Two Lost Boys Blog

Detailed Shanghai Disney Resort plans announced!

Hello everyone,

Last night Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company finally announced detailed information about the upcoming Shanghai Disney Resort. Disney fans have been long awaiting more detailed descriptions of the attractions and lands of the brand new park, but finally after four years of construction and with less than a year to go until opening, the Walt Disney Company delivered - and what a delivery it was! With videos, models, concept art and detailed descriptions, the new park in main land China looks set to be absolutely stunning.

Looking closely at the details released, there are many elements which are very familiar, but of course much that is different. Instead of Main Street, we will see Mickey Avenue, but overall, the purpose, level of detailing and storytelling will be what we come to expect form the entrance-land to a Disney park. Shops, restaurants, character greetings and so forth. There’s going to be other characters around the park, including Mickey and friends, Disney princesses, Jack Sparrow, Jungle Book and Lion King pals, and more. Some attractions will have a familiar feel, but again, with a new twist, things like Buzz Lightyear, Peter Pan, Pirates of the Caribbean, a labyrinth, Dumbo, a carousel, and much more, but all with updated technology and a fresh design for this brand new park. There are lots of shows which all sound quite exciting, a day parade and a nighttime spectacular that seems as though it is taking its cue from Disney Dreams! at Disneyland Paris.

It’s hard to say which area for me sounds the most exciting. Adventure Isle sounds awesome, the Tron coaster looks incredible, and Treasure Cove looks amazingly detailed and immersive.

Most of the text below comes from the official Shanghai Disneyland website, which got updated with all the new information, or the Disney Parks blog. I edited out some of the unnecessary parts, and also inserted some photos, which were on the Parks Blog, and videos which were originally hosted on a Chinese website, but have made their way onto YouTube (the videos I have posted below come from either the Disney Parks YouTube account or Inside the Magic’s YouTube account).







Mickey Avenue

Mickey Avenue is the hometown of imagination, a welcoming, whimsical neighborhood filled with lively shops and restaurants. Stepping into this cheerful land sets the tone for a visit to Shanghai Disneyland, where guests will leave their worlds behind and enter lands of adventure, fantasy and the future.



Located just inside the entrance to Shanghai Disneyland, Mickey Avenue is the first main entry at a Disney park that is home to Mickey Mouse and his pals, including Minnie Mouse, Donald and Daisy Duck, Goofy and Pluto. Guests will have the chance to learn more about Disney characters and their stories before entering the other themed lands. For example guests will discover the Italian family tree of Donald Duck, displayed on a mural at Il Paperino – a gelato shop on Mickey Avenue where Donald is the host.

Avenue M Arcade - The biggest business in town and the largest shop in Shanghai Disneyland, Avenue M Arcade will offer guests a selection of apparel and accessories, gifts, home décor and jewelry. The Arcade’s specially designed façade honors its most famous residents, who are represented as universal virtues on mosaic panels: Mickey Mouse (hospitality), Minnie Mouse with Figaro the cat (compassion), Goofy (optimism), Donald Duck (worldly), DaisyDuck (friendliness), Pluto and Fifi (generosity) and Chip & Dale (friendship). Even the checkout area is themed, as the First Bank of Scrooge McDuck.

Mickey & Pals Market Cafe - Mickey & Pals Market Café, a counter-service restaurant, will offer localized Chinese and international menus plus views of the nearby gardens, Fantasia Carousel and Enchanted Storybook Castle. Guests can choose a table in one of four themed dining rooms: Mickey’s Galley, Tony’s (from Lady and the Tramp), Daisy’s Cafe and the Three Caballeros. The Market Cafe, designed like an open-air market, will feature four exhibition kitchens and a mural celebrating the agricultural heritage of Mickey Avenue, with scenes of Mickey and his pals planting, harvesting and sharing happy times together.

Rémy's Patisserie - A French-inspired bakery based on characters from Ratatouille. Wooden shutters, flower boxes, sidewalk seating and French café-inspired graphics distinguish the exterior of the shop. The tiny scaffolds and ladders that line the wall are reminders that Rémy the rat, who loves to cook, is preparing something special in the kitchen.

Sweethearts Confectionery - Sweethearts Confectionery represents the childhood home of Minnie Mouse. Created in a Queen Anne-style, the house is a candy store that celebrates Disney’s first couple, Mickey and Minnie. Inside the shop, guests will find murals and sweet scenes that tell the story of this couple’s courtship. Recurring design touches include flowers, hearts, bows and elements inspired by Minnie’s ubiquitous red-and-white polka dot dress. Guests will also find freshly handmade treats here, inspired by some of their favorite Disney characters.

Shanghai Disneyland Band - Playing along Mickey Avenue, the zany musicians of the Shanghai Disneyland Band will bring a fun and silly underscore to Mickey’s happy neighborhood. The band will perform with traditional marching band instruments and also deliver an array of surprising sounds with merrymakers such as whistles, kazoos and Chinese instruments.

