Disney Vacation Club Brings Members to Shanghai and Hong Kong

HONG KONG – If you’ve ever wanted to mix classic Disney experiences with real Chinese culture, Disney Vacation Club makes this dream easier than ever. As a member, you can turn family trips into global adventures, discovering magic in places like Shanghai and Hong Kong.

Disney’s China destinations keep getting bigger and better. Shanghai Disney Resort blends world-famous attractions and new lands like the World of Zootopia with local flavours and traditions. Hong Kong Disneyland charms with its relaxed vibe and exciting updates for 2025, giving fans of all ages something new to love.

Through DVC, families have new ways to soak in these parks, whether it’s strolling along Mickey Avenue in Shanghai or seeing dazzling nighttime shows in Hong Kong. For 2025, both resorts promise a special mix of Disney favourites and unforgettable experiences unique to China.

What is Disney Vacation Club? How DVC Works for International Travellers

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) gives families a flexible way to make Disney vacations a regular part of life. Whether you dream of visiting Disney’s famous parks in the United States or want to see the wonders of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort or Shanghai Disney Resort, DVC has options for travellers across the globe. Let’s break down how DVC makes the magic accessible for international members, especially those interested in exploring China.

What is Disney Vacation Club?

DVC is Disney’s unique take on vacation ownership. Instead of buying a time-based week at one resort, you purchase an allotment of points. These points act as currency, letting you pick where, when, and how long you want to stay. You’re not locked into one spot or one season, which means your vacations can change year to year.

Every year, members receive a new batch of points. You pick from Disney resorts in the US, popular international spots, or exchange points for stays around the world, including China’s Disney resorts. Ownership is usually for a set term (often around 40 years), and there are annual dues to consider. Most members sign up for the value, flexibility, and exclusive perks that come with DVC membership.

If you want to learn the nuts and bolts of how Disney Vacation Club works, Disney’s official Disney Vacation Club introduction details the program basics, benefits, and point system.

How International Travellers Can Use DVC

Joining DVC as an international member works much like it does for US-based fans. You purchase points (either directly from Disney or on the resale market), set up your account online, and book stays with your points through the DVC website from anywhere. You don’t need to be a US citizen or live in the country to join.

International travellers enjoy several advantages with DVC:

• Flexible Point System: Use your points how you like, from short weekends in Orlando to deluxe Disney suites in Shanghai or Hong Kong.
• Online Booking: Access your membership tools online, view availability, and make reservations at any hour.
• Global Exchange Options: Beyond Disney resorts, DVC partners with Interval International so you can exchange points for thousands of resorts worldwide. Learn more about the DVC and Interval International Vacation Exchange Program.

Booking at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and Shanghai Disney Resort

DVC doesn’t have dedicated “home resorts” in China yet, but that doesn’t mean members can’t stay there. Through Interval International, an exchange program available to all DVC members, you can use your points to book stays at partnering hotels near Shanghai Disney Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

Key steps for booking your China Disney adventure as a DVC member:

1. Check Availability: Log into your DVC account or call Member Services to see partner hotel openings for the dates you want.
2. Request an Exchange: DVC members use points to request an exchange through Interval International for properties supporting Shanghai or Hong Kong Disney parks.
3. Book and Prepare: Once confirmed, all that’s left is to plan your trip—your hotel, park tickets, and itinerary.

Hotels available through Interval International often provide easy access to both parks and local attractions, coupling Disney magic with authentic cultural experiences.

Tips for International DVC Guests Visiting China

Travelling to Disney’s China parks from outside the region takes more planning, but DVC membership makes it simpler.

Here are some useful tips:

• Always check the latest Disney Vacation Club reservation system for partner hotel options and point requirements.
• Review visa requirements and entry rules for mainland China or Hong Kong, based on your passport.
• Consider booking travel during quieter months at the parks for the best experience.
• Brush up on key differences between Shanghai Disney Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, since both parks have their own unique rides, entertainment, and dining.

With a little planning, DVC lets international travellers enjoy the best of both Disney and the distinct cultures at each destination. Whether it’s your first trip to Asia or you’re a seasoned Disney fan, DVC points open the door to China’s magic.

Shanghai Disney Resort: China’s Premier Disney Destination for DVC Members

Shanghai Disney Resort stands out as a must-visit for Disney Vacation Club members looking for new adventures in China. With its blend of iconic Disney magic and touches of Chinese culture, this destination brings something new to the DVC community. Members can use points to stay at vibrant on-site hotels, take advantage of unique member perks, and enjoy easy connections to the parks. If your family is considering Shanghai or Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, knowing how to maximize your DVC investment in Shanghai is key.

