A new generation of theme parks has emerged in Shanghai since the 1990s that cater to the modern, sophisticated tastes of its clientele. Many of them are based on the design and planning concepts of the best overseas theme parks and sport the latest attraction and modern management techniques, making Shanghai one of the most sought after cities of thrill-seekers. Every convenience is available at hand, with hotels such as The Millennium Group’s Greater China hotels with advantageous locations that offer easy access to historical and cultural sites.
Shanghai’s homegrown theme parks have come a long way and are savvy enough to accurately gauge the demands of their local clientele and present entertainment options that are easy on the purse of families. Hot competition among the theme parks in and around the city keeps the operators on their toes and innovating.
Among the popular attraction is the Happy Valley encompassing seven theme parks that cater to all family members from the tinniest tot upwards. Set up in 2009 it boast several jaw dropping rides and live entertainment among a host of other attractions. Jingiang Action Park, another prominent city theme park, boasts six rides tow of which are said to be really scary. A ghost train, a huge Ferris wheel and water rides add to the excitement. Dino Beach Water Park is the city’s top summer attraction. It sports a humungous wave pool, water slides, a lazy river and an entertainment area for children. The city also boasts many other theme parks that offer a distinct style and are designed around nature themes. The Sanlin World Expo Theme Park in Pudong has well laid out gardens and a park like atmosphere, the Malu Grape Theme Park allows visitors to join in the harvesting of grapes and offers a chance to learn about viticulture and identify various grape varieties, the Mengqing Environmental Theme Park along the Suzhou Creek on Yichang Road offers a green environment and lessons in conservation. At the other end of the spectrum is a Wedding Theme Park in Pudong that with romantic locations for wedding photo shoots including Cinderella’s pumpkin carriage. There is also a food theme park and the World Chocolate Wonderland that offers the coolest chocolate art. Disney is to open a theme park in Shanghai in the near future hotting up the theme park wars even more.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.