First tribute to the original Mickey Mouse - The Steamboat “Mickey” fountain premieres at Shanghai Disneyland, in tribute to the 1928 animated film created by Walt Disney to introduce Mickey Mouse to the world. The fountain is a modern spin on the film, using a more current version of Mickey than Walt’s original. The fountain is at the park entrance, leading into Mickey Avenue.

Gardens of Imagination

This land will contain seven individual gardens with themes of family, friendship and fun: Garden of the Twelve Friends, Melody Garden, Romance Garden, Woodland Garden, Garden of the Magic Feather, Fantasia Garden, and Storybook Castle Garden. Each garden will be filled with engaging activities, floral and woodland displays, and playful photo opportunities.

At Gardens of Imagination, families and friends may join Donald Duck and Chip ’n’ Dale to practice balance and harmony in the fun-filled Tai Chi with Character, an interactive character experience in Melody Garden.

At night, the mood in Gardens of Imagination will become dreamy, with music and a cascade of twinkling lights. It will be as if Tinker Bell and her Fairy friends are sprinkling enchanted pixie dust in every garden.



Mickey’s Storybook Express - “Mickey’s Storybook Express,” a spectacular daytime parade, will transport fantasy, romance, music and merriment throughout several lands of Shanghai Disneyland. Traveling along the longest parade route in a Disney park, the parade will be led by a whimsical locomotive. A line of themed “train cars” will follow, each with its own exciting musical soundtrack and colorful cast of performers. Each train car will feature the characters, story and music of a favorite Disney film. With magical surprises, “Mickey’s Storybook Express” will bring the park to life with joyful energy.

Garden of the Twelve Friends - Garden of the Twelve Friends makes its global premiere at Shanghai Disneyland, starring Disney and DisneyžPixar characters in Chinese Zodiac style. This whimsical garden features 12 larger-than-life mosaic murals, each depicting a Disney or DisneyžPixar character representative of a Chinese zodiac animal symbol. A plaque explains the personality traits of each character. Guests will enjoy finding their own character and taking photos in front of the mosaic wall, created by Chinese artisans.

Storytellers Statue - At the entrance to this land, a tall bronze sculpture of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse will welcome all travelers to this happy place, Shanghai Disneyland.

Fantasia Carousel - Fantasia Carousel was created especially for Shanghai Disneyland, with characters and symphonic music from the groundbreaking Disney film, Fantasia, including Mickey dressed as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice. Created by Chinese artists, this grand carousel will feature 62 magnificent, flying horses – Papa, Mama and Baby horses – and two chariots, painted in 72 optimistic colors. It is the first carousel in a Disney theme park to feature multi-colored horses, distinctly different from the traditional medieval-style horses at other Disney parks.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant - A circus has come to the garden, bringing with it one of Disney’s most beloved characters—Dumbo, the baby elephant, known for his huge ears. With the help of a magic feather and his friend Timothy Mouse, Dumbo learns to fly – and guests will have the chance to soar along with him.

Wandering Moon Teahouse - This timeless teahouse honors the restless, creative spirit of China’s wandering poets, as well as the diverse and beautiful landscapes that inspired them. The restaurant recreates authentic Chinese architecture, with symbols from the mountains, ocean, desert, forest and rivers. This will be the first time the story of “Wandering Moon” will be featured in a Disney park. Favorite Chinese dishes will be served at this quick-service location.

Adventure Isle

Adventure Isle will immerse guests in a newly discovered lost world brimming with mystery and hidden treasure. Guests will easily find this land by the sight of the mighty Roaring Mountain, source of an ancient legend. The mountain’s sporadic rumbling is said to be the roar of a mysterious reptilian being who lives on the mountain, just waiting to be discovered.

The history of Adventure Isle combines lore and Disney imagination, beginning with the Arbori people, whose thriving civilization was founded on this island several thousand years ago. As the story goes, the island was discovered by a group of international explorers known as the League of Adventurers. Every corner of Adventure Isle offers guests of all ages the chance to unravel ancient mysteries, reconnect with a land lost in time and create cherished memories.



Roaring Rapids - Roaring Rapids will take guests on a white-knuckle adventure through the heart of Adventure Isle. Riding a raft propelled only by gravity and water, anything can happen as guests plunge down a mountain and into a dark cavern where the undiscovered secrets of an ancient tribal legend and the reptilian creature Q’aráq are revealed. Only those who venture into the mountain will encounter the massive, mysterious Q’aráq.

“Tarzan: Call of the Jungle” at Storyhouse Stage - “Tarzan: Call of the Jungle” is an original production starring Tarzan and his friends. It’s a high-energy, musical retelling of the boy who was raised by apes to become King of the Jungle. Featuring the iconic score from the animated Disney feature film, Tarzan, the stage show is a fusion of theatrics, Chinese acrobatics and a rock concert. It will be performed at Storyhouse Stage, a center of song, art, and dance.