DVC Member Benefits at Shanghai Disney Resort

Shanghai Disney Resort does not function as a traditional Disney Vacation Club property. Instead, DVC members use their points through the Interval International Vacation Exchange Program. This is how members gain access to stays at Shanghai Disney Resort’s distinctive hotels, such as the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and the Toy Story Hotel. While the process isn’t as fast as booking at a DVC “home” resort, it still unlocks global options for families who want to travel farther.

How to Use DVC Points at Shanghai Disney Resort

Here’s how DVC members can make the most of their points in Shanghai:

• Exchange through Interval International: Members must convert DVC points into an exchange with Interval International before booking either the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel or Toy Story Hotel.
• Call Member Services: The exchange is not available as a direct booking in the normal online DVC reservation system. You’ll need to coordinate with DVC Member Services by phone.
• Selection of Hotels: Both the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Toy Story Hotel appear as options, along with other Interval International partner properties nearby.
• Booking Window: Availability is sometimes limited, especially during Chinese holidays or peak travel seasons. Plan as far ahead as possible, and keep alternative dates handy.
• Points Chart: The exact points cost can fluctuate based on the time of year, room type, and demand. Members should review the World Collection Points Chart for up-to-date information.

What Reciprocal Benefits and Perks to Expect

Using DVC points at Shanghai Disney Resort doesn’t always give you the full suite of DVC perks you may expect in the United States or Europe. It’s important to set expectations:

• DVC Member Extras: Complimentary laundry, member lounges, and many in-park discounts found at US DVC resorts are not part of the partnership in Shanghai.
• Hotel Benefits: You are treated as a standard guest of either the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel or Toy Story Hotel. Benefits include priority park access for hotel guests, resort shuttle services, early entry on select days, and Disney’s signature hospitality.
• No Member Events: DVC-specific welcome events or member meetups are not guaranteed in Shanghai.
• Easier Park Access: Both hotels offer direct, quick access to Shanghai Disneyland Park. The Toy Story Hotel is about a 15-20 minute walk to the park or a fast shuttle ride. The Shanghai Disneyland Hotel sits across Wishing Star Lake, walkable in about 15 minutes, or a quick ferry or shuttle trip for a scenic start to every day.

For more details on which hotel best fits your travel style, check out this helpful Shanghai Disneyland hotel walkability guide.

Tips for Maximizing Your Value in Shanghai

The points-exchange process adds a few extra steps, but there are smart ways to get the best value:

• Book as early as you can, especially during Chinese national holidays or school breaks when the parks are crowd-pleasers for locals.
• Compare hotel options. The Toy Story Hotel offers a playful, budget-friendly vibe, while Shanghai Disneyland Hotel provides luxury and breathtaking lakefront views.
• Utilize the free shuttles or ferry options to save time on park days. Walking from either hotel is also easy and stroller-friendly.
• Look beyond hotel dining. Therisre a range of options in Disneytown and nearby shopping centers. Western-style restaurants can be found, so picky eaters won’t be left out.
• Keep your DVC and Interval International accounts up to date. Changes or delays in the exchange process can slow down your booking.

What is and Isn’t Covered Under Traditional DVC Bookings

Staying at Shanghai Disney Resort as a DVC member through Interval International has some key differences:

• Not Your “Home” Resort: DVC members do not have priority home resort booking at Shanghai Disney Resort. Availability is subject to Interval’s inventory.
• Points Conversion: The exchange rate may not be as one-to-one compared to booking a US-based DVC property. There may be higher point costs and additional exchange fees.
• No Automatic DVC Perks: Standard DVC discounts, exclusive member events, or lounge access do not transfer to Shanghai Disney Resort stays.
• Hotel Guest Perks Included: Early park entry, complimentary shuttle/ferry access, and standard hotel guest amenities are included when booked through Interval International.

You can find all the latest hotel and travel info directly at the Shanghai Disney Resort Official Site.

While Hong Kong Disneyland Resort functions similarly for DVC members, the focus in Shanghai is on resort comfort and easy park access, providing a different flavour for those ready to see Disney in a new light. Take the time to learn the unique features of each resort, build in time for both parks if your schedule allows, and you’ll come home with magical memories and a new perspective on what DVC membership delivers around the world.

Unique Experiences Only in China: Top Attractions and Cultural Touches

Travelling to China’s Disney destinations gives you a flavour you won’t find anywhere else. From the blend of local traditions at Shanghai Disney Resort to the cosmopolitan spark at Hong Kong Disneyland, every visit feels special. Shanghai is home to the world’s largest Disney castle. Hong Kong Disneyland, while a bit smaller, brings its own charm with exclusive shows and detailed seasonal celebrations. These experiences create stories you’ll want to share, especially when you unlock new adventures with Disney Vacation Club membership.

Tips for Navigating Shanghai Disney: Tickets, Fastpass, and Crowds

Booking a trip to Shanghai Disney Resort is a thrill, but it pays to plan. DVC members and international travellers can have a smoother, more memorable stay if they know how to handle tickets, lines, language, and crowds.

Ticketing: Real-Name System You Can’t Skip
Shanghai Disney Resort uses a real-name ticketing policy. Every ticket is linked to your government ID or passport, and you must show this when entering the park. This system cuts down on scale, but meetings and last-minute changes are tough. Always double-check the name matches your travel documents during purchase.
For official info, visit the Shanghai Disney Resort Real Name Ticketing Policy.

• Pro Tip: Print a backup of your ticket QR code. Having a screenshot on your phone works in most cases, too.

Understanding Fastpass: Differences and Upgrades
Shanghai Disneyland no longer offers the classic Fastpass system you might know from the US or Paris. Instead, it has moved to a paid model called Disney Premier Access. You buy access (either single or bundled attractions) directly through the official Premier Access page.
This means there is no free line-skipping, so budget accordingly. Premier Access often sells out fast for top rides, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Key Takeaways:
  • Buy Premier Access as soon as you enter the park (or even in advance if eligible).
  • Prioritize high-demand rides like TRON Lightcycle Power Run and Roaring Rapids.
  • Check your DVC benefits or hotel package, as guests at resort hotels often get early entry or options to buy bundles first.
  • For a breakdown of the process, check the Shanghai Disneyland Fastpass Guide.

Language Tips: Getting Help and Making the Most of Your Visit
Most signage at the resort is in both Chinese and English. Cast Members in guest relations or at major attractions can usually speak basic English. Downloading a translation app can help if you want to chat with local fans or need extra help while finding a restaurant.

• Phrase to remember: “Xiexie” (pronounced “shay-shay”) means thank you—use it liberally!

When to Go: Navigating Crowds and Seasonal Trends
Shanghai Disney Resort can see huge crowds at certain times. Public holidays like Chinese New Year, Golden Week (early October), and summer vacation draw massive local turnout.

• Best Practices:
  • Visit on weekdays for lighter crowds.
  • Check local school and holiday calendars.
  • Arrive well before park opening, especially if you want to buy Premier Access or snap photos with short lines.
  • Schedule top attractions early in your day—the parks fill up fast by midday.
• Resource: The Shanghai Disney early arrival and crowds tips post is packed with practical advice from past visitors.

Getting There and Around: Transportation Options
The Shanghai Metro is clean and convenient. Line 11 goes directly to Disney Resort Station, about a 5-minute walk from the park entrance. Taxis and ride-sharing (like Didi) are widely used but can be scarce during park closing hours.
Resort hotels offer free shuttles, and walking between hotels and the main gate is easy, even for families with strollers.

Make sure to check the Shanghai Disney tickets and passes page for the latest travel advisories and ticket updates before heading out.

Hong Kong Disneyland: Tips Carry Over
While this section focuses on Shanghai Disney, travellers to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort will notice similar crowd patterns and language support. Both parks reward early risers and benefit from careful planning, whether you’re using Disney Vacation Club points or just bringing family for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

With these strategies, you’re prepared for the unique experiences that set Disney’s China parks apart. Don’t forget to enjoy those little cultural touches—mini mooncakes, seasonal lanterns, and performances that blend East and West for memories you’ll never forget.

Beyond Shanghai: Disney Vacation Club Options for Exploring China

Disney Vacation Club membership unlocks more than just visits to Shanghai Disney Resort or Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. For adventure-hungry families, DVC points act as a passport, giving you a flexible way to create a custom China journey. Curious about what’s possible? Here’s how DVC goes beyond the castle gates, making an entire world of experiences across China available to members—often with the same easy points-based convenience you’ve come to expect.

Exploring More Than One Disney Park in China

One of the toughest decisions? Picking between Shanghai Disney Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. Thanks to DVC’s international exchange, you don’t have to settle. Both resorts welcome DVC members, letting you divide your trip between vibrant Shanghai and the excitement of Hong Kong.

