Shanghai Disneyland opened with a grand affair, with the worldwide media descending on the newly built $5.5 Billion amusement park last month. However, amidst all the pomp and flair, most of the stories written skipped over what the average park goer would experience. I was curious to see how a typical day at the park would entail and whether it was truly possible to recreate the Disney magic in China.
Where is Shanghai Disneyland located?
Shanghai Disneyland is located on the eastern part of Pudong, which means it’s actually closer to the airport then the downtown area of Shanghai.
Google Maps is actually blocked in China, which is why if you’ve tried searching for Shanghai Disneyland it actually points to a completely different amusement park.
Instead enter in the following: 31.1440°N 121.6570°E or click here.
To get to Shanghai, you’ll need to apply for a Chinese visa beforehand which costs around $130. However, if you don’t feel like applying for a visa, you can stay up to 72 hour visa free as long as you are connecting to another region outside China, including Hong Kong and Taiwan.
How do I get to Shanghai Disneyland?
A taxi ride from the downtown area will cost you between 100-150 RMB, which is around $20.
You can alternatively take the Metro, as there is a Disneyland station at the end of Line 11. Be aware Line 11 doesn’t go through downtown Shanghai, and you’ll have to transfer at least once if not twice. This can add a considerable amount of time to your commute and I’d budget in two hours.
It’s also important to note that during rush hour the metro can become quite literally packed and you may not have much personal space. You can purchase a one day metro pass at any service counter for 18 RMB.
If you are arriving from the airport, a Taxi should cost no more than 100 RMB.
Essential Items to Bring
Shanghai Disneyland allows sealed water bottles and pre-packaged food to be brought in. The summers in Shanghai are notoriously hot and humid, so I’d suggest bringing lots of water. I also highly suggest downloading the Shanghai Disneyland App for Android or Iphone, which has current standby times and an interactive map of the park.
How much are tickets?
Prices for the one day tickets during the peak summer season and weekends are 499 RMB, around $75. Non Holiday off peak tickets will cost 350 RMB.
Where to Stay?
If you rather not commute, there are two on site hotels that provide direct complimentary shuttle service. The luxurious Shanghai Disneyland Hotel, starting at a eye popping 1650 RMB (around $240) a night, and the more reasonable priced Toy Story Hotel which starts at 900 RMB (around $134).
Unfortunately, both hotels were both sold out during my visit. However, I’d recommend staying at a hotel in downtown, as the commute by taxi is manageable and there isn’t much to do in the surrounding area.
I only have time to visit Shanghai Disneyland for one day, how should I plan my visit?
Click here for my guide on how to plan your one day trip in order to experience all the unique attractions that Disneyland Shanghai has to offer.
Up Next: My Trip to Shanghai Disneyland
Previous Post: Hyatt on the Bund – Postcard Views of Shanghai
