Disneyland is a theme park loved by both adults and children. There are currently six Disneylands around the world: those in California and Orlando in the United States, followed by Paris Disneyland — the only one in Europe — and finally, Tokyo Disneyland, Hong Kong Disneyland, and the newest, Shanghai Disneyland, all in Asia. If you want to know what unique attractions, must-buy souvenirs, and on-site hotels each of these six Disneylands has to offer, just keep scrolling down this article for all the details.
(Photo of Shanghai Disneyland | private collection)
Overview of Disneylands Around the World
(Compiled by Tripresso Travel Cafe)
Disneyland Ticket Prices
Disneyland tickets are generally divided into one-day and two-day passes, meaning you can choose to enter the park on any one day within the ticket period or on any two days within seven days. In addition, Paris and Tokyo also offer three-day and four-day ticket packages, while the United States even has options for five days or more, as well as annual passes valid for a year.
(Some Disneyland ticket packages include unlimited FastPasses | private collection)
Finally, during special holidays such as Halloween or Christmas, there are also special night tickets available. Paris even offers ticket packages that include unlimited FastPasses. Of course, saving time might mean spending a bit more from your wallet.
FastPass
Abbreviated as FP, it is a ticket system set up for popular attractions in the park. Visitors can draw a ticket first and then return at the designated time on the ticket to enter the attraction via the FastPass lane.
(Compiled by Tripresso Travel Cafe)
Disneyland Exclusive Attractions
(Photo of Shanghai’s exclusive attraction Tron Lightcycle Power Run | private collection)
(Compiled by Tripresso Travel Cafe)
Shanghai Disneyland
(Tron Lightcycle Power Run is a Shanghai-exclusive attraction located in the Tomorrowland area | private collection)
#Pirates of the Caribbean – Battle for the Sunken Treasure | Treasure Cove
Ride a wooden boat through various scenes from the “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies. The scenes are not only incredibly detailed but also feature amazing sound and light effects, making you feel like you’ve truly dived into the ocean and stepped aboard a ghost ship. Many people find this more exciting than the highly recommended Roaring Rapids ride. (I personally think this one is more thrilling...)
#Tron Lightcycle Power Run | Tomorrowland
This attraction is themed around Disney’s 2010 sci-fi movie “Tron: Legacy.” Riders board motorcycles similar to those ridden by the movie’s protagonist and speed forward at light speed, truly immersing you in the movie’s battle scenes. You not only feel your own speed but also sense other bikes whizzing past you — perfect for thrill-seekers and speed lovers.
#Soaring Over the Horizon | Adventure Isle
It’s like a global version of 4D “Beyond Beauty – Taiwan from Above.” By sitting on moving seats, you’ll see various world wonders beneath your feet, from the Great Wall of China and the Egyptian pyramids to India’s Taj Mahal. Everyone who’s tried it can’t stop raving about the experience — it’s absolutely breathtaking, and I highly recommend giving it a go.
#Frozen – Live at the Hyperion | Fantasyland
Even though the songs are in Chinese, the charm isn’t diminished. Plus, seeing Disney characters dressed as foreigners singing in Chinese is quite a unique experience.
Hong Kong Disneyland
(Disney Paint the Night is a must-see show at Hong Kong Disneyland / Image captured from Hong Kong Disneyland’s official Instagram)Official Instagram)
#Iron Man Experience | Tomorrowland
Iron Man is of course the superhero we all know. With special glasses on, you’ll be able to fly over Hong Kong from Iron Man’s first-person perspective and fight alongside him against the evil Hydra organization. This attraction is open until 8pm, so there's no need to rush there right at the start~
#Hyperspace Mountain | Tomorrowland
From the moment you start queuing, you’ll feel like you’ve entered the Star Wars universe, with surroundings that are super immersive. Once you’re seated, you can enjoy the Star Wars theme music and the thrill of completing missions—May the Force be with you.
#Mickey’s PhilharMagic | Fantasyland
It’s like watching a medley of Disney fairy tales, with endless "happily ever afters" and beloved characters. The show kicks off with Mickey Mouse, and through a musical format, it flips through every page of Disney stories. You name it, they've got it, taking you on a magical journey through their enchanted world in nearly 30 minutes.
