We lived the Disney dream at Hong Kong Disneyland - here are our tips for you to have the best time!
This is how much I love Disney: I flew to Hong Kong for an enchanting weekend celebrating the launch of Disneyland’s year-long 20th anniversary festivities. The vibe was perfect, with a sprinkle of magic in the air as the crowd enjoyed shimmering fireworks, lively parades, exclusive merch, limited-edition food offerings, and more. If you grew up on Disney classics like me, this is one incredibly sentimental trip you’ll want to make. Get in, we’re going to Hong Kong Disneyland!
The Hong Kong Disneyland experience: What to expect
Hong Kong may have the world’s smallest Disneyland, but it’s still the happiest place on Earth. When I stepped in, welcomed by the floral Mickey display, the wave of excitement and nostalgia that hit me was so real. The cherry on top? Bumping into familiar characters like Rapunzel, Jasmine, Woody, and Goofy while roaming around.
Since it’s located near the airport, you can conveniently do a weekend trip and stay at one of the three Disney hotels. My experience was seamless, thanks to the free hotel shuttles running to and from the park at short intervals. Spending two days at the park and two nights at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel was more than enough for me, as most rides and attractions can be experienced in one day. Plan ahead, and you may not even have to pay for priority access.
Just like other Disneyland parks, everything here is clean and easily walkable. Most of the staff are proficient in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English, so you don’t have to worry about translation issues.
Tip: if you have annual leave to spare, visit on a weekday to escape the bigger weekend crowds. That’s when you can walk into most rides without much of a wait. However, even during peak periods on Sunday, the longest I waited in line was 30 minutes for Frozen Ever After. The only other attraction with a 40-minute queue was Wandering Oaken’s rollercoaster. Honestly, it’s nothing compared to the infamous masses at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, with their 120-minute wait times.
Oh, and don’t let the park’s underrated reputation fool you, because the hype is very much alive. I spotted families dressed in fun Disney-inspired ‘fits, adults unabashedly vibing to parade songs, and plenty of merch-hungry fans emptying shop shelves faster than Lightning McQueen.
The only thing I’d do differently next time is spray liberal amounts of insect repellent (especially during summer), because those itchy bites left a dent in my collection of magical memories.
Know before you go: Pro tips
How to get there from Singapore: Multiple airlines like Scoot, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific offer flights to Hong Kong (it’s approximately 4 hours). From the Hong Kong International Airport, the fastest but most expensive way to arrive at Disneyland is via taxi.
Alternatively, take the Airport Express to Tsing Yi station, followed by the Tung Chung Line to Sunny Bay station. Next, transfer to the Disneyland Resort Line bound for Disneyland Resort (where you’ll spot Mickey shapes on the train!). The journey takes about 30 to 40 minutes, and the park is within walking distance from the station.
Hong Kong Disneyland opening hours: Park hours may change depending on the day, so it’s best to check before you go. In general, the opening hours are from 10am or 10.30am to 8.30pm or 9pm.
What to bring: If you visit during summer, like I did, be prepared for warm weather. Pack sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a water bottle, an umbrella, a portable fan, and a power bank. Wear comfy walking shoes and light, breathable fabrics ‘cos you’ll be sweating a lot.
How much to budget: A one-day ticket starts from about $109.20 per adult or $81.40 per child or senior, and Premier Access passes are priced from $32.50 for three attractions. I forked out about $25 to $30 per meal and over $200 on souvenirs for friends and family, but your budget will vary depending on your preferences.
Is Disney Premier Access worth it? I’d say only if you’re visiting on weekends and you have zero patience for any queues. Tip: when the crowd is distracted by the parades and castle shows, seize the opportunity to hop on popular rides.
Is the Hong Kong Disneyland app necessary? Absolutely. It’ll make your park experience completely fuss-free. Download it to check wait times, navigate using the map, view show schedules and character greeting times, make restaurant reservations, and order food in advance to skip the line.
Which of the 3 Disney hotels is best? It’s up to your preference and budget. For a fairy-tale experience, the 5-star Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel is the most luxurious stay with classy restaurants, indoor and outdoor pools, and Victorian-style decor.
At the mid-range Disney Explorers Lodge, you’re swept off on an adventure across 750 rooms, lush gardens, and an outdoor pool. I stayed at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel, which features a retro Hollywood movie theme. It’s the most budget-friendly of the three, but it’s comfortable and still provides the classic Disney experience with lovable characters making an appearance at breakfast.
What’s worth splurging on versus skipping? A stay at a Disney resort is magical and memorable, so if you’re a fan who’s never done that before, you’ll enjoy the experience and the convenience. It’s also great for parents with little ones who may need to sneak in a nap or two during the day. Meanwhile, Disneyland’s food offerings are pretty average, so if you’re not big on theme park food, get the most affordable options to fuel you up and move on.
What’s new for Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th anniversary
Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle
Where: Stage at the Castle of Magical Dreams
How long: 15 minutes
How often: 3 to 5 shows per day
This anniversary-exclusive performance sees Mickey and Minnie kick-start the concert with Goofy and Donald, alongside the adorable Duffy and friends. I rocked up to the castle about 20 minutes before the show to get unobstructed views. Even with gloomy skies, the energy was electrifying.
Disney princesses Aurora, Tiana, and Belle also show up in new birthday outfits for a vibrant stage show elevated by LED screens, cold pyro effects, and giant balloons. It’s a short but sweet interlude you should fit into your itinerary.
Friendtastic! Parade
Where: From the Castle of Magical Dreams to Main Street, USA
How long: About 30 minutes
How often: 2 shows per day, usually around 1pm and 5.15pm
Disney’s main star is the all-new Friendtastic! Parade. It was a delight to see 11 extravagant floats cruise down the street led by perky performers. Everyone’s merry spirits were uplifted by Mickey and gang, Woody and Buzz Lightyear, Duffy and all his friends, Mike and Sully, and characters from Zootopia and Big Hero 6.
My fave? The elegant Disney princess finale featuring Elsa, Anna, Rapunzel, Belle, Snow White, and Jasmine dancing and waving to the crowd. Tip: you’ll have to exercise patience to snag undisturbed views, so pick a spot and start lining up about half an hour beforehand.
Momentous: Party in the Night Sky
Where: The Castle of Magical Dreams and on shopfronts along Main Street, USA
How long: Almost 30 minutes
How often: Once a day at 8.30pm or 9pm
For an epic end to the 20th anniversary celebrations, stick around for the evening show. Your aching feet may complain, but I promise you it’s worth the wait. With soaring Disney melodies, mesmerising drone formations, dazzling pyrotechnics, and nearly 200 new scenes projected on the castle and shopfronts, you might be moved to tears. (I heard a few sniffles as everyone admired the grand spectacle.)
I’d recommend my view in the middle of Main Street, but there are plenty of other photo spots for a different angle of the show. I loved how Disney villains got a share of the spotlight, and the culmination of fireworks for Moana and Aladdin was unforgettable!
Limited-edition food and drinks
The choices are endless when it comes to the park’s food offerings. I spotted an adorable Mickey and Friends Grand Tea Party Set for two (HK$488, S$79.70) and giant sundae (HK$688, S$112.30) at the Main Street Corner Cafe, perfect for a mid-day snack to share. Mickey and Duffy popcorn items also come in unique flavours like caramel and banana or caramel and pineapple (HK$45, S$7.30).
Want a sweet treat? Stop by Main Street Bakery for a Duffy and Friends donut (HK$55, S$9), Stella Lou taro mille feuille (HK$68, S$11.10), and LinaBell mixed fruit punch soda (HK$48, S$7.80).
For something heartier, try the Korean ginseng chicken soup combo (HK$185, S$30.20) at Royal Banquet Hall or the Hulk double beef bacon cheeseburger combo (HK$175, S$28.60) at Starliner Diner.
