Asia's Top 4 Autism-Inclusive Theme Parks: A Guide for Families

The hustle and bustle of amusement parks can pose unique stresses to families with children on the autism spectrum. However, Optism has compiled a list of pioneering amusement parks in Asia that offer ASD-friendly spaces and services, helping visitors with ASD and their families make the most of their trip. 

Water World Ocean Park

Hong Kong, China

Water World Ocean Park in Hong Kong tops our list of ASD-friendly amusement parks in Asia. In 2022, it was the first-ever water park in the region to be recognized as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

To gain accreditation, amusement parks must demonstrate a commitment to offering inclusive services for individuals with autism.  This involves providing autism-specific training to at least 80% of their staff, conducting ongoing audits, and maintaining special services and continuous staff training related to ASD.

“Water World Ocean Park is a welcoming space for adventurers with different entertainment needs and interests,” shares Ocean Park Corporation CEO Ivan Wong. “(This) certification makes the Water Park a proven inclusive, accessible, and sensory-friendly facility for adventurers with autism or other sensory sensitivities.”

The park's sensory guides, evaluated by the IBCCES, rate each attraction's level of sensory stimulation on a scale from 1 to 10.

“Parents and caregivers have access to a sensory guide to inform them about aspects like noise from the facilities and screams from other visitors,” Ivan explains. The least stimulating attractions suitable for ASD families include the Big Wave Bay and the outdoor river, Riptide.

Water World Ocean Park encourages families to contact guest services before their visit to arrange special accommodations.  The park offers quiet zones where ASD visitors can begin their experience in a low-stimulus environment and gradually transition to more stimulating areas at a comfortable pace, which is particularly beneficial for children with sensory sensitivities.

The park also features designated spaces like Baby Care Rooms and Quiet Rooms on levels 1, 2, and 3. These areas offer a tranquil environment for ASD guests needing a break.

Water World Ocean Park regularly hosts "Fun Days" in collaboration with NGOs and charities, offering free or discounted entry for children with ASD and their families. NGOs planning group visits for ASD beneficiaries can contact guest relations for complimentary or discounted tickets.

Address: Water World Ocean Park, 33 Ocean Drive, Aberdeen, Hong Kong. 

Opening hours: 10.00am - 6.00pm (Monday - Friday); 10.00am - 7.00pm (Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays). 

Contact: Call +852 3923 2323 or email Guest Relations at gr@oceanpark.com.hk

Ocean Park Hong Kong

Hong Kong, China

As Water World is operated by Ocean Park Hong Kong, the original oceanarium and theme park naturally accommodates park visitors with ASD as well.

“We are committed to enhancing the guest experience for all visitors at both parks,” says Ocean Park Corporation CEO Ivan Wong. “(We) embrace inclusivity and believe that everyone is entitled to enjoy different kinds of recreational facilities freely.”

While Ocean Park is not an accredited CAC like Water World, it provides a Queue Assistance Service (QAS) for guests with disabilities, including those with ASD. Parents and guardians can complete an online form before their visit. Upon approval, they will receive an electronic code via email that allows them to collect a Care Card upon arrival.

Hong Kong residents should note that if a child with ASD holds the Registration Card for People with Disabilities issued by the Labour and Welfare Bureau, they can enjoy free admission to Ocean Park. Additionally, one accompanying guest is eligible for half-price admission.

To get the QAS Care Card on the day of your visit, you must complete forms before entry; be sure to bring all required physical documents. The Care Card grants families priority access to up to 10 attractions and rides per day, with on-site staff available for assistance. 

Ocean Park provides engaging and interactive education programs specifically designed for visitors with disabilities and special needs, and schools and institutions can collaborate with the park's education team to customize programs and make special arrangements, including meeting animal ambassadors and participating in smaller-group conservation educational sessions.

Address: Ocean Park Hong Kong, 180 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong. 

Opening hours: 10.00am - 7.00pm (Monday - Sunday, closed on Tuesdays)

Contact: Call +852 3923 2323 or email Guest Relations at gr@oceanpark.com.hk

Changfeng Ocean World (Sea Life Shanghai)

Shanghai, China

Merlin Entertainment’s Changfeng Ocean World in Shanghai's Putuo District is recognized as one of China's most ASD-friendly amusement parks. The park has collaborated with local officials and charities to provide support for children with special needs, including those on the autism spectrum.

Chloe Couchman, global director of communications for Merlin Entertainment, says: “Supported by our own charity Merlin’s Magic Wand, our attraction offers tailor-made tours for special groups (ASD or other accessibility needs) and their families.” 

Organizations and groups interested in joining a tour can reach out to the park and Merlin’s Magic Wand. Once confirmed, the park will provide special accommodations to ensure an enjoyable experience for families with ASD.

“As it will be a tailor-made tour for this special group, our attraction will avoid peak time and provide special entry lines and special rest areas to make sure all the children and their families feel safe and comfortable throughout the whole journey,” Chloe explains. 

Charities partnering with CFOW ensure that trips organized in collaboration are offered free of charge to children with ASD, along with their accompanying family members or teachers.  Additionally, participants of these tours receive a 20% discount on retail and food and beverage purchases within the park.

The park also provides dedicated tour guides to offer continuous companionship and support throughout the visit.

Address: Changfeng Ocean World, Putuo District, Shanghai, 200062, China. 

Opening hours: 9.00am – 5.00pm (Monday – Sunday)

Contact: Call 021-62235399 or email info@oceanworld.com.cn 

Universal Studios Japan

Osaka, Japan

Universal Studios Japan in Osaka does not offer special tours for guests with special needs, but various accessibility arrangements are in place.

Upon arrival, families with special needs should proceed to Guest Services, located on the left side after entering the park, to obtain a Guest Support Pass. Although the pass is typically available only to holders of Japan-issued Handicapped Person's Passbooks, visitors may present alternative verification documents, such as certificates of mental disability, rehabilitation, or illness, for approval.

Each Guest Support Pass covers a party of up to six people and allows you to reserve your spot in a queue, giving you the flexibility to step away to quieter, less sensory-intensive areas until it's your group’s turn.

Although verbal explanations at each attraction are typically provided in Japanese, ride warning signs feature universal symbols. These symbols indicate whether a ride may be unsuitable for individuals sensitive to fog effects, heights, motion sickness, enclosed spaces, or loud noises.

The Rider's Guide, with detailed explanations of the symbols and their meanings, can be downloaded in English or Japanese. Physical copies are also available at Guest Services.

If you do not receive approval for the Guest Support Pass, please consult with a crew member at the desired attraction for support and assistance.

Address: Universal Studios Japan, 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan. 

Opening hours: 8.00am - 10.00pm (Monday - Sunday)

Contact: Call +81 570-200-606