Tokyo Disneyland
(Tokyo DisneySea has many exclusive attractions and merchandise / Photo courtesy of Tokyo Disney)Official website)
#Star Tours: The Adventures Continue | Tomorrowland
If you’re not into high-intensity rides but still enjoy immersive experiences, this one might be perfect for you. Put on 3D glasses, hop on a spaceship, and embark on an exciting space adventure. While waiting in line, you can also check out various Star Wars movie scenes and related characters~
#Toy Story Mania | DisneySea
This 3D shooting ride lets you experience the fun of firing toys from the perspective of Andy’s playthings. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Tokyo DisneySea—two words: must-do.
#DisneySea Electric Railway: Nemo & Friends SeaRider | DisneySea
This is a new attraction opened in 2017, perfect for winding down after an action-packed day. Sit in a moving 4D theater and go on an undersea adventure with Nemo and Dory. Great for family travelers.
Paris Disneyland
(Paris Disneyland’s castle is the pink Sleeping Beauty Castle / Photo courtesy of Paris Disney)Official website)
#Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril | Adventureland
One of the favorite rides for thrill-seekers, this roller coaster spins 360 degrees. If you’re not up for the ride, you can also buy a Duffy Bear dressed as Indiana Jones—it’s exclusive to Paris Disneyland~
#Ratatouille: The Adventure | Walt Disney Studios Park
This attraction is located in the Ratatouille-themed land, which was ambitiously created by Walt Disney Studios Park in 2014. The area features an exact replica of the Ratatouille restaurant and the Ratatouille: The Adventure ride. After putting on 3D glasses, you’ll set off on an adventure. Before the ride begins, you can even see the vivid Chef Gusteau greeting everyone—it’s really fun!
#Sleeping Beauty Castle Light Show | Fantasyland
The most iconic feature of Paris Disneyland is the dreamy pink Sleeping Beauty Castle. The most important and spectacular part is the light and fireworks show projected onto the castle just before closing. To celebrate the park’s 25th anniversary, the performance content has been redesigned, so make sure to end your visit with this magical fireworks show!
Orlando Disneyland
(The Na’vi River Journey is a must-do ride at Orlando Disneyland)
#Pandora – The World of Avatar | Animal Kingdom
The Avatar land in Animal Kingdom is usually the first destination for most visitors. Here, you can not only see incredibly realistic themed environments but also enjoy many exclusive rides. One of the highlights is the Avatar Flight of Passage, where guests enter the Avatar Program Lab, put on 3D glasses, and take a breathtaking aerial tour over the majestic world of Pandora!
Another must-do attraction — the Na’vi River Journey — takes you on a boat ride through a series of magical, movie-like scenes. At the end, there are also plenty of exclusive merchandise items to explore.
#Goofy’s Barnstormer Stunt Show | Magic Kingdom
Goofy’s Barnstormer is a roller coaster located in the Magic Kingdom. While it may not be as intense as Splash Mountain, it’s still quite thrilling and perfect for families traveling with kids.
#The Little Mermaid Live Show | Hollywood Studios
Voyage of The Little Mermaid is a must-see live musical performance at the Hollywood Studios park. It features a mix of puppets and live actors, and if you’ve ever wanted to witness Ariel getting her legs, this show is a must-watch.
Disneyland California
(Disneyland California has two major parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park / Image credited to Disneyland California)Official Website)
#Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage | Tomorrowland
Never been in a submarine? Then head to Disneyland California. The Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage is a real (albeit shallow) underwater experience. Once seated in the sub, you’ll begin your descent. At first, you'll see typical ocean scenes, but later on, you'll spot Nemo and Dory in their iconic moments, along with baby turtles and friendly sharks.
#Radiator Springs Racers | Disney California Adventure
Fans of Cars will instantly recognize this town. Hop into a race car and tour Radiator Springs. Along the way, you’ll meet characters like Mater and Doc Hudson, who’ll chat with you, and you might even catch the classic waterfall scene where Lightning McQueen falls for Sally.
#World of Color Nighttime Water Show | Disney California Adventure
Unlike typical Disney park closing shows, the nighttime spectacular at Disneyland California combines dazzling water effects, vibrant colors, and an absolutely amazing soundtrack. It takes place right in front of the iconic Mickey’s Fun Wheel and features scenes from The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Pocahontas, and Pirates of the Caribbean. The show lasts nearly half an hour and is 100% worth waiting for.
