Magical Winter Visit to Shanghai Disneyland with Zootopia 2 Updates and Christmas Experience
We embarked on our second Disneyland journey of the year, this time at Shanghai Disneyland. What made this trip extra special was the recent premier of Zootopia 2. With the hype still fresh, stepping intothe Zootopia immersive zone felt like walking straight into the movie. The attention to detail is incredible, from quirky billboards to familiar characters peeking out of windows throughout the day. If not for the overwhelming crowd, we would have captured even more little moments to share here.
Zootopia: Hot Pursuit - A Must-Ride with New Features from Zootopia 2
Our first mission of the day was the wildly popular Zootopia: Hot Pursuit. The queue was insanely long, but with Premier Access, we skipped most of the wait. The only drawback was missing the full walk-through inside the Zootopia Police Department, where guests normally get to see Clawhauser, Judy and Nick’s desks, and the holding cells.
Still, the ride more than made up for it. We met Chief Bogo before boarding the trackless vehicle and then joined Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde on an intense chase across Tundratown, Sahara Square, and the Rainforest District.
The ride has recently been refreshed to align with the storyline of Zootopia 2, making it even more fun for fans of the sequel. The finale now features Gazelle performing "Zoo" with brand-new lighting and music. A New Character from the sequel, Gary De'Snake also makes a fun surprise element. Even the queue experience has been updated with the introduction of "Marsh Market" a new district from Zootopia 2.
With all these enhancements, Zootopia: Hot Pursuit is absolutely worth the queue and deserves a spot at the top of your must-ride list.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year at Disneyland! Once a year, the park transforms into a Christmas wonderland, filled with sparkling lights, festive garlands, towering Christmas trees, and cosy holiday vibes. Both Mickey Avenue and Disneytown were fully decked out, making it perfect for Christmas-themed photos.
Disney Winter Magic Cavalcade
Catch the cavalcade twice a day, once in the daytime and again in the evening. Duffy and Friends lead the festive parade, followed by appearances from Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Nick, Judy, the Incredibles, Belle, Beast and more.
We loved the evening show the most, where the floats glowed with twinkling lights and snowflake projections for an added touch of winter magic.
Disney Winter Magic Cavalcade
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
If you would love to experience the magical light up of Christmas Tree, look out for the Mickey's Magical Tree Lighting and Disneytown Tree Lighting Ceremony. After the ceremony, stay around Mickey Avenue for a dreamy snowfall experience.
Tip: Check the Shanghai Disney Resort Website or app for daily show schedules.
Christmas Merchandise
Collectors, get ready! You will find adorable Disney plushies dressed in winter outfits, festive snacks and plenty of Christmas goodies to bring home.
Foldable Double Stroller - The Best Decision Ever
Right after exiting the metro (Exit 1), you will find a stroller rental spot. We rented a foldable double stroller for just CNY 60/day, with a CNY 300 deposit, payable easily via Alipay.
The walk from the metro to the park entrance is pretty long, so having a stroller was a lifesaver. Returning it was easy too, just head to metro Exit 2 and the staff will process your deposit refund instantly.
Before You Visit Shanghai Disneyland — Important Tips
1. Download the Shanghai Disneyland App
You will need it for ride times, maps, Premier Access, and show schedules.
Shanghai Disneyland’s security works differently. Bags are scanned, and your photo is taken for identity verification as the ticket holder.
3. Items Not Allowed
Avoid bringing:
❌ Camera flash
❌ Drones
❌ Selfie sticks
❌ Tripods
❌ Alcohol
❌ Weapons
❌ Folding chairs
… and other restricted items.
Our Favourite Rides at Shanghai Disneyland
Woody’s Roundup & Slinky Dog Spin
Both located in Pixar Toy Story Land, these two rides became instant favourites for our kids.
Woody’s Roundup swings you around in a Western-themed cart.
Slinky Dog Spin is a springy, circular ride as he chases his tail.
Simple, fun, and full of joy.
Frozen: A Sing-Along Celebration
Frozen fans must not miss this interactive show. Sing along with Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, and Olaf as the story unfolds on stage. The highlight was the magical snowfall at the end.
Mickey’s Storybook Adventure
Another must-watch! This theatrical performance features 23 beloved Disney characters, including Rapunzel, Moana, Mulan, Elsa, Gazelle, Judy, and Nick. Join Mickey as he flips through his fantastical storybook—kids will be mesmerized from start to finish.
Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure
This one caught us by surprise with its stunning visuals and seamless screen-to-real-set effects. Follow Captain Jack Sparrow on an adventure beneath the sea, meeting monsters and hunting treasure.
Soaring Over the Horizon
A breathtaking simulated flight across iconic landmarks around the world. Even my 5-year-old said, “This is so new to me!” It’s thrilling, beautiful, and unforgettable.
Classic Disney Must-Rides
Of course we had to enjoy:
The giant Carousel
The cute Dumbo the Flying Elephant
The whimsical Honey Pot Spin
Woody's Roundup
Frozen: A Sing-Along Celebration
Frozen: A Sing-Along Celebration
Meet Disney Royalty at Enchanted Storybook Castle
Mickey's Storybook Adventure
Zootopia: Hot Pursuit
Dining in Shanghai Disneyland
Small kiosks are scattered around the park, please do not miss their egg tarts! Thin crust, creamy custard, and perfect for on-the-go snacking.
Restaurants inside the park includes the popular Royal Banquet Hall, but if you needed more variety, head to Disneytown. It’s a great spot for dining and shopping, and LEGO passport holders can collect a unique stamp here. Be prepared to go through another round of security screening when leaving Disneytown to enter the park again.
We had lunch at Dondonya, a Japanese Donburi specialty restaurant by Hong Kong’s Maxim’s Group. We chose the 2-pax set with Curry Chicken Pork Chop and Beef Donburi, complete with sides and drinks, a very satisfying meal.
Eggtart and Seasalt Caramel Chocolate (CNY 143)
2 Pax Meal set ordered via Meituan apps (CNY 212.18)
There is even Pop Mart in Disneytown
Lego Shop in Disneytown
End Your Night with the Castle Light Show & Fireworks
No Disneyland trip is complete without the famous night time spectacular show. Before the park close, gather in front of the castle for the breath-taking light show, projections, and fireworks. It’s the perfect ending to a full day of magic, joy, and thrills.
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