As the summer holidays hit full swing, it’s the perfect time to plan a family getaway to one of Asia’s wildest theme parks. From beloved anime characters and immersive fantasy worlds to adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters, here are some of the best attractions drawing excited crowds from the region and beyond. So, pack your bags and bring your sense of wonder – theme park season shouldn’t be missed.
Credit: Ocean Park
Credit: Ocean Park
Credit: Ocean Park
Coastal theme park Ocean Park is divided into two areas – the Summit and the Waterfront – linked by a scenic cable car and funicular railway. The park has eight attraction zones, including Aqua City and the Rainforest. For a memorable family day out, explore the South Pole Spectacular and the Grand Aquarium, and meet the park’s beloved panda family at the all-new Giant Panda Adventure. A must-see is Bamboo Oasis, an interactive experience where popular park stars come to life through 3D projection and AR technology as you wander through flower beds and bamboo groves.
Brand new Junglia is Okinawa’s boldest – and largest – theme park to date. Tucked deep in the jungle at the heart of Nakijin village on Okinawa’s north coast, this Jurassic-themed adventure zone spans 60 hectares and features 22 attractions, including hot-air balloon rides and zip lines. Visitors can brave Buggy Voltage, a high-octane safari through the habitat of 20 life-sized dinosaurs, and come face-to-face with a Triceratops, Brontosaurus and other prehistoric giants. After the thrills, unwind at Spa Junglia – the world’s largest infinity public bath – where jet baths, cave soaks and panoramic views offer the ultimate post-adventure reset.
Credit: Legoland Shanghai Resort
Credit: Legoland Shanghai Resort
Legoland Shanghai Resort is the first of its kind in the Chinese Mainland – and the largest Legoland park in the world. Now officially open in Jinshan District, the 32-hectare resort features more than 75 attractions across eight themed zones, including The Dragon rollercoaster, Driving School and City Airport. At its centre is the world’s first Monkie Kid land, where you can dive into the epic journey of the Monkey King like never before.
All eyes are on Chiikawa Park in Tokyo this summer – especially for families with young children. The first amusement park dedicated to this beloved anime character Chiikawa is now open at Sunshine City in Ikebukuro. The immersive venue features five themed zones, including a theatre, interactive experiences and Instagrammable installations. Among the highlights is Goblins’ Jail, a vivid recreation of the show’s iconic prison break – complete with photo opportunities alongside Ode, the fan-favourite cyclops. The souvenir shop is a must-visit, brimming with playful novelties such as popcorn buckets and headbands, plus exclusive limited-edition collectibles.
Credit: Mandai Wildlife Group
Credit: Mandai Wildlife Group
Credit: Mandai Wildlife Group
Spanning 13 hectares in Mandai, Rainforest Wild Asia is Singapore’s fifth wildlife park. About 7,000 trees and bushes line seven secluded jungle treks of varying degrees of difficulty, where you may encounter wild species such as François’ leaf monkey and the elusive Visayan spotted deer hidden among boulders, creeks and bridges. A standout experience is the Wild Cavern Adventure, a descent into darkness that invites explorers to navigate dramatic rock formations and get up close with a few creepy crawlies.
Credit: moomusician/Getty Images
Credit: Kokkai Ng/Getty Images
One of the world’s largest indoor theme parks, Lotte World in Seoul features a host of classic attractions all under one roof, including the Flume Ride, The Conquistador and Drunken Basket. For true adrenaline junkies, there’s the hair-raising French Revolution – a rollercoaster that spins 540 degrees and races through the park’s interior spaces. The excitement continues outdoors at Magic Island, where iconic thrills such as the Magic Castle, Gyro Swing and Gyro Drop await.
Credit: Kevin Frayer/Getty Images
Excitement and relaxation go hand in hand at Universal Beijing Resort , home to a variety of themed lands, including Jurassic World Isla Nublar, Hollywood, Minion Land and more. The standout is Kung Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness, a festive, family-friendly zone anchored by the Journey of the Dragon Warrior ride. Another highlight is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where muggles can don robes, wave wands and embark on the spellbinding Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride through Hogwarts.
Credit: WaelTameem/Getty Images
A 30-minute drive from downtown Kuala Lumpur and the international airport, Sunway Lagoon boasts more than 90 attractions across six zones, including a water park, rides and extreme adventures. Cool off at the Surf Beach, the world’s widest man-made beach, where waves reach over two metres tall, or take on Vuvuzela, the world’s largest vortex water slide. Don’t miss Asia’s first Nickelodeon Land, where you can meet beloved characters such as SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star.