THEME PARKS: Disney Plans To Build Marvel Themed Area In Hong Kong Disneyland

Ever since the merger between Disney and Marvel, it was only a matter of time until this would happen: Marvel themed attractions appearing in Disney Parks. Surely this would be a dream theme park for Marvel fans, however this won't be reaching our shores. Instead, Disney will construct this attraction at the Hong Kong Disneyland.

The Wall Street Journal wrote that Hong Kong was getting a Marvel Theme Park in Disneyland. While there is still no exact timeline when they will begin the project, it is suggested that they may begin construction sometime this year or next due to a conference call discussing Hong Kong Disneyland's 2013-2014 budget.

John Tsang, Hong Kong Financial Secretary states:

In the coming few years, Hong Kong Disneyland will launch a new night-time parade and put in place a themed area featuring ‘Marvel Heroes’, the first of its kind in the world.

Marvel is no doubt popular in the States, and the characters and films are also enjoyed internationally, perhaps even more than domestically. The solo Marvel films (Captain America: The First Avenger, Iron Man 1 & 2, Thor, The Incredible Hulk) and last year's blockbuster 'The Avengers' grossed more money internationally than in the United States (The Avengers is ranked 13th in the top-grossing film in China).

So what keeps this attraction from reaching American shores? Part of the blame goes to Disney's competitor, Universal Studios in Orlando, which features Marvel attractions already. Hong Kong Disneyland is one of Disney's least successful earners among their theme parks too, so putting the Marvel themed area in that park would be a smart choice to attract more attendees. Hong Kong would definitely benefit from this business move, since having the only Marvel themed park would greatly encourage tourism.

Might be a shame that Disney won't be making any Marvel attractions in the US anytime soon, but don't be downcast true believers. We can't forget that Disney just acquired Marvel last year, so these plans are just the beginning of what might come about in the future for Disney theme parks.