Plenty of fall fun at these indoor amusement parks

Say goodbye to a scorching summer; it’s time to embrace autumn’s crispness and the spirit of exploration. Here are some of the freshest theme parks in Shanghai where you can recharge your energy and amble with a light heart. 

Magical treasure at Jiading Ocean World

The first interactive ocean park in western Shanghai has a winding 180-degree underwater tunnel where you can view countless marine creatures. This is also an amazing playground for children, providing activities such as beach treasure hunting, art workshops and fishing.

Officially opened to the public in August, Pengxin Jiading Ocean World is a comprehensive aquarium that integrates ocean parks and parent-child services. It is among the 23 ocean theme parks nationwide jointly invested by Shanghai Pengxin Real Estate Co and Hunan Hailifang Cultural Tourism Co.

On arrival, you will be welcomed by the “shrimp soldiers” and “crab generals” along the entrance. The park also features an aviary, pet paradise, ocean science hall, sea lion museum, happy castle and dream city. More surprises are waiting for you to unlock them one by one.

Address: B1/F, 66 Aksu Rd, Jiading District

Transportation: After getting off at Malu Station of Metro Line 11, take Jiading bus lines 106, 101 or 15 to Yuying Street stop.

Opening hours: 9am-6pm

Otaku game paradise at Sega JOYPOLIS

An exclusive version of Japanese amusement facilities inside an 8,300-square-meter indoor space, Sega City Park is for those who love challenges.

As one of the most popular rides in the park, Initial D offers a driving experience with the classic AE86 sports car. With realistic video images in front of the screen, sharp turns and drifts you can fulfil your dream of becoming king of the road.

“The Transformers” in Sega JOYPOLIS is a two-person 360-degree rotating device, where you can encounter Bumblebee from the famous franchise and help Optimus Prime battle the Decepticons.

The 3D auditory experience brought by “Puppet House,” the haunted house in the park, will surely bring screams from you and your friends. You can also turn to much safer choices such as “Wild Wings,” “Lightning Knights” and “Forest of Destiny” for a blended world of the digital and reality.

Address: 3-4/F, Global Harbor, 3300 Zhongshan Rd N., Putuo District

Transportation: Jinshajiang Road Station of Metro Line 3, 4 or 13

Opening hours: 11am-9pm on weekdays, 10am-9pm on weekends

Slam dunk at NBA Theme Park

Do you ever wonder how big Shaquille O’Neill’s shoe is or the length of Yao Ming’s arms? Come to the 1,500-square-meter NBA Theme Park to experience the joy of indoor basketball.

At the “Halftime Show,” you can exclusively customize your favorite basketball characters and interact with them in a game. In the “Compete” section, you can acquire knowledge about your favorite NBA stars. In “Dream Doodle,” children can develop their artistic minds by creating a variety of NBA paintings and colorful basketball dreams.

“The Rookies’ Challenge” is designed for young fans to practice their basketball skills. Children can cross various obstacles to practice crawling, climbing, jumping and shooting. In addition, the party rooms in the theme park are ideal for throwing birthday soirées. Come and fall in love with basketball with your kids.

Address: 2/F, Hubindao Shopping Center, 150 Hubin Rd, Huangpu District

Transportation: Xintiandi Station of Metro Line 10 or 13

Opening hours: 10am-8pm

Become a ninja at Naruto World Theme Park

In Konoha Village, ninjas are waiting for you at the Yile Ramen Restaurant. More than 200 characters and scenes await you at the first domestic Naruto Ninja World Theme Park.

Covering a space of more than 8,000 square meters, the park brings the charm of the anime world to a three-dimensional reality. It’s also a can’t-miss for Naruto fans.

The Nakanin Examination Room will remind you of Naruto’s classic story lines. You can even try taking the ninjutsu exam on your own or watch Naruto’s signature ninjutsu at close range.

Jointly created with the famous Japanese escape room label SCRAP, the park also prepares a surreal ninja game for every ninja-to-be. In a maze of mysterious clues and obstacles, the ultimate challenge of physical and mental power is about to begin.

Address: 11/F, Shanghai New World, 2-68 Nanjing Rd W., Huangpu District

Transportation: People’s Square Station of Metro Line 1, 2 or 8

Opening hours: 11am-6pm on weekdays, 11am-9pm on weekends