Shanghai welcomed the grand opening of China’s first-ever Legoland resort on Saturday, July 5, 2025. The ambitious project, developed by Merlin Entertainments in collaboration with the LEGO Group and the Shanghai government, is a sprawling 300,000-square-meter attraction featuring more than 85 million Lego bricks. Despite sweltering heat that prompted an orange alert from Shanghai’s meteorological observatory, the event drew thousands of visitors, underscoring the enduring appeal of Lego’s imaginative universe.
The Landmark Opening Day
The grand opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng, Merlin Entertainments CEO Fiona Eastwood, and LEGO Group CEO Niels B. Christiansen. A towering 26-meter (85-foot) Lego figure named Dada stood at the entrance, symbolically welcoming the resort’s first visitors. Performances by Legoland characters added to the festive atmosphere, while guests received wearable Lego mitts as souvenirs of the occasion. According to Reuters, tickets for the opening day sold out rapidly as families and Lego enthusiasts from across China flocked to the park.
The resort offers more than 75 rides, performances, and attractions, with its centerpiece being Miniland. This exhibit features Lego replicas of iconic landmarks, including Beijing’s Temple of Heaven and Shanghai’s Bund waterfront. Visitors can also enjoy a boat tour through a recreated Chinese water town, constructed entirely of Lego bricks. “It feels like a real fairyland of Lego,” remarked Ji Yujia, a fan who attended the opening, as quoted by AP News.
A Boost to Shanghai’s Economy
Beyond its entertainment value, the Legoland resort is poised to make a significant economic impact. Niels B. Christiansen, CEO of the LEGO Group, stated during the opening that the resort would be “an integral part of Lego’s presence in China” and would contribute to Shanghai’s economic vitality. The influx of visitors has already spurred local hotel bookings, indicating a positive ripple effect on the city’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
The resort primarily targets families with children aged two to twelve, a demographic that continues to show strong interest in experience-focused spending, even amidst broader economic challenges. According to Las Vegas Sun, many visitors had purchased annual passes, suggesting that the resort could maintain steady attendance in the months and years to come.
Overcoming Challenges
The opening of Legoland Shanghai faced its share of challenges, particularly the intense heat on the day of the launch. However, the enthusiasm of the staff and the allure of the attractions helped visitors endure the weather. “The heat is okay when you see how excited everyone is,” commented Cathy Yin, a 40-year-old Shanghai resident who attended the event with her family. The park’s success on its first day demonstrates the resilience of Chinese consumers in seeking out leisure experiences, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
It’s worth noting that while initial reports referred to Legoland Shanghai as the world’s largest Legoland, this claim was later clarified to indicate that it is one of the largest but not the single largest park globally. Nevertheless, the resort’s scale and scope are impressive, solidifying its position as a key attraction in China.
A Bright Future for Legoland in China
Legoland Shanghai marks a significant milestone for both the LEGO Group and the broader theme park industry in China. With its unique blend of creativity, education, and entertainment, the park is set to become a cherished destination for families and Lego fans alike. Its successful launch underscores the growing demand for high-quality, family-oriented attractions in China and the enduring appeal of Lego’s imaginative world.
As Legoland Shanghai begins its journey, it promises not only to delight visitors but also to serve as a cornerstone of Lego’s expansion in Asia, fostering creativity and joy for generations to come.