Shanghai Disneyland is stunning, but I honestly don’t recommend going in June because....
Shanghai Disneyland: A Magical Journey in the Dream Kingdom
In Shanghai, a city full of modern vibes and rich history, there’s a place that feels like a fairy tale wonderland—Shanghai Disneyland Resort. Since its grand opening in 2016, it has become a dream destination for countless visitors, attracting people from all over the world with its unique charm and offering joyful and surprising magical experiences.
Preparation Before the Trip: The Key Step to Start Your Dream Journey
Ticket Purchase
Tickets are the first key to entering the magical world of Disneyland. Buying tickets 7-30 days in advance through official channels offers early bird discounts, saving you a lot. There are various ticket types, including adult tickets, child tickets, senior tickets, and student tickets. Child tickets apply to children aged 3 (inclusive) to 11 (inclusive), and valid government-issued ID with birthdate and photo must be presented at entry; senior tickets are for visitors aged 60 and above; student tickets (for university students) offer exclusive benefits. Two-day tickets offer better value than single-day tickets, perfect for visitors who want to explore deeply and have more time to discover every corner. However, holiday ticket prices are the highest, so it’s best to avoid peak periods like Chinese New Year and National Day to save time spent in lines.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation is an essential part of the trip. The resort has two themed hotels—the Toy Story Hotel and the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel. The Toy Story Hotel offers better value, with rooms decorated full of Toy Story elements, making you feel like you’re inside the animated world; the Disneyland Hotel is more luxurious with more attentive service. Both hotels offer early park entry privileges, giving you an advantage before the park opens. If your budget is limited, there are many boutique guesthouses and chain hotels within 3 kilometers around, priced at about one-third of the resort’s rates, still providing comfortable lodging.
Essential Items Checklist
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, some essentials are a must. Comfortable walking shoes are key since you can walk over 20,000 steps a day at Disneyland; a good pair will save your feet from pain. A portable power bank is also essential as taking photos and using the app to check wait times consume a lot of battery. Unopened bottled water can be brought in, and there are drinking fountains inside the park for easy hydration. Don’t forget sunscreen since most areas are outdoors; good sun protection prevents sunburn. You can also bring sealed snacks, but glass containers and food that requires heating are prohibited.
Transportation: Convenient Access to the Dream Kingdom
Subway Travel
The subway is the best way to get there. Take Line 11 to Disneyland Station, Exit 1, then a 5-minute walk to the park. The first train towards the city departs at 7:08 AM, and the last train at 10:30 PM, with extended hours during holidays, making it very convenient. The subway is not affected by traffic jams, ensuring you arrive on time to start a wonderful day.
Driving and Parking
If you choose to drive, the official parking fee is 100 RMB/day. Small cars can park at P6 parking lot for 60 RMB/day, then take a shuttle bus to the park. Remember to note your parking zone number to make finding your car easier at night. Driving offers freedom but parking can be difficult during peak times, and fees are relatively high.
Special Shuttle Services
Visitors staying in the city can choose hotel shuttles or Didi rides to the park. However, at closing time, taxi queues often exceed one hour, so it’s recommended to leave during off-peak times to avoid long waits.
Park Experience: Enjoy the Magical Adventure
Tips for Playing
FastPass (FP): Right after the park opens, use the official app to grab FastPasses for the most popular rides like Soaring Over the Horizon or TRON Lightcycle Power Run. You can get another FP every 2 hours. FP is fully electronic now, making it easier to get through the app and saving a lot of queue time.
Counterclockwise Touring Strategy: Most people go clockwise, so going counterclockwise helps avoid crowds. It’s recommended to start from Adventure Isle and finish in Fantasyland for a smoother experience.
Single Rider Lines: Attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train have single rider lines, usually saving over 40% of wait time, ideal for visitors who don’t mind sitting separately.
In-Depth Must-Do Attractions
Soaring Over the Horizon: Located in Adventure Isle, this 5D dome flying experience takes you on a 90-second world tour of landmarks. The front row offers the best view. Not recommended for those afraid of heights. Wait times often exceed 120 minutes, so it’s best to make it your first FP target.
TRON Lightcycle Power Run: In Tomorrowland, one of the fastest coasters in any Disney park worldwide, reaching speeds of 100 km/h with a motorcycle-style riding position for extra thrill. Prepare coins for the locker. The ride looks even more stunning and thrilling at night with lights on, making it a great photo spot.
