Shanghai Disney Resort welcomes its 100 millionth visitor and announces a new hotel and retail area, marking a major expansion for Disney in China.
Shanghai Disney Resort celebrated two milestones this week. The park welcomed its 100 millionth visitor since opening in 2016 and announced plans to build a fourth themed hotel and a new shopping district.
The resort reached the 100-million mark after more than 9 years of operation. A report released by the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) on October 23, 2024, ranked Shanghai Disneyland fifth among the world’s top 25 theme parks and the most visited in China, with 14.7 million guests last year — a record high.
The Zootopia land, which opened in late 2023, continues to drive strong visitor growth. Its signature ride, Hot Pursuit, has become one of the park’s most popular attractions and a key reason for the attendance surge.
The newly announced expansion centres on the resort’s fourth themed hotel, to be located near the park’s main entrance. It is being built close enough that guests can walk directly to the park. The hotel will feature Disney storytelling elements throughout and offer an immersive, high-end experience. A large retail area inspired by the World of Disney store will also be added nearby, giving visitors more shopping options without entering the park.
Meanwhile, construction is moving forward on the resort’s third hotel on the southern shore of Wishing Star Lake. The nine-story building adopts an Art Nouveau design that blends local Shanghai architecture with Disney’s signature style. It will offer rooms with park views and both indoor and outdoor pools.
Other projects are also underway, including a Spider-Man themed land, an expansion of the popular Soaring Over the Horizon attraction, and new residential facilities for cast members.
The continuous upgrades show Shanghai Disney Resort’s growing role as one of Disney’s most dynamic destinations in the world, combining global creativity with a distinct Shanghai touch.
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