Shanghai Today
Park waves wand into a wizardly wonder - February 24, 2025
公园挥舞着魔杖，变成了魔法奇迹
China's first Harry Potter Studio Tour will transpire from the transformation of the four-decade-old Jinjiang Action Park.
In a significant development that bridges nostalgia with entertainment, China's first Harry Potter Studio Tour will transform the four-decade-old Shanghai Jinjiang Action Park.
The announcement was jointly made by Jin Jiang International Holdings Co Ltd and Warner Bros Discovery Global Experiences on Feb 12, revealing their intention to develop the Warner Bros Studio Tour Shanghai — The Making of Harry Potter, which is awaiting final regulatory approval.
Scheduled to open in 2027, the attraction will cover approximately 53,000 square meters in Shanghai's Minhang district, and will have both indoor and outdoor areas, with visits expected to take half a day to explore the offerings. A landscaped park area will be set in front for visitors and the public, according to the district information office.
From initial discussions in November 2023 to a formalized agreement in January, the project has been fast-tracked, with construction primed to commence in late 2025 following the park's closure on Jan 26 for renovations.
Distinct from Beijing Universal Studios, which features Harry Potter as one component of a larger theme park with rides, the Shanghai facility will focus exclusively on the behind-the-scenes filmmaking that brought British author J.K. Rowling's seven-volume fantasy novel series to life.
A bird's eye view of Shanghai Jinjiang Action Park in 2002.
Visitors will be able to explore famous sets, view authentic costumes and props, and interact in film scenes in ways that blend traditional storytelling with modern technology.
The attraction will include Chinese cultural elements and feature digital interactive experience facilities, creating a unique experience that differs from its counterparts in London and Tokyo, says the district information office.
The Studio Tour will operate on a reservation-only system, with 90 percent of the experience taking place indoors. Ticket prices will be comparable to similar attractions in the United Kingdom and Japan currently ranging from $42 to $59.
"This isn't just another theme park. It is an immersive journey into the craft of movie-making. Visitors will experience the Harry Potter franchise enhanced by cutting-edge technology including AR and VR elements," says Lin Huanjie, director of the Institute for Theme Park Studies in China, underscoring its characteristics.
For many Shanghai residents, the transformation of Jinjiang Action Park evokes mixed emotions, as many have grown up visiting the park since its opening in 1984. The pioneer of professional amusement facilities in Shanghai peaked in 1995 with over 2.3 million visitors that year, according to records.
The iconic Ferris wheel, the first gigantic Ferris wheel in China, stands 108 meters tall and has 63 cabins.
Its iconic Ferris wheel, the first gigantic Ferris wheel in China, stands 108 meters tall and boasts 63 cabins, became a dream destination for many residents since its opening in May 2002.
On Jan 25, the park's last operational day before closing for renovations, thousands of residents flocked to the park to relive cherished memories, with long queues forming for the Ferris wheel, which remained the park's most popular attraction.
"I remember my first visit to Jinjiang Action Park as a primary school student about 40 years ago," recalls Shanghai resident Wang Ming. "I was too excited to sleep the night before. There wasn't even a subway then. The park represented pure joy for an entire generation of children."
Huang Li has lived near the park for over 20 years and shares her memories: "The Ferris wheel in Jinjiang Action Park has been like a beacon guiding me home. Whenever I'm walking from anywhere in the city, seeing its distant glow always means I am almost home."
A file photo of a young passenger stepping down from a cabin.
While most of the original attractions will be removed, the park's hotel and Ferris wheel will be preserved and renovated, with plans for a new 118-meter wheel designed independently with a Harry Potter theme pending approval.
The development extends beyond entertainment, incorporating infrastructure improvements that include underground parking facilities, landscaped public spaces, and themed dining and accommodation options.
"This project will help boost regional development," Lin says. "Beyond immediate tourism benefits, significant positive impact is anticipated in the transportation, hospitality, retail, and dining sectors."
Lin anticipates a great number of visitors given Harry Potter's strong domestic and international appeal, which will enhance the city's inbound tourism market. "This will likely attract additional international cultural attractions to Shanghai, reinforcing the city's position as a global entertainment destination."
This development will add to Shanghai's impressive portfolio of attractions, including the Shanghai Disney Resort, Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park, Shanghai Happy Valley, the upcoming Legoland Shanghai Resort, and the Peppa Pig theme park, notes Lin.
"The location and unique offerings, as opposed to traditional rides, are expected to complement rather than compete with existing entertainment venues," he says.
Source: China Daily
Application Status
| 04-16 | 21315227 | Processing |
| 03-12 | 21315226 | Processing |
| 09-26 | 21315225 | Processing |
Inquiry Status
| 02-29 | 02131558 | Received |
| 03-06 | 02131557 | Received |
| 11-14 | 02131556 | Received |
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