Shanghai Disney Resort Guide

Shanghai Disney Resort opened in 2016 and is one of the biggest and most imaginative Disney parks in the world. It was designed with Chinese audiences in mind, so it has a few differences from the parks in the United States, including a huge castle, a garden theme and plenty of local food. It is a full day out, and with a bit of planning it can be a smooth and enjoyable one.

What is special here

The centrepiece is the Enchanted Storybook Castle, which is the largest castle in any Disney park and has a boat ride and a restaurant inside. There is no Main Street USA, and the entrance area is a garden-style avenue instead. The resort also has a fast, immersive ride based on a light-cycle theme, a land based on a popular animated film about animal city life and a large pirate-themed area. Consult the official site for the current list of rides and shows.

Tickets and the app

Buy tickets in advance through the official app or website, because prices vary by date and busy days can sell out. Foreign visitors should verify what ID is required, since a passport is usually needed to collect or use tickets. The app shows ride waiting times, maps and show times, and it is the best tool for planning your day. It has an English version, but you may need a local payment method to use some features.

Queues and strategy

The most popular rides can have long waiting times, so arrive early and head straight for the one you most want. Paid priority passes may be available, so see the options and compare the price with the length of the queue. Weekdays outside school holidays are the quietest, and public holidays and summer weekends are packed. A rested start and a mid-day break make a big difference.

Food and drink

The park serves a mix of Chinese and Western food, with noodles, rice dishes, dumplings and burgers. Prices are higher than outside, and queues at lunchtime can be long, so eat at off-peak times. Bringing your own snacks and water is usually allowed, which helps with budget. Read the park's current rules about food and drinks at the gate.

Language and help

Staff in the park are used to foreign guests, and signs and maps are usually bilingual. The app can translate some information, and guest services can help with lost items or children. If you have special needs, check the access options for rides and shows in advance, because rules and facilities can change.

With children

The resort is well suited to families, with gentle rides, characters and shows for young children. Pushchairs and baby care rooms are available, and the park has water fountains and shaded rest areas. Plan for a break in the afternoon, and bring sun protection, a hat and light clothes. Small children tire fast, so do not try to see everything.

Getting there

The resort is in the far east of Pudong, and metro line 11 runs to Disney Resort station, which is the easiest way to arrive. The ride takes about an hour from the centre, with a change of lines. Taxis and ride apps are possible but costly, and traffic around the resort can be heavy at peak times.

Pairing it well

Disney is a full day, so do not try to add much else. If you have a spare half day in Pudong, the science museum and Century Park are easier family outings. For a calmer family day, Zhujiajiao offers a boat ride and a walk.

What to skip

You do not need the priciest ticket, and you can skip the park on a public holiday. If you are not a Disney fan, spend the day somewhere else in Shanghai.