Main construction begins on Shanghai Disneyland's Zootopia

Shanghai Disneyland kicked off main construction of its newest themed land, Zootopia, on Monday, 11 months after it announced the expansion plan to appeal to visitors from home and abroad.

In what will be the first-ever Zootopia-themed land at any Disney park worldwide, guests are expected to be immersed in characters from the hit film, like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, as well as vivid story-telling through attractions, entertainment, merchandise and food and beverage offerings.

The company has not yet disclosed the size of the new land, or revealed the expected opening date.

"This is an immensely exciting time for Shanghai Disney Resort and Zootopia fans alike," said Joe Schott, president and general manager of Shanghai Disney Resort in a statement. "This expansion demonstrates Shanghai Disney Resort's commitment to bringing new and unique experiences to our guests, offering more reasons for them to come visit us again and again."

He noted that "excitement and anticipation" have been piling up from global Zootopia fans since the announcement was made in January.

Following the enormous success of the Academy Award-winning blockbuster movie in China, the resort has established a popular Zootopia presence from the addition of beloved characters to a growing portfolio of themed-merchandise collections throughout the resort.

Zootopia represents the second major expansion since the Shanghai park debuted in June 2016. It added a Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land in April 2018.