Camp Discovery - Shanghai Disneyland is the first Disney park to offer Camp Discovery, a place where adventurers of all ages and abilities will gather to explore waterfalls, ruins and dig sites in search of ancient tribal relics. They may explore natural wonders and ancient legends, trek past waterfalls and discover tribal ruins in an elevated ropes course created specifically for this land. Guests will be able to choose their own expeditions at Camp Discovery, with some opting for the thrilling natural wonders of Roaring Mountain and others choosing to see the views and become immersed in science, nature, and history.

Soaring Over the Horizon - Anyone who has dreamed of seeing the world or soaring like a bird will enjoy the exhilarating experience at Soaring Over the Horizon, with an aerial tour of the globe never seen before. High above some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, Soaring over the Horizon will take travelers on a voyage of discovery that tours every continent. Starting from an ancient observatory nestled in the cloud forest, guests will soar and explore spectacular scenic wonders, with special segments for guests of Shanghai Disneyland overlooking Shanghai and The Great Wall of China. An ideal attraction for the entire family, it offers an original story, a new walk-through experience and a new aerial tour.

Tribal Table - The Tribal Table, a festive, art-filled restaurant, invites guests to come together for an appetizing meal in a sensory dining experience. Sights, sounds and smells will whet the appetite as guests enjoy the action of live cooking with fiery woks and rotisseries. This ancient gathering house in the Arbori village is the native heart and soul of the land, offering vivid flavors, a friendly atmosphere and beautiful artwork. The murals, artifacts and illustrations will dazzle visitors with scenes from a rich native culture.

At Adventure Isle, guests will hear the enticing tribal rhythms of fantasy and nature streaming from Stone of the Sun & Moon, where the native Arbori musicians play some unexpected instruments. They may also meet characters from The Lion King and The Jungle Book, who gather at the tribal lodge’s Happy Circle to create memories exclusive to this land.

Treasure Cove

The story of Treasure Cove dates back to the 17th century, when piracy was a thriving enterprise in the Caribbean. In Disney lore, this Age of Piracy featured a band of seafaring rogues who chased legendary treasures, fought monsters and battled each other, always with a humorous glint in their eyes.

Guests will be immersed in a pirate’s life as soon as they arrive at the entry, the first of five neighborhoods at Treasure Cove. From there, they will explore Shipwreck Shore, Fort Snobbish, Landlubber Landing and the Village, each with its own charm and personality. The land features a mix of architectural styles, along with two giant ships, pirate-themed restaurants and a fun, water play area.



Pirates of the Caribbean – Battle for the Sunken Treasure - Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure is a spectacular indoor boat ride that will take guests on a rollicking adventure with Captain Jack Sparrow to steal the priceless treasure of Davy Jones. Seamlessly blending Disney storytelling and state-of-the-art technologies, the attraction features three large media domes, projected effects, lifelike animated figures, theatrical sets and sophisticated lighting to dramatically take guests on, over and even under the sea on a nautical adventure. With a new, highly controlled ride system, the boats can spin, travel sideways, and even move backwards to create a highly personalized experience. Guests will encounter fearless pirates, mermaids and even a kraken.

Explorer Canoes - Guests will experience a Caribbean island the way pirates first did – from the water – as they paddle real canoes through the waters of Treasure Cove. Along the way, they will enjoy the sights and sounds of the land. With the only propulsion coming from the guests and their paddles, the ride is quiet and stealthy, except when they must dodge attacks from onshore pirates shooting water cannons. Friendly and knowledgeable captains will lead each canoe and point out scenic highlights along the way.

“Eye of the Storm: Captain Jack’s Stunt Spectacular” at El Teatro Fandango - The elaborate and exciting stage production, “Eye of the Storm: Captain Jack’s Stunt Spectacular,” will make its global premiere at El Teatro Fandango. Starring Captain Jack Sparrow, “Eye of the Storm” brings fantastic stunts and swordfights, spectacular scenery, and stunning visual effects straight to the audience. Along with plenty of swashbuckling, the show presents light-hearted humor, a raging storm and a remarkable finale, as Jack fights off a Royal Admiral in a whirlwind adventure.

The frivolity, mayhem and personality of pirates also comes to life in a hilarious game, A Pirate’s Life for You! Guests will compete to become a pirate captain’s “First Mate.” They may also take photos and share pirate secrets with Captain Jack Sparrow.

Shipwreck Shore - Shipwreck Shore is a water play area located onboard the remains of a shipwrecked French galleon and the surrounding beach. Children and Pirate “wannabes” will explore and play “make believe” in an interactive zone where they can spray, splash, squirt and even climb amid random bursts of water, sound effects and animated elements. Shaded seating areas provide a comfortable viewing area for adults and parents to spy on all the fun.

