Shanghai? Let’s check our our Disneyland Shanghai blog with the fullest Disneyland Shanghai guide and how to spend one day in Disneyland Shanghai for first-timers as below!

Shanghai Disneyland Admission Ticket

So, be prepared to be whisked away on extraordinary journeys through various themed lands, where world-class attractions and spellbinding entertainment will transport you to a realm of wonder and delight.

What set Shanghai Disneyland apart from other Disney parks around the world? (# disneyland shanghai blog)

While faithfully capturing the essence of a traditional “Disneyland” theme park, Shanghai Disneyland prides itself on being unique in its many variations.

Mickey Avenue: This is the first Disneyland’s main entrance area themed around the legendary Mickey Mouse and his friends.

Enchanted Storybook Castle: This is not only the tallest, largest and most interactive Disney castle in any Disney park but also the first castle to celebrate the stories of all the Disney princesses. The castle also houses a walkthrough attraction where visitors can explore the magical stories and scenes from Disney films.

Treasure Cove: This is Disneyland’s first pirate-themed land in the world. Shanghai Disneyland’s Pirates of the Caribbean attraction stands out as an innovative and technologically advanced version of the classic ride. It combines traditional boat ride elements with cutting-edge special effects, 3D projections, and a thrilling battle scene.

Gardens of Imagination: Shanghai Disneyland’s Gardens of Imagination is a unique land not found in other Disney parks. It combines lush gardens, whimsical topiaries, and interactive attractions, such as the Garden of the Twelve Friends, featuring Disney characters reimagined in Chinese zodiac designs.

Fantasia Carousel: For the first time in a Disney park, there is a musical carousel and creatures inspired by Disney’s classic film Fantasia.

Must-visit places of Shanghai Disneyland (# disneyland shanghai guide)

Shanghai Disneyland Park is divided into 7 themed areas: Mickey Avenue, Gardens of Imagination, Adventure Isle, Treasure Cove, Fantasyland, Toy Story Land and Tomorrowland. Below are the outstanding characteristics of each area.

Mickey Avenue (# disneyland shanghai blog)

Unlike other Disneyland parks that have a traditional Main Street, Shanghai Disneyland features Mickey Avenue as its entrance area. It is designed to welcome visitors and set the tone for their magical journey. The end of Mickey Avenue is the entrance to the Gardens of Imagination, one of the themed lands in Shanghai Disneyland.

Mickey Avenue is home to various character meet-and-greet locations, where you can interact with classic Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Chip and Dale, Donald Duck, and Goofy. It provides an opportunity for visitors to take photos, get autographs, and create memorable moments with their favorite characters. Just walking on this avenue, you will feel like you are returning to your childhood with lovely cartoon characters.

Mickey Avenue is also filled with lively street performances, music, and entertainment, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. You can enjoy live shows, impromptu performances, and the overall festive ambiance as you explore the area.

Along Mickey Avenue, you’ll find a variety of dining options and retail stores. These establishments offer a range of food and beverage choices, including snacks, quick-service meals, and themed merchandise. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat or pick up some Disney souvenirs for you and your dear friends.

Things you can do at Mickey Avenue:

• Interact with your favorite cartoon characters and take memorable photos
• Enjoy lively street performances
• Buy souvenirs at Avenue M Arcade
• Enjoy traditional Chinese and international cuisine with some snacks or quick-service meals

Gardens of Imagination (# disneyland shanghai guide)

Mickey Avenue leads you to the Gardens of Imagination in the center of the park. The Gardens of Imagination is divided into several distinct areas, each offering its own unique experiences and attractions.

Here are things you can enjoy at the Gardens of Imagination:

Garden of the Twelve Friends: This area showcases topiaries representing the twelve Chinese zodiac animals.

Fantasia Carousel: One of the main attractions in the Gardens of Imagination is the Fantasia Carousel. Inspired by Disney’s classic film Fantasia, this whimsical carousel takes you on a magical ride.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant: With its charming theming, interactive queue, and the thrill of “flying” on Dumbo’s back, it’s a must-visit attraction for Disney fans and families looking to create magical memories at the park.

Marvel Universe: this attraction offers fans of all ages the opportunity to experience the thrilling world of Marvel superheroes.

The most popular attractions here are Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Fantasia Carousel and Marvel Universe. You can comfortably take photos here before moving to other areas.

Fantasyland (# disneyland shanghai guide)

Fantasyland is considered the largest themed land in Shanghai Disneyland. It invites guests to step into the world of enchantment and experience the magic of Disney’s classic fairy tales.

The centerpiece of Fantasyland is the Enchanted Storybook Castle, the largest and most elaborate Disney castle in any Disney park. The castle serves as an iconic symbol of Shanghai Disneyland and is home to a unique walkthrough attraction that explores the stories of Disney princesses.

