Shanghai Disneyland Planning

The Ultimate Shanghai Disneyland Planning Guide (2024)

2024 Shanghai Disneyland COVID-19 Prevention Guidelines  Starting from 30th August, 2023, China-bound travelers are no longer required to undergo COVID-19 PCR test or Antigen Rapid Test (ART) before entering China. It is no longer required to declare the test result in the Health Declaration Form.  You may be permitted to enter China if you’re a foreign national holding a valid residence permit for work, personal matters or reunion. 

Shanghai Disneyland is an important milestone for Disney as it marks their first foray into mainland China. The park is not only the sixth Disneyland in the world, but it also stands out for its unique cultural elements that have been incorporated into the design. The Enchanted Storybook Castle, which is the centerpiece of the park, stands tall at a height of 200 feet / 60 meters, making it the largest castle in all Disney parks worldwide. It is a towering symbol of Chinese culture and features elements of traditional Chinese architecture and design.

Aside from the Enchanted Storybook Castle, Shanghai Disneyland also boasts several other attractions that are unique to the park. The Gardens of Imagination is Disney’s first flower art-themed land, and it features a stunning garden that is filled with colorful blooms and topiary sculptures. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden or enjoy a variety of performances and shows that are held throughout the day.

Another one of Shanghai Disneyland’s standout area is Treasure Cove, which is a pirate-themed land that takes visitors on a thrilling adventure on the high seas. The land features an immersive pirate village that is home to a variety of attractions, including a pirate ship ride and an interactive show that allows visitors to join a crew of swashbuckling pirates on an exciting treasure hunt.

Shanghai Disneyland is also home to some of the most exhilarating rides and attractions in the world. One of the most popular attractions is the TRON Lightcycle Power Run, where you get to ride on a motorcycle-style vehicle through the digital world of TRON. Another must-see attraction is Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure, where you board a boat and embark on a swashbuckling adventure through an enchanted sea. For those who love a good thrill, the roller coaster at the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is a must-ride.

These are just some of the amazing attractions that await you at Shanghai Disneyland. There are many more to discover and enjoy, such as Toy Story Land, Fantasyland, Adventure Isle, Tomorrowland, and more. Shanghai Disneyland is truly a magical place that offers something for everyone.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of them, and make a purchase I’ll receive a commission.

How Many Days

Shanghai Disneyland is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China, attracting millions of visitors every year. With its range of exciting rides, live shows, and themed attractions, it’s no wonder that the park is a hit with families, couples, and friends alike. However, it’s important to note that the park can get extremely crowded during peak times, which can impact your overall experience.

Enchanted Storybook Castle

If you’re planning a visit to Shanghai Disneyland, it’s important to keep in mind that one day may not be enough to see and do everything. While it’s definitely possible to experience the park in a day, you may find yourself rushing from ride to ride and missing out on some of the more immersive attractions. Additionally, if you’re visiting on a weekend, holiday, or during Chinese New Year, you can expect long lines and wait times for popular attractions.

To avoid the crowds and ensure you have a more enjoyable visit, it’s recommended to plan a two-day trip or to purchase Disney Premier Access, specially with the newest addition of Zootopia theme land. Disney Premier Access allows you to skip the lines on certain rides and attractions, giving you more time to explore the park at your own pace. Keep in mind that Disney Premier Access is an additional cost on top of your park admission ticket, so factor this into your budget accordingly.

Read more here about Disney Premier Access at Shanghai Disneyland.

Best Time to Visit

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Visiting Shanghai in the summer and winter may not be the best idea. The city can be too humid during the summer and too dry and cold in the winter, making it difficult to enjoy the park. That’s why it is recommended that you visit Shanghai Disneyland during the spring or autumn when the weather is more comfortable and mild. This way, you can fully experience the unique charm of Shanghai Disneyland without worrying about the weather.

In addition to the weather, it’s important to consider the month of your travel. Avoiding China’s National holidays such as the Chinese New Year or China’s National Day is highly recommended. During these periods, the crowds at theme parks are extremely  high and crowded. This can make it difficult to fully enjoy the park and its attractions. Therefore, it’s best to plan your visit during a quieter time of the year to avoid the crowds and have a more peaceful experience.