Barbossa's Bounty - One of the largest restaurants in all of Shanghai Disneyland, Barbossa’s Bounty is a celebration of the free-wheeling pirate life. A lively, aromatic, colorfully ramshackle “grog shop,” it reflects the personality of its owner and namesake, Captain Hector Barbossa. Featuring spicy barbecue from pirate chefs who love to show off their cooking skills in the demonstration kitchen, Barbossa’s Bounty also offers guests the opportunity to enjoy their meal in the themed dining room of their choice. Guests may also choose the extraordinary experience of dining inside the thrilling attraction, Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure.

Tomorrowland

The new Tomorrowland, created especially for Shanghai Disneyland, will be a venue of limitless possibilities. With imaginative design, cutting–edge materials and programmable spaces, it blends the best of mankind, nature and technology. Tomorrowland celebrates the hope, optimism and potential of the future – themes from the original Disneyland – now for a whole new culture and the next generations.

Disney’s innovative use of technology has produced a fresh land where guests will go to infinity and beyond on Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue, a new target-shooting adventure; break the bonds of gravity on Jet Packs; and step into the worlds of the Star Wars galaxy and Marvel universe. With the world premiere of TRON Lightcycle Power Run, guests will board two-wheeled Lightcycles for one of the most thrilling adventures at any Disney park. It’s a coaster-style attraction with high-speeds, an indoor-outdoor track and rich storytelling.

On the lower level, a creative stage serves as a play space for bands, DJs, artists and dancers. A winding ramp to the upper concourse will take guests to Tron Plaza and the Stargazer Grill restaurant, which has spectacular views of Shanghai Disney Resort as well as the stage below.

The land’s aerodynamic design, technological edge and bright promise of tomorrow make it attractive for guests seeking new worlds of adventure. They will learn that Shanghai was chosen by Sam Flynn as a location for the permanent portal between Earth and his computer world of TRON; that the United Galactic Federation selected Tomorrowland as the ideal location for their Stitch Monitoring Station; and that Buzz Lightyear chose Tomorrowland as his Earth-bound Star Command station for the recruitment and mounting of planet-saving missions.



TRON Lightcycle Power Run - Riding atop individual, two-wheeled Lightcycles, guests will be launched across a canopied section of track – the Upload Conduit – before diving high-speed into a mysterious game world of lights, projection and sound effects. Guests waiting to board will have fun imagining the future world as they listen to the evocative soundtrack and watch the Lightcycle trains twist and turn all around them, all under a color-shifting canopy. Even at a distance, guests will marvel at the massive, undulating canopy. Covered in a translucent material, it reveals the pulsing glow of Lightcycle trains as they zip through the attraction. The entire canopy is edged in a dramatic, blue-green ribbon that changes color as it rolls across, over and around the Tron Plaza, like the tail of a dragon.



Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue - Guests will join a mission to help save the day on Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue, an interactive adventure inspired by the DisneyžPixar Toy Story films. The immersive, new storyline combined with a new, interactive targeting system will make this one of the most engaging attractions at a Disney park. The attraction features cosmic visuals, animated targets, LED screens and real-time feedback from the targeting system. As the story goes, the Evil Emperor Zurg is threatening to destroy the home planet of the Aliens. Buzz Lightyear calls out for more Space Rangers and park guests become his newest Star Command recruits, boarding their own spaceships and shooting on-board blasters with individualized colors.

Jet Packs - On Jet Packs, guests will become sky pilots, taking off on transportation of the future. Strapped into individual Jet Packs and with legs dangling, pilots will enjoy the thrill and wonder of flying. At the center of the attraction, the energy sphere will spin faster and faster as the ride progresses. Guests will be able to control how high their Jet Pack goes and, the higher they go, the more the vehicles will pitch forward. From their sky-high vantage point, pilots will have a breathtaking view of Tomorrowland and the rest of Shanghai Disneyland.

Star Wars Launch Bay - In this celebration of the Star Wars Galaxy, guests will meet heroes and villains of the saga, visit iconic intergalactic set-pieces, view props and memorabilia from the most recent Episode, and be immersed in the Skywalker story through a state-of-the-art cinematic experience.

Marvel Universe - Near the entry to Tomorrowland, guests will have an exciting opportunity to encounter some of the popular Marvel heroes and their super-powered tech. Guests will attend a multimedia mission briefing on the thrilling world of Marvel, get up-close with some of their favorite Marvel heroes and learn to draw some of the characters, just like a real comic book artist.

Stitch Encounter - With new humor and content for the Shanghai Disney Resort audience, Stitch – known as “Experiment 626” – engages in unrehearsed conversations, plays games, makes jokes and takes guests for a spin around the galaxy in “Stitch Encounter.” This real-time, interactive, live animated show will take place in one of two intimate theaters in Tomorrowland.

