Top 11 Must-See Amusement Parks in Asia This Summer

Shanghai Disneyland is located inside the Disney Resort in the Chuansha New Town of the Pudong New Area. It spans 116 hectares (287 acres). Shanghai Disneyland has set several records among Disney parks worldwide, including the tallest themed castle: the Enchanted Storybook Castle, the first ever-designed garden, and the first pirate-themed garden. It also blends film characters with Chinese elements, such as the Chinese zodiac mural in the Fantasyland. The park features seven themed attractions.

This is the first Disney park designed like a garden, with bridges and pathways connecting its seven themed areas. There is a unique viewing platform for visitors to watch stage performances at the castle and dazzling night shows. The Chinese zodiac mural in the Twelve Friends garden transforms movie characters into the twelve zodiac animals. As you enter Shanghai Disneyland, you will walk down Mickey Avenue and see the Mickey Steamboat fountain right inside the entrance. Mickey Mouse and his friends greet visitors from all over the world along this bustling street. The area also serves as a vibrant market.

Adventure Isle immerses visitors in a newly established ancient tribe, full of mystery and hidden treasures. Test your skills as a real explorer in the wilderness exploration game, search for traces of the lost tribe, or discover natural landscapes and ancient tales. Treasure Cove is the first pirate-themed park at Shanghai Disneyland, featuring two massive pirate ships, a pirate-themed restaurant, and a water play area. Tomorrowland is a meticulously designed area that showcases the limitless possibilities of the future, with high-tech elements creating an experience similar to the setting of a sci-fi movie.

Everland, often referred to simply as 'Everland,' opened in 1976 and has become the largest and most visited amusement park in South Korea. Located in Yongin, just forty minutes from downtown Seoul, the park features over forty thrilling rides and attractions, drawing nearly seven million visitors annually. Everland is home to Safari World, where brave animals like bears, tigers, white tigers, and lions attract crowds. Visitors can also explore Herbivore Safari, where they can enjoy the company of elephants, giraffes, ostriches, and other lovable creatures.

Everland is also renowned for its beautiful gardens and charming flower displays, which began with the Rose Festival in 1985. Families and friends can visit other popular spots like Caribbean Bay, a water park, Snow Sled for snow tubing, and the Everland Speedway for go-kart racing. Global Fair is the entrance area where tourists can shop, take photos, and purchase souvenirs as they enter and exit the park. It features dozens of shops, restaurants, and essential services, including lockers and stroller rentals.

Tourists visiting Everland enjoy seeing a variety of wild animals such as tigers, penguins, polar bears, and giraffes in their natural enclosures. Visitors can also interact with friendly animals like sheep and goats in the petting zoo and even ride horses. For those keen on observing bears, lions, and tigers, a bus tour takes them to the areas where these animals live. The European Adventure area boasts numerous restaurants with architecture inspired by Europe.

Lotte World in South Korea, located in Seoul and operated by the Lotte Group, offers both indoor and outdoor experiences with Lotte World Adventure and Magic Island. The Adventure park features family-friendly rides and attractions, while Magic Island is home to thrilling roller coasters and high-intensity rides. Lotte World Adventure Busan opened in March 2022, a new 25-acre park designed with Legacy Entertainment.

Lotte World is the largest indoor theme park in the world, featuring both outdoor attractions, a shopping mall, a hotel, a museum, and an ice-skating rink. Since its opening in July 1989, Lotte World has welcomed millions of visitors and become one of the premier amusement parks in Asia and worldwide. The park is divided into two main theme parks: Lotte World Adventure, the indoor park, and Lotte World Magic Island, the outdoor park. Lotte World Adventure offers a range of rides, including the Jurassic-themed tubing ride, a balloon ride with panoramic views of the park, a high-octane roller coaster, a giant Ferris wheel, a monorail, and a boat ride through the jungle.

The Magic Island theme park features a free-fall ride, a haunted house, bumper cars, a space-themed roller coaster, a swing ride, magic shows, a children’s area, car rides for kids, and boat rides on Seokchon Lake. The ice-skating rink, open year-round, is located on the B3 level of Lotte World and is the perfect place for both beginners and experienced skaters.

Opened in 2001, Universal Studios Japan is located in Osaka and boasts all of Universal’s beloved attractions, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Park, Jurassic Park, and Amity Village. In addition, Super Nintendo World opened at Universal Studios Japan in March 2020, marking the first of four Nintendo-themed expansions at locations in Japan, Singapore, Orlando, and Hollywood. Since its opening on March 31, 2001, the park has welcomed over 11 million visitors.

Universal Studios Japan is one of the most renowned amusement parks globally. Along with countless roller coasters, thrill rides, and 4D shows, the biggest draw at Universal Studios Japan is undoubtedly the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The park has confirmed plans to expand Super Nintendo World to include the world’s first Donkey Kong-themed area, set to open in 2024. This new area will feature a roller coaster, interactive experiences, themed retail, and food & beverage outlets.