Exclusive merch to bring home
It’s not a party if you’re not bedazzled, and the anniversary merch choices are endless, with more than 300 collectable items available at the park’s numerous shops. I got a sneak peek at them all and had to resist the temptation to stuff my suitcase. From apparel and bags to plushies and pins to headbands and pens, there’s something for everyone. And you’d best believe the lines at the shops along Main Street were buzzing all day.
Here’s a look at my top picks:
- 20th Anniversary SouvenEar Mini Party Hat (HK$59, S$9.60)
- 20th Anniversary Parade Float Tee (HK$229, S$37.40)
- 20th Anniversary Parade Float Duffy & Friends Plush (HK$289, S$47.20)
- 20th Anniversary Grand Celebration Mickey & Friends Sweater (HK$569, S$92.90)
- 20th Anniversary Grand Celebration Minnie Light Up Headband (HK$359, S$58.50)
Anniversary-themed photo spots
Magic is all over Hong Kong Disneyland, even more so for its 20th anniversary. Pop by the Park Promenade to see the striking welcome arch, spot the golden Mickey head at the Town Square, and check out the balloon-filled displays at the Castle Hub.
Perk alert: Get a Non-Stop 2-Day Fun Ticket (HK$769, S$125.50 onwards) from now till 31 December 2025 to enter the park two days in a row. It’s only an additional HK$100 (S$16.30) on top of the 1-Day Ticket.
Those purchasing a 1-Day Ticket (HK$669, S$109.20) from now till 27 September 2025 will also receive a complimentary anniversary SouvenEar Mini Party Hat.
Rating all the best rides at Hong Kong Disneyland
Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars in Grizzly Gulch: 10/10
The park’s wildest rollercoaster straps you into a mine train that zooms around a gold mining town. As a fan of speedster rides, this was my favourite one, thanks to the surprising backwards drop at the end.
Frozen Ever After in World of Frozen: 10/10
I adored this spellbinding boat journey through captivating Frozen scenes so much that I went on it multiple times. The charming characters, the irresistible songs, and that tiny, thrilling drop at the end? Pure joy.
Hyperspace Mountain in Tomorrowland: 9/10
Think Star Wars meets the classic Space Mountain coaster in the dark, where you’re whipped left and right while dodging blasts amid an exhilarating battle. I got slightly woozy from the sharp jerks, but recovered in no time.
Mystic Manor in Mystic Point: 9/10
It’s mesmerising to step inside the dark, mysterious manor and sit in the carriage to see exotic artefacts and antiquities come to life. Colour me impressed.
Jungle River Cruise in Adventureland: 8/10
Drift down the Rivers of Adventure on this classic boat expedition with witty skippers, playful animals, and a splash of excitement. It has slight differences from the other versions, and I appreciated how they catered to tourists with separate queues for English tours.
Iron Man Experience in Tomorrowland: 7/10
Take flight on this exhilarating 3D motion simulator and fight Hydra forces in a battle set against Hong Kong’s cityscape. I’m not a huge fan of such rides as they typically activate my motion sickness, but this one didn’t have me squirming in too much discomfort.
Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs in World of Frozen: 7/10
Families can hop on this junior coaster to zip through Arendelle Forest and meet Frozen characters like Olaf and Sven. But it’s a little too short to be worth the long lines – if you encounter any.
Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle! in Tomorrowland: 6/10
Great for Marvel fans, the interactive ride “shrinks” you down to ant-size to fend off Hydra forces. It starts on an exciting note as you take aim and shoot your blaster, but the stakes aren’t raised high enough to keep the thrill going.
It’s A Small World in Fantasyland: 6/10
Similar to those at other Disney parks, this family-friendly, whimsical boat trip is set to the familiar tune. It’s a classic, easy ride starring Disney faces like Cinderella, Mulan, Lilo and Stitch, and Ariel. I waltzed right in with barely anyone ahead of me, but if you’ve already sailed down this ride, it’s fine to skip it.
So, is it worth visiting Hong Kong Disneyland?
I vote yes. It’s best to visit while the park celebrates its 20th anniversary with plenty of year-long festivities. Now’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in Disney magic!