A visit to Shanghai Disneyland would be incomplete without exploring this area and marveling at the Enchanted Storybook Castle – the heart and soul of the park.

Here are the attractions you can attend to at Fantasyland:

Voyage to the Crystal Grotto: A boat ride that takes you on a journey through a series of scenes inspired by classic Disney animated films such as Tangled, Aladdin, Mulan, Fantasia, Beauty and the Beast, etc., accompanied by music and special effects.

Peter Pan’s Flight: Embark on a magical journey aboard a flying pirate ship that takes you to Neverland, following the adventures of Peter Pan and his friends.

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: A family-friendly roller coaster that takes you on a whirlwind adventure through the diamond mine, accompanied by music and scenes from Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Alice in Wonderland Maze: You can explore a whimsical maze inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, encountering iconic characters and settings from the story.

Fantasyland also offers a range of themed restaurants where you can enjoy meals inspired by Disney stories, and shops where you can purchase Disney costumes, toys, and souvenirs.

Treasure Cove

Treasure Cove is an exciting themed land of Shanghai Disneyland that immerses you in the swashbuckling world of pirates and treasures. The land is inspired by classic pirate stories and is designed to resemble a bustling pirate port in the Caribbean. It features immersive theming, including detailed architecture, rugged landscapes, and nautical elements that transport you into a world of adventure.

Here are things you can experience at Treasure Cove:

Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure: This centerpiece state-of-the-art dark ride takes you on a thrilling adventure with Captain Jack Sparrow and other beloved characters from the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. The ride combines immersive storytelling, stunning special effects, and cutting-edge technology to create an unforgettable experience.

Shipwreck Shore: Shipwreck Shore is an interactive play area within Treasure Cove that allows children to unleash their inner pirates. This water play area features fountains, water cannons, and various interactive elements, providing a fun and refreshing experience for young guests.

Shanghai Disneyland Admission Ticket

Explorer Canoes: You can embark on a scenic canoe ride through the waters of Treasure Cove. The Explorer Canoes offer a leisurely and picturesque journey, allowing you to enjoy the immersive surroundings of the land while paddling along with fellow adventurers.

Siren’s Revenge: Boarding this genuine pirate ship allows you to immerse yourself in a lively world of pirate joyfulness and partake in spirited pirate activities.

Like other themed lands in the park, Treasure Cove also provides pirate-inspired tasty treats and meals at the restaurants and opportunities to buy pirate-themed clothing, accessories, and souvenirs at the shops in the area.

Adventure Isle

Adventure Isle is another area worth exploring at Shanghai Disneyland. It invites you to embark on thrilling expeditions and discover the wonders of an untamed island.

The land is designed to resemble a remote, uncharted island filled with ancient ruins, dense jungles, and untamed wilderness. It is inspired by exploration and discovery, drawing inspiration from various adventure stories and legends.

Here are the activities you can participate in at Adventure Isle:

Roaring Rapids: This whitewater rafting adventure takes you on a turbulent journey through treacherous rapids, ancient ruins, and breathtaking landscapes. You may experience surprises and thrilling encounters along the way.

Soaring Over the Horizon: This is a flight simulator that takes you on a breathtaking aerial tour of some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and natural wonders. The immersive experience combines stunning visuals, motion simulation, and special effects to create a memorable adventure.

Camp Discovery: This is an interactive play area within Adventure Isle that encourages you to test your skills, agility, and bravery. The area includes rope bridges, climbing structures, and challenging obstacles, allowing you to embrace your inner explorers and conquer exciting physical challenges.

Roaring Mountain: This towering volcanic mountain features a spectacular waterfall cascading down its side. While it is primarily a visual centerpiece, it adds to the immersive atmosphere of the land and creates a sense of wonder and adventure.

Happy Circle: a unique jungle gathering spot where talented Arbori musicians fill the air with tribal rhythms, and beloved animated characters from Disney classics like The Jungle Book and The Lion King make special appearances to captivate and delight you.

Toy Story Land

The land is designed to make visitors feel as if they have been shrunk down to the size of a toy, allowing them to explore the world of “Toy Story” and interact with its beloved characters.

Here are the activities you can experience at Toy Story Land:

Slinky Dog Spin: a family-friendly roller coaster where you board Slinky Dog’s back for a thrilling ride. The coaster takes riders on a journey through a colorful toy-filled landscape.

Woody’s Round-Up: a classic spinning ride featuring Sheriff Woody and his trusty horse, Bullseye. You can hop aboard the spinning barrels and enjoy a whimsical adventure.