Shanghai Disneyland Planning Guide
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National holidays to avoid:

  • Chinese Lunar New Year – from January to February.
  • Qingming Festival – early April.
  • Dragon Boat Festival – early June.
  • Mid-Autumn Festival – early to mid-September.
  • China’s National Day – first week of October.

Park Tickets

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The park offers single-day tickets, two-day tickets, and annual passes, so you can choose the option that works best for your schedule and budget. It’s worth noting that the price of tickets varies depending on the date of your visit. If you’re planning a visit during peak times, such as holidays or weekends, you can expect to pay more for your ticket than if you visit during the off-season.

Shanghai Disneyland Tron

Effective June 23, 2023, Shanghai Disneyland introduced the new tier system:

  • “Regular” price of admission to Shanghai Disneyland, covering most of the weekdays and selected weekends, and is set at CNY 475.
  • “Regular Plus” price of admission will cover selected weekends and selected weekdays, and is set at CNY 599.
  • “Peak” price of admission, which covers most of the days in summer season, selected Chinese statutory holiday periods (including their shoulder days), internationally recognized celebration periods, park special event days, and other peak visitation days, is set at CNY 719.
  • “Peak Plus” price of admission, covering selected Chinese statutory holiday periods, park special event days and selected days in summer season, is set at CNY 799.

Note that for Early Bird 1-Day Ticket, you can purchase 10 days in advanced to up to 30 days in advanced.

The quickest and easiest way to buy Shanghai Disneyland tickets is through our trusted affiliate KLOOK. You often get much better discount than the official website. Below is a list of examples for 2024.

2024 Shanghai Disneyland adult ticket prices:

  • 1-Day Ticket – Official price starting from CNY 475 (KLOOK discounted price – starting from CNY 460, approximately USD 64)
  • Early Bird 1-Day Ticket – Official price starting from CNY 415 (KLOOK discounted price – starting from CNY 402, approximately USD 56)
  • 2-Day Ticket – Official price starting from CNY 854 (KLOOK discounted price – starting from CNY 819, approximately USD 114)

2024 Shanghai Disneyland children (3-11) and senior (65+) ticket prices:

  • 1-Day Ticket – Official price starting from CNY 356 (KLOOK discounted price – starting from CNY 335, approximately USD 47)
  • Early Bird 1-Day Ticket – Official price starting from CNY 296 (KLOOK discounted price – starting from CNY 277, approximately USD 39)
  • 2-Day Ticket – Official price starting from CNY 640 (KLOOK discounted price – starting from CNY 594, approximately USD 83)

Purchase your ticket through KLOOK now.

FastPass / Disney premier Access

When visiting Shanghai Disney Resort, you have the option of purchasing a Disney Premier Access pass. This pass provides priority access to attractions and shows, allowing visitors to skip the regular queue and enjoy their favorite rides and exhibits with minimal wait time.

Shanghai Disneyland Premier Access

Disney Premier Access passes can be purchased through the Shanghai Disney Resort mobile app, making it easy and convenient to plan your day at the park. Additionally, visitors can purchase Disney Premier Access passes in advance through recommended sites like KLOOK, allowing them to secure their spot in line before even arriving at the park.

There are priority access from single attraction, 3 to 12 attractions. To learn more about prices and how to use Disney Premier Access, visit our Shanghai Disneyland Disney Premier Access & FastPass Guide.

Hotels

As the resort continues to expand and develop, more hotels are expected to be built in the surrounding area. However, at present, there are only two official hotels – the Toy Story Hotel and the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel.

Both hotels are conveniently located within walking distance of the park, making it easy for guests to access all the attractions and entertainment options available at Shanghai Disneyland Resort. In addition, both hotels offer shuttle bus and boat services to the park, providing guests with even more convenience and flexibility during their stay.

Shanghai Disneyland Hotel

上海迪士尼酒店
上海迪士尼酒店
  • Rating: 9.2
  • Price Per Night: CNY 2,700 in low season | USD 381
  • Check Room Rates: Trip.com

The Shanghai Disneyland Hotel is a top-notch accommodation option for those looking to enjoy a luxurious and convenient stay at the Shanghai Disneyland Resort. The hotel’s location is ideal for guests who want to explore the park without having to worry about transportation. The hotel’s design is modern and elegant, with a grand lobby that sets the tone for the rest of the building. The rooms are spacious and offer stunning views of the park, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the Disney experience.