Stargazer Grill - From the upper concourse of Tomorrowland, Stargazer Grill will offer some of the most spectacular views in Shanghai Disneyland. From the outdoor deck, guests will be able to see the Enchanted Storybook Castle and beyond as they enjoy Chinese and Western food, including a variety of burgers. The largest restaurant in the theme park, Stargazer Grill will celebrate the architectural forms of Tomorrowland with a rippled sculptural design and a mix of futuristic comfortable seating positions. Natural light, sleek technology and the gracefully curved ceiling will create an understated sophistication, while glass orbs of light twinkle from the ceiling like stars in the sky.

Fantasyland

In Fantasyland, guests will be able to hug Winnie the Pooh and watch out for the villainous Captain Hook, or they may enjoy music and stories of love and friendship. The Traveling Troubadours is a family of traveling musicians who will blend Western and Eastern instruments to present Disney music with lots of interaction and special moments. Another troupe of players will tell the beloved story of Beauty and the Beast with puppetry, humor and songs for Bai Ling Storytime. And once a day in Fantasy Festival, guests will be invited to approach the day with wonder and joy in a special dance with Disney characters.



Voyage to the Crystal Grotto - Voyage to the Crystal Grotto will be an enchanting excursion that travels the waters of Fantasyland. Fanciful fountains and sculptures line the water’s edge, celebrating classic tales of magic and imagination. At journey’s end, guests will glide beneath Enchanted Storybook Castle, into a secret, underground chamber in which fountains of light will leap and dance in shimmering pools, surrounding guests with magic, music and color.

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train - This family-friendly coaster will take guests into a fabulous mine glittering with jewels, where the Seven Dwarfs sing happily as they work. Guests ride in a train of mine cars that winds through rolling hills, with views of pools and waterfalls as they leave the mine and dash on toward the cottage of the Seven Dwarfs. Each mine car is mounted in a cradle-like pivot that allows it to swing back and forth as the track turns. Guests will enjoy music from the classic Disney film, along with a cast of animated figures and helpful forest animals.

Hunny Pot Spin - In the Hundred Acre Wood, Hunny Pot Spin is a delightful family attraction where guests ride inside whirling honey pots – in honor of Winnie the Pooh’s favorite food. “Hunny” is the way Pooh labels his ceramic jars filled with honey. Beneath a canopy strung with honey-dripping hives, friendly bees hum the Winnie the Pooh song to accompany the twirling guests. How fast each honey pot spins is determined by the guests, who will add speed by turning a wheel in the center of the honey pot. The honey pots, labeled in English and Chinese, are painted in loving detail, and each pot appears to be dripping with honey that oozes down the side.

Alice in Wonderland Maze - Designed especially for Shanghai Disneyland, this maze is the first attraction at a Disney park themed to Tim Burton’s live-action film Alice in Wonderland. In the experience, guests will choose their own path as they wind through the delightfully whimsical world of Wonderland on their way to the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Along the way, they may encounter the Cheshire Cat, the White Rabbit and sculptures of characters, including the tyrannical Red Queen. In a maze of sculpted hedges, stone garden walls, giant flowers, and whimsical sculptures, there’s fun at every turn.

Peter Pan's Flight - Aboard a “flying” ship in Peter Pan’s Flight, guests will sail through the skies over London and off to Never Land. There, Peter Pan will lead guests through a series of remarkable adventures to confront the villainous Captain Hook and his pirate crew. With an exciting, new ride system, guests will soar as never before into this action-packed story of the boy who encourages imaginations to fly. In this classic attraction, updated for Shanghai Disneyland, new Disney magic brings the ships closer to the action and face to face with the characters, as they are engulfed in Pixie Dust. The flying sensation in Peter Pan’s Flight will be enhanced by a newly developed inverted-coaster ride system, debuting at a Disney park for this attraction. With new magic, the ride vehicles swoop closer to the action with varying speeds, enabling guests to become more immersed in the story as they fly in and out of each scene.

“Frozen: A Sing-Along Celebration” - Audiences at Evergreen Playhouse will join their Frozen friends and the villagers of Arendelle for a fun and frosty interactive showcase, packed with a flurry of stories, songs and sing-alongs.

Tangled Tree Tavern - Located in the Fantasyland forest, Tangled Tree Tavern is inspired by the Snuggly Duckling, the pub featured in Disney’s animated film Tangled. Warped by time and the roots of the large tree nearby, Tangled Tree Tavern is full of rich details and an atmosphere befitting the boisterous ruffians and thugs in the film. Guests will enjoy a hearty meal in this lush woodland environment.

