Theme parks holidays are a great way to bring the whole family together, with plenty of activities suitable for all ages to enjoy. While there are some destinations renowned for being home to some of the most famous theme parks in the world, this one destination might just be the ultimate place for an amusement holiday. The incredible country is home to some of the biggest names in the amusement industry, including a brand new one that is set to open this summer.
China's amusement park industry is entering its peak, drawing in billions of pounds every year. In 2023, the industry brought 60 billion yuan (approximately £6 billion) into China's economy, and with the opening of the country's new Legoland theme park, set to welcome visitors from July 5, the industry is only going to continue growing.
In fact, by 2028, the figure is expected to skyrocket to over 110 billion yuan, equivalent to more than £11 billion. That sort of increase will solidify China as a leading destination for global theme park investments.
At present, China has around 385 theme parks, including two Disneylands - one in the global financial hub, Shanghai and another in Hong Kong.
In 2023, around 14 million adventure-seeking visitors made their way to the theme park, making it one of the top five visited theme parks in the world, and international companies are already seeking to expand it.
Shanghai Disneyland revealed plans for the amusement park's first Marvel-themed attraction and is constructing a third themed hotel. Whilst in Hong Kong, the park will also expand its Marvel area and is set to open a new Pixar entertainment experience.
Over in Beijing, the Universal Studios theme park, which opened in 2021, is on course for its second phase of development. It is set to expand by over double its current size and include up to five new hotels.
More than 50 new theme parks across China are in development or set to launch this year. "China offers an excellent business environment," says Siegfried Boerst, managing director of Legoland Resorts China.
He added: "Legoland Shanghai Resort has a series of world's first to fulfill the growing demand. All this will help boost the regional economy and enhance Shanghai's competitiveness in the international tourism market."
China is currently developing a Harry Potter Studio Tour and building the world's largest Peppa Pig outdoor theme park. Both will be located in Shanghai and open to visitors in 2027.