Visitors can experience what it’s like to step into a Nintendo arcade game from 1981. The Jurassic Park area features a thrilling roller coaster with flying dinosaurs, a three-minute ride that perfectly complements the rest of the Jurassic-themed attractions at Universal Studios Japan.

Legoland Japan opened in 2017 in Nagoya, offering an outdoor amusement park with a range of attractions for young children and a few exciting experiences for adults. Visitors can expect large Lego models, themed rides, a building station, and dining areas. The park is divided into themed zones that reflect various worlds within the Lego universe. At the heart of the park is 'Miniland Japan,' showcasing iconic landmarks across Japan, all constructed from millions of Lego bricks. Here, you can find miniatures of Kyoto, Tokyo, and Mount Fuji within walking distance of each other. The rotating observation tower near Miniland offers a panoramic view of the park and its surroundings.

Factory and Bricktopia are two thematic areas located at the entrance of Legoland Japan. The Factory offers a factory tour where visitors can learn about how Lego bricks are made, including the machinery involved. Bricktopia features various interactive games and hands-on areas, where guests can attend workshops to learn how to create models and robots, as well as testing rooms to build their own creations.

Legoland Japan also offers a Duplo play area for toddlers. The park’s official Lego store, The Big Shop, sells Lego sets and merchandise from across the Lego universe. The remaining four themed areas—Adventure, Lego City, Knight's Kingdom, and Pirate Shores—offer a variety of attractions and scheduled performances. Right outside the park entrance, you'll find the Sea Life Nagoya Aquarium, Legoland Hotel, and several shops and restaurants.

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park officially opened on April 29, 1993, under the leadership of Prime Minister YAB Dato' Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad. Strategically located in Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, this expansive 80-acre park is a top destination for thrill-seekers from around the world, renowned for its exciting attractions. Sunway Lagoon is divided into three main themed zones, each offering its own unique set of attractions. Whether you're seeking entertainment, adventure, or thrills, it's all here. As part of Malaysia’s first fully integrated resort, Sunway Lagoon Resort, the park offers guests the luxury of a 5-star hotel, a large shopping mall, and cutting-edge amenities.

Sunway Lagoon features an African-themed water park and the world’s largest artificial surfing beach, powered by the largest wave-making machines, capable of creating perfect 8-foot waves! The park also includes Wild Wild West and World of Adventure zones. In the Wild Wild West, you can experience the Buffalo Bill Coaster, Chief Crazy Horse Carousel, or take a walk along the Butch Cassidy Trail, Niagara Falls Flume Ride, and Colorado Splash. In the World of Adventure, you can walk across the world’s longest suspension bridge, 428 meters long, or enjoy rides like the Wagon Wheel, rollercoaster at Lost City of Gold, Apache Pots, Tomahawk, Pirate's Revenge, Tiger Adventure, and The Cave.

At Sunway Lagoon, you'll find various amenities to enhance your experience. Information counters are available across all three parks to help you navigate. Swimwear, personal care items, and other essentials can be found at various retail shops. Special lockers are provided so you can enjoy the park worry-free, knowing your belongings are safe. With facilities spread across the African Coast, Adventure World, and Wild West zones, Sunway Lagoon ensures a convenient and enjoyable visit for all guests.

Hong Kong Disneyland is located on Lantau Island and opened its doors in September 2005. Spanning 310 acres, it includes the Hong Kong Disneyland theme park and three top-tier hotels. The park features seven distinct themed lands: Fantasyland, Adventureland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point, Tomorrowland, Toy Story Land, and Main Street, USA. It stands as one of Southeast Asia’s top seaside theme parks and is a must-visit for tourists in Hong Kong.

In addition to spending the day taking photos with beloved Disney characters and iconic attractions, visitors can explore numerous cultural experiences unique to Hong Kong, making Hong Kong Disneyland truly special. Guests can visit the Sleeping Beauty Castle and immerse themselves in its design inspired by Disney princesses and queens. Don't miss Mystic Manor, a Hong Kong-exclusive attraction featuring a fascinating museum and animated exhibits. Families can also enjoy live theatrical performances like The Lion King Festival and Mickey and the Magical Book, starring Disney characters and talented dancers.

There are plenty of dining options at Disneyland’s three hotels for those staying longer. To savor local flavors, head to Dragon Wind at Disney Explorers Lodge or Crystal Lotus at the park’s premier hotel, offering fine Chinese delicacies, including dim sum shaped like Disney characters. The Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel is the park’s flagship hotel, designed with luxurious Victorian-style interiors, offering an upscale experience for both adults and children alike.

