Who would've ever thought that Asia would be able to experience the magic that the makers of the famous Mickey Mouse have brought to kids and kids at heart in live action? Hong Kong Disneyland is a theme park based on a reclaimed area at Penny's Bay, Launtau Island. It is one of the biggest theme parks alongside Ocean Park located in Wong Chuk Hang and Nam Long Shan in the Southern District of Hong Kong. Ever since it opened last September 12, 2005, it has attracted thousands of visitors of all ages, coming from different continents every day - longing to relive the little kid inside them.
I was able to visit Hong Kong Disneyland last May 31, 2012. From the HK International Airport, it approximately took 45 minutes to an hour of transferring trains which they call, MTR (Mass Transit Railway). HK Disneyland is quite small compared to the one in California. Every ride and site was scaled down, but it isn't really a factor to lessen the enjoyment inside the theme park because it still delivers the same excitement and thrill in my opinion. Since it is not that big, a day is enough to roam around the park and take joy in experiencing all the rides, taking into account the time of your arrival of course.
When you get there, be sure to line up immediately to the famous attractions such as the Buzz Lightyear inspired ride, Space Mountain, the Astro Blaster where you get to battle against the Evil Emperor Zurg, the Jungle River Cruise where you can explore the area where Tarzan grew up in and explore the world through the It's A Small World attraction, which features little robotic kids wearing different national costumes of the globe.
If you want to just relax for a little bit while enjoying, the makers of Disneyland put up an area where you can catch 4D versions of their famous short films at the Mickey's PhilharMagic located inside Fantasy Land. You can also enjoy the live action performances at The Golden Mickeys featuring your favorite Disney characters in a live and musical show. Also, be sure to catch theParade of Stars at exactly 3:00 PM, which will happen at the Main Street USA, near the entrance. This part will surely bring out the kid in you when you see your favorite Disney characters from a near distance. Likewise, take a good look at every area of Disneyland because from time to time, a Disney character will appear out of nowhere, ready to take pictures with the visitors. They are only there for a limited time so be observant!
I also recommend that you stay until 8 in the evening to catch the famous Disneyland fireworks happening near Sleeping Beauty's castle. It is truly one of the things you need to see in your life. Memorabilia or souvenirs are also available from every block, but they don't come cheap. Also, be sure to bring money when you go in because most of the food areas don't accept credit cards.
Overall, it is a visit that I will never forget. I can attest to the claim that it is indeed the happiest place on earth. It didn't only bring out the kid in me, but it made me believe that "The legend you thought you knew becomes the adventure you never imagined."
For more information, visit their website at http://park.hongkongdisneyland.com/hkdl/en_US/home/home?name=HomePage
Ticket prices: HK$450 (ages 12-64); HK$320 (ages 3-11); HK$100 (ages 65 and above)
Park Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM