Merlin Entertainments‘ new Legoland Shanghai Resort is now scheduled to open in the spring or summer of 2025.
The announcement was posted on the official website of the Shanghai Jinshan district government on Thursday (4 January), according to local media reports.
The first Legoland resort in China is expecting to attract between three and five million annual visitors. The Legoland Shanghai theme park will boast eight themed areas. The resort will include a hotel.
Three Legoland resorts are currently under construction in China. In addition to the Shanghai resort, Merlin is building destinations in Shenzhen and Sichuan.
New Legoland resorts in China
Merlin provided an exclusive preview of Legoland Shanghai at the China International Import Expo in November.
John Jakobsen, chief operating officer of Legoland resorts, said: “With the esteemed Lego brand at the forefront and the invaluable support of the local government and Shanghai-based partner, we are excited about transforming Legoland Shanghai Resort into a cultural tourism landmark.
“China is an important growth market for us and look forward to expanding our presence here with this important next step in our growth strategy.”
Siegfried Boerst, managing director of Legoland resorts in China, added: “At Legoland Shanghai Resort, we hope to maintain the core authentic experience and standards of global Legoland parks while ensuring that we integrate Chinese traditional culture, Shanghai local features and Jiangnan water town elements, to provide a unique international yet localized immersive experience for visitors from all over the world.
“The Shanghai resort will serve as a much-needed family-centric, internationally-recognised destination in the region, and we believe these incredible creations such as the new Miniland will enhance the enjoyment of both children and adults of all ages, making their visit truly unforgettable.”
Last year, it was reported that Merlin is planning to construct a new Legoland in the Fangshan district of Beijing.
Images courtesy of Merlin Entertainments
