First Disney Resort In Mainland China Set To Open This Summer

China is set to become ‘the happiest place on earth’ this summer - when the Shanghai Disney resort opens on June 16.

The resort will become the first Disney destination on mainland China - and the third in Asia following the opening of Tokyo Disneyland in 1983, as well as the Hong Kong resort - which opened its doors in 2005.

It’s believed that while the park will reflect the classic heritage of Disney, it will also combine elements of traditional Chinese culture and cuisine.

While the specific details of this haven’t yet been released, the Hong Kong resort is known for incorporating traditional Chinese cuisine and storytelling into the visitor experience.

Speaking of the $5.5 billion resort, Disney CEO Bob Iger said: ‘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.

‘We’re looking forward to showing it to the world and sharing it with the people of China for generations to come.’

Construction on the new park began in 2011 and will encompass more than 960 acres - with the centrepiece of the park being a Enchanted Storybook Castle that is billed as the most technologically advanced to date.