Overview
Bank of Communications Yaoxue Water World is a cutting-edge aquatic entertainment destination located in the heart of Shanghai’s Pudong New Area. Spanning approximately 20,000 square meters, this innovative water park blends imaginative theming with state-of-the-art engineering to deliver an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Its most striking architectural feature is a colossal open-air Viking longship that serves as both a visual centerpiece and functional hub for many of its attractions. Designed as part of the larger Yaoxue Resort complex—which also includes the adjacent Snow World—the water park offers a seamless blend of indoor climate-controlled comfort and exhilarating outdoor thrills.
Attractions & Experiences
Yaoxue Water World boasts a dynamic dual-level aquatic system with 26 water slides, including two multi-story inter-floor slides and one suspended outdoor slide—a rarity in China’s water park landscape. These穿层 (inter-floor) slides allow riders to plunge through multiple levels of the structure, creating a unique vertical thrill that has garnered widespread praise from domestic reviewers on platforms like Mafengwo and Ctrip. Beyond high-adrenaline rides, the park features 19 distinct water-based activities tailored to diverse age groups: gentle wave pools and shallow splash zones for toddlers, interactive water playgrounds for school-aged children, lazy rivers for relaxation, and high-speed body slides for teens and adults seeking excitement. Families particularly appreciate the thoughtful zoning that separates calmer areas from more intense zones, ensuring safety and enjoyment for everyone.
Design & Theming
The Viking ship motif isn’t merely decorative—it’s integral to the guest journey. From carved wooden railings and rune-inspired murals to soundscapes echoing Norse seafaring lore, the theming enhances immersion without overwhelming functionality. The indoor sections maintain a comfortable temperature year-round, making it an ideal escape during Shanghai’s humid summers or chilly winters. Meanwhile, the outdoor suspended slide offers panoramic views of the surrounding Lingang area before delivering a heart-pounding descent—an experience frequently highlighted in visitor photos shared on Chinese social media.
Facilities & Accessibility
Convenience is prioritized throughout the venue. Guests will find ample amenities including gender-neutral and family restrooms (7 of the resort’s 19 total restrooms are designated as family-friendly), dedicated nursing rooms on the 5th floor near Guest Services, and clearly marked smoking areas just outside key entrances. Locker rentals are available in multiple sizes at the 4th-floor changing area (small: ¥20; medium: ¥25; large items can be stored at Xingyao Plaza Tower 2 for ¥30). Mobile charging stations are strategically placed near the entrance escalators on the 4th floor, ensuring guests stay connected. The park also offers discounted admission for seniors (60+), children (with height/age verification), military personnel, and visitors with disabilities—reflecting China’s growing emphasis on inclusive tourism.
Visitor Experience & Reviews
With a stellar 4.8/5 rating on major Chinese travel platforms, Yaoxue Water World consistently earns praise for its cleanliness, efficient crowd management (pre-pandemic), and well-trained staff. Many reviewers note that despite its size, the park rarely feels overcrowded thanks to smart layout design and timed-entry systems. Families commend the attentive lifeguards and the availability of complimentary life vests in various sizes. However, it’s important to note that as of the latest update, the attraction is temporarily closed with no confirmed reopening date—likely due to seasonal maintenance or broader operational adjustments within the Yaoxue Resort complex.
Location & Context
Situated in Nanhui New Town—a rapidly developing district in southeastern Pudong—the water park is part of Shanghai’s strategic push to create integrated leisure hubs beyond the urban core. It’s easily accessible via Metro Line 16 (Lingang Avenue Station) followed by a short taxi ride, or by car via the S2 Expressway. While somewhat remote compared to downtown attractions, its location within a full-service resort (including hotels, dining, and Snow World) makes it ideal for day trips or weekend getaways, especially for families based in or visiting Pudong.
Planning Your Visit
Although currently closed, past operations suggest that advance online booking through official channels (such as Trip.com or the Yaoxue Resort app) was strongly recommended to secure entry and access promotional rates. Visitors were advised to bring swimwear, towels, and waterproof phone cases, though rental options were available on-site. Given Shanghai’s variable weather, checking real-time updates before travel is essential—particularly since the park’s indoor-outdoor hybrid model means some attractions may close during heavy rain or extreme heat even when the facility is otherwise open.