Shanghai Disneyland: Overhyped & Definitely NOT Worth Your Cash.
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I have just returned from Shanghai Disneyland, and I must say it was a thoroughly disappointing experience that left me feeling the money spent was not worth it at all. I'll share some of my insights to clear things up:
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Queues. Queues. And Even More Queues!
- Waiting an average hour for every attraction is almost routine. If you have kids (especially two), it truly becomes a nightmare.
- Quick sidebar: in China, long queues at popular tourist attractions are all too common, especially during holidays.
- No, I did not opt for VIP passes, which require extra payment (called "QuickPass"), simply because I couldn't afford it!
- Nor did I arrive with an Early Entrance card (letting me enter the park earlier than others), go when there were fewer people at night time or run around immediately once inside... These only made me more physically and mentally exhausted.
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The Attraction Experiences Were Boring! 🥱
- That motorcycle roller coaster called "TRON Lightcycle Power Run" as well as the dwarves' mine cart, which many online had praised, felt rather tedious due to my high expectations.
- To not waste much time on other attractions, most of them felt like typical ones found in any amusement parks where you still go through grueling queues.
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️ Important Reminder About Crowds and Tourist Misbehavior!- When the crowds grow, every weird behavior emerges. Here comes the part you need to prepare yourself for:
- Watch out for pushing and squeezing! Without noticing, you’ll get pushed by someone behind you or find another person suddenly appearing in front of you.
- How to deal: stay with friends, keep vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Politely reject queue-jumpers.
- Especially during the castle light show at night! The person in front slowly squeezes into your space, then turns out to be followed by his entire family… and they’re apologetic, saying “sorry, my family wants to come in”, but I guess that’s their way of being “extra courteous”… hahaha.
- How to deal: occupy good positions early; if anyone tries to forcibly squeeze into your space, communicate or seek staff help, yet such attempts could be limited.
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What Made Me Feel Satisfied:
- It has to be the parade. That ambience is just nice.
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Advice for Those Seeking Thrilling Attractions:
- If you're after thrilling rides, consider visiting Universal Studios instead…
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Which Attractions Would You Recommend?
- Absolutely none of the attractions appealed to me.
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Too Expensive!
- Truth be told, it would not be suitable for those on a budget. The value for money is too low.
In conclusion, consider visiting Hong Kong Disneyland instead. Another thought: wait until children are mature enough to care for themselves before taking them there.
️ You need to think twice about bringing young children! Spending money, effort, getting exhausted, coupled with poor experience makes it feel like getting a bad deal."大冤种" (Dà yuān zhǒng) is a Chinese internet phrase which means spending money without receiving its value and feeling like being a fool.
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I hope you folks over there can promote it more... or even better, discourage more people from coming. Thanks! That way, it'll be less crowded when I visit.
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Generally, not many international visitors opt for Shanghai Disneyland, so no need to worry. Hong Kong Disneyland is usually the first choice, then the one in Japan. Shanghai Disneyland is primarily popular with domestic tourists.
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I can understand if Disney isn't your thing~ But whether it's the rides, the environment, or the shows, Disney is definitely worth experiencing...
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It's really not that I dislike Disney; I'm not biased against any theme park. I've been to Universal Studios and Happy Valley. But if you're judging solely on the rides, Disney is the worst of them.
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Disney is more for those who have an emotional connection to its characters and stories (IPs) and enjoy soaking up the atmosphere. Perhaps you're just not into that, and Universal Studios might be more your speed. But the first time I went to Disney and Mickey Mouse waved at me, I actually cried. It honestly felt like a dream. I've seen their shows many times, and I believe the performances are what you truly can't miss at Disney.
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Seriously! The day I saw Belle, I just burst into tears. My boyfriend said I was being so dramatic.
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Taking kids means spending money. If you can't afford Disney but still drag your kids along, you're bound to have a poor experience.