Pirates of the Caribbean—Battle for the Sunken Treasure: In Treasure Cove, an immersive water dark ride with Captain Jack’s realistic effects that amaze visitors. Queue times shorten significantly in the evening, making it a top choice for a second ride.
Zootopia: Hot Pursuit: The world’s first Zootopia-themed attraction, offering an immersive storyline and realistic scenes that boys especially love, making you feel like you’re inside Zootopia.
Entertainment Show Time Management
Mickey’s Storybook Express: Daytime parade at 12:15 PM and 3:45 PM. Near the Toy Story Hotel, the crowd is smaller, making it a good viewing spot.
Golden Fairytale Fanfare: Castle-front musical show at 10:15 AM, 1:15 PM, and 4:30 PM, featuring spectacular Disney singing and dancing performances.
Ignite the Dream – A Nighttime Spectacular of Magic and Light: Nighttime light and fireworks show at 8:30 PM (seasonal adjustments apply). The best viewing spot is in front of the Gardens of Imagination but it’s very crowded; the exit of the Crystal Lotus is also a good alternative. Arrive 2 hours early to secure a spot for this breathtaking visual feast.
Dining: Taste the Unique Flavors of Disney
Highly Cost-Effective Recommendations
Barbossa’s BBQ Pork Ribs Set: Priced at 98 RMB, generous portions and delicious flavor, a top choice for meat lovers.
Mickey & Pals’ Delicious Market’s Spicy Hot Pot: 65 RMB per serving, offering authentic spicy flavor. Kids’ meals are moderate in size and priced at only 70% of adult meals, perfect for children.
Hidden Food Gems
Tribe Feast Hall’s Turkey Leg: 80 RMB each, sold from 2 PM, a Disney internet-famous snack with tender meat and rich flavor.
Papalino Ice Cream’s Peanut Butter Ice Cream Waffle: 58 RMB per serving, a popular photo-worthy treat combining the sweetness of peanut butter and the coolness of ice cream, leaving a lasting impression.
Booking Tips
Royal Banquet Hall requires a phone reservation 3 days in advance, with an average cost of about 400 RMB per person. You can take photos with Disney characters here, making it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality dining experience and character interaction. Outdoor food carts support mobile payments, saving queue time and allowing you to recharge anytime during your visit.
Souvenir Shopping: Keep the Magical Memories
Cost-Effective Recommendations
Duffy Bear Series: Small plush dolls at 219 RMB, cute designs loved by visitors.
Mickey Ears Headbands: Classic style at 149 RMB, a must-have prop for photos that instantly immerses you in the Disney atmosphere.
Passport Stamp Book: 70 RMB each, collecting stamps brings surprises, a favorite for collectors.
Shopping Time Arrangement
It’s best to shop in the last hour before leaving, when Main Street, U.S.A. stores have the most complete merchandise. Annual pass holders enjoy a 20% discount, and day visitors spending over 500 RMB can use the mailing service, convenient and worry-free.
Special Tips
Spring limited-edition products usually launch in March, and Christmas series start in early November. If you’re interested in these limited items, remember to shop during the corresponding periods. For large items, you can request temporary storage service, allowing you to enjoy the park without worrying about carrying them.
Special Experience Upgrade Options
Exclusive Guided Tour
Private tours for up to 6 people cost 18,000 RMB for 6 hours during peak season, including all-ride no-queue privileges and reserved viewing spots, perfect for special anniversaries or visitors wanting the ultimate experience.
Themed Photo Service
“Let’s Capture” service costs 238 RMB for a full day, covering all Disney character photo spots. Photographers will guide your poses to help you take beautiful photos. Balloons make great photo props but are not allowed on the subway. Remember to dispose of them properly after your visit.
Birthday Surprises
After picking up a birthday badge at Guest Services, you’ll receive countless greetings from cast members throughout the day. Some restaurants also offer complimentary small cakes if you book in advance and mention it, making your birthday at Disney unforgettable.
Shanghai Disneyland, this joyful place, with its rich attractions, spectacular entertainment, delicious food, and unique souvenirs, brings every visitor an unforgettable fairy tale experience. Here, you can temporarily forget life’s worries, immerse yourself in a magical world, and spend wonderful moments with Disney friends. Come to Shanghai Disneyland soon and start your own magical journey!