The hotel also offers a range of dining options, including Lumiere’s Kitchen, which is a unique and exciting restaurant that will appeal to fans of Beauty and the Beast. The hotel’s spa, fitness center, and other amenities provide guests with everything they need to relax and unwind after a day of fun. Overall, the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a luxurious and memorable Disney vacation.

Toy Story Hotel

Entrance To The Toy Story Hotel. | Your Disney
上海玩具總動員酒店
  • Rating: 9.8
  • Price Per Night: CNY 2,250 in low season | USD 318
  • Check Room Rates: Trip.com

Located conveniently opposite the park and Disneytown, the Toy Story Hotel is the perfect option for visitors who want to make the most of their time at Shanghai Disneyland. With its close proximity to the park, guests can arrive early before other visitors and enjoy a full day of fun and excitement. Additionally, the hotel’s location allows for quick and easy access to the hotel for a much-needed rest after a long day at the park.

The Toy Story Hotel is designed with families and children in mind, featuring whimsical decor and character-themed rooms that are sure to delight young visitors. The hotel offers a range of amenities and facilities for guests to enjoy, including a restaurant, gift shop, and play area for kids. These amenities make it easy for guests to enjoy a stress-free vacation, without having to worry about leaving the hotel to find food or entertainment.

If you’re traveling with children, the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel is the perfect option for you. With its fun and playful atmosphere, convenient location, and range of amenities, it offers everything you need to make your family vacation an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to spend your days exploring the park or relaxing in the hotel, the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel offers something for everyone.

Shanghai Disneyland Mickey Avenue

As for accommodations outside the resort, we recommend staying in the central area of Shanghai or hotels near subway stations or airports. Here are some carefully selected hotels near subway stations that are convenient for visitors to Shanghai Disneyland:

Booking.com

Getting There

Shanghai has two international airports, with the closest one to Shanghai Disneyland being Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), which is about a 25-minute ride to the park. However, if you plan on staying in downtown Shanghai, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) may be a more convenient option as it is not only closer to the city center but also not far from other popular attractions such as the Shanghai French Concession or the Bund.

Shanghai has two major international airports, Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA). While both airports offer convenient access to the city and its many attractions, their locations and proximity to certain areas may make one a better choice over the other depending on your travel plans.

If you’re headed to Shanghai Disneyland, PVG is the airport closest to the theme park, with a travel time of around 25 minutes. PVG is also one of the busiest airports in China, serving as a hub for many international airlines and offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.

On the other hand, if you plan on spending most of your time in downtown Shanghai, SHA may be a more convenient option. Located just 13 kilometers from the city center, SHA is closer to popular attractions such as the Shanghai French Concession and the Bund. It is also a hub for domestic flights and offers convenient connections to other major cities in China.

Terminal Station Disney Resort

As for transportation to and from Shanghai Disneyland, you may consider the following options:

  1. Taxi or Didi ride (a ride-hailing service similar to Uber) – takes about 25 minutes from Pudong Airport and about 40 minutes from the Bund in Shanghai.
  2. Shanghai Maglev Train – take the Maglev train from Pudong Airport to Longyang Station, cross the street from the station to Longyang Road Subway Station, take Line 16 to Luoshan Road Station, then transfer to Line 11 to Shanghai Disneyland. The total journey takes about 60 to 80 minutes.
  3. Shanghai Metro – if traveling from the city center to Shanghai Disneyland, take Line 11. If traveling from the Bund to Shanghai Disneyland, a transfer is required, and the estimated travel time is less than an hour.

Eating & Dining

Shanghai Disneyland offers a variety of Chinese and Asian-influenced dining options, with a selection of Western cuisine and fusion dishes available. For a unique culinary experience, try the crispy Peking duck atop a piping hot pizza.

Shanghai Disneyland offers a wide range of dining options that cater to the diverse tastes of its visitors. From traditional Chinese dishes to Western cuisine, there is something to suit everyone’s preferences. The park’s food outlets showcase a range of Asian-influenced delights, including dim sum, dumplings, and noodles, which are sure to tantalize the taste buds of those who are keen on exploring the local flavors.

One of the highlights of the park’s culinary offerings is the crispy Peking duck pizza, which combines the best of both worlds. This fusion dish is a unique culinary experience that blends the succulent and tender meat of Peking duck with the crispy crust of a pizza. The dish is served piping hot, and the combination of flavors and textures is sure to leave visitors pleasantly surprised.