Enchanted Storybook Castle

The Enchanted Storybook Castle will shine as the dramatic landmark of Shanghai Disneyland, the tallest structure in the theme park and also the tallest, largest and most interactive Disney castle in the world. In addition to being the icon of Shanghai Disneyland, the Castle will be the home of enchantment in Fantasyland. In the center, the rotunda walls feature mosaic murals that bring to life the Princesses of the Four Seasons.

Sitting atop a rock promontory, Enchanted Storybook Castle evokes a sense of timeless tradition, its graceful turrets reaching high into the sky toward wishes, hopes and childhood dreams. The tallest point of the castle is a golden finial that adds a special, Chinese element to the Disney Magic Kingdom design. The finial is topped with a golden peony – a flower representing China – placed atop a cascade of Disney stars shooting out toward the heavens from the central spire. Another golden finial features magnolia flowers, representing Shanghai, and a Disney crown as a nod to the Disney princesses.

Enchanted Storybook Castle also is a showcase of technology and creativity, from the innovative application of Building Information Modeling (BIM), and Digital immersive Showroom (DISH) technology in its design, to the themed finishing touches. These advanced construction and design technologies are part of the commitment made by The Walt Disney Imagineering Shanghai team to work collaboratively with Chinese partners to utilize new techniques in building the Castle. DISH and BIM are computerized methods used in design stages and in advance of actual construction, enabling the work to be more efficient, with enhanced storytelling.

Storybook Court - In this private courtyard inside the castle, guests will have an opportunity to meet Disney princesses, some royal friends, Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck. An elegant sign at the gateway will provide the name of the princess, or royal friends, who are receiving guests that day. The décor in this royal court includes colorful flowers and trailing vines all year long, plus a carved, jade rendering of the Enchanted Storybook Castle. The large rendering is framed elegantly between formal pillars, making an ideal backdrop for a beautiful portrait.

Enchanted Storybook Castle daytime stage show - A daytime show on the castle stage will present spectacular moments from the stories of each of these Disney princesses — Snow White, Anna and Elsa, Jasmine, Ariel and Merida. This spectacular performance will celebrate the magic of Disney through its classic characters and songs, conveying the heartfelt belief that dreams really do come true.

“Ignite the Dream” Nighttime Spectacular - After sunset, it’s time for “Ignite the Dream, A Nighttime Spectacular of Magic and Light,” with amazing projections, lasers and enchanting fireworks. When “painted” together on Disney’s largest castle in the world, the effects will be mesmerizing. The walls of the castle will transform into stunning new worlds, full of color and motion. During the show, Mickey will find that magical spark that ignites his imagination and sets him free to fly and soar.

“Once Upon A Time Adventure” - A magnificent, winding staircase in the middle of the castle will lead guests on a “Once Upon a Time Adventure” providing a memorable experience created especially for Shanghai Disneyland. For the first time in a Disney park, guests will interact with an animated version of Snow White as they stroll through scenes of her story. Passing through a “Magic Mirror” portal and into this wonderful fairy tale, guests will meet Snow White’s friends, witness the evil deeds of her enemies, and share her dreams through realistic, interactive technology. This “Once Upon a Time Adventure” has special meaning to China since Snow White was introduced as a Disney princess in Shanghai on Feb. 8, 1938, with the premiere of the animated movie, Snow White.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique - At Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, everyone in the family will have fun planning a young girl’s magical transformation, from picking the hairstyle to selecting the ball gown for her official portrait.

Royal Banquet Hall - The regal Royal Banquet Hall, filled with enchanting details such as leaded-glass windows and soaring archways, offers fairytale dining in a storybook setting. Princes and princesses of all ages will enjoy a plated meal served with royal hospitality, as some of their favorite Disney characters visit to sign autographs. Each of the dining rooms will be inspired by Disney princesses, adding a story that allows every meal to end happily ever after. The rooms at Royal Banquet Hall are themed to Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Tiana, Mulan and Snow White. Guest reservations will be required.

Disneytown

Disneytown is a shopping, dining and entertainment district with the allure of a charming village and the excitement of an international crossroads. Conveniently located adjacent to Shanghai Disneyland, Disneytown is a natural extension of the Disney experience for theme park guests. Some of the restaurants will even have unique views into the theme park. It features more than 46,000 square meters of distinctive dining and unique shops. There will be no charge for admission to this area.

At opening, Disneytown will feature nearly 50 tenants including the first World of Disney store in Asia and a diverse mix of retailers – premium, affordable luxury and fast fashion options – plus exciting restaurants for families and convention guests alike.

The tenants will include well-known local and international brands including renowned restaurants Shanghai Min, Crystal Jade, and The Cheesecake Factory operated by Hong Kong Maxim’s Group, as well as various retail options including stores under I.T group, i.t and BAPE STORE®, and a LEGO brand store. Other exciting high-profile brands including Food Republic, Coconut Paradise, The Dining Room, Hatsune, blue frog, Xin Wang Restaurant, BreadTalk, Toast Box, and Chow Tai Fook will also be the first of several dozen tenants to offer world-class shopping and dining options.



