Location & Accessibility
Andersen Fairy Tale Land Shanghai sits in Yangpu District, nestled at 200 Guohong Road. It’s a breeze to reach by metro: hop on Line 10 or Line 12 and get off at Shanghai University of Sport station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk (or a quick bike ride!) through tree-lined streets. If you’re driving, there’s plenty of parking nearby. The park’s surrounded by greenery, making it feel like a peaceful escape from the city hustle, yet still super close to downtown Shanghai.
Natural Scenery
While Andersen Fairy Tale Land isn’t a traditional nature park, its design blends lush gardens, lakes, and winding paths to create a fairytale atmosphere. The Mermaid Harbor section, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid, features a sparkling pond with sculptures of marine creatures. Stroll along the water’s edge, and you’ll spot bridges, lily pads, and even a replica of the iconic mermaid statue from Copenhagen. It’s a calming spot to take photos or let kids dip their toes (supervised, of course!).
Cultural Highlights
This park is the first-ever theme park named after Hans Christian Andersen, so expect tons of nods to his stories. The Andersen Castle looks straight out of a medieval tale—think towering turrets, stone bridges, and secret passages. Kids go wild exploring the Odense Town area, which recreates Andersen’s hometown in Denmark with cobblestone streets, timber-framed houses, and even a mini mill. Don’t miss the Andersen Statue Plaza, where a bronze statue of the author stands—perfect for a family photo op!
Nordic Vibes
Step into midcentury Europe without leaving Shanghai! The park’s Northern European charm shines in details like horse-drawn carriages, old-time post offices, and working grindstones. At the Mill Experience Zone, kids can try their hand at grinding flour (staff make it safe and fun). The Toy Post Office lets little ones send pretend letters with stamps featuring Andersen characters. It’s like traveling back in time—but with modern comforts.
Family-Friendly Extras
Andersen Fairy Tale Land is Shanghai’s first outdoor park dedicated to kids, so amenities are top-notch. You’ll find:
- Shaded picnic areas with tables.
- Nursing rooms and kid-friendly restrooms.
- Cafés serving Western-style meals (think burgers, pasta, and Danish pastries).
- Gift shops stocked with toys, books, and Andersen-themed souvenirs.
There’s even a storytelling theater where actors perform live adaptations of Andersen’s tales—check the schedule when you arrive!
Immersive Experiences
What makes Andersen Fairy Tale Land special? It’s all about interactive fun. In the Fairy Tale Maze, kids become the “heroes” of stories like The Ugly Duckling or The Princess and the Pea, with puzzles and role-play stations. The Enchanted Forest uses light and sound effects to bring scenes like Thumbelina to life at night. Parents love the “Learn Through Play” vibe—kids barely notice they’re absorbing lessons about history, culture, and creativity.
Tips for Visiting
- Best for ages 3–12: Toddlers can enjoy gentle play areas, while older kids tackle more complex attractions.
- Weekends get busy: Go mid-week if you prefer fewer crowds.
- Dress for weather: Most areas are outdoors, so bring sunblock, hats, or rain gear as needed.
- Time your visit: The park glows at sunset, especially during holiday light shows!
Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Andersen Fairy Tale Land Shanghai offers a magical mix of education and adventure. It’s not just a park—it’s a doorway into the whimsical world of Andersen, right here in the heart of Shanghai.