World’s Largest Legoland
SHANGHAI: As the world’s largest Legoland gears up for its grand opening on July 5, excitement is mounting in China’s biggest city. Situated in the Jinshan district, the Legoland Shanghai Resort marks a significant milestone as the first of its kind in China and the largest anywhere on the globe. The park promises to captivate visitors with its dazzling array of themed attractions and iconic Lego charm.
Among its most striking features is a miniature Lego replica of Shanghai’s iconic waterfront, complete with the towering skyscrapers of the Lujiazui financial district.
Located within the “Miniland” section of the park, the exhibit faces a brick-by-brick rendition of the historic Bund, recreating the contrast between modern high-rises and colonial-era architecture. It took more than 168,000 hours and over 20 million Lego bricks to bring this awe-inspiring vision of Shanghai to life.
The park is divided into eight thematic zones based on popular Lego series, including Ninjago, Lego Friends, and Monkie Kid. Each area features interactive rides and oversized Lego creations that blend play, storytelling, and immersive entertainment.
While some younger guests expected something even more grand in size, the actual experience appears to have exceeded expectations. “I thought it would be huge, but it turned out to be half of the scale I dreamed… but the attractions are beyond my expectation,” said Lyu Xiaole, a seven-year-old visitor granted early access before the official launch.
Despite ongoing challenges in China’s economy—ranging from sluggish consumer spending to youth unemployment—Legoland Shanghai is betting on the resilience of domestic tourism and the demand for family-friendly entertainment.
Operated through a joint venture between Merlin Entertainments and the local Jinshan government, the park is expected to become a top-tier destination for both residents and tourists.
Tickets range from 319 yuan (around $44) during the low season to 599 yuan ($83) on peak days. Visitors like Huang Xuanhua, a 44-year-old Shanghai resident, were impressed by the vibrant energy and meticulous design. “We came very early in the morning. The atmosphere in the park is very joyful. The staff are full of passion. It has been a joyful day,” he said.
For many young visitors, the chance to engage with Lego in a space designed entirely around it adds to the thrill. “I think it’s best to play Lego in Legoland because I have much less Lego at my place,” said seven-year-old Shen Jieqi, clearly thrilled by the immersive Lego environment.
With over 400 Lego stores already established in China, Legoland Shanghai is poised to further deepen the brand’s foothold in the country while offering a new, world-class entertainment option for families.
