Second Trip to Shanghai Disney: A Fairy Tale Journey Under the Pandemic, Still Sparkling
Meta Description: Planning a Shanghai Disney trip during COVID? Read our family guide to Toy Story Hotel, pandemic prep, reservation tips, and how we conquered 12 rides in one day. Your fairy tale awaits.
Introduction: Why a Second Trip to Shanghai Disney Was Worth the Wait
At four years and four months old, this was my little one's second visit to Shanghai Disneyland. The first time, she was just two, under one meter tall, and got in for free—but she had zero interest in princesses or rides. By four in the afternoon, we'd already knocked out 12 attractions, and then she went back to the resort hotel to sleep. The only thing that truly excited her? Probably the hotel itself, which looked like it had stepped straight out of a storybook. As for me, I spent the whole time running after her, with barely a moment to snap a photo. The handful of pictures I managed left me with a nagging feeling: "It's like I never really came." So, from that day on, I planted a seed in my heart: I had to do it again.
But plans always seem to change. The night before we were set to leave, Shanghai's Pudong district was suddenly classified as a medium-risk area. I cried for nearly twenty-four hours, utterly devastated. Thankfully, the wait wasn't in vain—the very next day after Shanghai's last medium-risk zone was cleared, I took my mom and my little girl and set off for this long-overdue magical adventure.
Shanghai Disney Pandemic Preparation: What You Must Know Before You Go
If you want to make the most of your trip, preparation is key. Especially during the pandemic, beyond the usual packing, there are a few extra things to keep in mind.
1. The Shanghai Disney App
During the pandemic, the traditional FastPass has been temporarily suspended, but the app is still a lifesaver. You can check real-time wait times for every ride, plan your route wisely, and play more efficiently. [Link: How to use the Shanghai Disney app for park navigation]
2. Park Reservation Code
You need to reserve your visit in advance. The process is simple: complete the reservation on the app or official website, and you'll get a code. Remember, this step is non-negotiable—otherwise, you'll be stuck at the gate with nothing to do.
3. Reservation Waiting Pass
Disney has replaced FastPass with a "Reservation Waiting Pass." This is usually activated during peak hours from 12 PM to 5 PM, depending on the day's crowd. If popular rides require a queue, grab one early.
4. Premier Access Pass
The rich have it easy—Premier Access lets you skip the lines. But with lower crowds during the pandemic, regular visitors can totally rely on strategy. Premier Access isn't a must-have.
5. Health Code (Suishen Code)
When you arrive in Shanghai, you need to show a green "Suishen Code." Open the WeChat mini-program "Suishen Ban" and apply for it. For kids, you'll need to apply for a "Family Suishen Code"—just upload your household registration booklet, and you're good to go.
Best Hotels Near Shanghai Disney: Toy Story Hotel vs. Disneyland Hotel
Taking kids to Disney means staying close is key. Disney has two themed hotels: the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and the Toy Story Hotel. We stayed at the Disneyland Hotel in 2018, but this time we chose the Toy Story Hotel—and the experience was surprisingly wonderful.
Shanghai Disneyland Hotel
The Disneyland Hotel is done in an "Art Nouveau" style, elegant and dreamy. From the lobby to the rooms, it's filled with Disney's whimsy—bronze statues of Mickey and Minnie, sculptures of The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast, making you feel like you've stepped into a fairy tale. When my daughter was two, she took photos with Disney characters here, joined craft sessions and storytime, and had a blast. Even the room keys and toiletries were Disney-themed—the attention to detail was flawless.
Toy Story Hotel
This time, we chose the Toy Story Hotel, inspired by Pixar's Toy Story. The building itself is shaped like the number "8," symbolizing good luck, while the cloud patterns on the exterior represent "auspicious clouds." The hotel is divided into the Woody's Cowboy Wing and the Buzz Lightyear Wing. Viewed from above, it forms an infinity symbol, echoing Buzz's famous line: "To infinity and beyond!"
After getting off at the Disney metro station, we took the shuttle bus straight to the hotel. The moment we stepped out, the staff warmly guided us to check-in. The front desk not only gave us a map but also asked my daughter which cartoon character she wanted on her room key. After she picked one, they gifted her the remaining ones—this service was even more thoughtful than the Disneyland Hotel! Every staff member greeted us as we passed, and my grandmother kept marveling: "I thought an old lady like me wouldn't feel much at Disney, but there's surprises everywhere."
We bought our next-day tickets at the concierge desk and got a free FastPass, which we used for the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. The staff member helped us link the app and even reminded me to take a photo of the ticket in case we lost it—though the FastPass would be voided, the gesture was touching.
