Family Fun This Summer – Quick Guide to Asia’s Top 5 Theme Parks

Summer vacation is just around the corner. Have parents started planning that rare family trip? This summer, why not take the whole family abroad to visit a theme park? It will not only bring endless joy to the little ones, but also allow the grown-ups to rediscover their long-lost childlike wonder through beloved cartoon characters and thrilling rides. Below, we’ll take you to see Hong Kong Disneyland, which has unveiled its newest themed area this year; Tokyo Disneyland, celebrating its 30th anniversary; LEGOLAND Malaysia, the only LEGO-themed park in all of Asia; Resorts World Sentosa, home to the world’s largest oceanarium; and Everland, the most popular theme park in Korea. Grab your notebook and start planning now!

Opened in May 2009, Hong Kong Disneyland has become one of Asia’s most popular emerging tourist destinations. The park features four major themed areas: Main Street, U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventureland, and Tomorrowland. In 2008, it added two new attractions: “It’s a Small World” and the “Animation Academy.” In addition to the Grizzly Gulch area introduced last year, Hong Kong Disneyland has this year launched the world-exclusive “Mystic Point” themed area. It includes seven must-visit fantasy and sensory hotspots: the Mystic Manor, the Enchanted Garden, the Explorer’s Club Restaurant, the Mystic Mercantile, the Mystic Point Station, the Mystic Magneto-Electric Car, and the Musical Carousel. There are also two hotels within Hong Kong Disneyland, so those who want to enjoy the full Disney experience don’t have to worry about transportation or time—they can play to their heart’s content.

Tokyo Disney Resort, which opened on April 15, 1983, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The grand celebration will run from April 15 through March 20, 2014—340 days in total. During this period, Tokyo Disneyland’s most popular parade will lead visitors through music and dance to celebrate the themes of joy, friendship, and dreams. Paired with spectacular fireworks set to the resort’s 30th-anniversary theme song, the night sky and dazzling displays will help guests relive their magical day. Tokyo Disneyland’s Cinderella Castle looks especially romantic, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere whether you’re there with family, friends, or a loved one.

 

DisneySea, which has been open for 12 years, is also launching a brand-new show exclusive to the park for the 30th-anniversary celebration: “Happiness Greeting On The Sea,” where Disney characters sail the seas and greet every visitor around the waterfront.

The only LEGO-themed park in all of Asia will offer you a brand-new play experience. LEGOLAND Malaysia is the world’s sixth LEGO park, following those in Denmark, the UK, Germany, and California, USA. It features seven themed zones and over 40 rides and attractions. The park’s highlight is the “LEGO Kingdoms” area, where 30 million LEGO bricks have been used to recreate streets and landscapes from Malaysia and around the world at a 1:20 scale. It’s truly breathtaking, and kids and LEGO fans alike are welcome to build their own dreamlands here.