IN DESIGN

Hong Kong Disneyland Multi-year Transformation

Hong Kong Disneyland (HKDL) Resort will be entering a new chapter of development with a multiyear transformation plan between 2018 and 2023, bringing something new almost every year based on some of the most beloved Disney stories and characters. HKDL leverages the best of Disney to bring both world-renowned franchises Marvel and Frozen to life in their own immersive areas.

When completed, the number of themed areas will increase from seven to nine, and the number of attractions and entertainment offerings (including castle shows, stage shows and character greetings) will increase from around 110 to over 130. The Walt Disney Company (TWDC) estimates that the expansion and development plan will bring about 3,500 jobs (in terms of man-years) between 2017 and 2023 from the construction work, and another 600 jobs in 2023 from HKDL’s expanded operations. Jobs created directly and indirectly are estimated to total between 5,000 and 8,000. The project’s budget is estimated to be HKD10.9 billion. The project cost will be funded by the two shareholders, the Hong Kong government and TWDC, through concurrent cash equity injections according to the existing shareholding ratio (53 percent by the Hong Kong government and 47 percent by TWDC).

Some highlights in the timeline of planned new experiences include:
2018
Following the launch of the Iron Man Experience on 11 January 2017, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters will be reimagined into a brand new experience—Marvel Super Heroes—for guests to fight alongside the icons of the Marvel Universe. The Marvel-themed area will continue to unfold in phases.

The Adventureland Show Place is an entertainment stage in Adventureland, which will offer interactive daytime shows by roaming performers. Moana’s Village Festival will be one of the immersive storytelling entertainment offerings in this area. In addition, guests will be able to meet Moana and Maui, characters from the Disney animated film released in November 2016.

2019
The centrepiece of the park will be completely transformed. The revamped Castle and Hub area will showcase new daytime and nighttime shows and entertainment offerings. Castle Daytime Show will celebrate popular Disney characters and stories through dance, acrobatics, pyrotechnics and more, while Castle Nighttime Spectacular in the evening will include visual projections, fountain displays and fireworks.

2020
A completely new Frozen-themed area will bring to life the characters and stories from the kingdom of Arendelle. Guests will enjoy two new ride-through attractions and be immersed with distinctively themed dining, shopping and entertainment.

2023
A number of new venues, including a new ride-through experience, together with the Iron Man Experience and the 2018 Marvel attraction, will complete the first Marvel-themed area in all the Disney parks worldwide.

PROJECT DATA
Project Name: Hong Kong Disneyland Multi-year Transformation
Location: Hong Kong
Expected Completion: 2023
Client/Owner: The Walt Disney Company
Images/Photos: Hong Kong Disneyland Resort