Consider these options to get the most out of your DVC membership in China:

• Use points to book partner hotels in both Shanghai and Hong Kong through Interval International’s wide network.
• Start your adventure at Shanghai Disney Resort, soaking up the world’s largest Disney castle and a park that mixes high-energy rides with local touches. Then hop a short flight or high-speed train to Hong Kong, where the sunny climate and growing park reward fans with unique parades, Marvel attractions, and legendary service.
• Blend theme park days with local sightseeing, splitting your stay in each city for a dose of both Disney and real Chinese culture.

Many DVC members find this two-city approach the ideal way to experience all that Disney and China have to offer. You can see resorts and booking options on the Disney Vacation Club Destinations in Asia list.

Resort Choices and How the Interval International Exchange Works

Disney Vacation Club’s international model runs through a partnership with Interval International. Instead of being tied to one property, you get access to a large catalogue of partner resorts—including those near both Disney parks in China. This gives you the flexibility to tailor your trip to your travel style and schedule.

Here’s how to make it work:

1. Log in to your DVC account and access the Interval International booking platform.
2. Browse available partner resorts in Shanghai and Hong Kong. You’ll spot several hotel partners close to both Disney parks.
3. Convert your points into an Interval International exchange, then lock in your desired dates and destination.

Not sure what’s available or how the process flows? Review the Interval International Vacation Exchange Program details for China properties.

Side Trips and Bonus Destinations with DVC Points

China’s size and diversity mean your DVC points can do even more than cover days at Disney. Many members use Interval International’s broad network to stretch their adventures. After tackling the parks, use extra points to unwind at a luxury hotel in another city, such as:

• Suzhou or Hangzhou: Take a bullet train ride from Shanghai and see beautiful gardens, canals, and tea houses.
• Macau: Only an hour’s ferry from Hong Kong, this city blends Las Vegas glitz with Portuguese history for something totally different.
• Guilin: Famous for dramatic karst mountains and river cruises, accessible with a short flight from either Disney city.

You can stack your hotel bookings and create a bigger journey, mixing Disney magic with the sights, flavours, and traditions of China. Browse exchange options any time at the Disney Vacation Club Destinations List.

Special Perks and Member Experiences Beyond the Parks

When you travel overseas with DVC, the perks don’t stop at park entrances. Even without on-site DVC staff or lounges in China, you still enjoy:

• Access to partner properties that often include breakfast, local tours, or airport transfers.
• A chance to use DVC points for guided travel, such as Adventures by Disney, when scheduled through the DVC exchange network.
• Easy online management of your bookings, so you can adjust plans for weather, special events, or spontaneous side trips.

Curious what these add-ons look like? Interval International lets you bundle experiences or add local excursions, sometimes using points instead of cash.

Combining Disney with Real Chinese Culture

DVC’s flexibility means you aren’t limited to the theme parks. Plan a day seeing Shanghai’s Bund, tasting soup dumplings, or riding the world’s fastest train. In Hong Kong, tack on a visit to Victoria Peak or the Star Ferry. Your DVC points are the key—not just to hotel rooms but to real travel stories your family will never forget.

To plan a park-hopping adventure or a grand China tour, use the official Disney Resort & Destinations List to compare dates and see what’s available. Then let DVC’s points power your next chapter, whether you’re flying between Shanghai and Hong Kong or chasing dragon lanterns in a faraway city.

This way, your DVC investment pays off with the freedom to build your dream trip, mixing Mickey with memories you won’t find anywhere else.

Conclusion

Exploring China with Disney Vacation Club brings together the wonder of Disney and the richness of local culture. Shanghai Disney Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort each offer their own highlights, from original attractions to special holiday shows, all with authentic touches you will remember long after your trip.

Using the Interval International exchange, you have flexible options for booking, with access to partner hotels near both parks and throughout Asia. Smart planning and early booking help secure the best stays, especially during busy seasons. You can see the most recent info and resort lists at the official DVC Asia Destinations page, and review tips on the Interval International Vacation Exchange page before you request an exchange.

Mixing Disney park days with real Chinese experiences—like trying local food, exploring city sights, or stretching your trip to other famous destinations—turns a vacation into something bigger. The right research and a bit of planning go a long way.

If Disney in Asia is on your bucket list, now is a great time to turn those points into memories. Start planning, share your ideas with other members, and see how Disney Vacation Club can give your family a whole new view of magic. Thanks for reading, and feel free to add your travel stories or questions below!

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