Beijing Happy Valley
Beijing Happy Valley, a sprawling theme park in southeastern Beijing, is a hub of thrilling rides, live performances, and family-friendly entertainment. Opened in 2006 and spanning 560,000 square meters, it features seven themed zones, over 50 attractions, and seasonal events like the Halloween Horror Night and Spring Festival Gala. A beloved destination for adrenaline junkies and families alike, it combines cutting-edge technology with cultural flair, offering everything from roller coasters to 4D cinemas.
Historical Overview
The park’s development began in 2002, with key milestones including:
- 2006: Phase 1 opened, introducing the Crystal Wing roller coaster and Ant Kingdom children’s zone.
- 2010: Phase 2 debuted with the Lost Maya zone and Sundial of Shock (China’s tallest drop tower at 60m).
- 2014: Phase 3 launched the Sweet Kingdom and Songhuo Camp (a water battle zone).
- 2018: The Overlord Bow (a 90-degree free-fall ride) set a Guinness World Record.
- 2021: Introduced the Deja Vu flying theater and Happy Summer Night festival.
Structural Layout
The park is divided into seven zones:
Joyful Ocean: Features the Crystal Wing roller coaster and Love Beach wave pool.
Lost Maya: Home to the Sundial of Shock and Tomb of Gods indoor dark ride.
Ant Kingdom: A whimsical zone with the Fly Over Ant Hill suspended coaster.
Songhuo Camp: Offers water battles, bumper boats, and the Rapids of War log flume.
Sweet Kingdom: A pastel-colored zone with the Family Hang Glider and Candy Carousel.
Aegean Harbor: Features the Deja Vu flying theater and Mermaid Show aquarium.
Shangri-La: A Tibetan-themed zone with the Overlord Bow drop tower and Snow Mountain sledding.
Key structures include 12 roller coasters, 5 theaters, and 30 dining outlets.
Major Attractions
Crystal Wing: A 70-mph steel roller coaster with four inversions.
Sundial of Shock: China’s tallest drop tower (60m) with a 100-kph free fall.
Deja Vu: A 4D flying theater simulating a hot air balloon ride over Beijing.
Tomb of Gods: An indoor dark ride through Maya ruins with animatronic creatures.
Love Beach: A 10,000-sqm wave pool with 1.5m swells.
Halloween Horror Night: Annual event with haunted houses and zombie parades (October).
Suggested Itineraries
- Thrill-Seeker Route (Full Day):
Joyful Ocean → Lost Maya → Songhuo Camp → Shangri-La → Aegean Harbor.
Highlights: Crystal Wing, Sundial of Shock, and Overlord Bow.
- Family Route (Half-Day):
Ant Kingdom → Sweet Kingdom → Aegean Harbor → Joyful Ocean.
Highlights: Fly Over Ant Hill, Candy Carousel, and Mermaid Show.
- Nightlife Route (Evening):
Aegean Harbor → Joyful Ocean → Lost Maya → Songhuo Camp.
Highlights: Deja Vu, nighttime parades, and Halloween Horror Night.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the "Beijing Happy Valley" official website or WeChat (7-day advance booking recommended).
On-Site: Tickets available at the gate; queues peak during holidays.
- Prices:
Peak Season (April–October): ¥339 (adults), ¥260 (children under 1.5m).
Off-Season (November–March): ¥299 (adults), ¥195 (children).
Annual Pass: ¥699 (unlimited entry for 12 months).
Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and seniors over 70.
Transportation
By Subway: Line 7: Happy Valley Station (Exit C), 5-minute walk to South Gate. Line 14: Beigongdasi Station (Exit D), 10-minute walk to North Gate.
By Bus: Routes 41, 343, or 561 to Happy Valley Stop.
By Taxi: Direct to North or South Gate (¥30–40 from downtown).
Departure: Last subway at 11 PM; taxis available 24/7.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid weekends and holidays; visit weekdays (10 AM–3 PM).
Crowds: Summer (June–August) and holidays are busiest; spring/fall offer shorter lines.
Weather: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) for mild temperatures.
- Essentials:
Comfortable shoes (20,000+ steps possible).
Waterproof phone case (for water rides).
Sunscreen and hat (outdoor areas lack shade).
Prohibited: Outside food, selfie sticks, and loose jewelry on rides.
