SHANGHAI (Dec. 9, 2019) – As an exciting reflection of growth, Shanghai Disney Resort today announced that the site preparation work has been completed and main construction has officially commenced on Shanghai Disneyland’s newest and eighth themed land, Zootopia, marking a key milestone in bringing the beloved Zootopia story to life for guests at the resort. As the first-ever Zootopia-themed land at any Disney park worldwide, once open, guests will be immersed in the never-before-seen mammal metropolis alongside their favorite characters from the movie.
“This is an immensely exciting time for Shanghai Disney Resort and Zootopia fans alike,” said Joe Schott, President and General Manager, Shanghai Disney Resort. “Since we announced the development of our new Zootopia-themed land earlier this year we have been overwhelmed by the excitement and anticipation expressed by fans from across China and around the world. We are pleased to announce the start of main construction for the new land today, a significant milestone in its development. This expansion demonstrates Shanghai Disney Resort’s commitment to bringing new and unique experiences to our guests, offering more reasons for them to come visit us again and again.”
Situated adjacent to Shanghai Disneyland’s Fantasyland, upon completion, Zootopia will bring to life the wild fun and adventure of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ hit characters and stories through an attraction, entertainment, merchandise and food and beverage offerings. When entering the land of Zootopia, guests will marvel at the unique, diverse and highly vibrant city inhabited by their favorite Zootopia characters.
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia is one of the most powerful stories that appeals to audiences of all ages worldwide, and has already proven to be a sensation in China since its release in 2016. Following the success of the movie in China, Shanghai Disney Resort has established a popular Zootopia presence — from the addition of Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps to the themed merchandise collections throughout the resort. Millions of guests have already created unforgettable memories with the story.
Guests’ love for unique Zootopia experiences will reach new heights when the world of Zootopia opens at Shanghai Disneyland. Upon completion, the new land will be home to an increasing number of beloved characters from the Academy Award®-winning movie, including Nick and Judy who are already very popular among the resort’s guests. In addition to the starring characters, other fan favorites such as Flash the Sloth, Gazelle, Officer Clawhauser, Chief Bogo and Yax the Yak are just a few of the characters who will be featured in the new land.
One week ago, polar bear joined Flash and made a surprise appearance on the themed construction wall for this new land, which further prompted excitement online and on social media. Theme park guests are enjoying the opportunity to take photographs with the posters of Flash, polar bear and the three animal-sized doors on the wall. Stay tuned for even more characters to join the wall in the coming months to add even more fun for guests.
As the second major expansion of the resort, the development of Zootopia is another big step in the evolution of Shanghai Disney Resort. The new land will continue to enhance the guest experience following the opening of the immensely popular first major expansion — Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land. Representing one of the most recent examples of creativity and innovation at Shanghai Disney Resort, Zootopia will honor Disney’s rich legacy of storytelling, while continuing to exceed the expectations of guests.
