By Moss Cohen
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) has been delighting guests from around the world for two decades—and to celebrate this milestone, a spectacular yearlong celebration, “The Most Magical Party of All,” is in full swing across the resort. Since opening in 2005, the resort has become a beloved destination for locals and international guests, blending Disney magic with Hong Kong’s vibrant culture.
Woven deep into the fabric of the city, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort plays a vital role in the city’s tourism industry. With its lush landscapes and immersive experiences, the resort attracts millions of guests annually from mainland China, Southeast Asia, and beyond. Whether it’s a first visit or a family tradition, the park continues to be a place where lifelong memories are made.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and discover how the resort came to hold such a special place in the hearts of the local community and Disney fans around the world.
The Origins of Hong Kong Disneyland
The concept of Hong Kong Disneyland first leapt into the public’s imagination in 1999. As the first Disney theme park coming to China and second to Asia, the first being Tokyo Disney Resort, this was a major moment in Disney’s global expansion. The vibrant and multicultural city of Hong Kong seemed a promising location for The Walt Disney Company’s next venture abroad. Within five hours of flight time, Hong Kong is accessible to half of the world’s population.
When master planning began for the resort, Wing Chao, the Disney Legend and former Vice Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts for Asia Pacific Development, consulted with a feng shui master because of how “important [feng shui is] in terms of site orientation to bring positive qi, or good luck and prosperity,” he said.
The resort opened in 2005 to a warm welcome from the people of Hong Kong with four classic lands—Main Street, U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventureland and Tomorrowland—and two hotels, Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Hollywood Hotel.
Expanding the Magic: New Lands and Attractions
Over the years, Hong Kong Disneyland has introduced new lands, accommodations, and several exclusive attractions:
- Toy Story Land opened (2011)
- Grizzly Gulch opened (2012) and brought with it an exciting coaster, Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars, featuring Audio-Animatronic® bears and a surprise backwards section
- Mystic Point opened (2013) with an award-winning attraction called Mystic Manor
- Following the story of the mischievous monkey, Albert, his playful nature has endeared him to guests with an affinity for Albert extending beyond Mystic Manor as year-to-date sales of Albert-related merchandise have recorded a threefold increase year-over-year
- Iron Man Experience (2017) marked the first Super Hero theme park ride for Disney parks, before being joined by Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle! (2019)
- These two heroic attractions are interconnected with both stories set in present-day Hong Kong featuring iconic landmarks recognizable to any local
- Disney Explorers Lodge (2017) with rooms and decor themed to the unique tropical climates of Asia, Oceania, South America, and Africa
A New Decade Emerges: Castle of Magical Dreams and World of Frozen
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort saw no sign of slowing down as it entered a new decade.
In celebration of the resort’s 15th anniversary in 2020, the resort unveiled the spectacular transformation of Sleeping Beauty Castle into the majestic Castle of Magical Dreams. Inspired by 13 stories of Disney Princesses and Queens, this architectural marvel blends elements from Chinese, European, and Southeast Asian cultures, symbolizing courage and hope and serves as a beacon of the park.
In tribute to 100 years of Disney, in 2023, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort unveiled a first-of-its-kind bronze statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse.
Shortly after the debut of the statue, the resort’s largest and most ambitious expansion opened its gates to guests—World of Frozen.
As Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences, noted on Opening Day, “Our theme parks always grow and evolve with new stories and experiences, and it is exciting to make all these new worlds come to life for our guests.”
As the world’s first land themed to Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen, one of the most successful franchises in Disney history, guests are now able to step foot into a real-life kingdom of Arendelle at World of Frozen—in which every inch of the land was thoughtfully considered and researched to create a fully immersive experience where they can encounter their favorite characters from the film.
Giving Back: Disney Magic in the Community
And while the land unlocked countless treasured moments for guests, it also opened the door to granting unique Frozen-themed wishes. Since 2008, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort has granted over 340 wishes to children facing illness. The first wish in World of Frozen was granted just one month after its opening, showcasing the resort’s commitment, from its cast members, Disney VoluntEARs, and Imagineers in Hong Kong, to making dreams come true.
What’s Next for Hong Kong Disneyland?
On September 12, the resort officially turned 20—and everyone is invited to join “The Most Magical Party of All.” Guests can plan their visit with the resort’s ultimate guide to all the fun. The vibrant celebration, which unfolds as a day-to-night adventure, includes:
- New entertainment alongside Mickey Mouse and friends, as well as Duffy and Friends, all dressed in festive new outfits
- Exclusive anniversary-themed merchandise and food
- Festive new character outfits
Looking ahead, guests can expect:
- A major new Super Hero attraction
- A Pixar-themed entertainment offering
Plan Your Visit to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
Whether you’re local or planning a trip from abroad, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort offers unforgettable experiences for all ages. With easy access from Hong Kong International Airport and proximity to iconic landmarks like Ngong Ping 360 and Tung Chung, it’s the perfect destination for a magical getaway and we can’t wait to see what new and one-of-a-kind experiences the next 20 years and beyond will bring.