Ocean Park is a leading educational theme park in Hong Kong. Since opening in January 1977, it has attracted nearly 100 million visitors. Spanning over 915,000 square meters, the park features animal exhibits, thrilling rides, and live performances. Operated by the Ocean Park Corporation, it remains the longest-running family-friendly amusement park in Hong Kong, making it a cherished spot where many locals have created special childhood memories.

In 2006, Ocean Park was named one of "The 10 Most Popular Amusement Parks in the World" by Forbes, and the following year, it was ranked among the "50 Most Visited Tourist Destinations in the World" by Forbes Traveler. Upon entering the park, you’ll arrive at The Waterfront, home to the world-class Aqua City, the interactive Amazing Asian Animals exhibit, and the bustling Beard Bay. Kids can enjoy fun festival-style rides at Whiskers Harbour, including the Bouncer House, Frog Hopper, Merry-Go-Round, and the Toto the Loco train ride.

Take the iconic cable car up to The Summit for breathtaking views of the lush mountains and sparkling sea. For those seeking more educational experiences, Ocean Park offers a variety of animal exhibits. Observe otters at the Panda Village, koalas at Adventure in Australia, native pandas at Amazing Asian Animals, sharks at Shark Mystique, and adorable king penguins at Polar Adventure! The park also provides unique animal encounters, where visitors can get up close to animals, learn about wildlife conservation, and witness how animal trainers care for them.

Tokyo Disneyland, located at Tokyo Disney Resort in Chiba, just outside of Tokyo, is Japan's most popular amusement park. Together with Tokyo DisneySea, it forms the Tokyo Disney Resort, both of which are seen as significant cultural landmarks for young people in Japan. Tokyo Disneyland, which opened in 1983, was the first Disney theme park built outside of the United States. It is the second most visited theme park in the world, just behind the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, attracting over a million visitors each month, many of whom come from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, and South Korea. Tokyo DisneySea, which opened in 2001, is the fourth most visited theme park globally, with around a million visitors per month.

Tokyo Disneyland spans 115 acres and is divided into seven themed lands: Adventureland, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Toon Town, Westernland, and World Bazaar, along with various hotels, shops, and restaurants. The standout attraction at Tokyo Disneyland is the Cinderella Castle, accompanied by thrilling rides such as the Space Mountain and Star Tours, as well as vibrant costume parades in the evening. World Bazaar is fully enclosed in a giant glass dome, offering a version of Main Street found at Disney parks in the U.S. Inside the resort, guests can travel around on the Disney Resort Line monorail or the 1930s-style Resort Cruiser bus (Free of charge).

Unlike Disneyland, which divides its areas into territories like Tomorrowland or Fantasyland, DisneySea organizes its sections around ports. Inspired by mythical sea stories and legends, Tokyo DisneySea is divided into seven uniquely themed ports: Mediterranean Harbor, American Waterfront, Mysterious Island, Mermaid Lagoon, Port Discovery, Lost River Delta, and Arabian Coast. Opening in 2001, Tokyo DisneySea became the most expensive theme park ever built. Spanning 176 acres, it attracts over 12 million visitors annually, many from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and South Korea.

Iconic features of Tokyo DisneySea include the DisneySea AquaSphere, a fountain with a large globe, and Prometheus Mountain, a massive volcano located at the park's center. Must-try experiences at Tokyo DisneySea include riding the elevated DisneySea monorail from American Waterfront to Port Discovery, cruising on a steamship, and watching Disney characters sing and dance in Big Band Beat. The Caravan Carrousel, The Whirlpool, and Scuttle Scooter are fun attractions for children. Tokyo DisneySea is arguably one of the most beautiful Disney parks, with the mysterious and stunning Mysterious Island at its core, featuring a volcano as the park's symbol.

Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is an amusement park located in Hengqin, Zhuhai, China. Designed by PGAV Destination, it opened in March 2014. This marine-themed attraction boasts rides, performances, and animal exhibits spread across eight themed areas. It is part of the Chimelong International Ocean Resort, owned by the Chimelong Group, which also operates Chimelong Paradise, Chimelong Safari Park, Chimelong Water Park, and the International Circus in Guangzhou. The park was recognized with the Outstanding Achievement Award for Theme Parks at the 21st annual Thea Awards, cementing its status as one of the most recognizable entertainment parks in the world.

Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is the 20th most visited theme park in the world, drawing 5.5 million visitors annually. The main feature of the park is its massive aquarium, with the whale shark tank being the highlight. This colossal tank holds nearly six million gallons of water, making it the largest fish tank in the world. The aquarium is illuminated with vibrant colored lights, creating a visually stunning underwater experience. Colorful artificial corals and lighting give the feeling of being in a miniature ocean, showcasing marine life including sharks, sea lions, octopuses, and stingrays.