Marketplace

The heart of Disneytown is Marketplace, a district filled with specialty merchandise shops. Guests will find places here to relax and enjoy musicians and entertainment. On weekends and holidays, Marketplace will become a place to celebrate with the whole family, as it will offer nightly entertainment with a touch of Disney magic. Marketplace includes three world-class Disney shopping experiences: World of Disney Store, Marketplace specialty shops and Spoonful of Sugar confectionery.

World of Disney Store: Located in a nostalgic railroad roundhouse – symbolic of travel and exploration – the 3,000-square-meter World of Disney Store at Shanghai Disney Resort will offer an extensive array of unique Disney apparel, toys, stationery, collectibles, and gifts, including exclusive items found only at Shanghai Disney Resort. World of Disney will be one of the most technologically advanced Disney retail experiences in the world, including an iconic, eight-foot projected globe suspended from the ceiling, and an interactive Magic Mirror. The globe will feature Disney’s greatest film moments, to inspire shoppers about the magic of storytelling around the world. Video walls and digital screens will be available throughout the store.

In the marketplace specialty shops adjacent to World of Disney, Dstreet will offer urban trends along with Dtech, the rapid printing technology that allows guests to create personalized electronic accessories on demand, with artwork of their choice. Also, located in the marketplace will be TrenD, a stylish boutique for “fashionistas” in search of clothes with a Disney character.

Spoonful of Sugar: An innovative confectionery boutique for special gifts, this nostalgic candy shop reflects the optimistic lyrics of a song from Mary Poppins. Guests will be welcome to visit the confectionery show kitchen to watch delicious treats being made from the finest ingredients. The tasty treats can be packaged, too, making them a special gift.

Lakeshore

Inspired by Shanghai’s nautical past, while reflecting today’s resort lifestyles, the Lakeshore features a refreshing blue, white and golden yellow color scheme. Guests will enjoy the highest quality waterfront dining and shopping experiences, along with stunning lake and sunset views. At the water’s edge will be a picturesque collection of restaurants and shops inspired by current lifestyle trends. In an expansive restaurant on the second floor, guests may enjoy excellent seafood. Lakeshore’s natural beauty will make it an ideal location for romantic moments and anniversaries, and a picturesque setting for weddings.

Spice Alley

This district will have a distinct personality — eclectic and exotic. Its narrow cobblestone streets and small courtyards will remind guests of a bygone era, and the international array of foods will reflect the story of many different cultures and people coming together. A variety of Asian cuisine is part of the mix. The open kitchens and al fresco dining areas will provide a sense of warmth and welcome, encouraging conversation and camaraderie.

Broadway Boulevard

This upscale street evokes the aura of international shopping boulevards. Here, guests will find an exciting array of elegant shops offering designer goods ­­­– many of them co-branded with distinctive Disney designs. The area will also feature trendsetting galleries, with unique imported collectables presented in a sophisticated setting.

Broadway Plaza

Broadway Plaza will be a glamorous and exciting theatre district along Broadway Boulevard, with the Walt Disney Grand Theatre as its focal point. After enjoying a theatre show, guests may dine at nearby world-class restaurants, enjoying an elegant meal with spectacular views of the resort. The restaurants are also ideal choices for romantic candlelit dinners or anniversary celebrations.

Walt Disney Grand Theatre

The Walt Disney Grand Theatre, a new, world-class, Broadway-style theatre will be located at Broadway Plaza in Disneytown. Beginning in 2016, the theatre will host the global premiere of the Mandarin version of Disney’s landmark musical event, THE LION KING. Currently in its 18th year, THE LION KING remains the highest-grossing Broadway show ever. The theatre, with its separately ticketed shows, will become an icon for Disneytown, introducing a world-class theatre experience to Shanghai and offering guests the opportunity to enrich their resort experience. Guests will walk to the theatre along a floral-inspired paving pattern that comes to life at night with sparkling lights.

Unique Mickey Mouse sculptures in Liuli glass - Seven unique Mickey Mouse figures will be sculpted for the first time in Liuli glass, created especially for Disneytown, and created by Chinese artists, they will range in height from 1m to 1.2m. The colors will represent the five Chinese elements (gold, wood, water, fire, and earth), as well as the dragon and phoenix, which represent harmony in Chinese culture.

Shanghai Disney Resort Hotels

Two hotels with imaginative Disney themes will invite guests to extend their stay at Shanghai Disney Resort, offering friends and family a chance to create a multi-day experience with more time to discover all the fun and enchantment at Shanghai Disneyland and Disneytown, including the Walt Disney Grand Theatre.

Keeping the Disney magic alive from day into night, the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Toy Story Hotel are conveniently located next to Shanghai Disneyland. Richly themed in Disney storytelling, with warm and welcoming service, the 420-room Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and the 800-room Toy Story Hotel will offer a range of entertainment, dining, shopping and other recreation options, providing Disney’s world class experiences with Chinese culture in mind.

