Shanghai to build Peppa Pig theme park

Shanghai is welcoming Asia’s first and the world’s largest stand-alone Peppa Pig outdoor theme park, slated to open to the public on Changxing Island, Chongming District in 2027.

The park is about 90 kilometers, or an hour-and-a-half drive, north of the city center. With an investment of over 2.4 billion yuan (US$331 million), it will cover approximately 0.12 square kilometers, according to toy and game company Hasbro and Max-Matching Entertainments Co., Ltd.

It will boast innovative features, new themed areas, rides, an immersive show, and a themed hotel specifically designed for the China market, with the typical three-generation family in mind, said Owen Zhao, president of Max-Matching Entertainments. The park will also be equipped with food and beverage areas and gift shops. The detailed design of the park has yet to be revealed.

“Peppa Pig,” a British preschool animated television series, has gained strong momentum in China since it was first aired in 2015, with over 10 billion views and a wide range of products available across major Chinese retailers.

“The Peppa Pig outdoor theme park will further enhance Shanghai as a global tourism destination and propel its economy,” said Cai Xiaofei, deputy director of the Changxing Island’s administrative committee.

“We believe this theme park can serve as a flagship attraction for the island, helping to upgrade its infrastructure and establish it as a unique tourist destination,” he said.

Matt Proulx, senior vice president of global experiences, partnerships and music at Hasbro, said the company will continue to work to bring Peppa Pig outdoor theme parks and memorable live experiences to more cities for Chinese children and families to enjoy.

Currently, Peppa Pig theme parks are located in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Shanghai is also home to the largest Disneyland outside the United States. Approximately 21 kilometers east of the city center in Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area, Shanghai Disneyland opened its gate to the public in June 2016. (SD-Agencies)