While waiting, my daughter watched cartoons in the lobby and happened to spot Woody and Jessie coming out for photos. She excitedly followed them around, snapping picture after picture. During the pandemic, close hugs weren't allowed, so we stood behind the yellow line for photos, but she was still beaming like a flower.
Our room was on the 7th floor. The elevator had Woody announcing the floors, the hallway carpet featured Toy Story patterns, and the walls were covered with photos of all the toys—the details were incredible! The room itself was a Buzz Lightyear space theme, with shower curtains covered in characters, and even the bathroom cups came in three heights—Dad, Mom, and Baby—each printed with different figures. The water on the table was unlimited, and we could call for more if needed. My daughter even complained, "Jessie doesn't look right—I'm going to draw my own!" And she did, hanging her masterpiece on the wall.
Disney Town Shanghai: A Taste of the Fairy Tale Atmosphere
After getting our fill of the room, we took the shuttle to Disney Town for a stroll. The area includes "Town Center," "Bites & Bliss Lane," "Broadway Boulevard," "Broadway Plaza," and "Disney Town Lake."
Getting off at the shuttle stop, the first thing we saw was a Mickey Mouse archway, and my daughter couldn't wait to run over for a photo. Then we headed to Disney Town Lake, whose design is inspired by Shanghai's maritime history, with a fresh, modern palette of blue, white, and gold. A giant Donald Duck floated on the lake, and my daughter dashed over to strike various poses, playing the "little sailor."
"Disney Town," adjacent to the park, blends Disney traditions with classic Chinese design. The "Town Center" in particular is packed with curated shops, including the "World of Disney" store—a 3,000-square-meter space that looks like a nostalgic round train roundhouse. Inside, it offers a wide range of original clothing, toys, stationery, and gifts, plus an interactive "magic mirror" that projects Disney movie clips on a sphere, letting you dream of magical stories.
The "Sweet Satisfaction" candy shop channels the optimism of Mary Poppins, and you can even watch the candy-making process. Bites & Bliss Lane's cobblestone streets and outdoor dining areas feel like stepping back in time. Broadway Boulevard is elegant and refined, with designer collaborations and imported collectibles. The "Walt Disney Grand Theatre" on Broadway Plaza is a town landmark, its floral patterns glowing vividly under the night lights.
Shanghai Disney with Kids: Wake Up Five Minutes Early, Save Two Hours
The main event! All the preparation was for this day.
According to the hotel shuttle schedule, the first bus left at 8:40 AM. To catch that first ride, we skipped the hotel breakfast and packed bread, ham, sandwiches, and yogurt. We got up at 7 AM and went downstairs to line up by 8. Since it was off-season and during the pandemic, no one was there at 8, so the staff registered us and told us to wait in the hotel. By 8:20, people started lining up, so we rushed out and snagged the first spot—and that early start saved us two hours of waiting later in the day.
Pro tip for families: Arrive at the shuttle stop 20 minutes before the first departure. You'll be among the first to enter the park, and you can hit popular rides like Soaring Over the Horizon or Tron before crowds build up.
FAQ: Your Shanghai Disney Pandemic Questions Answered
1. Do I need a negative COVID test to enter Shanghai Disney?
As of the latest guidelines, you need a green Suishen Code (health code) but not necessarily a negative test—unless you're arriving from a medium or high-risk area. Always check the official Shanghai Disney website for real-time updates.
2. Can I still meet Disney characters during the pandemic?
Yes, but with social distancing. You can take photos from behind designated yellow lines. No hugging or close contact is allowed, but characters still wave, pose, and interact from a distance.
3. Is the Toy Story Hotel worth the price?
Absolutely. It's more affordable than the Disneyland Hotel but still offers incredible theming, free FastPass with ticket purchase, and excellent service. The attention to detail in rooms and public areas makes it a magical experience for kids.
4. How do I get a Reservation Waiting Pass?
Open the Shanghai Disney app during peak hours (usually 12 PM–5 PM). The pass is available for popular rides when standby queues are long. Grab one early, as slots fill up quickly.
5. What should I pack for a Disney trip with a toddler?
Bring snacks, water bottles (refillable stations are available), sunscreen, a stroller (or rent one at the park), and extra masks. Also pack a portable phone charger—the app drains battery fast.
Conclusion: Your Fairy Tale Awaits
A second trip to Shanghai Disney during the pandemic taught me one thing: magic doesn't disappear—it adapts. With careful planning, the right hotel choice, and a little patience, you can still experience the wonder of Disney, even in uncertain times. Whether it's your first visit or your fifth, the sparkle is still there, waiting for you.
Ready to plan your own Shanghai Disney adventure? Start by downloading the official app and reserving your park entry today. The fairy tale is just a click away.
Have you visited Shanghai Disney during the pandemic? Share your tips and stories in the comments below!
