If you’re planning a trip to Hong Kong, Hong Kong Disneyland is a must to add to your list. The amusement park is located on Hong Kong’s Lantau Island, and is one of Disney’s six locations around the world. With exciting rides, mouth-watering food and entertaining shows, there’s something for everyone, young and old, at the majestic Hong Kong Disneyland.
Here’s an extensive guide to how to plan your stay at the Happiest Place on Earth.
Tickets
Native offers discounts on tickets to Hong Kong Disneyland starting from HKD$605 for a one-day pass and HKD$766 for a two-day pass. You have the option to choose from a 2-in-1 meal and a 3-in-1 meal ticket for an additional fee which allows you to feast at the parks many restaurants.
Getting There
You can get to Hong Kong Disneyland by train, car or taxi. If you intend to reach by train, take the Mass Transit Railway to Sunny Bay Station, transfer there for Disneyland Resort Station. If you’ve rented a car for your trip, drive via Route 3 and 8, before taking Exit 5 to Penny Bay Highway. You’ll be asked to pay a fee of HKD$45 at the tollgate.
With the new Disneyland Resort Line, you can travel from the airport straight to Hong Kong Disneyland. You could spend your entire trip in Hong Kong Disneyland without ever stepping foot into Hong Kong Island, perfect for Disney fanatics out there.
Must Visit:
Animation Academy
For those looking to brush up on their drawing skills, head to Hong Kong Disneyland’s Animation Academy. Disney animators are famous for working on classics like The Little Mermaid and Cinderella, as well as creating well-loved characters. Learn from the masters in this adorable classroom, and try your hand at recreating figures like Mickey, Donald, and Goofy.
The schedule for classes is put up everyday, so swing by and check it out before you plan your day. Classes are held in both English and Mandarin.
Mystic Manor
Essentially Hong Kong Disneyland’s version of the classic Haunted Mansion, Mystic Manor takes you on a wonderfully crafted journey through a house filled with a collection of weird and wonderful artefacts that have come to life, much like Night at the Museum. Though there are no ghosts or spirits, you will be in for a thrilling ride full of surprises.
Iron Man Experience
For Marvel fans, this is the ride for you. Grab a pair of 3D glasses and hop into the simulation ride, which sees you flying through the skies of Hong Kong with the invincible Iron Man as he defends Stark Expo from enemies. This ride is full of amazing graphics and great action, a thrilling ride that should not be skipped.
This ride is one of the few in the park that allows the use of the Fast Pass, so be sure to make the most of it by visiting during peak periods! Also, keep an eye out for meet-and-greet opportunities with the hero himself!
Ant Man & The Wasp: Nano Battle
The park’s second Marvel themed attraction (which was even visited by the real Ant Man, Paul Rudd), this ride will have you joining the titular tiny characters in battling the bad guys. Just grab the blasters attached to your moving pod and shoot away!
Jedi Training
You don’t have to travel to a galaxy far far away to get your Jedi training. A show for all ages, don on your Jedi robes and face off Darth Vader himself, as well as the infamous Kylo Ren. Prove your skills as a new recruit by defeating the Seventh Sister Inquisitor.
Check the times guides at Hong Kong Disneyland for showtimes, as the show may face cancellation due to inclement weather.
Crystal Lotus
This award winning restaurant allows you to tour the four major culinary regions of China- Sichuan, Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong, all in a single meal. Not only will you get to sink your teeth into the great elements of chinese cuisine, you’ll get to taste exclusive Disney dim-sum that’s almost too cute to eat, from the Baymax Bun to Mickey’s Seafood Glutinous Pancake.
The restaurant is open from 12:00pm to 2.30pm, and 6.00pm to 10:30pm. You can reserve a table by calling +852 3150-6000 or using your Hong Kong Disneyland App.
Paint the Night
What’s a visit to Disneyland without watching a parade? Aside from the iconic Disney’s Flights of Fantasy Parade, Hong Kong Disneyland also has a lively and exciting nighttime parade. If you’re still in the park after nightfall, make sure to stay and watch Paint the Night, where the usual floats are completely lit up and the costumes glow in the dark, creating a truly unique experience.
A popular show, be sure to grab a good spot at least 30 minutes before if you want to have a great, hopefully unobstructed view of this beautiful parade.
Tips & Tricks:
Take Advantage of the Off Peak Season
It would be wise to avoid the busy months of July and August if you can. August is also at the height of Hong Kong’s monsoon season, so it will make for a very wet visit. If you can, schedule your visit on weekdays and arrive early. Avoid the peak hours from 1pm to 3pm and you’ll be able to give the crowds a miss
Hong Kong Disneyland Mobile App
Hong Kong Disneyland actually offers a convenient app that is free to download. The app allows you to access information like attraction wait times, as well as details about the park and a map that will make exploring easy. You can also use the map to make reservations at restaurants and track down your favourite Disney characters for a quick photo.
Collect Stickers from Cast Members
Disney is all about collectibles, and at Hong Kong Disneyland, all the cast members have special stickers that you can request from them. Be sure to ask politely, and they’ll be more than happy to give you an adorable character sticker for your efforts! Have a great time collecting these as you explore the park.
Get Your Hands on the Fast Pass
With the waiting times for rides that can range anywhere from thirty minutes to two hours, it would be a good idea to grab a fast pass. Fast Pass ticketing machines can be found by all major attractions; all you need to do is print a ticket, and you’re good to go! You can take the rest of the time to grab a bite, or a drink, and come back at the return time printed on your Fastpass. This service is complimentary, so don’t lose out!