**Title: A Smurf-Tastic Day Out in Shanghai with the Family**
**Date: May 2020**
**Duration: 1 Day**
**Published: 2020-05-30 19:59**
**Average Cost: 300 Yuan per person**
**Company: Parent-child**
**Travel Style: Free and easy, weekend trip**
As people grow older, they often feel something is missing, perhaps happiness or innocence. That’s what I wanted to reclaim! Two weeks ago, while strolling with my daughter on Nanjing East Road, I happened to see a Smurf exhibition at Shanghai Shimao Plaza. Upon learning that the first Smurf Park in the Asia-Pacific region was about to open grandly, I immediately arranged my schedule to come and check it out. Who says we can’t still be babies!
**I had a date with the Smurfs.**
**Transportation Guide:**
As a resident of Yangpu, I took Shanghai Metro Line 8 to Lujiabang Road, transferred to Line 9 at Dongjing Station, and then took Bus No. 96, which took about 15 minutes to get off at the Shimao Nano Magic City exit. If you’re lucky while on Line 9, you might encounter the Smurf-themed train, which is incredibly cute, but I only caught a glimpse and didn’t have time to take a photo.
Arriving in the morning coincided with the grand opening ceremony. For those born in the 1980s, the Smurfs are deeply imprinted in our memories. From the moment I saw Papa Smurf, I started singing: ‘On the other side of the mountain, by the sea, there lives a group of Smurfs. They are lively and smart, naughty and clever, living freely in the green forest. They are kind, brave, and care for each other. Oh, the lovely Smurfs.’ These lyrics have been sung from childhood and are impossible to forget.
Of course, the Smurfs are cute, but we also sympathize with Gargamel and Azrael, who always want to cause trouble but never succeed, making them probably the most unsuccessful villains. Among so many Smurfs, apart from the most distinctive Smurfette and Papa Smurf, the others look quite similar, but each has its own unique personality and characteristics, such as Sporty Smurf who loves fitness, Brainy Smurf who loves to learn and play tricks, and the mischievous Clumsy Smurf… It’s really very interesting, and how many can you recognize?
**Recommended check-in route:**
Journey to the Center of the Earth – Wonders of Flight – Mao Xian Wang 6D Cinema – Forest Maze – Berry Swing – Magic Mirror Transformation – Pei Pei’s Jam Cup – Berry Coaster – Magic Brush Painting – Smurfette’s Garden – Dark Laboratory – Potion Mixer – Azrael’s Jump Tower – Swamp Adventure
Upon entering the park, you first come to the Da Mao area, which has a visitor center and a storage area. Children can pick up a play map here, which is more than just a simple map – it has 17 check-in points. After going through the challenges of each project, you can redeem gifts. The must-check-in spots in this area are Journey to the Center of the Earth, Wonders of Flight, and Mao Xian Wang 6D Cinema.
Of course, the Wonders of Flight is also quite eye-catching. The large colorful glass dome top, with the morning light shining in, is quite spectacular. My daughter likes this project very much, feeling like a little princess riding a pink spaceship.
**Journey to the Center of the Earth:**
A relatively mild indoor roller coaster for sightseeing. The entire journey for visitors will be divided into five parts: heading towards the center of the Earth – Earth’s minerals – encountering an earthquake – escaping from magma – entering the core. The indoor scenery, lighting effects, and sound effects create a tense atmosphere, and children can also ride. In fact, this project is quite suitable for family play, and you can also talk to the children about the secrets of the Earth’s interior and learn some geography.
**Mao Xian Wang 6D Cinema:**
The 6D refers to the senses of hearing, sight, smell, touch, taste, and feeling. Each film lasts approximately 15 minutes, and the most dreamy part is when bubbles float down at the end! It’s incredibly beautiful and a must-experience. The films are shown on the hour; I watched the one at 1 PM.
**Qi Jing Ao Xiang:**
This is a rather classic attraction with a strong sense of reality, immersing visitors in the experience. The large suspended dome cinema has four cabins, and the duration is about 5 minutes. However, there are height and age restrictions for this attraction, suitable for individuals between 1.4m and 1.95m in height and under 60 years of age. Unfortunately, some children won’t be able to enjoy it, but it’s perfect for adults to have a great time.
**Forest Maze – Berry Swing – Magic Mirror Transformation:**
These are in the forest area of the Smurf region, and they are more suitable for younger children. Entering the forest maze, one feels as if they have shrunk, and the Berry Swing is a mini version of a pendulum ride, perfect for building courage and taking photos. I couldn’t resist taking a photo at the entrance of the forest maze.
**Pei Pei Jam Cup – Berry Coaster – Smurfette’s Garden – Magic Paintbrush:**
These are even more adorable, as if taken straight from the Smurf animation.Embarking on an adventure at the Smurf Village in Shanghai Shimao Elf City Theme Park is an experience that’s sure to delight both young and old. Here’s a guide to make the most of your visit:
**Rides and Attractions:**
– **The Pei Pei Jam Cup**: Imagine being the jam inside a cup, ready to be shaken out. This whimsical ride is a fun start to your day.
– **The Berry Coaster**: Don’t let its appearance fool you; this indoor coaster is a thrilling ride that has even adults screaming in surprise.
– **Smurfette’s Garden**: A perfect spot for the little ones, where they can spin around the garden just like Smurfette as the lights come on.
– **The Magic Paintbrush**: A wonderful activity for parent-child bonding. At the mushroom house, children can color the Smurfs and see their creations come to life on a screen.
– **Gargamel’s House**: A darker area with attractions like the Dark Laboratory, which is a haunted house-like experience, and the Swamp Adventure, a game similar to Plants vs. Zombies.
– **Parade**: The daily parade at 2:30 PM is a must-see, featuring beloved characters like Papa Smurf and Smurfette, and even the mischievous Gargamel.
**Food Recommendations:**
– **Smurf Restaurant**: Indulge in a variety of meal options with a delightful ambiance. The Blue Chef’s Bolognese Pasta Set and Blue Dad’s Burger Set are particularly recommended, served with ice cream and coconut water.
– **Other Dining Establishments**: The park also offers places like Gargamel Magic Water, where you can enjoy popcorn, cakes, and even pearl milk tea.
**Must-Buy Products:**
– **Smurf Gift World**: A treasure trove of Smurfs to take home, including plush toys, mugs, and exclusive Smurf figurines dressed in ‘Shanghai’ attire. Mystery boxes are also available, offering a chance to discover a hidden edition.
**Visiting Information:**
– **Address**: No. 5088 Chenhua Road, Songjiang District.
– **Opening Hours**: 10:00-18:00.
– **Ticket Prices**: Single-park adult ticket is 149 RMB per person, and 79 RMB for children.
For those with time to spare, consider the combined ticket for the Smurf Village and the Deep Pit Mystery Park, which offers free Smurf train transfers between the two parks. The Deep Pit Mystery Park is known for its glass skywalk and panoramic swing overlooking the pit.
With so many photo spots and activities to enjoy, it’s best to explore at your own pace. The entire visit takes approximately 4-5 hours, making it a full day of fun and adventure.