Disney's Shanghai resort will at last open in June

CBR

By Kevin Melrose

Published Jan 13, 2016

After five years of planning, and more than a decade of construction, Disney will open its first theme park in mainland China this summer.

More than a decade in the making, Disney's fabled $5.5 billion Shanghai theme park will finally become a reality in June.

The entertainment giant announced that the 963-acre Shanghai Disney Resort, the first Disney destination in mainland China, will hold its grand opening on June 16.

“When it opens in June, Shanghai Disney Resort will be a one-of-a-kind, world-class destination that is authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said in a statement. “The resort reflects Disney’s legendary storytelling along with China’s rich culture, and showcases some of the most creative and innovative experiences we’ve ever created."

A joint venture with the Chinese government-owned Shanghai Shendi Group, the resort was announced in 2008, with expanded plans revealed in 2014, following a tourism boom in China. Three times the size of Hong Kong Disneyland, Shanghai Disney will boasts two themed hotels, including one based on Toy Story, and six themed lands: Adventure Isle, Gardens of Imagination, Mickey Avenue, Tomorrowland, Treasure Cove and Fantasyland.

The trademark Enchanted Storybook Castle, pictured above, will be the largest of any Disney theme park.

According to The Wall Street Journal, major construction is said to be nearly complete, and the next five months will be devoted primarily to hiring and training the park's 10,000 employees, testing systems and perfecting entertainment.