In addition to the Peking duck pizza, visitors can also choose from a variety of other fusion dishes that incorporate both traditional Chinese ingredients and Western cooking techniques. For those who prefer Western cuisine, there are plenty of options to choose from, including burgers, hot dogs, and fries. Overall, Shanghai Disneyland offers a diverse selection of dining options that cater to the tastes and preferences of all visitors.

The Royal Banquet Hall inside the Enchanted Storybook Castle is a must-visit dining destination for any Disney fan. Not only does it offer a unique opportunity to dine in a castle fit for royalty, but it also provides guests with the chance to meet and interact with beloved Disney characters. Mickey and Minnie Mouse make special appearances throughout the day, adding an extra touch of magic to your meal. Additionally, each private dining room is designed to reflect the style and personality of a different Disney princess, making for an immersive and unforgettable dining experience.

While exploring the wonders of Shanghai Disneyland, it’s essential to remember to stay hydrated. Luckily, the park’s hydration stations offer high-quality water that’s safe to drink without any concerns. So be sure to take a break from the excitement and quench your thirst at one of these stations. With so much to see and do at Shanghai Disneyland, it’s important to take care of yourself and stay hydrated throughout your visit.

Internet & Data

Due to the “internet firewall” in mainland China, many international social media websites are blocked. This may cause some inconvenience for tourists who need to use Facebook, Instagram, or Google. Therefore, we suggest that you purchase a SIM card that allows you to access the internet without needing to bypass the firewall. This will make your journey more convenient and free.

The internet firewall in mainland China has been a controversial topic for many years. The government’s censorship policies have resulted in many international social media websites being blocked, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Google. While this may not seem like a big deal to locals who are accustomed to using domestic alternatives, it can pose a significant inconvenience for tourists who rely on these sites to stay connected with friends and family back home.

To avoid these issues, we strongly recommend purchasing a eSIM card that allows you to access the internet without needing to bypass the firewall. This will enable you to use your favorite social media sites and online tools without any restrictions, making your journey more convenient and stress-free. Plus, it will give you the freedom to stay connected with loved ones and share your travel experiences with them in real-time.

Tips for Enjoying Shanghai Disneyland

  • Buying tickets through KLOOK is more cost-effective and convenient
  • Rope drop! Arrive at the park entrance prior to 30 minutes of official opening time to have a head start.
  • Confirm that your roaming can connect to major websites without the need for a VPN, or purchase a eSIM card for accessing the internet without the need for a VPN.
  • Avoid eating during lunchtime (between 12 pm and 1 pm). Either delay or advance your lunch schedule, as most restaurants in the park are crowded during this time and could take a lot of time to queue up for a meal.
  • Don’t forget to download the Shanghai Disneyland app, which provides many useful park information including park maps, event schedules, attraction wait times, etc.
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Oscar
Oscar

When I first visited Disneyland at 10, I was horrified. However, when I returned at 17 years old, I developed a strong affection for Disney and the pixie dust has not faded since.
For the past 2 years, I have been operating a blog in Chinese that focuses on Disney news and guides. My goal is to make the world of Disney more accessible to those who do not speak English. Starting in 2023, I plan to expand my efforts by offering the latest news and guides for Disney Parks in Asia to an English-speaking audience.

2 Comments

  1. Hi Oscar! Thanks for the updated 2024 info. We are planning a trip in June 2024 and would like to stay at the Shanghai DL Hotel. Do you know how far in advance I should be booking? I know that park tickets for June are not available to purchase yet, but have read that guests staying at Disney hotels are guaranteed entry into the park and I can purchase tickets at hotel concierge when I check in? What is your reccommendation?
    Also, how is the payment system at Shanghai DL; are American credit cards like Mastercard & Visa accepted or do I need to set-up an AliPay account or bring cash? Thank you so much for your help!

    • Hello Dee, at Universal Beijing, ticket purchases are currently available up to 30 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, consider buying your tickets early. You can often find discounted tickets on platforms like Klook or KKday.

      In terms of payment, I recommend setting up Alipay and linking your international bank card to it. China has embraced digital transactions, making Alipay a convenient and widely accepted option for cashless payments throughout the country. This way, you’ll have a seamless and hassle-free experience during your visit. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

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