Shanghai Disneyland Hotel

Located across the lake from the theme park, the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel is the resort’s signature hotel. It features a full range of amenities, including themed dining experiences, a gift shop, a fitness center and an indoor swimming pool, as well as banquet and meeting facilities and a wedding pavilion.

The hotel’s architecture, characterized by vibrant shapes with dynamic and undulating lines, was inspired by the Art Nouveau movement. The Art Nouveau theme appears in the hotel’s architecture, graphics, wall and window coverings and even furniture – all accented with an overlay of Disney wonder.

Disney storytelling begins as guests arrive in the porte cochere, where bronze statues of Mickey and Minnie in formal attire welcome guests to the hotel. Throughout the seven-hectare hotel property, guests will find statues of characters from Disney animated classics such as The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella and The Lion King.

One of the special Chinese features at Shanghai Disneyland Hotel will be a fountain with a large, unique centerpiece — a glass peony blossom with classic Disney fairies. The peony is the flower of China and this piece, produced in Shanghai, will be one of the largest sculpted, solid glass flowers in all of China.

Special touches include amenities that cater to Asian customs, such as slippers and high-quality tea bags, and carpets with floral designs and patterns easily recognized by Chinese guests. Special features include King Triton Pool, featuring characters and motifs from The Little Mermaid; Hakuna Matata Oasis, a jungle-themed water play area inspired by The Lion King, and the Cinderella Ballroom, designed specifically for weddings.

Delicious, Disney-themed items will be on the menu at four dining locations. Guests may dine with Disney Characters at the buffet-style Lumiere’s Kitchen, or enjoy a fine dining experience with breathtaking views of Shanghai Disney Resort at the Aurora restaurant. The Bacchus Lounge and Ballet Café, both inspired by the Disney animated classic Fantasia, will offer bar service and quick-service meals, respectively.

Toy Story Hotel

The theme of the Toy Story Hotel is inspired by the Disney•Pixar series of Toy Story animated films. In addition, the design of the hotel’s figure eight “infinity” layout draws strongly upon Chinese symbolism and myth. In China, the number eight is considered to be very lucky, and clouds represent the coming of good fortune.

Toy Story Hotel has two sections, the Sheriff Woody wing and the Buzz Lightyear wing, which, when viewed from above, suggest an infinity symbol. This is a reference to Buzz Lightyear’s dream and brave motto: “To infinity and beyond!”

The open-air Woody Courtyard features a larger-than-life Woody aboard his trusty horse Bullseye, and an oversized Buzz Lightyear greets guests in the Buzz Lightyear Courtyard. The hotel also features a counter-service restaurant, a water-play area featuring the Toy rocket and the Aliens, and a gift shop inspired by Lotso, the hug-loving bear character from Toy Story 3.

For dining, guests will enjoy the Sunnyside Café, named for the pre-school in Toy Story 3. The Sunnyside Café offers tasty meals and a special Chinese touch in the décor. Floating above the guests will be Chinese-style kites, featuring Toy Story characters. The kites are inspired by traditional kite craftsmanship from Weifang in Shandong Province, the famous kite city in China.

Guests will be entertained throughout their stay, even in the elevators. In the Woody Wing, they will hear Woody and Jessie providing greetings on each floor. Buzz Lightyear and the Aliens do the same in the Buzz Lightyear Wing.

Hotel Services

In line with the world-class standards of Disney hotels, the Shanghai Disney Resort hotels show great consideration for every guest with premier hospitality, cordial services and meticulous attention to detail. Benefitting from the proximity to Shanghai Disneyland and Wishing Star Lake, both hotels offer special logistical services to assist guests.

*Merchandise package pickup: Merchandise purchased in the theme park can be delivered right to a guest’s hotel, at no extra charge.
*Luggage service: Guests may drop off luggage at the main entrance of the theme park or at the hotels, to be held for their arrival.
*Disney Resort Shuttle: Complimentary shuttle service will be available between Toy Story Hotel and Shanghai Disneyland, and between Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Shanghai Disneyland.
*Wishing Star Ferry: Complimentary water taxi service will beavailable between Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Shanghai Disneyland.

After enjoying some time at Shanghai Disney Resort, parents may bring their children to the Family Activity Centers, located at each hotel and filled with educationally inspired activities, crafts, games and story readings, all within a unique Disney and Disney•Pixar experience.

Shanghai Disney Resort is set to open next spring, but of course that is subject to change by Disney.

Let me know your thoughts by commenting below in Disqus .

Dan.

The Walt Disney Company is the copyright owner of all trademarked Shanghai Disney Resort items mentioned above. Photo and video content is owned by The Walt Disney Company, regardless of its source.