Shanghai Disneyland Admission Ticket

Rex’s Racer: a high-speed race with Rex in a 20-seat roller coaster along a U-shaped roller track. Brace yourself tightly as the roller coaster accelerates back and forth, ascending higher and higher.

Tomorowland

Tomorrowland is a futuristic-themed land that offers you a glimpse into the possibilities of tomorrow, showcasing sleek architecture, metallic accents, and a vibrant color palette. It combines advanced technology, innovative attractions, and a sense of adventure.

Here are the activities you can enjoy at Tomorrowland:

TRON Lightcycle Power Run: This high-speed roller coaster takes you on a thrilling adventure through a digital world inspired by the TRON films. Riders board lightcycles and race through a neon-lit landscape, experiencing twists, turns, and exhilarating acceleration.

Jet Packs: This attraction allows you to experience the sensation of flying. You strap into a jet pack-like apparatus and control their flight as they soar through the sky, providing a unique and immersive experience.

Stitch Encounter: This is an interactive show where you can interact with the mischievous character Stitch from Disney’s Lilo & Stitch. Through real-time animation and audience participation, you can engage in a comedic and interactive adventure with Stitch.

Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue: Get ready for an immersive space adventure where you jump into the spinning space cruisers, join Buzz Lightyear’s quest, and help him defeat the evil Emperor Zurg in an action-packed interactive experience.

TRON Realm, Chevrolet Digital Challenge: This is an interactive journey that combines augmented reality and physical elements. You can participate in a virtual “Tron Grid” race using digital technology and compete against others in a thrilling and immersive environment.

How to explore Shanghai Disneyland in one day? (# disneyland shanghai blog)

Shanghai Disneyland is a large park and features so many interesting things for you to explore. Therefore, exploring all of Shanghai Disneyland in one day can be exciting, fulfilling, but challenging, too. So, it’s important to set realistic expectations. Prioritize the attractions and experiences that matter most to you, and be sure to savor the moments and create lasting memories during your visit.

Before going to Disneyland, make sure you have downloaded the Shanghai Disney Resort official app so you can optimize your visit on your phone.

Shanghai Disneyland Admission Ticket

Arrive early: Plan to arrive at the park well before 7:30. This will give you a head start and allow you to make the most of the day. If you’re one minute late, you may have to wait another hour to enter the park.

Use the FastPass system: Take advantage of the FastPass system to minimize wait times for popular attractions. Once you enter the park, head to the FastPass distribution area for your preferred attractions and obtain FastPasses to secure a designated return time with shorter queues.

Here is a specific one-day tour of Shanghai Disneyland that Living Nomads suggests for you:

Morning

• Start with TRON Lightcycle Power Run. This popular attraction tends to have longer wait times later in the day.
• Head to Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure. It’s a nearby attraction, and lines are usually manageable in the morning.
• Experience Soaring Over the Horizon, located in the Adventure Isle area.
• Visit Peter Pan’s Flight, which is in the Fantasyland area.

Midday

• Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants in the park. Consider booking a dining reservation in advance to save time.
• After lunch, make your way to Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in the Fantasyland area.
• Ride Roaring Rapids for a refreshing water adventure.
• Visit Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue and put your skills to the test in this interactive attraction.

Afternoon

• Take a break to explore the shops, grab a snack, or enjoy some live entertainment.
• Return to Fantasyland and experience Dumbo the Flying Elephant.
• Explore the Enchanted Storybook Castle and immerse yourself in the magical world of princesses and fairy tales.
• Catch Mickey’s Storybook Express parade, if the timing aligns with your schedule.

Evening

• At 6:30 p.m., watch Shanghai Disneyland’s daily fireworks show with the theme “Ignite the Dream”.

• If time permits, enjoy additional attractions or shows based on your interests or preferences.

Notes

If you are not a fan of adventure games, Living Nomads recommends that you do not try TRON Lightcycle Power Run, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Soaring Over the Horizon.

If you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss these attractions:

• Fantasyland: Enchanted Storybook Castle, Winnie the Pooh Adventures, Peter Pan’s Flight, “Once Upon a Time” Adventure, Hunny Pot Spin
• Gardens of Imagination: Fantasia Carousel, Dumbo the Flying Elephant
• Toy Story Land: Slinky Dog Spin, Woody’s Round-Up
• Tomorrowland: Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue, Stitch Encounter

Living Nomads has presented you with an extensive guide to help you make the most of your one-day exploration at Shanghai Disneyland. We truly hope that with this knowledge, your time at this enchanting park will surpass all expectations and becomes an unforgettable memory.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Shanghai you can refer to

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Read more: Shanghai travel blog — The fullest Shanghai travel guide for first-timers.