Samba Balloon

Samba Balloon

桑巴气球 (sāng bā qì qiú)

Skybound Experiences Chengdu China | 11.45km from downtown

In Chengdu’s Happy Valley, a colorful hot air balloon floats 50m high, offering bird’s-eye views of whimsical themed zones. Perfect for families, it glows at night for romantic photo ops and has short wait times. A gentle, scenic ride with panoramic park vistas.

Samba Balloon, located in Happy Valley Chengdu (Jinniu District, Chengdu, Sichuan), is a must-visit attraction in western China’s top theme park. To get there, take metro Line 7 to Huapu Street Station and transfer to a shuttle bus. Alternatively, buses 119 or 362 stop near the park. Driving is easy too—parking is free, and the entrance is just a short walk from the lot.

Natural Scenery

While Chengdu isn’t known for mountains or beaches, Happy Valley’s landscapes feel like a mini escape. The Samba Balloon floats above colorful flower beds and manicured lawns, offering views of the park’s vibrant zones. During sunset, the balloon’s lights create a magical atmosphere, perfect for photos.

Themed Areas & Attractions

Happy Valley is divided into six themed worlds, each with its own vibe:

Sunshine Harbor: Relaxing spots with fake beaches.
Happy Times: Classic rides like bumper cars.
Caribbean Whirlwind: Thrilling water slides (bring a change of clothes!).
Happy Light Year: Futuristic games with LED lights.
Flying Island: Swings that spin high enough to spot Samba Balloon from above.
Magic Castle: Where the Samba Balloon shines—a gentle, colorful ride for kids and families.

The Magic Castle and Happy Light Year areas are best for parents-to-be or groups with little ones. Try the “Crazy Mice” coaster or the “Bubble Battlefield,” where you shoot foam balls at friends.

Cultural Experiences

Beyond rides, the park hosts lively events. Music festivals feature local bands, and the Clown Festival brings laughs with acrobatic acts. The grand parade, with dancers, floats, and (of course) the Samba Balloon leading the way, happens on weekends. Check the schedule online—some events are seasonal!

Family-Friendly Facilities

The park is designed for comfort:

Dining: Options range from Sichuan snacks to Western fast food. Try the spicy hotpot near Caribbean Whirlwind.
Restrooms: Clean and kid-friendly, with changing stations.
Lockers: Rentable near the entrance for storing bags during rides.
Strollers: Available for rent if you’re traveling with toddlers.

Why Ride the Samba Balloon?

This hot air balloon-themed ride is the park’s hidden gem. It slowly lifts you 50 meters above the grounds, giving a bird’s-eye view of the castle zones. On clear days, you can see all the way to the distant hills. At night, the balloon glows with twinkling lights, making it a romantic spot for couples. Bonus: Short wait times compared to big rides!

Pro Tips

Tickets: Buy online for discounts. A season pass pays off if you’re in Chengdu long-term.
Timing: Weekdays are less crowded. Arrive before 10 AM to beat the heat.
Photo Ops: The balloon’s best shot is at dusk when the sky turns pink.
Avoid: Rainy days, as some rides close.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a casual visitor, Happy Valley’s Samba Balloon and its whimsical zones offer something for everyone. Pack comfy shoes, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—you’ll leave with unforgettable memories!

Basic Trip Information of Samba Balloon

Play Time:

1 Hour Or Less

Traffic:

By Bus: Take Routes 48, 88, or 209 and alight at Huaqiaocheng Station.

Ticket:

Samba Balloon Scenic Area Ticket Information:

Regular Admission Price: Free (Included in Happy Valley admission ticket)
Adult Ticket Price: Free (Included in Happy Valley admission ticket)
Child Ticket Price: Free (Included in Happy Valley admission ticket)
Senior Ticket Price: Free (Included in Happy Valley admission ticket)
Special Groups (e.g., disabled, military) Price: Free (Included in Happy Valley admission ticket)

Note: All tickets for Samba Balloon Scenic Area are included in Happy Valley’s general admission ticket. No additional fees apply.

Open Time:

Opening Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Operating Period: January 1st - December 31st (Monday to Sunday)

Note: The attraction operates daily throughout the year, including all weekdays and weekends.

The Location of Samba Balloon

Address:

Sichuan Province, Chengdu City, Jinwan District, Happy Valley Scenic Area

Phone:

028-61898118

Parent attraction:

Chengdu Happy Valley

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