Must-Buy List at Disneyland
Each Disneyland offers limited-edition merchandise based on local cultural elements. For example, the Indiana Jones Duffy Bear is exclusive to Disneyland in the U.S., while the Chinese Zodiac Duffy Bears are exclusive to Shanghai Disneyland. Travel enthusiasts have compiled a list of must-buy souvenirs and food from various Disney parks for your reference—so you won’t end up buying “Wait, I have this too!”
1. What Are the Must-Buys at Hong Kong Disneyland?
On this topic, 1. Disney-themed stationery: including notebooks, pens, sticky notes, and more—all featuring Disney characters. These are one of the signature items at Hong Kong Disneyland.
2. Disney Toys: Disney stores offer a wide range of toys, such as plush toys, toy cars, puzzles, and more. Kids will love these adorable playthings.
3. Disney Apparel: The shops also carry various Disney-themed clothing, including T-shirts, hoodies, hats, and more, all decorated with Disney characters—great as unique souvenirs.
4. Disney Tableware: There are also Disney-themed tableware items like cups, bowls, and plates, all printed with character designs—ideal collectibles.
5. Disney Snacks: The parks sell themed snacks like chocolates, cookies, and candies, all adorned with Disney characters and delicious to boot.
6. Disney Accessories: You’ll find keychains, phone cases, watches, and other accessories featuring Disney characters—special keepsakes for any fan.
2. What Souvenirs Should You Buy at Hong Kong Disneyland?
There's a lot to buy in Disney: the most popular are clothes available in all sorts of styles and sizes—very fun and unique. Then there are all kinds of plush keychains (about 45 HKD each), phone charms (around 30 HKD), mugs, and food items. Girls often go for bags, delicate Disney necklaces, and giant plush toys. Definitely lots of shared favorites. You can also pick up some Disney baby products to give to colleagues with kids.
As for jewelry, you can check out stores like Chow Tai Fook, Chow Sang Sang, or TSL to get gold accessories—you could buy something for your mom. (There are both expensive and affordable options.) There are jewelry shops inside Disney.
All over Hong Kong, there are lots of Ulu Store outlets, and each one has different items—the best part is that each store has different promotional discounts. You can also grab mustard beans, candies, and other treats from Ulu Store to give to colleagues. They come in big bags with lots of little packs that you can split up—many varieties and very tasty. Way more affordable than Shanghai!
At the airport or duty-free shops, you can buy perfumes, sometimes in multi-packs, which you can share with colleagues—they’re sure to be a hit.
III. What are the main cartoon-themed gifts available in Hong Kong Disneyland?
Baileru believes that cartoon-themed gifts in Hong Kong Disneyland can generally be divided into three categories: Hardlines, Softlines, and Affinity. Hardlines refer to items such as toys, plush dolls, and stationery; Softlines include wearable goods like watches and clothing; while Affinity is more like a department dedicated to themed merchandise exclusive to the park, local Hong Kong features, or seasonal events. For example, during Halloween, the Halloween series merchandise combines elements of both Hardlines and Softlines.
Disney Resort Accommodation
(Room at Toy Story Hotel in Shanghai Disneyland | Private photo by Xiu)
Most Disney resorts operate as integrated vacation destinations and therefore have their own hotels. Staying at a hotel within the resort not only offers park discounts but also allows guests to enjoy special activities, such as having breakfast with Disney characters or watching movies together. Tokyo Disneyland even collaborates with various hotel operators to provide shuttle buses directly to the park and guaranteed entry for guests. (For details, please visit the Tokyo Disneylandofficial website)
(Compiled by Tripresso Travel Cafe)
The above is a comprehensive comparison of Disney parks meticulously compiled by your fellow travel enthusiast Xiu, covering tickets, attractions, must-buy souvenirs, and accommodation all in one go. Xiu wishes everyone can find the Disney park that best matches their vision and let happy memories outweigh the long wait times~
(Exchange rates referenced as of October 23, 2018)
Text by Jess Han | Tripresso Travel Cafe Editorial Team