Park waves wand into a wizardly wonder

In a significant development that bridges nostalgia with entertainment, China's first Harry Potter Studio Tour will transform the four-decade-old Shanghai Jinjiang Action Park.

The announcement was jointly made by Jin Jiang International Holdings Co Ltd and Warner Bros Discovery Global Experiences on Feb 12, revealing their intention to develop the Warner Bros Studio Tour Shanghai — The Making of Harry Potter, which is awaiting final regulatory approval.

Scheduled to open in 2027, the attraction will cover approximately 53,000 square meters in Shanghai's Minhang district, and will have both indoor and outdoor areas, with visits expected to take half a day to explore the offerings. A landscaped park area will be set in front for visitors and the public, according to the district information office.

From initial discussions in November 2023 to a formalized agreement in January, the project has been fast-tracked, with construction primed to commence in late 2025 following the park's closure on Jan 26 for renovations.

Distinct from Beijing Universal Studios, which features Harry Potter as one component of a larger theme park with rides, the Shanghai facility will focus exclusively on the behind-the-scenes filmmaking that brought British author J.K. Rowling's seven-volume fantasy novel series to life.

Visitors will be able to explore famous sets, view authentic costumes and props, and interact in film scenes in ways that blend traditional storytelling with modern technology.

The attraction will include Chinese cultural elements and feature digital interactive experience facilities, creating a unique experience that differs from its counterparts in London and Tokyo, says the district information office.

The Studio Tour will operate on a reservation-only system, with 90 percent of the experience taking place indoors. Ticket prices will be comparable to similar attractions in the United Kingdom and Japan currently ranging from $42 to $59.

"This isn't just another theme park. It is an immersive journey into the craft of movie-making. Visitors will experience the Harry Potter franchise enhanced by cutting-edge technology including AR and VR elements," says Lin Huanjie, director of the Institute for Theme Park Studies in China, underscoring its characteristics.

For many Shanghai residents, the transformation of Jinjiang Action Park evokes mixed emotions, as many have grown up visiting the park since its opening in 1984. The pioneer of professional amusement facilities in Shanghai peaked in 1995 with over 2.3 million visitors that year, according to records.