World's first 'Frozen'-themed land officially opens at Hong Kong Disneyland

A new themed land inspired by Disney’s “Frozen” franchise - “World of Frozen”, has officially opened at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort on Monday.

The world's first and largest “Frozen” themed land puts a number of iconic scenes in the movies to life, including the "Ice Palace" and Arendelle Castle, home of the royal family in the film.

“Over the past decade, the film has grown into one of the most successful franchises in Disney history,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences at the opening ceremony. “World of Frozen represents Hong Kong Disneyland’s largest and boldest expansion since the park opened in 2005.”

The city’s financial chief Paul Chan Mo-po said he was delighted to witness the establishment of the world's first "Frozen" themed land in Hong Kong. He said the new attraction would elevate Hong Kong Disneyland to a new level and draw more visitors to the city.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong Disneyland managing director Michael Moriarty, expressed pride in the theme park being home to the world's first and largest “World of Frozen”.

He said the choice of Hong Kong as the location was influenced by the popularity of the franchise in the city, with the new land perfectly integrates Hong Kong's Lantau Island's natural landscape with the design of "North Mountain", providing guests with expansive views of both.

He also believed that the upcoming Christmas holiday, coinciding with the opening of the new area, would attract more visitors.

Scores of citizens lined up outside the themed land early in the morning to be among the first to explore the new facilities, with children dressed as the main characters from the movie. 

The first person in line told reporters that she planned to visit the park every week, hoping to purchase themed merchandise and enjoy the park's special Frozen-themed snacks.

Overseas travelers also made their way to Hong Kong to witness the opening. A visitor from Japan, a Disney fan who had been to various Disney parks around the world, brought his girlfriend to Hong Kong specifically to witness the opening and hoped to visit the castle and take photos with the characters from Frozen. 

The new themed land features a "Frozen Ever After" boat ride, where guests can meet the characters from the movie, and a new roller coaster ride - "Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs".